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Category: Europe

  • New Year’s Eve in Greece

    New Year’s Eve in Greece

    Exploring Greece over the New Year holidays is a great way to discover its most iconic sites without the summer crowds. This road trip combines ancient ruins, historic towns and dramatic landscapes, moving from the Peloponnese to Athens at a relaxed winter pace.

    LookingBack:

    This winter itinerary through Greece offers an ideal balance between culture, history and scenic road travel. Visiting outside the peak season provides a more relaxed pace, easier access to major sites and a different perspective on iconic destinations. From ancient sanctuaries to coastal towns and vibrant Athens, Greece remains a rewarding destination year-round.

    Itinerary:

    Day 1 – Corinth

    Corinth makes an excellent first stop when leaving Athens towards the Peloponnese. The highlight is Ancient Corinth, where the Temple of Apollo still dominates the archaeological site, offering a glimpse into the city’s former importance in antiquity. Nearby, the Acrocorinth fortress provides panoramic views over the Isthmus of Corinth and the surrounding coastline. The modern town is practical for an overnight stop, especially as a base to continue south.

    Accommodation: Pefkaki Boutique Hotel Loutraki (1 night)

    Day 2 – Nafplio

    Nafplio is often considered one of the most beautiful towns in Greece, and visiting in winter allows for quiet walks through its old town. Venetian-style streets, neoclassical buildings and seaside promenades give the town a refined atmosphere. Highlights include a walk along the harbour facing Bourtzi Castle, and exploring the old town squares and cafés. Nafplio is also well-located for visiting several major archaeological sites in the region.

    Accommodation: Aerinon Guesthouse (1 night)

    Day 3 – Epidaurus & Mycenae

    This day focuses on two of Greece’s most important ancient sites. Epidaurus is famous for its exceptionally preserved theatre, renowned for its remarkable acoustics and elegant proportions. Further north, Mycenae offers a striking contrast with its massive Cyclopean walls, the Lion Gate and royal tombs, including the Tomb of Agamemnon. Both sites are easily accessible and can be visited comfortably in a single day from Nafplio.

    Day 4 – Areopoli

    Areopoli marks the gateway to the Mani Peninsula, a region known for its rugged landscapes and stone architecture. The village itself is charming, with narrow alleys, fortified tower houses and small squares ideal for strolling. In winter, the atmosphere is calm and authentic, allowing visitors to appreciate the raw beauty of Mani without distractions. Areopoli is a great base to explore the southern Peloponnese.

    Accommodation: Areos Polis Boutique Hotel (2 nights)

    Day 5 – Gytheio

    Gytheio is a relaxed seaside town with a strong maritime character. Colourful houses line the harbour, and the waterfront is perfect for a leisurely walk. Nearby, the small island of Cranae, connected by a causeway, is worth a short visit for its lighthouse and views over the bay. Gytheio offers a pleasant pause between mountain villages and archaeological discoveries.

    Day 6 – Mystras & Patras

    The day starts in Mystras, one of the most impressive Byzantine sites in Greece. The abandoned fortified city climbs the hillside in tiers, with churches, monasteries and palaces set amidst dramatic scenery. Even in cooler weather, strolling through the ruins is an unforgettable experience.
    Afterwards, the journey continues north to Patras, a lively port city and a key connection point between southern Greece and the west. Patras works well as a stopover before heading towards Central Greece.

    Day 7 – Delphi

    Delphi is one of Greece’s most iconic archaeological sites, dramatically located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. The sanctuary of Apollo, the ancient theatre and the stadium all offer breathtaking views over the valley below. The Delphi Archaeological Museum provides essential context with well-preserved sculptures and artefacts. Visiting in winter adds a quieter, almost mystical atmosphere to the site.

    Accommodation: Kastalia Boutique Hotel (2 nights)

    Days 8–10 – Athens

    Athens is the perfect place to end the trip and celebrate New Year’s Eve. The city blends ancient history with vibrant neighbourhoods and cultural life. Highlights include the Acropolis and Parthenon, the Acropolis Museum, and walks through Plaka, Monastiraki and Psyrri. Winter is an excellent time to explore the city on foot, enjoy museums without crowds and experience the local food scene. Spending several days allows for a deeper appreciation of both classical landmarks and modern Athenian life.

    Accommodation: Absolute Athens Acropolis View (2 nights)

    Happy New Years!!!

  • Visit Türkiye in 2 weeks

    Visit Türkiye in 2 weeks

    We only had 14 days to visit this HUGE country which is both European and Asian (other fun fact: it recently changed his name from “Turkey” to “Türkiye”). I regret we didn’t have more time for our road trip in the South, but the rest of our rhythm was ok!
    We landed in Istanbul where we passed 3 days, took a flight to Nevşehir to discover Cappadocia by car for 3 days, and a night bus to Antalya where we rented an other car and drove to Izmir, following the Mediterranean, and the Egean coasts!

    Istanbul

    Istanbul is a wide city where you can easily spend a week! Traffic is also a big issue (it took us 2h from IST airport to the city center) so first tip is to use the public transportation, second is to choose what you want to visit depending on the time you have. Here is an idea of what you can visit in 3 days:

    Day 1:

    Flight to Istanbul, visit of the Blue Mosque and Cisterna Basilica.

    Day 2:

    Topkapi palace visit and its harem (2h), Grand bazar, Egyptian (spices) bazar, boat to Kadikoy where we had lunch, end of day in Galata!

    Day 3:

    Visit of the archeologic museum (around 1h30), Balat area and dervish show (Hodjapasha, 1400TL).

    Sultanahmet:

    Blue Mosque

    Saint Sophie

    Cisterna

    Topkapi palace

    Archeologic museum

    Balat

    Probably our favorite place, more quiet than the center, cute coloured streets, nice terrasses… You can reach it by tram easily.

    Galata

    From Taksim you can enjoy the main walking avenue crossed by a cute tram. Best view from the Galata tower, perfect for sunset!

    Kadikoy

    The asian side of the city, full of restaurants and bars, not so asian but nice to see if you have time and wish to enjoy a boat trip.

    Transportation:
    – From the airport the cheaper way is to take the bus to Aksaray where you have a direct Tram to Sultanahmet (only 204TL).
    – Mega Pass Istanbul: Card you need to buy 5€ and then recharge, it works with all the transports, including the boat (28TL Aminonu-Karakoy / 38TL Karakoy to Kabatas).
    – Taxi: We paid 1500TL to go to the airport (6am on Sunday, no trafic). Use Taksi app to order and get an estimation of the price.
    Museum cards:
    – Istanbul card: 105€, valuable with all the sites except Cisterna basilic (900Tl until 6.30pm and 1400TL until 11.30pm) and Saint Sophie (25€).
    – Turkye museum card: 165€ with all the main site of the country included, for 15 days.
    – Cappadocia museum pass: 65€ for 3 days.
    – You also have the Mediterranean Pass (90€) and Egean one (95€) both 7 days.

    Cappadocia

    You can pay for the Museum pass, but if you travel on a budget, you also have a lot of free sites where you will see quite the same stuff. I totally advise you to rent a car to avoid the mass of tourists (even in low season it was crazy in the main places!). Every day we decided what to do, and there is no “must do” as everything is beautiful, but here is what we did:

    Day 4:

    From Nevşehir airport we rented a car (AddCar – 37€/day) and started our discovery with the visit of Gülsehir (only 20TL for the car). We stoped by Avanos, a cute city with nice restaurants nearby the longest river, and visited for more than 1h Zelve. We ended this first day with a wonderful sunset at the Red Valley (60TL access) with a quick stop at the 3 beauties (50TL).

