Discover Why Bandia Wildlife Reserve Gave Me a Better Safari Experience Than Some of Africa’s Largest National Parks – All in Two Hours! Senegal is unlikely to make your…
Discover Why Bandia Wildlife Reserve Gave Me a Better Safari Experience Than Some of Africa’s Largest National Parks – All in Two Hours!
Senegal is unlikely to make your list when considering a safari in Africa. Yet just an hour’s drive from the bustling capital of Dakar, you’ll discover Bandia Wildlife Reserve – home to reintroduced species such as giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and antelopes, offering visitors a chance to see African wildlife in a semi-natural environment. I was thrilled to find such a variety of wildlife in a country where I hadn’t expected to encounter such a setting until it appeared in my travel research. I was surprised in the best possible way!
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or someone searching for a unique day trip, Bandia Wildlife Reserve provides a memorable experience combining Senegalese landscapes, history, and conservation into a single accessible adventure.
Join me as I share my unforgettable safari through Bandia Wildlife Reserve.
About Bandia Wildlife Reserve
Located just 65 kilometres south of Dakar, Bandia Wildlife Reserve was established in 1990 as Senegal’s first private nature reserve. Covering 3,500 hectares of fenced savannah, it’s a conservation success story that reintroduced native species long lost from the region due to poaching and habitat loss.
You can expect to see a diverse range of wildlife, including:
giraffes,
white rhinoceroses,
zebras,
antelopes (such as elands and impalas),
monkeys (patas and vervet),
warthogs,
crocodiles,
ostriches, and
over 120 bird species.
One of Bandia Wildlife Reserve’s unique aspects is its blend of wildlife and West African culture. Scattered throughout the reserve are reconstructed Serer burial mounds, traditional Peulh huts, and an ancient baobab tree once used as a tomb for griots (Senegal’s revered oral historians).
Bandia Wildlife Reserve’s landscape is straight out of an African nature documentary – think towering baobab trees, wide-open plains, and clusters of acacia trees that provide shade to wandering herds. Bandia’s founders have created a balanced ecosystem that’s both welcoming to wildlife and inviting for visitors.
Exploring Bandia Wildlife Reserve is typically done via guided 4WD safari tours, allowing close encounters with wildlife in their natural habitats. The reserve features a restaurant and bar overlooking a waterhole, where you can relax and observe animals like buffalo and crocodiles. There is also an excellent souvenir shop.
Are you a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or looking for a family-friendly adventure? Bandia Wildlife Reserve offers an unforgettable experience that feels worlds away yet is incredibly accessible.
The Safari Experience
You can tour Bandia Wildlife Reserve in your own car, by taxi, or hire an on-site open-sided safari truck (reservations aren’t necessary), seating 8-24 people. However, a 4WD is crucial during wet weather.
I was in Senegal on a private tour with a guide and driver in a 4WD vehicle. I travelled through the Bandia Wildlife Reserve in this vehicle. Whether you opt for your own vehicle, taxi, or the reserve’s safari truck, hiring one of Bandia’s specially trained guides is mandatory. These guides are skilled at spotting wildlife and knowledgeable about Bandia’s history, conservation efforts, and cultural heritage.
Driving around Bandia Wildlife Reserve, I was thrilled by how often I spotted animals and birds and the diversity of what I encountered.
I’ve been on safari in several of Africa’s larger, open-range national parks and loved the adventure they offer. However, the vastness of these landscapes can mean hours of driving without a single sighting. In contrast, my experience at Bandia Wildlife Reserve was uniquely different. Within two hours, I encountered an impressive range of wildlife – giraffes, zebras, rhinos, antelope, monkeys, ostriches, and more – with hardly a moment of stillness between sightings. While Bandia may not have the scale or remoteness of the big-name parks, there’s something to be said for a small, well-managed, enclosed reserve where animals roam freely but are easier to find. It didn’t feel staged; instead, it felt intimate and rewarding – ideal for travellers seeking a rich safari experience without the long waits or need for multiple game drives.
My wildlife safari photo gallery
A white rhino rests in the shade of a tree.
A lone giant eland (also known as the Derby eland or Lord Derby’s eland) stands proud in the African bush. It is the largest species of antelope in the world.
A warthog drinks from a waterhole. My Bandia Wildlife Reserve guide told me they are the only animals that can get in and out of the reserve because they burrow under the fencing.
A zebra wanders past boxthorn bushes.
Male ostriches have black feathers, while females have grey feathers. Male ostriches can be quite aggressive, especially during the mating season.
A male and female giraffe.
The Abyssinian roller, also known as the Senegal roller, has vivid blue body feathers and impressively long outer tail feathers. It is, without a doubt, a stunning bird.
A spotted hyena. The hyenas in Bandia Wildlife Reserve are kept in an enclosure because they were killing the animals.
Cultural and Historical Highlights
The Bandia Wildlife Reserve showcases wildlife and honours Senegal’s rich cultural heritage.
During the drive, my safari guide showed me a one-thousand-year-old sacred baobab tree used historically as a tomb for griots, the traditional West African keepers of knowledge and oral tradition. Baobab trees were considered sacred by the Serer people and regarded as a fitting place for the remains of the griots, who were revered as wise men and sages.
Deceased griots were placed in the hollow trunks of baobab trees rather than being buried in the ground to ensure their knowledge remained accessible and didn’t get lost in the earth. This practice has been outlawed since 1962 due to public health concerns. Nevertheless, the baobab trees still hold sacred significance for the local population.
The one-thousand-year-old sacred baobab tree – an ancient tomb for griots inside Bandia Wildlife Reserve (a practice now banned). There were human skulls inside the hollow of the tree. However, I suspect they were placed there for the benefit of tourists.
Practical Information
Opening hours
Bandia Wildlife Reserve is open daily from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm.
Ticket prices
Adults: 12,000 FCFA (West African CFA Franc) (approximately €18,50)
Children (under 12 years): 7,000 FCFA franc (approximately €10,50)
Vehicle entry (personal car or taxi): 7,000 FCFA (approximately €15)
Guide per vehicle (mandatory): 6,500 FCFA (approximately €10)
You can make payments in FCFA, Euros, or by credit card.
On-site facilities
Bandia Wildlife Reserve has a large on-site restaurant overlooking a waterhole teeming with Nile crocodiles. I didn’t eat there as I was having lunch at Lac Rose (Pink Lake), so I can’t comment on the quality of the food on the menu.
Two Nile crocodiles rest on the banks of the waterhole that Bandia Wildlife Reserve’s restaurant overlooks.
An excellent, upmarket, boutique-style souvenir shop is in the same building as the restaurant. I wanted to buy a book on Bandia Wildlife Reserve, but unfortunately, they were only in French.
Best time to visit
Senegal is situated at Africa’s westernmost point, along the Atlantic Ocean. It experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a dry season from November to June and a wet season from July to October. Temperatures remain warm to hot throughout the year, averaging about 36 degrees Celsius.
I always recommend visiting a wildlife park in Africa during the dry season because the animals are drawn to the waterholes.
For optimal wildlife viewing, visit during the cooler hours of the morning or late afternoon, as animals tend to be more active at these times than in the heat of the midday period.
How to Get to Bandia Wildlife Reserve
Bandia Wildlife Reserve is easily accessible by car from the capital, Dakar, and Saly’s resort area. Except for the last 800 metres, the roads are sealed, well-signposted, and in good condition.
From Dakar (approximately 65 kilometres):
-> Head south on the A1 motorway from Dakar.
-> After approximately 60 kilometres, take Exit 14 toward Sindia/Popeguine.
-> Continue for 2 kilometres, then turn right onto National Road N1 (Dakar-Mbour).
-> Drive 3.3 kilometres on N1, then turn left at the signpost indicating Bandia Wildlife Reserve.
-> Continue on the unsealed track for 800 metres to reach the reserve entrance.
From Saly (approximately 15 kilometres):
-> Head north from Saly on National Road N1 toward Sindia.
-> After approximately 15 kilometres, watch for the signpost to Bandia Wildlife Reserve and turn right.
-> Continue on the unsealed track for 800 metres to reach the reserve entrance.
If you’re not driving, you can organise a private transfer or book a guided tour, typically from Dakar or Saly, that includes transport, park entry, and a safari guide. You can book half-day and full-day tours to Bandia Wildlife Reserve with companies like Viator, GetYourGuide, and ToursByLocals (all of which I’ve used on other trips and found to be excellent). The full-day tours are usually combined with other attractions, such as Pink Lake.
My visit to Bandia Wildlife Reserve was, without a doubt, a highlight of my time in Senegal. It’s more than just a place to see animals; it’s a testament to conservation, a visual reminder of Senegal’s diverse natural beauty, and a chance to reconnect with the wild. It’s an easily manageable day trip that packs a punch, offering a genuine taste of safari life without having to venture deep into other parts of Africa.
Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or just seeking something different to do, Bandia Wildlife Reserve provides an accessible and remarkably rewarding experience. So, if you find yourself in Senegal, make time for this magical encounter – it left me with lasting memories, stunning photos, and a deeper appreciation for Senegal’s hidden natural treasures.
Disclaimer: This post contains no affiliate links. All views and opinions are my own and non-sponsored. All photos are my own and remain the copyright of Joanna Rath/Just Me Travel.
Have you ever visited a smaller wildlife reserve like Bandia? Did it surprise you compared to the big-name safari parks? I’d love to hear about your experiences – share them in the comments below!
I love hearing from you and look forward to reading and responding to your comments. Please join the conversation by leaving a comment below.
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Author’s Note: Please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and follow government advice.
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A UNIQUE DAY TRIP: The Haunting Memory of Gorée Island, Senegal. Visiting Gorée Island is more than just a day trip to a picturesque destination with vibrant colonial architecture; it’s a profound encounter with a history filled with centuries of pain, resistance, and remembrance. A must-visit spot!
This Tiny Island in Senegal Tells a Story the World Must Never Forget I spent two fabulous weeks in Senegal, West Africa, experiencing as much as possible on a…
This Tiny Island in Senegal Tells a Story the World Must Never Forget
I spent two fabulous weeks in Senegal, West Africa, experiencing as much as possible on a private tour with my guide, Serigne, and driver, Pap, based on an itinerary I developed in consultation with Native Eye Travel. It was a memorable trip with many highlights, including museums in Dakar, Lac Rose (Pink Lake), Fadiouth Island (built on clamshells), Bandia Wildlife Reserve, and more. However, my day trip to Gorée Island was the most poignant.
Just a short ferry ride from Dakar, Gorée Island presents a charming exterior with its pastel facades and narrow alleys while holding a deep history of centuries of pain, resistance, and remembrance. It offers an experience that is both enchanting and emotional.
As I walked through cells once used to imprison enslaved people on Gorée Island and stood before the Door of No Return, I reflected on the lives forever changed by the transatlantic slave trade. This post shares what I discovered on Gorée Island – what to see, how to get there, and, most importantly, why this tiny island left such a lasting impression.
About Gorée Island
Gorée Island lies three kilometres off the coast of Senegal, directly across from Dakar. While it is a small island – approximately 900 metres long and 350 metres wide – its historical significance far outweighs its size.