    Day 5:

    We woke up at 5.30am to start a 10km trek crossing the White valley to reach Love valley where the balloons start their journey. Lot of companies will sell you this trip (around 250€/pers) but the view from the valley is just fantastic!

    > Check the details of our trip on AllTrails

    As the rest of the day was pretty cloudy we decided to visit the underground cities of Derinkuyu (the most famous) and Kaymaklı (our favorite).

    Day 6:

    We finally visited the most touristic sites: Göreme, famous for the paintings in the churches, Paşabağları and its beautiful “towers”, and we had lunch in front of the old city of Çavuşin.

    Zelve

    Göreme

    Paşabağları (Devrent)

    Underground cities

    Sunset at red valley

    FREE PLACES:
    – Architecture: Gülsehir, Orthisar or Çavuşin
    – Natural places: Pigeon, pink and sword valleys

    Sunrise at white valley

    Mediterranean sea

    Day 7-8: Antalya and around

    We took a night bus (with FlixBus company) to arrive directly to Antalya where we rent an other car to visit the archeological sites around and drive until Izmir. We didn’t sleep well but at least we arrived first in Aspendos (15€) to enjoy the most conserved theater of the country (where you can still enjoy shows)! The same day we also visited Perge (11€) and the beautiful old center of Antalya (recommended restaurant: Route Burger).

    Second day we drove to Termessos (only 3€), probably the most amazing archeological site of our trip (1h to get there but totally worth it – only by car)! Back to the city, we visited Antalya museum (not really worth it but you can stop for a drink crossing the road with beautiful view from the cliff. We skipped Duden Waterfalls but you should probably take a look at it…

    Aspendos

    Perge

    Termessos

    Antalya museum

    Day 9: Çirali and Yanartas Milli Park

    Real cute village on the sea, far from the resorts in the East of Antalya, you’ll find here a nice trek to see stones on fire: Yanartas. We wish we had more time to chill there… Also we didn’t visited Phaselis and Olympos, Patara beach: instead we directly went to Kalkan where we stood in probably the most beautiful hotel and room: Fidanka!

    Egean coast

    Day 10: From Kalkan to Marmaris

    On our way to Marmaris, we stopped at Butterfly valley, had lunch in Ölüdeniz (Paradise beach restaurant) and finished our day enjoying the ambiance of the port.

    Day 11: Marmaris to Milas

    The day after we headed to Bodrum, with lunch break at Silent beach and a great evening in Milas, a quiet bird reserve where we saw Flamingos!

    Road trip conclusion: We spent a lot of time on the road, 4h/day average, and even if some parts were cute along the coast, it was mainly on a national road limited to 90km/h. Try to have more time than us!

    > Check our Polarstep

    Day 12:

    We dedicated this day to archeology with Didymes ruins (6€), a nice lunch by the beach (Kumsal Restaurant) and visit of Ephesus, the most famous (and crowdy) one. Sadly the main places were in restoration, and paying 40€ seems a bit expensive in my point of view… We arrived in Izmir in the evening, directly in the Old Bazar town hotel.

    Didymes

    Ephesus

    Day 13:

    For our last day we went to visit Sığacık: a cute city with small mediterranean streets. Izmir is the 3rd biggest city of the country, but the center kept a traditional vibe we really enjoyed! Full of old caravanserails, the bazar is a must do, so is the peer where you have nice restaurants perfect for the sunset!

    Sığacık

    Izmir

    WHERE WE SLEPT:

    – Istanbul: Villa Sofia
    Capaddoccia: Fairz Chimney Selfie hotel
    – Antalya: La Paloma
    – Kalkan: Fidanka
    – Marmaris: Sunway hotel
    – Milas: Yali Capkini Akyaka Boutique
    – Izmir: L’Agora old town bazar
    PRICES WE PAID:

    – Turkish Tea: between 25TL and 150TL
    Hooka: between 250TL and 750TL
    – Natural juice: between 20TL and 150TL
    – Gas: Around 40€ a full
    – Kebap: around 150TL
    – Glass of wine: between 250TL and 400TL for 20cl
    – Beer: around 150TL a pint

    Our best of

  • Long week-end in Ticino

    Long week-end in Ticino

    For the Swiss national day we enjoyed a 4 days week-end in the italian part of Switzerland: Ticino. A mix of beautiful treks, old villages, and luxurious cities on Lugano and Maggiore lakes. We took a little detour on our way back to check the source of the Rhone river.

    Verzasca Valley

    Our journey stated in this valley famous for it’s green mountains and its transparent river flooding directly from the glacier. Ponte dei Salti was incredibly crowdy, but the rest of the region is pretty quiet and we crossed NO ONE during our trek. Restaurants are also rare and full (don’t hesitate to book in advance). We missed visiting Corippo but if you can, go for it (and spend the night)!

    Day 1: Sonogno & Püscen Negro

    Sonogno is a peaceful village with only 86 habitants. The houses are from the XVIs century, sometime built directly against the rocks fallen from the mountain. It has a magical ambiance.

    We spent the first night there and did a little walk, climbing to Püscen Negro, a place lost in time, passing by La Froda waterfall (around 8km loop).

    Day 2: Loop Frasco – Monte Valdo – Gerra

    The day after we started a long walk from Frasco to Monte Valdo (15km, 1200D+, 6h). It’s a hard trek you can cut by going down directly to Gerra, instead of reaching Corte di Sopra (but as always: the higher, the better). You’ll be surprised to find houses in the middle of nowhere, with few families enjoying a quiet week-end (most of them are only secondary residences).

    > See details of the walk on AllTrails

    Where to camp?
    Don’t expect to stay in the middle of nowhere with nobody around… Sadly all the cute roads are private access is forbidden. There is a car park at the entrance of the village of Sonogno, where you can sleep in your camper for 24CHF/night, with toilets and water (not the most beautiful view, and we saw people sleeping in tents by the river, not sure it’s allowed but it’s definitely the best option in my point of view).

    Hotel:
    After a disappointed night on the parking (we expected to be into the wild like we did in Patagonia) we booked a room at Hotel Pizzo Vogorno (180CHF/night).
    Where to eat?
    Grotto Efra, peace on Earth at Sonogno, or Campagna Albergo Ristorante in Frasco.

    Day 3: Lago di Lugano

    Lugano

    The main city is a modern and colorful treasure, with plenty of terrasses, nice places and a walking street full of luxury shops!

    Morcote

    DO NOT miss this little place, and the walk up to the church. You will discover a small labyrinth of streets that reminded me Cinque Terre.

    Lago Maggiore

    Ascona

    We booked a room by mistake thinking it was located to Locarno, but it was finally my best and favorite place of the trip! It reminded me the cities we visited with my parents during summer, full of restaurants, a lake sidewalk with various artists playing music, cute streets and shops…

    Where to sleep?
    Piazza Ascona Hotel & Restaurants (230CHF/night)

    Locarno

    We only did a quick walk around the old center, but after Ascona and Morcote, the charm was suffering from the comparison…

    Rhone Glacier

    Passing by the south or Uri, an other gorgeous swiss canton, we did a small stop on the Rhone Glacier. In summer it was probably more melted than ever, but still you can walk in an ice cave and enjoy the beauty of this starting point of one of the dear Rhone river I crossed everyday when I was living in Lyon. Don’t miss the view from the valley where you get an idea where reached the glacier 20 years ago.

    Access
    Do not expect to see the nice point of view without paying the entrance fee (9CHF by cash, 10CHF by card). Parking is free though…
    Tip: With the climate change, I would only recommend to go there as soon as possible (it’s crazy to see how it’s disappearing years after years.

    Our best of:

  • One week in North of Scotland

    One week in North of Scotland

    As walking in the Highlands was the dream of my step mother, we organised a week of adventures in Northern Scotland during spring. We did a mix between treks and road trip, landing in Glasgow and reaching the Isle of Skye, passing by Glencoe Valley, Fort William, Inverness and the famous Loch Ness.

    The Highlands

    Hotels:
    We spent a total of 1300€ for 5 people (around 160€ per night, 53€/person)
    – 1 night at the airport: 200€
    – 4 nights in an AirBnB: 601€
    – 3 nights in Isle of Skye: 512€
    As we didn’t book in advance (1 month before leaving…), we found very few hotel still available at an acceptable price so my first advise would be to anticipate and prefer to stay in various hotels on the road instead of gathering in one place.
    Car:
    We rented a car at the Budget agency: 700£ for 7 days total
    Rent: 500£ with their option “automatic” (10£/day)
    Gas: Around 200£

    Day 1: Go North

    We arrived on Friday evening and slept directly nearby the airport (Holiday Inn Express) to rent a car and take the direction of the Highlands until Loch Lohmond. We stoped a few times to enjoy the landscape and visit those places:

    Falls of Falloch

    Bridge of Orchy

    Fort William

    Where to eat in Fort William?
    We tried those three pub/restaurants, all recommended (in this order):
    – Ben Nevis Bar, historical, great local food and with a nice view
    – Black Isle Bar, in a church with great pizzas
    – The Grog & Gruel, traditional pub
    Where to sleep nearby Fort William?
    We found this great plan on AirBnB.com, called The Highland Adventure Lodge located in the Great Glen Water Park.
    Price: 601€ for 4 nights (5 people)

    Day 2: Glencoe Valley & The Two Lairigs trail

    Earlier you can arrive there, better is: Parkings are rare (only 2 actually). We started from the one in the South and followed AllTrails (15km, 822D+, around 5h walk with a lunch break).

    Day 3: Loch Ness, Inverness & Urquhart castle

    Our first stop was Fort Augustus to see how the Caledonian Canal and the Lock Chambers worked, and enjoyed the beautiful view point on the Loch Ness.

    We went to visit Inverness, its nice Victorian market and had a great lunch at Mustard Seed, a church converted to a classy restaurant!

    We finished this busy day with the visit of Urquhart castle (you can also pay a visit to Invergarry Castle we missed that day).

    Day 4: Train & Waterfalls

    Here again, you will need to arrive early and park your car nearby the Glenfinnan monument to see passing the train of Harry Potter ! To get there you have a nice walk to do. I advise you to start from the Viaduc and finish with a nice coffee (or a delicious typical scottish breakfast) at Glenfinnan Station Dining Car.

    We drove to Mallaig but appart from the ferry to go to the Isle of Skye, this cute city doesn’t deserve the trip (in my point of view). We went back to the feet of Ben Nevis, the Steall Falls (An Steall Bàn means “The White Spout” in Gaelic): really nice landscapes with one of the biggest waterfall of the region.

    Glenfinnan Monument

    Mallaig

    Steall Falls

    The Isle of Skye

    Day 5: Road to the Isle of Skye

    On the way to the Isle of Skye we visited the most famous (and most touristic) castle of Highlander!

    To sleep on Isle of Skye: We stayed at Skye Yurts (512€ for 3 nights) but I believe the best location is definitely Portree.

    Eilean Donan Castle

    Old Man of Storr

    We did the full loop to Needle Rock and the top of the Old Man of Storr. Some parts were quite difficult but if you stay on the main path you’ll find it easy (and a bit tiresome).

    > Check the best walks video!

    Day 6: Quiraing

    Tips: Instead of starting from the main car park nearby the Quiraing walk, we found a very small place to Loch Langaig and a second walk that leads you to the top.

    Nest point

    Tips: Once again, the secret for being able to park your car is to arrive early. The sunset was really cloudy. Take some snack and enjoy (you can also walk to the lighthouse and get an other point of view).

    Day 7: Fairy pool

    Tips: Go there only if you have spare time! I would have enjoy a boat tour and get the chance to see dolfins or whales (check the best season to see them).

    Best Treks

    Best Moments

    Glencoe Valley
    Fort Williams
    Loch Ness
    Steal Falls
    Eilean Donan Castle
    Old Man of Storr
  • Lake Garda & around

    Lake Garda & around

    As the end of the year came too quickly for us to be able to book any trip, we decided to improvise and go to Italy (we’re pretty found of their food). I had the chance to live with an italian from Lombardy who shared with us this “best of” itinerary we followed (confirmed: best plan ever, GRACIE MILLE FABRIZIO <3).

    Bergamo & Brescia, the cultural ones

    Both selected as “Capital of culture 2023”, those two treasures deserve few days to enjoy their ambiance and events! Bergamo high city is very medieval (reminded me Lyon old center). Brescia is more classical italian’s dolce vita city, with a nice archeological site in the center of the city, a castle on the hill, Museo di Santa Giulia and plenty of places to eat, drink, visit…

    As it was sadly only a break on our way to Lake Garda, we only had one day to visit both of them…

    We will be back!

    Campanone di Piazza Vecchia, Bergamo
    Campanone di Piazza Vecchia, Bergamo
    Duomo Vecchio di Brescia
    Duomo Vecchio di Brescia
    – Place to stay: AirBnB Bergamo Easy Airport
    – Places to eat: Bacco Matto nearby the accomodation, Da Mimmo Bergamo Alta in the old town, La Marianna to take a coffee and good pastry.

    Lago di Garda villages, the cute ones

    Compared to Lago di Como, Lago di Garda is more “popular” in my opinion. No need to cross by boat, we visited by car driving from North to South. Each city center is a treasure.

    Malcesine & Monte Baldo

    Maybe my favourite one: old citadel and small cute streets full of cats, with a big bonus: Telecable to Monte Baldo where you’ll find the best view on the lake).

    Monte Baldo Telecable: 25€ with return (check the website for the timetable)

    Garda

    Bardolino

    Lazise

    Peschiera

    Sirmione & Grotte di Catullo

    In the extra South of Lake Garda you’ll find the nice peninsula of Sirmione with the medieval Scaiger castle, Grotte di Catullo, an archeological site and I heard about Roman Baths and beaches.

    – Place to eat: Hotel Pace Ristorante
    – Grotte entrance price: 8€
    – Place to stay: Eurocongressi Hotel at Cavaion Veronese

    Verona, the only one!

    If the myth of the two Verona lovers is false (still you can visit there Juliet’s home and tomb), the beauty and charm of this city is definitely real!

    Full of walking streets, we were there for the new year’s eve and we were not alone with this idea: it was crowded everywhere! We mainly walked between Piazza delle Erbe and piazza Brà where you find the magnificent coliseum. I don’t advise to eat or drink on both places: it’s mostly touristic and basic food.

    One good tip could be to check the program of Teatro Filarmonico. You also have a city ticket (20€ one day or 25€ two days) with accesses to all the main sites to visit, including the Museum Di Castelvecchio, Museo di Storia Naturale, Museo archeologico… Don’t forget the piazzale Castel San Pietro, Ponte di Piedra, and if you want to catch the best view on the city, climb to the Santuario della Madonna di Lourdes!