Discovered by the Portuguese in the 15th century, the island was successively ruled by the Portuguese, Dutch, English, and French from the 15th to the 19th century, using Gorée Island as a strategic trading post.
From 1536 to 1848 (when the French abolished slavery), Gorée Island was active in the transatlantic slave trade, particularly under French control. The island served as a major holding and embarkation centre for enslaved Africans who were forcibly taken from West Africa and kept in cramped, dark cells while awaiting transport across the Atlantic to the Americas.
Gorée Island functioned as both a residential and commercial centre for European traders and a place of imprisonment for captured Africans. The island witnessed unimaginable human suffering, with many enslaved people dying before even setting foot on a ship.
While Gorée Island may not have experienced the highest volume of slave departures, its preserved structures and historical exhibits offer a tangible and solemn connection to this dark chapter of human history. The island has become a pilgrimage site, especially for Africans and African Americans seeking to reconnect with their roots.
In 1978, Gorée Island was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its historical significance in the slave trade and its well-preserved colonial architecture.
How to Get to Gorée Island
Gorée Island is accessible only by boat. The easiest and cheapest way to get there is to take the direct Gorée Ferry from Dakar’s passenger terminal. Ferries depart every two hours, daily, from 7 am to midnight. Tickets are available at the terminal and cost about 5,000 CFA (approximately USD9) for a return trip. A passport is required to purchase a ticket and to board the ferry – a copy is not accepted.
The ferry ride takes 25-30 minutes. Arrive early to grab a seat on the upper deck for scenic views of Dakar and the approach to Gorée Island.
Approaching Gorée Island, as viewed from the ferry.
Things to Do and See on Gorée Island
Gorée Island offers a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Visit the House of Slaves, a poignant reminder of the island’s transatlantic slave trade, and stroll through the colourful, narrow streets. Admire the colonial architecture, explore the fortifications, and soak up the charming island atmosphere.
House of Slaves (Maison des Esclaves):
The House of Slaves with a view of the Door of No Return. Enslaved Africans were imprisoned in cells on the ground floor while the upper floor was the residence of the slave trader.
The House of Slaves was a slave-holding warehouse and is the island’s most sombre and emotionally powerful site. Built in 1776, this pink-hued building once served as one of the 28 prisons for enslaved Africans on Gorée Island before they were forced aboard ships bound for the Americas. It is now a museum and memorial to the victims of the transatlantic slave trade on Gorée Island – to those who never returned!
Native Eye Travel arranged a private tour of the House of Slaves for me with the Head Curator, and the museum was closed for the duration of my tour.
Inside, narrow corridors led to dark, airless holding cells where men, women, and children were imprisoned separately. Some of these spaces were no larger than a closet, and the living conditions of the enslaved people were atrocious. Families were separated, and children were held away from their mothers. They spent days chained and shackled to the floor, unable to move, and only set free once a day to eat and relieve themselves. Young girls, confined separately from the other women, were particularly vulnerable to sexual exploitation.
The enslaved females’ cell in the House of Slaves.
The cell for enslaved young girls in the House of Slaves.
However, the most haunting feature of the House of Slaves was the Door of No Return. This small seaside doorway marked the last point of contact for enslaved individuals with their homeland. Standing in its shadow, I felt the weight of history pressing down on me. Its symbolic and emotional significance was immense. I found myself motionless, initially unable to photograph what I saw, as I needed to acknowledge the pain that the Door of No Return symbolised.
The House of Slaves: The Door of No Return. Through this door, enslaved men, women, and children stepped from their homeland onto a waiting ship that would transport them to the Americas.
I truly appreciated my private tour, as having other people moving in and out of the cells and around the Door of No Return would have diminished my emotional experience. The House of Slaves was more than a museum; it was a portal to the collective trauma of a people torn from their roots and a powerful reminder of history.
The Statue of Liberation of Slaves is a powerful statue depicting a man and woman embracing as their chains are released. It is located near the House of Slaves. (Sculptors: Mrs Jean and Christian Moisa)
A walking tour of the island:
Beyond the House of Slaves, the island beckons for quiet exploration. Serigne led me through leafy alleyways, past colourful colonial architecture adorned with wrought-iron balconies and crumbling walls held together by bougainvillea.
Gorée Island’s charm is revealed as you wander down its many pretty alleyways.
Colourful colonial architecture is widely featured on Gorée Island.
We walked past open-air art galleries on our way to the highest point of Gorée Island, called the ‘castle’ even though no castle exists. However, two large cannons installed by the French during the Second World War dominate the hill.
These two French cannons were strategically positioned on Gorée Island’s highest point.
Lastly, Serigne took me to the Historical Museum of Senegal in Gorée, located in the former Fort d’Estrées, which the French built between 1852 and 1856. The museum presents the general history of Senegal and the more specific history of Gorée Island. Its layout follows a circular route divided into 13 rooms, covering periods from the Paleolithic Age to the slave trade and independence.
The former Fort d’Estrées, which now houses the Historical Museum.
Having previously visited two excellent museums in Dakar, I found the Gorée Historical Museum relatively uninteresting and neglected. Although all the information about the museum’s exhibits was written in French, this was not an issue, as Serigne was happy to translate for me, as he had done in the museums we visited in Dakar.
Gorée Island was full of contrasts – beauty, serenity, sadness, and suffering.
Where to eat:
Serigne and I lunched on the seafront at the Hostellerie du Chevalier de Boufflers. Shaded by large umbrellas, I ate lunch while looking out over the quiet harbour. My meal consisted of chicken with onion sauce and rice – a delicious traditional Senegalese dish.
Lunch at Hostellerie du Chevalier de Boufflers offers uninterrupted views of Gorée Island’s harbour and serves a great traditional Senegalese chicken dish with onion sauce and rice.
Tips for Visiting
French is the official language of Senegal, but Wolof is the most widely spoken. English is not commonly spoken, and I was hard-pressed to get by in Senegal with my schoolgirl French. Luckily, Serigne spoke excellent English and was happy to translate whenever needed. I found using Google Translate to be an exasperating experience, especially when translating menus with my camera. I was never sure what I was ordering!
A day trip to Gorée Island is all you need. I spent five hours on the island and saw everything there was to see, except for the Museum of the Sea and the Women’s Museum.
Gorée Island is car-free and has cobblestone streets. It may be tiny, but you will do a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are essential.
Remember, you need a valid passport to travel to Gorée Island from Dakar. You cannot purchase a ferry ticket without one.
The House of Slaves is open Tuesday through Sunday and closed on Mondays. Its hours are 10.30 am to 12.00 pm and 3.00 pm to 6.00 pm.
The Historical Museum of Senegal in Gorée is open Tuesday through Sunday and closed on Mondays. Its hours are from 10.30 am to 4.30 pm.
Do you truly want to understand the history of Gorée Island, rather than merely wandering the streets? I recommend arranging a guided tour from Dakar with a reputable travel agency, such as Viator or Get Your Guide (both of which I have successfully used in the past). Alternatively, you can arrive on Gorée Island and choose one of the guides who meet the ferry.
Reflecting on my Experience
Visiting Gorée Island was not just another travel experience but a journey through history and humanity. It reminded me of the importance of confronting the past, no matter how painful, and honouring those whose lives were shaped by it.
Walking through the corridors that were once filled with unimaginable suffering was a sobering experience. But there was also hope in the quiet determination to remember and never forget.
Last view of the Door of No Return (in the red building) as I leave Gorée Island on the ferry for Dakar.
A visit to Gorée Island is more than just a day trip; it’s a powerful encounter with history. It invites you to slow down, listen, and reflect. While the island’s beauty is undeniable, the emotional weight of its past lingers long after the ferry ride back to Dakar.
Gorée Island reminds us of humanity’s capacity for cruelty but also of its resilience and the importance of remembering. If travelling through Senegal, set aside a day for Gorée Island. It’s not just about sightseeing – it’s about bearing witness. Gorée Island doesn’t just tell a story – it asks you to carry it with you.
Disclaimer: This post contains no affiliate links. All views and opinions are my own and non-sponsored. All photos are my own and remain the copyright of Joanna Rath/Just Me Travel.
Have you visited Gorée Island or another historic site that left a deep impression on you? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
I love hearing from you and look forward to reading and responding to your comments. Please join the conversation by leaving a comment below.
Like this post? Save it for later!
Author’s Note: Please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and follow government advice.
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SAFARI BLISS IN SENEGAL: My Adventure at Bandia Wildlife Reserve. Senegal is unlikely to feature on your list when considering a safari in Africa. However, the small Bandia Wildlife Reserve, a conservation success story, offered an intimate, rewarding, and rich safari experience unlike those in big-name parks.
Dreaming of an Immersive, Authentic Travel Experience Off-the-Beaten-Path? Why a Homestay with Mongolian Nomads is Worth It. Mongolia is one of the last places on Earth where a truly…
Dreaming of an Immersive, Authentic Travel Experience Off-the-Beaten-Path? Why a Homestay with Mongolian Nomads is Worth It.
Mongolia is one of the last places on Earth where a truly nomadic lifestyle still thrives. Scattered across its vast steppes, about one-third of the population continues to live as their ancestors did – moving with the seasons, herding livestock, and residing in traditional gers (yurts). While many travellers visit Mongolia for its dramatic landscapes and rich history, one of the best ways to experience its culture is through a homestay with a nomadic family.
During my journey through Mongolia, I had the incredible opportunity to spend two nights with a nomadic family in the beautiful Orkhon Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised for its stunning scenery, deep historical significance, and vibrant culture. This homestay offered an intimate glimpse into a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries. From learning how to milk yaks, make vodka, and erect a ger to riding horses across the rolling steppe and sharing meals, every moment was a lesson in resilience, simplicity, and hospitality.
In this blog post, I’ll share my unforgettable adventure – from the journey to the homestay, daily life with my host family, and the cultural traditions that made this experience truly unique. If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the world of Mongolian nomads, read on to discover what it’s really like!
My daughter and I were visiting Mongolia on a photography holiday with Frui Creative Holidays. Our itinerary, arranged by Goyo Travel, included a homestay with a nomad family in the scenic Orkhon Valley. By the time we arrived at our homestay, we had been travelling through Mongolia for over a week, enhancing our photographic techniques through various experiences with a professional photographer.
Our trip included many highlights – a day spent captivated by the skills of Mongolian horsemen at a traditional horse festival, discovering dinosaur bones, climbing massive sand dunes that sang in the wind, interacting with monks, riding camels, and practising archery – all leaving lasting memories. However, the homestay with a nomadic family in the Orkhon Valley was the ultimate highlight of this trip.
Throughout my extensive travels, I have experienced numerous homestays in different countries, but I have always felt like an intruder and a tourist in my host family’s home. However, my homestay in Mongolia was the first time I felt accepted and welcomed by the host family, which allowed me to engage with their lifestyle and traditions.
10 powerful reasons to do a homestay with a nomadic family in Mongolia
If you’re dreaming of an immersive, authentic travel experience far from the usual tourist path, a homestay with a Mongolian nomadic family might be exactly what you’re looking for. Here’s why this unforgettable cultural encounter should be on your travel radar:
Authentic Cultural Immersion: There’s no better way to learn about Mongolia’s heritage than by living alongside those who carry it forward every day. A nomadic homestay offers a window into age-old customs, daily routines, and values that remain largely unchanged for centuries.