    – Place to eat: Osteria Scudo di Francia
    – What to eat: As Fab said, “try the Risotto all’Amarone, Risotto al tastasal, gnocchi di patate (born there), Pastissada de Caval, Torta Russa, Pandoro”

    Borghetto

    In the morning we drove to Borghetto, recommended by Fabrizio “only if you have time”. There you have a nice castle to visit, and a very small cute riverside:

    Summary of the trip

    Here is the beautiful road we followed (for privacy reason I don’t give access to the map, but you get the idea 😉

    Day 1 – Travel to Bergamo
    Day 2 – Bergamo & Brescia
    Day 3 – East of Lago di Garda
    Day 4 – Borghetto & Verona
    Day 5 – South of Lago di Garda
    Day 6 – Way back home (with a lunch break at Arona, Lago Maggiore)

    Budget:
    – Food:     We spent an average of 40€ per person per day in restaurant, coffee, bars…
    – Hotel: 50€/night per person with breakfast

    Best of us

  • Trekking in Tyrol

    Trekking in Tyrol

    As we were staying in Alsace and looking for a last trip before going back to work, we chose the Tyrol (the Alps region of Austria)! We left with no plan, and walked a total of 70km trekking into those amazing landscapes in 9 days!

    (more…)
  • What to visit for 2 days in Budapest

    What to visit for 2 days in Budapest

    This time I had the chance to travel with my own guide: Julien who lived in Hungary and knows pretty well the “Must See” in Budapest! We had time to visit the Pest area (a day and a half), enjoy the nightlife in the jewish area and discover Buda (for a half day).

    Budapest

    Founded in 1873, Budapest is a reunion of Buda, the old capital located on the hilltop, Pest which is the new living center and Óbuda.

    We stayed in Király utca, nearby the Opera. From there you have the metro to go to Buda’s hill or Városliget park, and can walk around the rest of the city!

    Essential vocabulary: Szía: Hello, Köszönöm: Thanks, Viszlát: Goodbye.

    Where to eat and drink:

    – Great brunch: The Cirkusz (always a line, but worth it!)
    – Green and quiet place to have lunch or dinner: Liszt Ferenc tér
    – Nice restaurant in a ruin building: Twenty Six
    – To get a drink in a ruin bar: Szimpla Kert (better in the afternoon)
    – Rooftop: 360 Bar
    – Artisanal street during the day, but also great for nightlife: Gozsdu Passage
    – Try also one of the various food courts like Street Food Karavan
    – An other restaurants street close to the central market: Ráday Street
    – To dance: Aether club or Akvarium club on Deák Ferenc tér (both electronic music) or Stifler Ház or Dobosz club (more commercial and with karaoke)

    Transportation:
    – Bus from the airport: Line 100E around 6€, reaching Deák Ferenc tér in 30 minutes
    – Metro: around 1€. Don’t hesitate to try the line 1, the oldest, built from 1894!

    Pest and the East side of the Danube

    In one day you can visit:

    – Deák Ferenc tér: the central place where you have plenty of bars and the big wheel!

    – The Opera opened since 1884: You can visit it with a guide or enjoy one their show!
    > 25€ the visit, check the timeline

    – St Stephen’s Basilica: named in honour of the first King of Hungary, whose right hand is housed in the reliquary.
    => around 15€ the full visit with access to the rooftop

    – The memorial of “The Shoes on the Danube Bank“ by the river between the Basilica and Parliament.

    – The Parliament: the visits are only guided, you can find the schedule on their website => around 25€
    Perfect spot to enjoy the symmetry of the building: Batthyány tér metro station (even more beautiful at night)

    – The biggest synagogue of Europe: Dohány utcai Zsinagóga
    => around 25€, a bit expensive for what’s here to see

    – The central Market: Nagy Vásárcsarnok (nice but very touristic)

    – The National Museum
    => around 7€

    – The “most beautiful bar” but also the most expensive: New York Cafe
    => 9€ a cappuccino!

    Shopping streets:

    • Váci utca
    • Andrássy (more expensive)

    Nightlife streets:

    • Király utca
    • Dob utca
    • Wesselényi utca
    The New York Cafe
    The Great Synagogue
    The Parliament
    The memorial of “The Shoes on the Danube Bank“
    The National Museum
    The Central Market

    Városliget park

    So many things to see here, you can dedicate a half day there:

    • The Hero place (Hősök tere)
    • Vajdahunyad Castle (the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture)
    • The Széchenyi thermal bath (the biggest of Europe)
    • The Budapest Zoo
    • The Municipal Circus (opened in 1891)he new House of Music
    • The Museum of Ethnography.
    To go there: You can either take the metro and stop at Hősök tere (in front of the Hero place) or Széchenyi fürdő in front of the baths.
    To eat: the Gundel Restaurant (opened in 1894), the Balloon bar, Nyereg étterem or Robinson étterem

    Buda, the hill and quiet part of the city

    Starting from the Széll Kálmán tér metro station, you can walk (climbing a little) the Ostrom street and start the visit with the Vienna door (Bécsi kapu). It took a half day to walk around the area, without visiting the insides.

    Note: On this side of the river you also can find the Gellért baths, the oldest of the city (Gellért Gyógyfürdő és Uszoda).

    Fisherman’s bastion
    The Castle
    Matthias church
    Mary Madgalene church
  • Explore Lapland in Sweden

    Explore Lapland in Sweden

    As a birthday present, I received from my incredible man one of the most intense experience of my life: Visit swedish Lapland to watch Northern lights! The perfect spot to catch the northern lights is Abisko National Park where we discovered the life under 20 degrees!

    Let me share with you the perfect program organized by Julien (thanks again love) from Luleå to Jukkasjärvi, Kiruna, Abisko National Park and the Aurora Sky Station:

    Where is Lapland?

    Lapland is an area that includes the far northern parts of Europe and was traditionally home to the Sami people. It’s also the perfect place to catch the Northern Lights. You can either choose Norway (Tromso), Finland (Rovaniemi) or here in Sweden from Kiruna.

    How to go to swedish Lapland?

    To come and visit this region of Sweden you can take a direct flight to Kiruna, or choose like us an early flight from Stokholm Arlanda airport to Luleå and rent a car there. Nice way to gently enter into the Arctic Circle!

    What about the weather?!

    End of February, the sunrise was at 7.40am and sunset from 5.15pm (but get really dark at 6pm).
    We spent a total of 3 days in Lapland, short time but quite enough when you considerate the -15°c average we had!

    Long week-end in Lapland

    Summary of our program:

    Day 1:

    • Flight from Lyon to Stokholm (Arlanda), we slept one night in an hotel with free transfers from and to the airport

    Day 2:

    • Second flight to Luleå where we rented a car to visit the city center
    • Lunch at Jukkasjärvi and a second night at Aurora River Camp in Poikkijärvi

    Day 3:

    • Husky Tour in Svappavaara
    • Lunch and visit of the old Kiruna city
    • Night close to Abisko and Night Lights watching at Aurora Sky Station

    Day 4:

    • Visit of Abisko National Park
    • Lunch and visit of the new Kiruna center
    • Way back to Luleå airport
    • Flight to Stokholm to go back home the next day
    What’s the best period to see the Northern Lights?
    I’m not a specialist, and you may find on internet a lot of tips about the best period for each region of the Globe. What I can tell you is you need to find a dark night with no moon and no clouds… February looks to be a perfect timing for us, with at least 10h of day light so time to also enjoy the amazing landscapes!

    Step 1: Luleå to Jukkasjärvi

    Arrived around 8.30am, we rented a car in the airport and walked into Luleå city center. It was sunday with everything close and quiet. Most of the restaurants were opening late so we decided to take a sandwish on our way and just hit the road!