Learn Centuries-Old Traditions: From milking yaks and herding animals to playing traditional games and drinking airag (fermented mare’s milk), a homestay lets you engage with practices that have been passed down through generations.
Experience Life in a Ger (Yurt): Spending the night in a traditional ger is a unique cultural experience. These portable round tents are ingeniously designed for the nomadic lifestyle – warm in winter, cool in summer, and surprisingly comfortable. You’ll gain an appreciation for the practical beauty of this centuries-old dwelling.
Witness Mongolia’s Natural Beauty Up Close: Most nomadic families live in stunning remote areas like the UNESCO-listed Orkhon Valley. Picture rolling grasslands, distant mountains, grazing herds, and skies so clear you can see the Milky Way. It’s a peaceful, breathtaking setting you’ll never forget.
Slow, Mindful Travel: Homestays encourage you to slow down and fully engage with your surroundings. With limited distractions and no tight schedules, you’ll connect more deeply with people, nature, and yourself.
Support Local Communities: Your stay directly benefits the host family and contributes to preserving Mongolia’s nomadic culture. It’s a powerful way to travel responsibly and ensure your visit has a positive impact.
Make Heartfelt Human Connections: Even with language differences, you’ll find the warmth of Mongolian hospitality unmistakable. Shared meals, laughter, and kind gestures create lasting connections that transcend words.
A True Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience: Mongolia remains one of the world’s most untouched travel destinations. A nomadic homestay is the perfect way to venture off the grid and have a truly unique adventure far from the typical travel trail.
Great Stories and Memories: Every part of your stay – whether horseback riding across the steppe, sharing tea in a ger, or helping herd sheep – becomes a story worth telling. These are the moments that turn trips into lifelong memories.
It’s Life-Changing: Mongolia’s nomadic lifestyle, which involves living simply, close to nature, and in harmony with the seasons, can shift your perspective and inspire you to reconsider what truly matters.
A nomadic homestay in Mongolia isn’t just accommodation – it’s an experience that touches the heart, broadens the mind, and reminds you of the benefit of human connection.
Preparation and briefing
Before arriving at our homestay, our travel guide and translator gave us an invaluable briefing on Mongolian customs, particularly regarding proper etiquette when visiting a nomadic family. For example, do not step on the threshold of the ger, always walk to the left when entering, accept food with your right hand while supporting your elbow with your left, and never throw a tissue into the fire. This latter advice was timely as we were coming down with colds.
These customs reflect deep-rooted values of respect, hospitality, and symbolism in Mongolian culture.
Interested in learning more? I’ve compiled a comprehensive guide on Mongolian cultural norms and traditions, covering everything you need to know to feel prepared and confident during your visit.
Getting to the Orkhon Valley
The Orkhon Valley, one of Mongolia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites (2004), is celebrated as a cultural site – the Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape, representing the development of nomadic pastoral traditions spanning more than two thousand years. Often referred to as the cradle of Mongolian civilisation, the Orkhon Valley is a testament to the region’s profound historical and cultural heritage. Mongolian nomadic pastoralists still graze the grassland.
The Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape lies in central Mongolia, about 360 kilometres southwest of the capital, Ulaanbaatar. It encompasses an extensive area of pastureland on both banks of the Orkhon River and includes numerous archeological remains dating back to the sixth century. This beautiful landscape was the land of our homestay host family.
The Orkhon Valley – our home for two nights with a view we could never get enough of.
Our travel group comprised two Australians – my daughter and me – along with our English photography tutor and two Mongolians – our tour guide/translator and driver.
We travelled to our homestay in the Orkhon Valley from Talbiun Ger Camp on the edge of the Orkhon Valley National Park. According to Google Maps, the distance was 45 kilometres, taking about 1.5 hours to drive.
I hadn’t timed the journey because we made several photo stops along the way. However, travelling anywhere in Mongolia takes an inordinate amount of time to cover small distances. I put this down to the roads, if you can call them that! The ‘roads’ were indiscernible dirt tracks (and that’s a generous description) in terrible condition – eroded, potholed, marshy, waterlogged, and, at times, flooded. It was like driving an obstacle course! A 4WD vehicle is essential! And there were no landmarks to guide the way, especially in the Gobi Desert. At one point, I asked our driver (via our translator) how he found the way from A to B. He shrugged his shoulders and said (as translated), he just did. Beats me!
About half an hour before we arrived at the homestay, we stopped in the village of Bat-Ulzii for bread, eggs, tea, and other supplies to bring to the host family.
Arrival and Welcome
We arrived at the place where our host family had established their gers for the summer in the Orkhon Valley in time for lunch and a welcome drink of traditional milk tea, also known as suutei tsai, salt tea, or Mongolian salty tea. It is typically made with water, milk, tea leaves, and salt. I found it drinkable but would never order it.
Our hosts were Galaa and Oyunaa (pronounced Iona) – yak herders by trade. Together with their sons, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren, this extended family’s small cluster of gers stood proudly in the middle of the vast steppe, surrounded by free-roaming animals and distant mountains. It was an idyllic place to connect with Mongolia’s nomadic culture.
My daughter and I shared a ger, where we stayed for two nights. The circular, felt-covered structure was spacious, comfortable, and traditionally decorated, with a centrally placed wood stove for heating and wooden furniture, including beds, small chests, and chairs. The toilet was located some distance from the gers and similar in style (a deep pit) to the long drops we have at home, but at least it was private, enclosed by wooden walls and a door.
My daughter inside our homestay ger.
A toilet with a view! Our host family’s toilet in the Orkhon Valley.
In the afternoon, we drove to the Orkhon Waterfall (Ulaan Tsutgalan), about two kilometres from our homestay, capturing photos at the top of the falls in the rain. After all, this was a photography holiday! The homestay experience was an added bonus.
Orkhon Waterfall, viewed from the top of the falls.
Our immersion into the daily life of a Mongolian nomad began in the late afternoon after returning from the waterfall, where we photographed Galaa milking the horses.
Mare’s milk is fermented into a traditional beverage called airag. It is known for its slightly sour and mildly alcoholic flavour and its potential health benefits due to the natural richness of mare’s milk in vitamins, minerals, and protein. Mongolians enjoy drinking airag, with both men and women and even children consuming it in bowlfuls from morning to night.
Galaa milking one of the mares. The family ferment the milk into a traditional beverage known as airag.
The next morning, I woke early to join Galaa and Oyunaa’s daughter-in-law before breakfast to photograph her milking the yaks. The process was the same as milking horses:
The calves were tied to a rope running along the ground, ensuring that the mothers stayed close to their babies and did not have to be located and rounded up for milking, as the yaks roam free.
The calves were put to their mothers to feed, stimulating their milk production and making it easier to hand-milk the yaks.
Once milking was completed, the calves were put back on their mothers to finish feeding.
Yak calves are tethered to a rope to ensure their mothers stay nearby, preventing the need to round them up for milking.
Galaa and Oyunaa’s daughter-in-law milking one of the yaks.
We later learned how Mongolian nomads make vodka from yak milk.
After breakfast, we saddled up for a horse ride led by Galaa to the small Orkhon River waterfall before continuing to the main waterfall. My daughter and our photography tutor galloped across the steppe while I remained with Galaa, realising I was not as confident on horseback as I had thought. I firmly believe Galaa secretly wanted to gallop across the steppe with the others but was too concerned for my safety to do so.
This time, we photographed Orkhon Waterfall from the base of the falls, which required a precarious climb down the escarpment. The Orkhon Waterfall, fed by the Orkhon River yet located on the Ulaan River, is the largest waterfall in Mongolia. At ten metres wide and 27 metres high, water thunders down the gorge into a pool below. We set up our tripods and cameras on the rocks surrounding the plunge pool and spent an enjoyable couple of hours capturing images of the waterfall.
Orkhon Waterfall – the largest waterfall in Mongolia.
Orkhon Waterfall has a drop of 27 metres.
Galaa and our horses were patiently waiting for us to return for the ride back to our homestay.
In the afternoon, we watched Galaa and his sons disassemble and reassemble a ger. I was amazed at how quickly both processes were completed, with just three (and sometimes four) men undertaking the task – approximately 30 minutes!
Steps to erecting a ger:
Collapsible lattice panels are expanded into a circle and secured together. A wooden door frame is placed between the panels.
The crown is lifted into position, and roof poles are slotted into the roof crown and connected to the top of the lattice wall.
Layers of felt are laid over the roof and walls, followed by a waterproof canvas.
A white fabric is the final layer, with all layers secured by ropes.
In the evening, we watched Oyunaa make vodka from yak’s milk. The process was simple but steeped in tradition. A bowl of yak milk was placed over a wood-burning stove. A wooden drum with no bottom or top was positioned on top of the bowl. Then, another bowl was placed on top of the wooden drum. A cloth was wrapped around the drum and the top bowl to prevent air from escaping, and the top bowl was filled with (and topped up with) cold water. The condensation from the boiling milk and cold water caused liquid (vodka) to run down a wooden tube connected to the wooden drum, which dripped into a tea kettle.
Distilled milk vodka has a high alcohol content, typically ranging from 12% to 15% or higher. It is often served warm and plays a significant role in Mongolian culture, frequently used in toasts and rituals during festive occasions. It symbolises hospitality, friendship, and community bonding.
Making vodka from yak’s milk.
The distilled milk vodka drips into a kettle.
Everyone enjoyed the vodka!
Our homestay wasn’t just about learning nomadic customs and traditions; it also provided an opportunity to reciprocate – to share cultural insights. For example, Australians are raised on vegemite, while wrestling is Mongolia’s national sport. Galaa and our driver gave a wrestling demonstration, and my daughter, who had brought vegemite from Australia, offered them vegemite to taste.
Galaa and our driver demonstrated their wrestling skills.
Galaa said he liked the vegemite. This was a first for my daughter (who is also well-travelled) and me, as we had never encountered anyone who liked vegemite outside of Australia. Perhaps, when you have grown up on salted tea, vegemite is not such a huge stretch for the taste buds! Or was he just being polite? Unlike my daughter’s ungracious reaction to fermented mare’s milk, who also said she liked it before being sick.
Farewell and Reflection
Our homestay in the Orkhon Valley was in one of the most beautiful areas of Mongolia – a remote but peaceful and breathtaking setting that I will never forget.
The Orkhon Valley – our Mongolian host family’s summer backyard.
Our host family’s hospitality was unparalleled. I felt genuinely welcomed and appreciated, and for two nights, I experienced a true sense of belonging – something rarely experienced as a traveller.
Spending time with Galaa, Oyunaa, and other family members offered a genuine introduction to the nomadic culture and life in the Orkhon Valley. It was one of the most authentic travel experiences I’ve ever had, and it made me appreciate the resilience, simplicity, and deep connection Mongolian nomads have with nature.
Practical Information
You can book a homestay with Goyo Travel, which offers the itinerary Among Nomads – Heartland. This itinerary includes a stay with Galaa and his family and additional homestays.