    We arrived for lunch at Nutti Sámi Siida, in Jukkasjärvi, WAY too touristic and expensive with only 2 meals options: prefer Stejk Street Food in Kiruna with tables under the same Sami style house!

    We slept at Aurora River Camp, a very nice cottage on Poikkijärvi side. They offer winter suits and boots to cross the frozen river and go the other side (where you find a supermarket and the touristic Ice Bar). The weather wasn’t good enough to appreciate the night lights, but we tryed!

    To rent a car: You can book online and get the keys from a keybox at anytime. We found the car in the parking slot in front of the airport, and left it here with the keys in a dropbox.

    Step 2: Husky Tour, Kiruna and the Aurora Sky Station

    We started our second day in Lapland by a Husky Tour in Svappavaara: 2h and 13km of dog sledding accross magic frozen forest and lakes!

    We had lunch in Ann’s Burger Grill and looked around the desert town of Kiruna: they’re currently closing everything and move the population 3km east.

    We arrived in Abisko for the sunset (4.30pm) and waited for the night to get dark.

    We spotted our first night light around 8pm at Silverfallet waterfall (10min driving) and went to Aurora Sky Station around 9pm. There you climb 900m in chair lifts which almost guaranty you to see clearly the Northern Lights. Even if the camera gives a brillance to the colors our eyes couldn’t catch, it was still magical to look at those mesmerizing forms emerging during almost 2 hours!

    To visit Abisko and the Aurora Sky Station:
    You absolutely NEED TO BOOK in advance your trip there! The cable car to go up propose a day ticket, a night ticket, and a special dinner, but be sure to book in on their website!
    To sleep: You have a limited choice around Abisko. We stayed at STF Tourist station (the most expensive dormitory we’ve ever seen)

    Step 3: Abisko National Park and new Kiruna

    Even with the -18°c temperature, the lights were so amazing that we decided to take a walk to Abiskojakka canyon. We discovered the rest of Abisko National Park by car, with a beautiful point of view from Björkliden ski station.

    Our way back was amazing, with the sunlights all day long… We had lunch in the new center of Kiruna (around the modern clock) and headed back to Luleå.

    Videos Best Of

  • [VIDEO] Wake on Geneva Lake

    [VIDEO] Wake on Geneva Lake

    I almost forget to share with you this funny video I made last summer for the first time my partner sailed as captain! We were really starting the wake board but had a fun moment together! THANK YOU Julien, Marina & Jorane <3

    (more…)
  • Steps in Switzerland

    Steps in Switzerland

    Living close to the border (in Evian-les-Bains), we passed several week-ends enjoying this beautiful country! We started in Lauterbrunnen and Jungfraujoch in the fall, Morgins lake in winter with snow shoes and Defago Gallery steps during summer.

    Lauterbrunnen & the Top of Europe

    #lauterbrunnen #kleinescheidegg #jungfraujoch #grindelwald

    Mont Blanc Green lake Pointe d’Autigny Montriond

    Morgins lake

    Located right after crossing the border around Chatel, this beautiful lake was totally hidden by the snow. We walked around 3 hours starting on a ski way, and ending in the middle of nowhere! They were no human trace, everything was quiet and pure… 

    Champéry and Defago Gateway

    Located at one hour and a half from our place, this beautiful gallery hewn in the rock offers a magnificient view on the valley. We left our car in Champery station, walk around 15 minutes to get to the gallery and took the way up until Val d’Illiez to take a train and come back! Total trip: XX hours.

    Tips: You have a nice “accrocranche” starting in the beginning of the walk!
  • Best spots around Evian

    Best spots around Evian

    I couldn’t leave this beautiful region before sharing the top natural spots I had the chance to discover here: Thollon, Sixt-Fer-à-Cheval, Cornettes de Bise, pointe d’Autigny, Salève and multiples lakes!

    Hucel point of view

    Let’s start with the easiest and closest spot not to miss! This belvedere is only a 5 minute walk from the car (you can park on the roadside next to the fountain). The path forms a simple loop, I advise you to turn right for the somewhat sporty climb but which does not require superhuman effort or specific equipment.

    Pic des Mémises

    Again you have the easy way: go to Thollon Station and pay for the mountain lift (8€) or leave the car at Col de Creusaz parking and start a huge and amazing ascension to the cross of the Peak:

    View on Geneva Lake, 1 686m

    Sixt-fer-a-cheval

    Until the “Edge of the World”

    With various ways at different levels, this place can fit to anyone! I’ve been twice, first for the full round: until the Bout du Monde (Edge of the World) and coming back from the top, having a break at Chalet du Boret (took 4h). I’ve been a second time with a friend children and we went until Vogealle waterfall (took around 2h).

    Note: Way up and down both require good health condition but the effort really worth it!

    Rouget waterfall

    If you want to walk you can leave the car at Nant Sec parking. It will take you only 30min to reach the waterfall, passing through a nice wood, with no particular difficulty, or maybe only for the orientation as it’s not really indicated. We get lost on the way back (we wanted to do a loop…).

    You can also reach the waterfall by car: there is a parking right in front of it and a nice restaurant near by.

    Cornettes de bise

    You have several ways to visit this amazing site. We took the direct way to Col de Floray from the Bise refuge and went back the same way as we didn’t have much time before dawn.

    Pointe d’Autigny

    We did it during winter so the weather was hiding the view, but still it worth it! From Abondance you will arrive at 1808m for a total 4h walk with snowshoes.

    The Salève

    There are plenty ways to go up there but we took the lazy one! It offers an incredible view on Annemasse and Geneva!

    Small but nice lakes

    Both places have 2 options: for the lazy ones it’s accessible by car, and for those who want to enjoy a nice walk (1h30 to go and back on the same way). If you choose to walk:

    • Montriond: you enjoy the Ardent waterfall and cross a beautiful forest
    • Green lake: you cross the beautiful Nant Bordon gateway and have a nice view on Mont Blanc mountain!

    Montriond lake

    Green lake

    Geneva lake

    Let’s end this post with an other activity which brings you an other point of view: THE BOAT!

    Other best moments

    Sixt-fer-a-cheval
    Cornettes de bise
    Cornettes de bise
    Hucel
    Montriond
    Montriond
    Green lake
    Mont Blanc
    Pointe d’Autigny
    Pointe d’Autigny
    Pic des Mémises
    Pic des Mémises
  • Video library

    Video library

    Discover now the videos of my trips! Can be short magical moments, but also nice movies “best of”! They’re all stored here and on my

    Youtube official playlist

  • 3 days in Lisboa

    3 days in Lisboa

    After our roadtrip to Andalousia and Algarve, I went directly to Lisboa to enjoy three days in this beautiful city. I was staying in Alfama and visited the below part (Baixa) and Bairro Alto, Chiado. The third day I went to Belem to enjoy the fresh air!

    Alfama

    In 1755 an earthcake happened in the sea, 290km from the city. As it was the 1st of November, a famous catholic day, every candle lightened fell and burnt the most part of Lisboa. Alfama – which was mostly a jewish quarter – is the most authentic place of the city. Here is a labyrinth of streets, far from the straight of the rest of the city! You can enjoy nice points of viewand very cute streets.

    Tips:

    • If you have time to visit it, I heard the Sao Jorge castle is a must see!
    • The best views : Miradouro da Graça, Miradouro Santa Luzia(where you can take a drink).
    Also usefull:

    • If you are too tired to climb, you can take the Tram 28E that crosses the whole district.
    • To stay: San Jordi Hostel
    • Alfama
      Alfama stairs
    • Miradouro da Graça
      Miradouro da Graça
    • View on San Jorge Castle
      View on San Jorge Castle
    • Igreja de Sao Vicente de Fora
      Panteão Nacional
    • Miradouro do Recolhimento
      Miradouro das Portas do Sol
    • Lisboa cathedral
      Lisboa cathedral

    Lower part : Baixa

    As you will see the architecture is very new, as everything disappeared in 1755, first because of the earthcake, then the fire, but also the tsunami! On the Rossio place (officially Praça Dom Pedro IV) are drawn the same waves of Copacabana walk : it’s to refer to the water arrived until here. Right behind this place you’ll find what’s famous to be a cursed church : Igreja de Sao Domingo.

    In this part of the city – not really the most interesting – you have a lot of administrative buildings, but also shops and restaurants between the square of Figueira and Plaça do comércio.

    Plaça San Pedro IV
    Plaça do comércio
    City center
    Elevador de Santa Justa
    Museo do dinheiro
    Tips:
    – Museo do dinheiro: It’s optional but interesting
    – San Justa lift: Instead of paying 5€ to go to the top, you have a free elevator right behind it, rua do Carmo (hidden in a shop), or you can choose to cross Zara
    – Where Most of the Tour for Tips start: Rossio

    Chiado

    I found this district very dynamic! I visited the ruins of Igreja do Convento de Santa Maria do Carmo transformed into a small egyptian museum with mommies (you also have a light show if you want to visit it by night). With Tour for tips I also entered in Igreja de Sao Roque, famous for its gold (from the colonies). It’s also around this church where people party : the streets are full of bars there!

    Convento de santa Maria
    Igreja do Convento de Santa Maria do Carmo
    Igreja de Sao Roque

    Belem

    As it was very hot, and I already visited all I wanted in the city, I decided to go early to Belem. Sadly, I didn’t have time to visit the 2 places :

    Belem’s Tower

    To go there: You can take the train from Cais do Sodré or the Tram 15E

    Mosteiro dos Jerónimos

    The famous Pastéis de Nata cake comes from a monk receipe, so if you want to taste the best one, you will find it there (coffee Pastéis de Belem)

    Best of Instagram

    Tramway

    Tiles

  • Exit Festival in Novi Sad

    Exit Festival in Novi Sad

    As the music can make you travel far away, I discovered Serbia thanks to the Exit Festival.

    Not focused on the visits, I only enjoyed the city center, good and cheap restaurants, and the magnificent fortress of Novi Sad full of ravers! It was the first big festival after CoVid, with the feeling of being back to freedom…

  • Quick visit to “5 Terre”

    Quick visit to “5 Terre”

    In 2020 we had the chance to visit the Five Lands in Italy. A beautiful coastal area which name comes from the five villages you’ll find there: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.

    We did only 2 trails but when it’s open you can reach all the cities by very nice walking paths. For the lazy ones you also have a cheap and fast train until La Spezia or the boat which is to me the most beautiful option!

    Vernazza

    We arrived in Vernazza and parked our car to “Vernassoa” parking which charge 15€ a day with the transport to the city (very handful when you carry luggages). 

    Vernazza is very busy during the day and week-end, with the main place full of restaurants, but it’s also very quiet when the tourists have left and you can swim whenever you want (it’s restristed to a time slot in the other villages). 

    We had lunch in one of the restaurant by the sea (very touristic and not so tasty), enjoyed a little swim, and ended up to Monterosso by the trail starting behind the church!

    Addresses in Vernazza:
    > To see the sunset : Climb close to La Torre restaurant!
    > To take a drink: Gianni Franzi Deck (great cocktails)
    > To stay: Marinarooms Hotel, ask for the sea view rooms!

    Monterosso

    Vernazza
    Vernazza
    Vernazza
    Vernazza
    Monterosso
    Monterosso
    Monterosso
    Monterosso
    View from Monterosso
    View from Monterosso

    The treck from Vernazza was very easy and offers you a very nice view on Vernazza (don’t forget to look back !) You’ll arrive from the top of a hill and it’s really better to come this way, only the start from Vernazza is kind a dificult.

    Monterosso has very nice streets, and we climbed up to the Covento Frati Cappuccini where you have a view on almost every village of the coast (at least on Vernazza). It also has a nice railway bridge.

    We took the train officially to go back to Vernazza, but we landed in Riomaggiore where we enjoyed a very beautiful sunset from the harbour.

    Trail between Vernazza and Monterosso: 3,5km, 1h (looks easier in that way!)
    > Check the train schedules and fees

    Riomaggiore

    We found a very quiet city at the end of the day. We enjoyed a “Gelato” (icecream) on the stones of the harbor watching the sunset, and went back to Vernazza by train.

    Corniglia

    The second day we started from Vernazza and took the trail starting from the top of the city (on the right side when you have the harbor behind you). It lead us to a very nice break at Bar Il Gabbiano with an amazing view on Corniglia.

    Corniglia is not so big but is full of very cute paths. As it’s on a top of a cliff you can’t swim there. 

    We wanted to keep going to Manarola, passing by the Love Way, but it was closed at that time (the path lead you in a dead end). We decided to take the train, passing through a giant stairway* to go to Manarola.

    *Good to know: To transit to Corniglia you have the train but must take the Scalinata Lardarina with its 384 steps, so it’s better to follow our example : come walking from Vernazza and THEN take the train!


    Trail from Vernazza to Corniglia: 4km, 1h30
    manarola

    Manarola

    A bit more spacious than the other villages, Manarola has plenty of restaurants but no beach (even if you can jump into the sea in the harbor). 

    We climbed to Parco giochi Paradiso where you can have a huge point of view. You could even have lunch on the beautiful Nessun Dorma restaurant if you get chance to have a free table!

    After only one hour, we went back to the station to go visit La Spezia (only 12min from Manarola).

    La Spezia

    Even if it’s not officially part of the 5 villages, La Spezia gaves it names to the province. It’s an old city, much bigger that the Five lands we saw. You have modern pedestrian way area and beautiful authentic streets and buildings. We went to the harbor and to the Castello San Giorgio (which was closed but gave us a nice view on the city).

    The boat we wanted to take to go back to Vernazza was only starting from Riomaggiore, so we went back there a second time and it really worth it: The boat excursion is the best point of view you’ll have on the villages!

    > Boat timetable and prices
    La Spezia
    > More pictures on Facebook! 
    > Watch the video of the boat trip on Youtube

    The most beautiful view on the villages: From the sea

    • Riomaggiore
      Riomaggiore
    • Manarola
      Manarola
    • Manarola
      Manarola
    • Manarola
      Manarola
    • Corniglia
      Corniglia
    • Corniglia
      Corniglia
    Our program summary:
    Day 1:
    Visit of Genoa
    Day 2:
    – Visit of Camogli in the morning,
    – Arrival at Vernazza for lunch
    – Treck Vernazza – Monterosso
    – Sunset at Riomaggiore (by train)
    Day 3:
    – Treck Vernazza – Corniglia
    – Train to Manarola
    – Train to La Spezia
    – Back to Vernazza by boat from Riomaggiore
  • One week in Andalusia

    One week in Andalusia

    In september 2020 we planned a road trip in Andalousia, renting a car from Sevilla and visiting the maximum we could do: Cordoba and its Mesquita, Granada and the famous Alhambra, a quick stop in Rio Verde for my first canyioning session, Malaga, hiking in Caminito del Rey (close to Ronda), visiting the beautiful Cadiz to go back in Sevilla and visit the Alcazar!