We visited Mongolia in the summer, late July and early August. The weather was warm at that time of year, and the landscapes were lush. Traditional festivals were also on the calendar. If you want to experience extreme nomadic life, then the Mongolian winter (November to February) is the time to visit.
Spending two nights with a Mongolian family in the Orkhon Valley deeply enriched my understanding and appreciation of the resilient spirit of Mongolian nomads. It wasn’t just about witnessing a different way of life but immersing myself in it.
This homestay reminded me that true adventure lies in stepping beyond our comfort zones and embracing the unknown. The Mongolian nomads live a life of simplicity, yet their connection to nature, family, and tradition is truly profound. While modern conveniences were few, the richness of their culture was abundant.
This wasn’t just a homestay; it was a glimpse into the soul of Mongolia, a soul that will forever hold a special place in my travel memories.
If you ever have a chance to visit Mongolia, I highly recommend seeking out an authentic nomadic homestay. It’s a journey back in time, a lesson in adaptability, and an experience that will stay with you long after you leave the steppe.
Disclaimer: This post contains no affiliate links. All views and opinions are my own and non-sponsored. All photos, except the feature photo, are my own and remain the copyright of Joanna Rath/Just Me Travel.
From Sky to Sea: 15 Photos to Inspire You to See Northland’s East Coast. Nestled on the northeastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island, the Bay of Islands is…
From Sky to Sea: 15 Photos to Inspire You to See Northland’s East Coast.
Nestled on the northeastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island, the Bay of Islands is a breathtaking destination that captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty and serene charm. With 144 islands scattered across turquoise waters, this coastal paradise offers endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
On my trip to New Zealand with Grand Pacific Tours, I had the unforgettable experience of seeing the Bay of Islands from two unique perspectives: soaring above it on a scenic flight and cruising its crystal-clear waters by boat. From spotting the archipelago’s lush islands from the sky to passing through the iconic Hole in the Rock on a boat and stepping onto the golden shores of Urupukapuka Island for a tranquil lunch, every moment was a postcard-perfect memory.
In this blog post, I’ll share my journey through 15 stunning photos that capture the essence of the Bay of Islands. Whether you’re planning your own adventure or simply dreaming of a visit, these images will inspire you to explore one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal regions.
About the Bay of Islands
North Island, New Zealand, showing the Bay of Islands on the northern tip (map courtesy of Grand Pacific Tours).
Bay of Islands detailed map (Google Maps 2025)
The Bay of Islands is a stunning coastal paradise on the northeastern tip of New Zealand’s North Island. Renowned for its turquoise waters, golden beaches, and lush greenery, it’s a haven for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike.
The picturesque bay is home to an impressive archipelago of 144 islands scattered across crystal-clear waters. These islands range from small rocky outcrops to larger, verdant landscapes like Urupukapuka Island, which offer swimming, hiking, kayaking, and snorkelling opportunities. The waters are teeming with marine life, making the Bay of Islands a prime spot for dolphin and whale watching.
The Bay of Island’s crowning geological feature is the Hole in the Rock, a dramatic sea cave on Motukokako Island. Centuries of wind and water erosion carved this natural wonder, creating a dramatic passage that boats can navigate during calm seas. Passing through the Hole in the Rock is a must-do Bay of Islands experience and offers a sense of awe at nature’s power.
View of the Hole in the Rock, Motukokako Island, from outside the bay after travelling through it on Fullers Bay of Islands’ “Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise”.
Rich in history, the Bay of Islands is also the cradle of Māori culture and European settlement in New Zealand. In 1840, the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand’s founding document, was signed here. Visitors can explore the nearby Waitangi Treaty Grounds to gain insight into the region’s cultural and historical significance.
A view of the Bay of Islands from Waitangi Treaty Grounds. I visited Waitangi Treaty Grounds with Grand Pacific Tours. The visit included a guided tour and time to explore on my own.
Located approximately three hours north of Auckland by car, the Bay of Islands is easily accessible and a gateway to some of the North Island’s most captivating adventures. Whether soaring above its glittering waters on a scenic flight or cruising between its islands by boat, the Bay of Islands promises a journey into the heart of New Zealand’s natural beauty, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Soaring Above Paradise: A Scenic Flight Over the Bay of Islands
New Zealand’s Bay of Islands – a breathtaking aerial panorama!
The scenic flight over New Zealand’s Bay of Islands with Salt Air was an unforgettable experience, offering an unparalleled perspective of this spectacular coastal paradise.
Taking off from Paihia, the heart of the bay, the bay’s dramatic coastline opened up below, with rugged cliffs plunging into the sea and secluded beaches gleaming in the sun. Flying higher, a breathtaking panorama of 144 emerald islands scattered across sparkling turquoise waters unfolded in a mesmerising patchwork of colour.
The flight offered a fabulous perspective of the bay’s vast expanse, where the intricate patterns of the islands, each different from the other, were laid before me. From this vantage point, I could appreciate how the Bay of Islands has captured the hearts of so many visitors. The aerial journey offered a sense of awe and wonder, making it a truly unique way to experience the beauty and grandeur of this remarkable part of New Zealand.
The Bay of Islands’ dramatic coastal landscape is best viewed from the sky.
The Bay of Islands has a subtropical climate. It is dotted with secluded bays and perfect beaches.
One of the many secluded coves in the Bay of Islands accessible only by boat.
The Salt Air pilot has an enviable view of the islands scattered across the turquoise waters of the Bay of Islands’ spectacular coastal landscape.
Islands in the Bay – a patchwork of colours.
A scenic flight over the Bay of Islands – a genuinely unique experience.
A Scenic Voyage: Cruise Around the Bay of Islands
On a scenic cruise, the stunning landscape of the Bay of Islands unfolds before you.
A scenic cruise on a purpose-built catamaran through New Zealand’s Bay of Islands with Fullers Bay of Islands’ “Hole in the Rock Dolphin Cruise” was a captivating journey through one of the country’s most picturesque coastal regions. Departing the delightful town of Paihia, the boat sailed across the calm, turquoise waters past the lush green islands that dot the bay, each with its own unique charm and character.
The cruise sailed past pristine beaches and secluded coves, offering stunning views of the diverse landscapes that make up this natural wonder. Along the way, dolphins played in the boat’s wake and swam beside it.
One of the highlights of the cruise was navigating through the iconic Hole in the Rock, a dramatic sea cave on Motukokato Island. As we passed through this natural formation with its sheer cliffs, the thrill of this close encounter with nature was unforgettable.
Stopping at Otehei Bay on Uruprkapuka Island, the Bay of Islands’ largest island, there was time to relax, walk along the unspoiled beach, and have a delicious lunch at the fully licenced Otehei Bay Café before continuing the scenic cruise.
Throughout the journey, the serene beauty of the Bay of Islands unfolded, creating a peaceful and immersive experience. The cruise offered new sights and perspectives at every turn, making it a perfect way to explore this must-experience destination’s stunning landscapes and marine life.
The Bay of Islands’ 144 islands are dotted across sparkling turquoise waters, each with its unique shape and charm.
Approaching the Hole in the Rock, Motukokako Island, off Cape Brett Peninsula.
Travelling through the Hole in the Rock on Fullers Bay of Islands’ luxury catamaran.
The Bay of Islands is a paradise for boating, sailing, fishing, swimming, and exploring, with a secluded cove around every corner.
At Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island, we left the cruise for a couple of hours for lunch at Otekei Bay Cafe and to explore the island.
Practical Information
The Bay of Islands has a subtropical climate with generally favourable weather year-round. Summer temperatures average 24°C, while winter temperatures average 16°C. Rain can be severe in the winter months of June, July, and August, with an average of 16 days of rain followed by 11 days of rain in Spring (September, October, and November).
While in Paihia, I stayed at the Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands, a comfortable, 4-star resort-style hotel just 0.9 kilometres from Paihia Wharf and the heart of the town. The hotel comprises groups of two-story villas with several rooms on each villa’s two levels. There are no lifts to the second floor. So, if you don’t want to carry a bag up a flight of stairs, ask for a ground-floor room.
My scenic flight over the Bay of Islands with Salt Air was just a small portion of a half-day scenic tour that also included flying over Ninety Mile Beach on Northland’s west coast, walking to Cape Reinga Lighthouse, where the Tasman Sea and Indian Ocean meet, afternoon tea at Tapotupotu Bay, and sandboarding down the Te Paki Sand Dunes.
This post has focused on the spectacular Bay of Islands – experiencing it by air and sea. In February 2025, I am covering the rest of the Salt Air tour I took, publishing a post that takes you over Ninety Mile Beach, up to the tip of New Zealand, and more. Stay tuned!
Exploring New Zealand’s Bay of Islands from both the sky and the sea was an unforgettable journey showcasing the region’s unique beauty. Every moment celebrated nature’s miracle, from the awe-inspiring aerial views to the up-close encounters with its iconic islands.
The Bay of Islands offers a fabulous adventure if you want to immerse yourself in New Zealand’s coastal splendour. Whether you take to the skies, cruise through its waters, or simply relax on its golden shores, this destination promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to plan your next trip? Please share your favourite way to explore coastal destinations in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other to embark on our next adventure!
Disclaimer: This post contains no affiliate links. All views and opinions are my own and non-sponsored. Unless otherwise stated, all photos are my own and remain the copyright of Just Me Travel.
How to Improve Your Safety While Travelling – Practical Tips for Safe Travel Travelling overseas is an exciting experience, offering new cultures, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable adventures. However, the…
How to Improve Your Safety While Travelling – Practical Tips for Safe Travel
Travelling overseas is an exciting experience, offering new cultures, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable adventures. However, the need to prioritise your safety comes with the excitement. Whether you’re exploring vibrant city streets or tranquil countryside, being aware of potential risks can make all the difference.
In this blog post, “Top Practical Safety Tips to Know Before You Travel Overseas”, we’ll explore effective strategies to protect yourself from robbery, muggings, scams, and stalking. From being mindful of how wearing jewellery, using your mobile phone, and carrying an expensive camera can make you a target to practical steps like sharing your travel plans with loved ones and seeking safety advice from locals, these tips will help you stay safe and enjoy your travels with peace of mind. Let’s dive into these crucial safety measures and make your next trip your safest one yet.
There are many blog posts about safety when travelling and the precautions you should take to protect yourself and your belongings. For example:
Don’t walk around on your own at night.
Keep your money out of sight and never all in one place.
Separate your cash and cards.
Put a wedge under your hotel door.
Never leave your drink unattended.
Learn about common scams in your destination.
Use reputable transport companies.
Avoid public demonstrations.
Use a luggage cable to secure your bags on buses and trains.
Only use ATMs inside banks or buildings and only during the daytime.
Carry your backpack or purse on your front.
Know what is appropriate to wear to blend in and not offend.
Carry a business card from your accommodation in case you get lost and must show the address to a driver.
And so the list goes on.
Avoid public demonstrations.
You would think much of this is common sense. However, I would never have thought of locking my hotel room door and putting a wedge under it. It is easy to forget that hotel staff have a Master Key to your room.