    Cordoba & the Mesquita

    We arrived on sunday night from Sevilla where we rent a car, and sadly for us most of the sightseeings were closed on Monday. But the most famous was open: The Mesquita. This Roman catholic cathedral is a must see: it turned several time from a catholic church to a mosque, and kept its Islamic columns and arcs.

    The rest of the day we walked around the streets (must do: calle de las Flores), enjoying the famous biggest Tortilla de papa, the beauty of the Sojo rooftop bar and a flamenco show by the evening.

    Plaza de la Corredera
    Plaza de la Corredera
    Cordoba Roman's Bridge
    Cordoba Roman’s Bridge
    Calle de las Flores, Cordoba
    Calle de las Flores, Cordoba
    Hotel: ApartaSuites Alberca, very nice and quiet old typical andalousian house, with a cute swimming pool and private parking
    Rooftop: Soja Bar
    Flamenco diner: Casa Pepe de La Juderia

    Granada & the Alhambra

    Visiting the Alhambra takes at least 1/2 day. You need to book in advance your slot, and luckily (thanks to the CoVid situation) we were able to book the day before our arrival. You can visit several building from several times and used:

    Palacio Nazaríes

    Palazio Nazares

    Palace of the kings of Granada, this 13 century’s building is a huge complex with amazing muslin decoration.

    Alcazaba

    Alcazaba

    The fortified military complex. The first Arab constructions date from the Caliph period, possibly on the remains of a Roman fortification.

    Generalife patio

    Generalife

    Generalife Leisure villa of the sultans of Granada, surrounded by orchards and gardens, the latter created recently, together with the amphitheatre at the entrance

    Museo de bellas artes

    Museo de bellas artes

    Charles V Palace is one of the emperor’s projects for the city of Granada. With its roman style it host nice exhibitions included in your Alhambra entrance ticket.

    Granada sightseeings:

    Alhambra from Mirador San Nicolas
    Alhambra from Mirador San Nicolas
    Albaicín
    Albaicín
    Alhambra
    Alhambra
    Generalife's patio
    Generalife’s patio
    Albaicín
    Albaicín
    What we visited in one afternoon:
    – Plaza de Alonso Cano
    – Shopping around the Alcaicería (arab spice market)
    – the Real chapel attached to the Catedral Santa María de la Encarnación with its huge dome!
    – Lunch to Los Manueles (a chain with very good and cheap tapas – with the best croquetas I’ve ever tried!)
    – Hill of Albaicín, the medieval Arabic quarter of the city (with the must see Mirador of San Nicolas)
    – Salomonte hill, the gipsy quarter
    – Carrera del Darro, full of restaurant and terrasses down by the river

    Rio Verde Canyoning

    Between Granada and Malaga you will find a beautiful natural reserve with a canyon close to Otívar where we met our guide for canyoning and her children in holidays! We arrived in the morning and took a good and cheap breakfast at Restaurante Bellavista in Otivar. The tour lasted more than 4 hours (which was exceptionally long thanks to our guide and her little child).

    Contact: You can call or send a WhatsApp message to Nura: +34 699 97 03 36. She shared the pictures she took during our tour right after, really professional and full of security advices.
    Canyioning with Nura and her son
    “Barranquismo” with Nura and her son
    Nerja:
    We made a quick stop to this very nice (and touristic) city, having a beer on Cochran’s Terrace and lunch in front of the sea: Restaurante Terraza Mar Bella.

    Malaga

    Gibralfaro castle
    Gibralfaro castle
    Climbing to Gibralfaro castle
    Climbing to Gibralfaro castle
    Roman theater
    Roman theater
    View on the cathedral from the Marriot
    View on the cathedral from the Marriot
    View from the Marriot on Malagueta beach
    View from the Marriot on Malagueta beach
    plaza de la Merced
    Plaza de la Merced

    We passed only one day in Malaga to visit the Picasso museum and the Gibralfaro castle on top of the hill with an amazing view of the city!

    We crossed the city center to the Cathedral and visited the rooftop of Marriott Malaga Palacio hotel. We took an electric scooter until Malagueta beach (you have a nice pedestrian path to go there).

    We passed the evening with a friend starting at 100 Montaditos, Calle Sagasta (very nice area if you want to go out) and finishing plaza de la Merced where you have very cheap drinks and food!

    Hotel: We were staying in a small studio close to Merced place:  Apartamentos Marques de la Merced and left the car in the street (you have plenty of places but it’s better if you avoid the rush hours!)

    Caminito del Rey

    caminito

    El Caminito del Rey (The Kings’s Little Pathway) is an old water channel maintenance path. About 3 kilometers long (but you will walk the double as you need to enter to the area first), this way has just been refurbished, and it goes along vertical walls and a footbridge over the gorge on the same waterway.

    You can book online your slot or come directly like we did! Its a one way tour but you have a bus to go back!

    Ronda

    On our way to Cadix, and after our morning walk into Caminito del Rey, we made a quick stop to this very nice city of Ronda. Famous for its bridge (called Puente Nuevo but building started in 1751 and took until 1793 to complete), Ronda has also one of the oldest bullfighting ring of Spain: Corrida Goyesca. Be carefull about the timing: The corrida was closed and we didn’t have enough time to go down the bridge, where you have the best view… Plan at least a half day, it worth it!

    Cadiz

    Cadiz is a very cute city, with a lot of pedestrian tiny streets, It’s authentic, peaceful and warm!

    We just had a half day so we only walked around the city, enjoying the central market, close to Plaza de las Flores, the Genoves parc, Santa Catalina castleand its nice creek, or passing through the roman theater of Gades.

    We did visit one thing: the cathedral and its tower where you can get a great view on the full city! (second option to enjoy the view is to go to one of the restaurant rooftop, or to visit Torre Tavira).

    To stay: Hotel Argantonio is a very beautiful old house combining classical andalousian and colonian styles! Ideally located, close to a parking zones.
    To park your car: The hotel had a private service but we prefered to leave our car in the street (av. 4 de diciembre 1977) and pay at distance with PayByPhone application.

    Sevilla

    Alcazar de Sevilla
    Alcazar de Sevilla
    Alcazar de Sevilla
    Alcazar de Sevilla
    Alcazar de Sevilla
    Alcazar de Sevilla
    Alcazar de Sevilla
    Alcazar de Sevilla’s garden
    Plaza España, Sevilla
    Plaza España, Sevilla
    Plaza España, Sevilla
    Plaza España, Sevilla
    Infos:
    – Hotel: Joya del Casco
    – Alcazar: 11€50 entrance. We had to book our slot in advanced (CoVid rule I guess)
    Tips:
    We missed the visit of the Cathedral: indeed we were out of the visit hours, so we tried to participate to the mass. We couldn’t enter because my boyfriend was wearing a short behind his knees!

    Sevilla is a huge city and we had only 2 days to visit it (too short I guess).

    The first day we arrived around noon and enjoyed the rooftop of our hotel before searching for a tapas bar. We found it on calle San Pablo where you can eat and drink in a bunch of restaurants with terrasses!

    We crossed the river to visit Los Remedios with its nice Calle San Jacinto, before crossing again by the San Telmo bridge (in front of the Torre del Oro).

    The second day we visited the city center and the Casco Antiguo, passing by Basílica de Jesús del Gran Poder, and had a lunch on Alameda de Hercules. We walked until Basilica de Macarena to see the ancient wall of the city. We went back passing in front of Iglesia Saint-Louis-des-Français, Monasterio de Santa Paula, and found the Palacio de las Dueñas closed (too bad, it looked very nice to visit).