What I haven’t seen in blog posts on safety tips when travelling (and that doesn’t mean it’s not out there) is specific mention of jewellery and expensive equipment, such as cameras, tablets, and mobile phones. How might these put your safety at risk, and what might you do about them?
Do you wear jewellery when travelling?
Is it that gold chain that you never take off? Is it those diamond earrings you got from a loved one and don’t want to leave behind? Is it that watch you have to wear because you feel naked without it (that’s me)?
Have you ever thought about the impact of that jewellery on your safety when travelling?
When travelling to many countries, particularly developing countries, the mere fact that you are in their country labels you a rich person. They don’t see the budget you’re travelling on, and they wouldn’t believe you anyway. You can afford to travel; that is all they know or understand. Your limited budget could be their annual income (or more).
The jewellery you wear can make you a target. Your jewellery can put your physical safety at risk when thieves try to take it – to rip that necklace off from around your neck. You can be vulnerable to muggings – to see what other valuables you may be carrying. Your jewellery may also place you in danger of kidnapping because you are seen to be rich, and, therefore, a loved one will pay a lot of money for your release. This latter is extreme, I know, but should not be dismissed. It makes no difference whether it is valuable or costume jewellery, especially as it is often hard to tell the difference between precious gems and glass jewels.
Don’t tempt fate!
I would like to say I wear no jewellery when I travel. But I can’t. Remember, I’m the person above who has to wear a watch because I feel naked without it. I also have pierced ears. Because I travel for weeks or months, I don’t want the holes to close over. So, I do wear earrings. I wear small sterling silver sleepers (not gold as that yells “expensive”) and don’t take other earrings. The watch and the sleepers are the limits of the jewellery I wear while travelling.
On the flip side, I am not married, so I don’t wear a wedding ring. However, to minimise harassment as a female traveller and to add to my sense of security, I sometimes wear a wedding band when travelling.
And what about that camera you carry?
Your camera not only labels you as a tourist (a risk in itself) but potentially puts you at risk of being mugged to relieve you of that camera.
I travel with one of those expensive DSLR cameras because I love photography. I use my photographs on my travel blog and sell them on stock platforms. However, I take what precautions I can to remove the ‘rich person’ target on my back and its possible consequences and to prevent it from being stolen:
I keep the camera out of sight in my slash-proof day pack when out and about and not shooting. If your camera is small enough, keep it in a secure pocket.
I do not walk around with my camera around my neck or over my shoulder.
I wear the camera strap across my chest or twisted around my wrist when taking photos. I don’t carry the camera over my shoulder, as it would be too easy for someone to remove it.
My camera strap is non-descript because it does not have the brand name blazoned all over it.
Do you use a mobile phone or tablet to take photos?
On my last visit to Vietnam, the tour guide advised us to stand well back from the road when taking photos with a mobile phone. He informed us that motorcyclists drive past tourists and grab their mobile phones.
I’m sure Vietnam is not the only country where this occurs. Besides, it’s good advice wherever you travel. To improve your safety when travelling, it is best not to use your mobile phone while walking around. Take your photo and put it away. If you need to make a phone call or check a map on your phone, sit in a café to do so. Thieves are cluey about the worth of mobile phones, and you don’t want to risk losing it or your safety.
A street parade is exciting to watch, but it’s a pickpocket’s paradise!
Are you sharing information online?
Nomadic Matt, in his article on travel safety tips to help you stay safe overseas, writes:
“If you’re posting on social media, don’t post in real time. Wait a couple hours and then post. That way, would-be criminals can’t use that information to get your location and rob you or stalk you (this is especially important for solo female travelers).”
Who knows where you are?
You can never underestimate the importance of sharing your itinerary with a family member or friend and keeping in regular contact. Who knows what could happen while you are travelling?
“Traveling can be one of life’s most exciting adventures, but it also comes with its own set of challenges and risks. One of the best ways to ensure your safety and peace of mind is to stay connected with loved ones back home. Sharing your travel itinerary and checking in regularly can provide an extra layer of security … Here’s why this practice is essential …
In case of an emergency, having someone who knows your whereabouts can be invaluable. If anything goes wrong, they can quickly provide information to authorities or help coordinate assistance.”
Enhancing your safety enriches your travel experience.
Have you asked for advice from locals?
Talk to locals, such as the staff at your accommodation, a local guide, or the police, about any safety advice they can offer.
On one of my trips to Vietnam, my local guide provided the following safety advice:
There are fake taxis whose meters spin faster than the guide could spin his arm in a circle. He described which taxis to catch and which were fake.
Don’t stop or run when crossing the road. Keep a slow and steady pace so traffic can avoid you.
Walking around at night is safe, but don’t display valuables.
Remove diamond rings.
To deter pickpockets, men should carry their wallets in the side pocket of their pants rather than the back pocket.
Are you aware of any security concerns?
Subscribe to Smartraveller (Australia) when planning an overseas trip (or with your relevant government’s travel advisory department). By signing up, you’ll receive travel advice updates and alerts on the risks and requirements for your destination via email or push notifications to your mobile.
“Smartraveller helps Australians be informed and prepared before they go. It also helps Australians stay safe while overseas.”
Your safety is paramount when travelling overseas; being proactive about it can significantly enhance your travel experience. By staying vigilant, avoiding unnecessary risks, and using local insights, you’ll be better prepared to handle any situation that arises. Remember, being mindful of how you present yourself and what you carry can make you less of a target while keeping loved ones informed ensures you’re never truly alone. Armed with these safety strategies, you can travel with confidence and create lasting memories without compromising your well-being.
Safe travels and happy exploring!
Editor’s Note: I originally published this blog post in August 2019 and have updated it for accuracy, comprehensiveness, and relevance.
Disclaimer: This post contains no affiliate links. All views and opinions are my own and unsponsored. Unless otherwise stated, all photos are my own and remain the copyright of Joanna Rath/Just Me Travel.
Thirteen Creative Ideas to Revisit Your Favourite Vacation Destinations and Memories Anytime. Have you ever returned from a fabulous vacation with a camera or phone full of stunning photos,…
Thirteen Creative Ideas to Revisit Your Favourite Vacation Destinations and Memories Anytime.
Have you ever returned from a fabulous vacation with a camera or phone full of stunning photos, only to leave them neglected in a digital folder, never to be seen or shared again? Whether it’s a sun-soaked beach, a candid family moment, or breathtaking scenery, your vacation photos tell stories worth revisiting. They deserve more than just a fleeting glance on your camera roll.
In this post, I’ve rounded up 13 fun and engaging ways to revisit your favourite destinations and memories whenever you want. From crafting personalised photo books and creating mesmerising slideshows to transforming your photos into jigsaw puzzles and flipbooks, these ideas will inspire you to bring your vacation memories to life so you can enjoy them time and again and share them with family and friends.
Use these quick links to jump straight to different creative ideas in the post:
Organising your photos might seem obvious, but it is a critical step if you want to find your photos again.
So often, I have had people scroll through the photos on their phones, looking for a specific photo to show me. By the time they find the photo, I have lost interest in seeing it. Does this sound familiar?
Let me set the scene. You have a photo on your phone that you want to share on Instagram, Facebook, or with a friend. You have never sorted your photos into meaningful ‘albums’ in your phone’s Photos app. You have hundreds of photos on your phone. You now spend 20 minutes scrolling through all your photos looking for that ‘one’. Do you still want to post on Instagram or Facebook? Has your friend lost interest in seeing the photo?
The situation is worse if the photo you want has been taken with a camera and uploaded to your computer or tablet. All you get is a file number, which you must click on to see the photo. This is even more time-consuming than scrolling through photos on your phone. At least on your phone, the photo is immediately presented.
The moral of the story is that if you want to show off your vacation photos, you need to organise your photos – like a filing cabinet. It will save so much time later on.
This post now assumes two things:
You have chosen the photos you want to use.
You have applied some editing techniques (optional) to your photos.
This post is not a ‘how-to’ post. That is, it is not about ‘how to post’ photos on Facebook or Instagram; it’s not about ‘how to make’ a photo book or calendar; it’s not about ‘how to produce’ a slideshow; and so forth.
This post is about planting the seed and posing ideas for what you can do with your vacation photos.
Post and share your vacation photos on Facebook
Share your vacation photos with family and friends on Facebook – a website allowing users to socially network with others online. Once you have created a free Facebook profile, you can share your photos with family and friends.
Broaden your sharing horizons and join travel photography and specific destination groups on Facebook.
Facebook is available on any device with an internet connection. Because Facebook is web-based, as long as you have internet access, you can post your vacation photos while travelling and not wait until you get home.
Post and share your vacation photos on Instagram
Instagram is a free app for sharing photos and videos of your vacation. Unlike Facebook, a versatile platform, Instagram is photo-centric and mobile-centric. The Instagram app is available on iPhone and Android phones.
Once you create an Instagram account, you can upload your vacation photos and videos and then have the option to share them with a select group of friends who also have an Instagram account or with people who have chosen to follow your account.
Create a photo book of your special vacation photos
Create a photo book (Pixabay free stock images)
A photo book is a great way to share your special vacation memories in a printed format. A photo book is a compilation of your chosen photos that create a visual story. While the photos are the primary message, you can add notes and captions to complement your photo story.
An internet search for photo book services/makers is overwhelming for choices. My search of the five best photo book services/makers in the USA, UK, and Australia showed Snapfish to be the only one appearing on all three lists. I have used Snapfish, but only for making a birthday card and printing a photo on a mug.
With so many photo book services available, how do you choose the right one for you and your photo book project? How do you know what you should take into consideration? ‘Choice’ is Australia’s highly credible, unbiased, and well-respected product and service review organisation. Choice has published an article that you may find helpful,
“Some photos simply pop and look better when they’re physically printed in book form. Consider putting together your top vacation photos and getting them printed via a service.
I recently used Zno and was impressed with their high-quality printing and the fact that the images lay flat without the book gutter running through them. Another service called ChatBooks is a little more automated and can sync your Instagram or Facebook photos into a book design for printing.”
Having created the photo book of your favourite photos from your vacation, don’t hide it in a cupboard or tucked into your bookcase. Keep it on your coffee table so you, your family, and friends can enjoy those photos any time. You might be surprised how many people will pick up and browse through your photo book.
Use your vacation photos to create a calendar
A calendar makes a beautiful photo gift for yourself, family, and friends. It’s practical, too, and fun to create!
An example of a calendar I created in Canva.
A calendar example I created in Snapfish.
You only need the free version of Canva to create a calendar.
You can create several products in Canva, where you can place a print order and have it delivered straight to you. Calendars, unfortunately, are not one of those. Save your calendar and find a printer to bring your creation to life.
The bonus with using Snapfish to create your calendar is the ability to create, order, and pay all online within their website. It will then be shipped straight to you.
Many online options are available for creating a calendar from your vacation photos.
Create a vacation flipbook
To create a photo flipbook, print your favourite vacation photos (with a flipbook for each separate vacation), punch a hole or two in the top left corner (one hole) or across the top (two holes) of each photo, and then hold them together with a hinged ring through the hole or holes.
Two examples of flipbooks I created (showing an open hinged ring).
The single-hole punch is best suited for a collection of photos that are a mix of photos in landscape (horizontal) and portrait (vertical) orientations.
A two-hole punched collection of photos can also be used as a frameless photo, using the other photos to create an A-frame stand.
Photos held together by a single hinged ring will stand as an ‘A-frame’ in portrait orientation but not so well when displaying a landscape photo in the pack.
Flipbooks standing as A-frames on a desk to display the photos.
Like your photo book, don’t hide your flipbook in a cupboard; leave it on your coffee table.
Make a photo wall of your vacation photos
A photo wall (DepositPhotos)
Create a photo gallery on a wall in your home – a photo wall. This is a fun way to showcase your favourite vacation photos, keeping those memories alive, and it creates a talking point when visitors come to your home.
Your photo wall may comprise one photo from each vacation that sums up your vacation and captures the ‘heart and soul’ of your vacation – the one photo that tells the whole story of your vacation experience. Or, like me, your photo wall may be an eclectic mix of photos from various trips.
How you display your photos on your photo wall is entirely up to you – framed, printed on tiles, glass or canvas, or just stuck on the wall. Let your decorative style take hold.
Transform your favourite vacation photo into a jigsaw puzzle
For Christmas 2018, my adult children had one of my photos from my trip to Morocco transformed into a 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle.
I was thrilled with this present. However, I often cursed my children as I tried to complete the jigsaw because they probably chose the most complex photo. As you can see from my progress photo below, I still had not finished it 18 months later. Even so, I advocate for this creative idea as a gift for yourself, your family, or friends.
Once you have completed your jigsaw, you can have it mounted, framed, and hung on your wall.
My photo jigsaw Christmas present – received in December 2018.
June 2020: My progress on the jigsaw 18 months later.
My framed photo jigsaw puzzle, 2024. I blame my grandchildren for the missing piece, but it adds to the story!
An internet search for, for example, “personalised jigsaw puzzles” or “turn photos into jigsaw puzzles” will reveal numerous services. To localise your search and make it more relevant, you can refine your search by adding your country, such as “personalised jigsaw puzzles australia/uk/usa/nz.”
Snapfish, a worldwide photo products maker, makes custom jigsaw puzzles from your photos. It is easy to create yourself and have it shipped to you.
Turn your vacation photos into a movie
Would you like to watch a movie of your vacation photos on television?
DVDs of the movies I have made from my vacation photos.
Those of you with an Apple device can create a movie of your vacation photos in iMovie, adding background music, time duration, transitions, and narration (voice-over). Once created and saved (exported), you can burn your vacation movie on a DVD or stream it on your television.
I have created six movies from my photos in iMovie and have been thrilled with the results. I burn my movies to DVDs. They are time-consuming to produce, but there’s something special about seeing the places you have been to on the big screen.
Don’t have an Apple device? An internet search of “software similar to iMovie for Windows” presented many options worth trying.
Create a slideshow with your vacation photos
Like movies, slideshows are a great way to present your favourite vacation photos. You can create a slideshow in Adobe Lightroom’s Slideshow module. However, unlike iMovie, you are not able to narrate your slideshow.
Slideshows can also be created using Google Photos and Microsoft PowerPoint. With both these options, you can apply time duration, transitions, effects, and background music, but not narration.
I had fun creating a free online photo slideshow maker with Pholody. To benefit from all the features of this free online slideshow maker, use Google Chrome. Once created, your slideshow is downloadable and shareable as an mp4 video file.
You can create your own free YouTube account using your Google account. This enables you to stream your vacation slideshow on your TV and (depending on your privacy settings) share it with family and friends.
Keep a vacation diary
One of the best ways to revisit your vacation is to keep a digital vacation diary, making daily entries and uploading photos as you go. By sharing the link to your diary online, your friends and family can read it and see where you are and what you are doing as you update it.
There are many online travel diaries available. I use Travel Diaries.
Travel Diaries is easy to use, and editing is a breeze. I can customise the fonts and layouts of my diaries, add as many photos as I wish, and include location and route maps. I share my diary entries with my family as I travel.
Turn your vacation story and photos into a printed book
One of my ‘Travel Diaries’ books.
Take your digital vacation diary and photos one step further and turn them into a printed book, allowing you to revisit your vacation time and again. There is something special about holding a physical book full of memories.
With Travel Diaries, you can order your completed diary as a printed book from within the app.
“Back home? Transform your unforgettable travel memories into tangible keepsakes! Print a beautifully crafted book of your travel adventures with Travel Diaries. Relive every moment, from picturesque landscapes to thrilling escapades, in stunning detail. Just as you imagined!”
Print favourite vacation photos on clothing, coasters, phone cases, and more
Creative ideas for using and sharing your photos are only as limited as your imagination. With so many apps and services available, your photos can be printed on a wide range of products.
“Thanks to printing companies such as Zazzle, you can print your photos on a wide range of objects. T-shirts, magnets, and mugs might seem like traditional items on which you tend to find custom printed photos. But did you know that your photo can be printed on an iPhone case, blanket, pillow, bathmat, Zippo lighter, playing cards, and even a skateboard?”
Snapfish is undoubtedly worth a look as it offers so many products on which to print your vacation photos – mugs, drink bottles, coasters, stubby holders, phone cases, pencil cases, keyrings, dog tags, playing cards, cushion covers, fridge magnets, blankets, mousepads, shopping bags, Christmas decorations, and more.
I have a coffee mug with one of my favourite elephant photos (pictured below). I would like to print some of my favourite vacation photos on cushion covers.
One of my photos printed on a coffee mug.
Sell your vacation photos
Turn your vacation photos into money. And you don’t have to be a professional photographer!
My internet search found the following services were the most frequently identified top places to sell your photos online: Shutterstock, Alamy, Adobe Stock, and 500px.
Alexandra Bateman (March 18, 2020) at Envira Gallery shares the 10+ Best Places to Sell Photos Online and Make Money. This article is not just a list but provides detailed information on each suggested option.
I sell a selection of my travel photos online on the following platforms: iStock, Alamy, Shutterstock, and Adobe Stock. I don’t upload any photos with recognisable people, as that requires a model release, which is a hassle!
A note on backing up your photos
As well as storing your photos directly on your device (e.g., the hard drive on your computer, laptop, or smartphone), you can store them in the “cloud”. Cloud storage involves storing your files remotely on servers owned by companies that are accessible to you from any device with an internet connection. This is a safe means for backing up your photos.
I am an advocate for backing up photos. Imagine how you would feel if you lost all your photos because your computer, laptop, tablet, or phone crashed, and that was the only place you had your photos stored.
There are many cloud storage service providers. The best known (because they are the only ones I know of) are Dropbox, iCloud, Google Drive (which gives you access to Google Photos), and Microsoft OneDrive.
These cloud storage service providers offer free file storage with varying degrees of limitations. They are available on various operating system platforms and devices, such as Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.
Backup now!
Your vacation photos are more than just snapshots – they are windows into cherished memories and unforgettable adventures. Using the ideas in this post, you can transform your photos into tangible, interactive mementos that will allow you to revisit the joy, excitement, and wonder of your travels anytime. Whether it’s a personalised photo book, a custom calendar, or a set of coasters featuring your favourite snapshots, there are numerous ways to keep the magic of your vacations alive.
So, don’t let your vacation photos gather dust in a digital folder. Give them the attention they deserve and create something truly special.
Editor’s Note: I originally published this blog post in June 2020 and have updated it for accuracy, comprehensiveness, and relevance.
Disclaimer: This post contains no affiliate links. All views and opinions are my own and unsponsored. Unless otherwise stated, all photos are my own and remain the copyright of Joanna Rath/Just Me Travel.
Whispers of Royalty: A Brief Tour Through the Royal Treasures of the Loire Valley – Immerse Yourself in the Grandeur and Romance of Seven Exquisite French Castles. The Loire…
Whispers of Royalty: A Brief Tour Through the Royal Treasures of the Loire Valley – Immerse Yourself in the Grandeur and Romance of Seven Exquisite French Castles.
The Loire Valley, between Sully-sur-Loir and Chalonnes, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. This region in central France is famous for its stunning scenery, historical significance, and world-class wines, but it is best known for its spectacular chateaux. These grand structures, with their imposing facades, intricate details, and sprawling gardens, offer visitors a unique glimpse into centuries of royal splendour.
In this blog post, I invite you on a majestic journey through time and architecture, unveiling seven magnificent castles that have helped shape the Loire Valley’s iconic landscape. I’ll take you to the meticulously manicured gardens of Chateau de Villandry, the Renaissance grandeur of Chateau d’Amboise, and Chateau de Chenonceau’s graceful arches spanning the Cher River.
“See 7 Unique French Chateaux in the Beautiful Loire Valley” promises an unforgettable journey through a world of royal luxury and timeless charm. There is a chateau to captivate every visitor.
Getting around the chateaux
I have three suggestions for you on getting to the chateaux in the Loire Valley:
Indulge in the freedom of a self-drive road trip around the chateaux. If you don’t have your own vehicle, pick up a hire car in Tours and head to Chateau de Villandry for your first castle. You can catch the TGV (fast train) from Paris to Tours, visit the chateaux in the order presented in this post, and drop the hire car off in Orleans.
If you don’t like driving in a strange country, especially if this entails driving on the side of the road you are unfamiliar with, then a guided day tour or two may be the way to go.
Or, if you’re like me and want to visit the chateaux in the most relaxed fashion possible, take a river cruise on a hotel barge. A hotel barge cruise in the Loire Valley is a truly unique and unforgettable travel experience. It is a perfect way to relax, explore a beautiful region, and indulge in the finer things in life.
More than 300 chateaux are in the Loire Valley, and about 100 are open to the public. So, no matter how you plan to get around, you need to consider which chateaux you want to visit, as I doubt you will get to all of them.
This post takes you to the seven chateaux I visited with my family while cruising on a hotel barge on the Cher River.
Chateau de Villandry
Chateau de Villandry and ornamental garden.
Chateau de Villandry is located at the confluence of the Loire and Cher rivers. Completed in 1536, it was built on the site of an old 12th-century fortress, with the medieval tower still existing. The chateau exemplifies Renaissance architecture, characterised by symmetry, classical proportions, columns, and arches, while its richly decorated interior reflects various historical periods. However, it is the magnificent gardens that Chateau de Villandry is famous for, having been lovingly restored to their Renaissance glory in the early 1900s.
We were given a guided tour of Chateau de Villandry’s interior, but I most enjoyed spending time on my own, leisurely wandering around and exploring the exquisite gardens.
Chateau de Villandry’s gardens cover about nine hectares. They are laid out in a formal Renaissance style and divided into several terraces, including the Ornamental Garden, Water Garden, and Sun Garden.
Chateau de Villandry’s formal Renaissance-style gardens.
Chateau de Villandry’s formal Renaissance-style gardens are divided into several terraces.
I was particularly captivated by the 16th-century-style Kitchen Garden, where the vegetables are laid out in a colourful chequerboard pattern according to their type. Enough to make anyone want to eat their veggies!
Chateau de Villandry and the Kitchen Garden.