    At the end of the day we visited the Alcazar and its beautiful garden, and went to see the sunset on Plaza de España. We walked back to our hotel by the very nice the Paseo Alcalde Marqués del Contadero where you can find very nice bars by the river!

    Summary of our journey:

    Agenda:
    Day 1: Arrival at Sevilla and road to Cordoba
    Day 2: Cordoba
    Day 3: Alhambra and Granada
    Day 4: Canyioning in Rio Verde
    Day 5: Malaga
    Day 6: Caminito del Rey and Ronda
    Day 7: Cadix in the morning and road to Sevilla
    Day 8-9: Sevilla
    If we had more time:Close to Almeria we wanted to explore the Cabo de Gata. Also with 1 or 2 more days we would have visited Marbella, Estepona – known for surfing and Gibraltar

    Best Of moments:

    Cordoba Mesquita
    El Chorro area
    View from Gibralfaro, Malaga
    El Chorro area
    Rio Verde Canyoning
    Beers and Tapas with Jerem and Julien
    Marriot rooftop, Malaga
    Alcazar of Sevilla
    Alcazar de Sevilla
    Cadiz Cathedral
  • La Reunion island

    La Reunion island

    One of most beautiful island in the World, this french land is lost in the Indian sea nearby South Africa, and has everything you can dream of: volcanos, paradise beach, mountains, waterfalls, good food, rain, sun, green, blue…

    Map created with Wanderlog, a road trip planner app on iOS and Android

    My Best Of Beaches

    Hermitage

    Boucan Canot

    L’Etang

    Best of in images:

  • Ireland, the magic island

    Ireland, the magic island

    I moved in Ireland in 2006 and fell in love with this country, the people, the magic atmosphere in the pubs, and the amazing landscapes. I came back few times there, and visited almost all the island, from Dublin to Northern Ireland, from the Donegal to the Connemara, from Killarney to Cork.

    Dublin, or Baile Atha Cliath

    I really feel like home in this city. You must pass between 2 days and one week to visit all you need to see: walk along the Liffey, do shopping in Grafton and Henry streets, enjoy St Stephen’s Green mall (and parc) or visit the Dublin zoo in Phoenix parc.

    You will take pictures of the Wellington Monument, Molly Malone and Oscar Wilde statues, listen to the silent of Trinity College (in the heart of the city center), visit Christchurchand St Patrick’s Cathedral, the Jameson’s Distillery, the museum of Modern Art, of Natural history, or more original: the national museum of Leprechaun!

    Don’t forget to take a look inside of the post office on O’Connel street, and to try the best pubs of the World in Temple bar area, after passing behind the legendary Ha’penny Bridge! And if you want to drink the more typical irish beer with the best view of the city: visit the Guiness Factory!

    If you’ve got enough time you can also visit Kilmainham Goaland Van Gogh museum, or take the Luas (local train) to visit Malahide and its castle, or do a little trek on the cliffs of Howth (30min from the Connolly train Station). And if you’re lucky you can get a ticket to see a rugby game in the Aviva Stadium, or a hurling game in Croke Park!

    Best pubs in Dublin:
    Porterhouse for his burgers, The Church(yes in a real old church), Temple Bar, the real one, unmissable, The Oliver St John Gogarty and its lives, Arlington to see irish dance, The Mezz for a rock’n’roll night, The Johnny Fox pub (outside of Dublin, the highest of Ireland).

    Here is my top 5 places:

    Ha’penny Bridge

    happeny bridge

    Trinity College

    trinity college

    Christchurch

    christchurch

    St Patrick

    St Patrick cathedral

    Temple Bar

    temple bar
    Trim Castle
    TRIM CASTLE
    Hill of Tara
    HILL OF TARA
    Newgrange
    NEWGRANGE
    Slane castle
    SLANE CASTLE
    Monasterboice
    MONASTERBOICE

    From Dublin to Belfast

    If you go one hour north to Dublin you will make a great time travel…

    You can start this trip visiting the Castle of Trim and the Hill of Tara, known as the seat of the High King of Ireland.

    You can follow the road to discover Slane Castle (where the best concerts took place, like the one of U2 or the Red Hot Chili Peppers!), and go back time with the prehistoric monument Newgrange, and finish by Monasterboice, an important old religious center.

    Visiting those sites you will travel in the history of a country from prehistory to catholicism and celtic history this country has been built on.

    Northern Ireland

    I’ve never been a huge fan of Belfast, it’s too far from the warm ambience of Dublin, but the landscapes are still gorgeous and the most impressive coast I’ve ever seen: Giant’s Causeway!

    Belfast

    Belfast

    Capital of Northern Ireland, Belfast is full of history and activities. You can visit the Titanic museum (where it has been built), and one of the oldest pub of the country: the White’s Tavern!

    Antrim tower

    Antrim

    Only 30min from Belfast, the castle and the particular round tower worth a tour!

    Carrick-a-Rope bridge

    Carrick-a-Rope bridge

    I’ve never took time to walk on this bridge, only opened with good weather conditions, but it looks nice.

    Dunluce Castle

    Dunluce Castle

    A very romantic medieval ruins on top of the cliff.

    Giant's Canseway

    Giant’s Canseway

    A huge volcanic formation, with a nice legend which says it would have been made by a scottich giant who build a bridge through the irish sea to kill an irish…

    Bushmills Distillery

    One of the best irish whisky, and the oldest working distillery in Ireland!

    The Donegal and the great Connemara

    After a stop to Londonderry (made famous with the song “Sunday Bloody Sunday”), you will be amazed by the landscape of the Donegal, especially during the automne where the colors are red and shinny). Going south from there you will meet the Connemara, one of my favorite irish region. From Wesport to Galway you will drive on green roads, crossing huge lakes, and arrive to the magic Kylemore abbey, lost on the Pollacapall lough.

    You may finish your day in Galway, for me the second best city in Ireland! I heard that “Gal” meant “Foreigners”, and it was one of the main irish port, the way taken by the foreigners to enter in the country. There’s not a lot to see there, but the cathedral and the Spanish arch, but you will enjoy the life of Quay street, with a lot of shops and pubs.

    Not to miss: At 1h30 in the south you will find the highest cliffs of Europe, the cliffs of Moher!
    Kylemore Abbey

    Thanks guys for those various trips I made with you!

    My flatmates, Sarah and Ciaran visiting Newgrange
    Alexis, Elise and Celine during my first irish trip in the south
    Connemara
    My mom visiting Wexford waterfalls
    My cousins drinking baby guiness
    My friend Anne Lise and me in Galway
    My brasilian friends met in Oslo
    My collegue GG
    My parents visiting Dublin
    Family trip in Howth
  • A week-end in Edinburgh

    A week-end in Edinburgh

    Just a best of pictures of the week-end we passed in Scotland with my colleague Geraldine and where we visited the city with a guided tour!

    Edinburg
    Edinburg
    Edinburg
    Edinburg
    Edinburg
    Edinburg
    Edinburg
    Edinburg
  • A week-end in Stockholm

    A week-end in Stockholm

    See my old blog:

    https://rabbitstravel.wordpress.com/2008/02/16/stockholm/
  • A week end in Oslo

    A week end in Oslo

    In 2007, as I was studying, I discovered Ryanair and its cheap flights around Europe. So I went for a week-end in Oslo all alone and came back with friends from Germany and Brazil!

    In only 2 days, with cold temperature, slippery shoes and sunset at 3pm, I still enjoyed a lot the city and will remember forever what I did there: The opera and Nutcrackers, a boat tour in the bay where I saw dark dolphins, Vigeland park and its frozen statues, Frognerseteren station from where you can go skiing and the Icebar!