Chateau de Villandry’s Kitchen Garden.
Chateau de Villandry has been the home of the Carvallo family since 1906. It is an acknowledged historic monument and part of the Loire Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Chateau d’Amboise
Chateau d’Amboise (The Royal Castle).
The stunning Chateau d’Amboise, also referred to as Chateau Royal d’Amboise, is a historically significant royal residence with a rich past.
Originally a medieval fortress, Chateau d’Amboise became a royal residence in the late 15th century when King Charles VIII transformed it into a luxurious palace. Later, King Francis I continued its development, turning the chateau into a symbol of the French Renaissance.
Chateau d’Amboise is a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles with impressive defence structures, such as round towers and fortified walls.
Chateau d’Amboise’s gothic architecture.
Chateau d’Amboise’s round tower.
The chateau is situated on top of a hill in the heart of Amboise, offering panoramic views of the Loire River, the valley, and the town below. It is surrounded by about two hectares of beautifully landscaped gardens and terraces within its walls.
Chateau d’Amboise’s landscaped gardens.
Amboise – the old quarter below the hilltop castle.
Chateau d’Amboise is part of the Loire Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Chateau d’Amboise is particularly famous for its association with Leonardo da Vinci, the renowned Italian artist and polymath. King Francis I invited Da Vinci to France, and he spent his final three years at the nearby Chateau du Clos Luce. Leonardo da Vinci is buried in Saint-Hubert Chapel on the grounds of Chateau d’Amboise.
Leonardo da Vinci’s tomb in Chateau d’Amboise’s Saint Hubert Chapel.
Chateau du Clos Luce
Chateau du Clos Luce (Home of Leonardo da Vinci)
Chateau du Clos Luce is about 400 metres down the road from Chateau d’Amboise and is renowned for being Leonardo da Vinci’s final residence for the last three years of his life, from 1516 until he died in 1519.
In 1516, King Francis I invited Leonardo da Vinci to Amboise and provided him with the Chateau du Clos Luce as his residence. An underground passageway connects Chateau du Clos Luce and Chateau d’Amboise, enabling the King and da Vinci to meet daily without being recognised.
Chateau du Close Luce is a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. It features a red brick and white stone façade, large windows, and elegant towers. Its interior reflects the period when Leonardo da Vinci lived in the chateau, with Renaissance furnishings and tapestries. We were given a guided tour of the rooms where Leonardo lived and worked, including his bedroom and studio.
Leonardo da Vinci’s bedroom in Chateau du Clos Luce.
A large park surrounds Chateau du Clos Luce – Parc Leonardo da Vinci. The park features landscaped gardens, water features, and life-sized models of Leonardo’s most ingenious inventions, including flying and war machines. I had fun walking around the park, learning more about Leonardo’s genius the further I explored – a unique open-air museum.
Model of Leonardo da Vinci’s tank in Leonardo da Vinci Park.
Chateau du Clos Luce is part of the Loire Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique glimpse into Leonardo da Vinci’s final years of life.
Chateau de Fontenay
Chatea de Fontenay (Wine and Dine!)
Chateau de Fontenay is a winegrowing estate on the banks of the Cher River, cultivating 15 hectares of vines.
If you ever fancied staying in a castle, look no further than Chateau de Fontenay, which offers several guest rooms. When not walking around the castle’s 17 hectares of parkland or joining a bicycle tour, you can visit the vineyards and cellars and enjoy a wine tasting.
Chateau de Fontenay’s splendour complements the scenic beauty along the Cher River.
Chateau de Chenonceau
Château de Chenonceau (The ‘Ladies Castle’)
While all the chateaux we visited on this trip were memorable, Chateau de Chenonceau was my absolute favourite. It was also the only Loire Valley chateau I knew of before our visit.
Completed in 1522, the chateau combines Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. It has a rich history dominated by an almost uninterrupted succession of influential women who owned and managed its upkeep and construction over the centuries. This dominance of women owners has led to Chateau de Chenonceau being known as ‘The Ladies Castle’.
Chateau de Chenonceau’s famous five-arch bridge spanning the Cher River was built by Diana de Poitiers, mistress of King Henri II and the chateau’s first female owner. Its architecture is unique in the world. The bridge’s interior forms the iconic grey and white chequerboard floored Grand Gallery. At 60 metres long and six metres wide, the Grand Gallery hosted many lavish parties and dances.
Chateau de Chenonceau’s Grand Gallery spans the Cher River.
Complete your tour of Chateau de Chenonceau with a stroll through its themed gardens, showcasing the beauty of French Renaissance landscaping.
One of the gardens at Chateau de Chenonceau.
Chateau de Chenonceau was designated a Historic Monument by the French Ministry of Culture in 1840, a title it has retained to the present day.
We got to admire the beauty of this fairytale chateau from land, gliding beneath its arches on a barge and soaring above it in a hot-air balloon. This unparalleled experience provided a truly multifaceted perspective of this architectural gem.
Château de Chenonceau – Cruising the Cher River beneath its arches.
Aerial view of Chateau de Chenonceau taken from a hot air balloon.
Chateau de Blois
The facade of Chateau de Blois with a statue of King Louis XII seated on a horse over the entrance.
The Royal Chateau de Blois is so named because it was a favourite residence of seven kings and ten queens of France. Built around a massive courtyard, the chateau is a blend of architectural styles, with its four wings built in a different period of history and having its own architectural style.
Each wing is an example of four significant periods in French architecture from the Middle Ages to the 17th century:
Starting life as a medieval fortress in the 13th century, little remains of the buildings from this period.
The Louis XIII wing (1498-1500) with its Gothic architecture.
Chateau de Blois’ Louis XII wing.
The Francois I wing (1515-1518) has a Renaissance architectural style and a celebrated external corkscrew staircase.
Chateau de Blois – The Francois I wing with its external staircase.
The classical architecture of the Gaston d’Orleans wing (1635-1638).
Chateau de Blois’ Gaston d’Orleans wing
Chateau de Blois has been classified as a Historic Monument since 1845.
Chateau de Chambord
Chateau de Chambord (The Hunting Lodge!)
It is said that Chateau de Chambord is one of the most recognisable chateaux in the world because of its distinctive French Renaissance architecture, which blends traditional French medieval forms with classical Renaissance structures. However, I must admit I had never heard of Chateau de Chambord before my visit while cruising the Cher River.
All I can say is I was awestruck when I saw it! Chateau de Chambord is massive! It is the largest and most extravagant chateau in the Loire Valley, with 440 rooms, 84 staircases, and 282 fireplaces. Despite its size, it was built for King Francis I of France (commencing 1519) as a mere hunting lodge! I can well imagine that it did meet its intention as a symbol of King Francis I’s power and wealth.
Chateau de Chambord’s most famous feature is its spiral double helix staircase, consisting of two stairways spiralling around each other, allowing two people to ascend or descend at the same time without ever seeing each other. It is believed, though unsupported, that Leonardo da Vinci may have had a hand in designing this staircase.
The chateau’s roofline, with its numerous towers, chimneys, and dormer windows, resembles a small city from a distance.
Chateau de Chambord’s roofline looks like a small city.
The chateau is set in a vast 5,433-hectare park and hunting reserve enclosed by a 32-kilometre wall, making it the largest enclosed park in Europe.
Chateau de Chambord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for any visitor to the Loire Valley. It has been owned by the French State since 1930.
As you and I conclude this journey to these magnificent chateaux of the Loire Valley, it’s clear that each offers a unique window into France’s rich history and architectural splendour. From the meticulously manicured gardens of Chateau de Villandry to the royal residence of Chateau d’Amboise, from Leonardo da Vinci’s final home at Chateau du Clos Luce to the elegance of Chateau de Chenonceau bridging the Cher River and from the architectural evolution on display at Chateau de Blois to the grand hunting lodge of Chateau de Chambord, each castle tells its captivating story.
I encourage you to embark on your own adventure through France’s beautiful Loire Valley, exploring its spectacular castles and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a history buff, a garden enthusiast, or simply seeking a touch of royal luxury, the French chateaux in the Loire Valley await, ready to reveal their treasures and transport you to a world of elegance, history, and wonder.
Let your heart be captured, and your imagination ignited!
Disclaimer: This post contains no affiliate links. All views and opinions are my own and non-sponsored. All photos are my own and remain the copyright of Just Me Travel.
Mountains, Museums, and Medieval Magic: Catalonia Unveiled Through Unforgettable Day Trips for Every Traveller. Welcome to my travel blog, where I am excited to share with you exceptional day…
Mountains, Museums, and Medieval Magic: Catalonia Unveiled Through Unforgettable Day Trips for Every Traveller.
Welcome to my travel blog, where I am excited to share with you exceptional day trips beyond the streets of Barcelona. Join me as I recount my unforgettable experiences on five diverse and awe-inspiring tours from Barcelona. From towering mountains to rugged coastlines, from quaint medieval villages frozen in time to the birthplace of Surrealism, these five exceptional tours take you to another world of Catalonian beauty and wonder.
Catalonia’s diverse landscapes offer a diversity of experiences. Embarking on day trips from Barcelona opens up a world of exploration, where each destination promises its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to the spiritual heights of Montserrat, the sun-kissed shores of Costa Brava, the timeless charm of medieval villages, the rugged grandeur of the Pyrenees, or the artistic legacy of Salvador Dali, there’s a world of exploration waiting to be uncovered. Catalonia’s day trips have something for everyone!
I booked this tour from Australia before leaving for Spain.
Julia Travel promotes this small group trip as discovering “one of the most mystic Catalan wonders”.
Montserrat Monastery is an 11th-century Benedictine monastery on Montserrat Mountain (meaning ‘serrated mountain’), 60 kilometres northwest of Barcelona. The monastery hangs onto the side of the mountain 725 metres above sea level.
About 80 monks reside at the monastery, which is famous for the Black Madonna statue in the basilica and one of the oldest boys’ choirs in Europe.
Montserrat Monastery perched on the side of the mountain.
I took this photo of Montserrat Monastery across the valley at the Cross of St Michael.
The tour as I experienced it:
There were five of us on the Montserrat full-day tour, plus the guide. We travelled on the bus from Barcelona to Montserrat with the morning-only tour participants, separating into two groups (morning-only group and full-day group) on arrival at Montserrat Abbey.
An hour after leaving Barcelona, we arrived at the rack railway (also referred to as the Cremallera) at the bottom of Montserrat Mountain in the small town of Monistrol de Montserrat for the cogwheel train ride up the mountain to the centre of the Monserrat Monastery complex. The five-kilometre, 15-minute ride provided fantastic views of this unusual mountain. As you leave the train, pause to take in the views of the mountain that towers above the monastery and basilica and the deep valley below.
The morning was spent with our tour guide, learning about the monastery, visiting the basilica and Black Madonna, and watching a short documentary about the monastery’s world-famous Boys’ Choir (L’Escolania).
We could not see the Boys’ Choir perform in person as the boys were on school holidays.
The Atrium (open courtyard) in front of the Basilica and front facade of the Basilica.
The Black Madonna inside Montserrat Basilica.
The famous Black Madonna wooden statue sits behind glass at the back of the church above the high altar. We joined the queue of pilgrims and tourists to file past the Black Madonna, where many stopped to touch her hand through a cut in the glass.
According to our guide, the Madonna’s face is black due to a botched restoration in about the 12th century when the wrong varnish was used, turning her face black. It was decided to leave her face black, with locals saying that maybe the Madonna wanted a black face. However, historical descriptions of the Madonna say she has simply darkened over time. This latter theory makes more sense, given that the face of the baby Jesus sitting on Madonna’s lap also appears black.
The guided morning tour ended at 12.10 pm, and we were free to spend the rest of the day as we pleased, meeting again at 6.15 pm for the bus trip back to Barcelona.
With the afternoon free, I was eager to take a walk on Montserrat Mountain, starting at the top and walking down. To do this, I rode the Funicular de Sant Joan from Montserrat Monastery to the summit of Montserrat Mountain, about 300 metres above the monastery. I took the path to the left of the Funicular station that wound around and down the mountain to the Cross of Saint Michael (Sant Miquel)) and back down to the monastery.
The signpost at the beginning of the path indicated it was a 40-minute walk to the Cross of Saint Michael. The Cross was about one and a half hours into my very steep descent down Montserrat Mountain, and I still had about 20 minutes to go before I arrived back at the monastery. But I was in no hurry as I took in the spectacular views of Montserrat Mountain’s unique geological (‘serrated’) formation and the valleys and river below.
View from Montserrat (‘serrated’) Mountain.
Cross of Saint Michael and the valley below
While the walk down the mountain was not technically demanding (it’s a paved path nearly all the way), I did find the steep descent challenging. There were times when the decline was so steep my back was almost vertical to the path. The heat was another challenging factor. I’m sure I was on that mountain on its hottest day ever recorded!
Back at Montserrat Monastery, I had a late lunch at the cafeteria – a buffet that cost €19,50 and was not worth the money.
My tour review / final thoughts:
According to their website, Julia Travel no longer offers the full-day Montserrat tour from Barcelona that I did. Instead, they offer a morning (5.5 hours) and afternoon (4.5 hours) tour with the cogwheel train at €59 and €51, respectively.
Having done both the morning and full-day tours a few weeks apart, I believe a half-day tour does not allow time to immerse yourself in the beauty of the mountains where the monastery sits. While visiting the abbey and basilica and learning their history was interesting, the highlight for me was the walk on Montserrat Mountain. It would be a shame to miss out on one of the several walks you can take around Montserrat.
The Sant Jeroni walking trail on Montserrat Mountain
There was a communication issue with Julia Travel on this tour. Arriving in Montserrat, the guide sent us to grab a coffee as she was trying to contact Julia Travel to organise our entrance tickets into the basilica and the Black Madonna, delaying the start of the tour by half an hour. Then, when it came to leaving Montserrat, Julia Travel forgot there were five of us doing the full-day tour and supposedly leaving on the same bus as the afternoon tour. However, 50 people were on the afternoon tour, and it was a 50-seater bus. Consequently, we (the five full-day tour group) were taken off the bus and had to wait for another bus from Barcelona to come and get us. So, instead of leaving Montserrat at 6.15 pm, we left an hour later, arriving back in Barcelona at 8.10 pm. Luckily, it wasn’t dark as I had a 35-minute walk back to the hotel, and people were only starting to come out for dinner in restaurants then.
I found Julia Travel’s communication a repetitive problem. I had booked another tour with Julie Travel to Salvador Dali’s Theatre-Museum and Villages – a tour I was particularly keen on taking. However, arriving at 8.00 am at Julia Travel’s office on the day of the tour, I learned it had been cancelled. I received an apology for not being informed and a refund. However, this was not good enough and amounted to unacceptable customer service.
The setting alone makes Montserrat Monastery worth a visit. But it was the mountain walk that made this tour memorable for me.
Llobregat Valley and River taken from Montserrat Mountain
Explore Catalunya promotes this small group trip as the “Best tour for Dali enthusiasts, and you’ll see hidden treasures off the beaten path”.
The summer schedule for this day trip (1st July – 14th September) does not include the coastal village of Cadaques, which is included in the winter tour schedule. Instead, the summer schedule takes you to Gala Dali’s Castle in Pubol. I was on the summer schedule day trip.
Near the border with France and about 136 kilometres north of Barcelona, Figueres is famous for being the birthplace of the artist Salvador Dali, an artist I have been a fan of for many decades. It is also home to his world-famous Theatre and Museum.
The Dali Theatre-Museum is a museum dedicated solely to the Spanish artist Salvador Dali, a genius of Surrealism. Built by Dali, it is considered the world’s largest surrealist object and is crowded with his artworks – paintings, sculptures, photographs, and jewellery.
Built by Salvador Dali – the Dali Theatre-Museum in Figueres.
Salvador Dali’s painting “Soft Self-Portrait with Grilled Bacon” 1941.
Dali is buried in a crypt beneath the dome of his Theatre-Museum.
The tour as I experienced it:
On arrival in Figueres, we headed to the world-famous Dali Theatre-Museum for a half-hour guided tour with our Explore Catalunya guide. Following the guided tour, we had one and a half hours of free time to explore the three floors of the Theatre-Museum for ourselves.
After leaving Figueres at 12.45 pm, we drove a short half-hour to the pretty, seaside medieval village of Sant Marti d’Empuries on the Costa Brava. Here, we were given two hours of free time for lunch, to explore, or to take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea.
I had a delicious salad at L’Escalapi Restaurant and Pizzeria – a Goat’s Cheese Salad with lettuce, tomatoes, goat’s cheese, walnuts, pine nuts, sultanas, and mustard and honey dressing. Spain does salads so well! I followed up my salad with Sugar and Lemon Crepes. The total cost for lunch was €20 (AU$33).
I walked off lunch by wandering around Sant Marti d’Empuries, admiring its medieval buildings and checking out the beach – a lovely spot to stay a while.
Sant Marti d’Empuries – the village
Sant Marti d’Empuries – the beach
Our last stop for the day was Gala Dali’s Castle in the tiny village of Pubol. The castle is the house Salvador Dali bought for his wife. Salvador didn’t live here until after Gala’s death and had to be invited by Gala to visit.
We were given a half-hour guided tour inside the castle and half an hour of free time to explore its gardens. According to our guide, Gala wanted to design the interior herself, but there is substantial Salvador Dali influence (artworks) inside the castle and its grounds. I particularly loved the Dali sculptures of long-legged elephants in the gardens.
There’s an elephant in the garden!
Gala is buried in the crypt designed by her husband in the castle’s basement.
Leaving Pubol at 5.00 pm, we arrived in Barcelona at 6.45 pm.
My tour review / final thoughts:
I have been a fan of Salvador Dali for many decades, and visiting his Theatre Museum was on my bucket list as soon as I started planning my trip to Spain. And I wasn’t disappointed! As I viewed his works over three floors, I got a glimpse into his unique world and learned so much about the evolution of his artistic styles.
Salvador Dali – the master of Surrealism
Dali decorated his Theatre-Museum in his unique style
Dali’s “Mae West Lips Sofa” 1937-1937
Dali’s Lithograph “Eternal Circumcism” 1968
My only criticism of the two hours allocated in the Dali Theatre-Museum is that it wasn’t long enough. Viewing artworks should be a relaxed experience, but I felt rushed as I wanted to take in as much as possible. It also didn’t give me time to view the jewellery Dali designed for his wife or to visit the museum shop, where I had hoped to buy a book on Salvador Dali.
Here’s some trivia: Dali designed the Spanish lollipop Chupa Chups logo. I never knew Chupa Chups were Spanish! Perhaps I need to attend more trivia nights because the question of who created the Chupa Chups logo is, apparently, frequently asked.
Explore Catalunya must ensure the full tour description reflects the actual tour itinerary. Their detailed summer schedule full tour description maintains that Platge de Castell would be our last stop after Gala Dali’s Castle before returning to Barcelona. However, we never visited Platge de Castell, “one of those rare hidden corners you can still find on the Costa Brava”. Instead, we visited Sant Marti d’Empuries on the Mediterranean coast before heading to Gala’s Castle. I can’t say I was disappointed as I knew nothing about Platge de Castell, and Sant Marti d’Empuries was an enchanting village that I thoroughly enjoyed exploring.
I booked this tour because I wanted to see as much as possible about Salvador Dali that was available at the time. As such, I was pleased Explore Catalunya included Gala Dali’s Castle in the tour. I must admit, I found Gala’s home uninteresting but did enjoy wandering through the castle’s grounds. The hour at Gala Dali’s Castle was more than sufficient time to see everything there was.
Explore Catalunya promotes this small group trip as being transported “to one of the most breathtakingly beautiful stretches of coastline in the whole of Europe – the Costa Brava”.
The Costa Brava is a coastal region of Catalonia on the Mediterranean Sea in northeastern Spain. It stretches from Blanes, a city 60 kilometres northeast of Barcelona, to the French border.
The tour as I experienced it:
About an hour’s drive from Barcelona, we arrived in Blanes – the gateway to Costa Brava. We didn’t stop in Blanes (a city of nearly 50,000 people) but drove straight to Cala Sant Francesc – a picturesque small cove with yellow sand and turquoise waters.
Alighting from the bus on the hill above Cala Sant Francesc, our guide gave us the option to spend our two hours’ free time at the beach or walking around the nearby Marimurtra Botanical Garden. I chose the Botanical Garden, described as one of the most beautiful gardens on the Mediterranean.
Marimurtra Botanical Garden
Marimurtra Botanical Garden is situated on the top of a cliff, providing stunning views of the picturesque Costa Brava with its white sand coves, crystal clear turquoise and aqua waters, and rugged coastline.
Costa Brava viewed from Marimurtra Botanical Garden.
Costa Brava’s coastline.
Leaving Cala Sant Francesc at 12.30 pm, we headed for lunch at a family-owned typical Mediterranean restaurant outside of Blanes. Our set menu consisted of a selection of traditional local dishes for starters with a glass of Sangria, a choice of several main courses, and a choice of Mel i Moto (a traditional Catalan dessert) or ice cream.
After a leisurely lunch, we drove for about half an hour to Tossa de Mar – a resort town home to the last preserved fortified town on the Costa Brava coast. Upon arrival, our guide took us on an orientation walk through the town and then given over an hour of free time.
I didn’t go for a swim in the waters of the very crowded beach or seek a coffee in the many cafes and restaurants packed with people. I opted instead to walk up the hill to the lighthouse and fortifications on the town’s highest point.
From the lighthouse and fortifications, I could see over the town, the many boats moored in Tossa de Mar’s bay, and a panoramic view of the Mediterranean Sea with its blue waters and rugged coastline.
Tossa de Mar – town, beach and fortifications
Tossa de Mar was our last stop for the day. An hour and a half drive saw us back in Barcelona.
My tour review / final thoughts:
According to Explore Catalunya, the picturesque Cala Sant Francesc is “one of the few remaining coves on the coast that have avoided the crowds of tourists and big commercial developments and are known only to locals”. All I can say is there must be a lot of locals because the cove’s beach was crowded. Explore Catalunya goes on to say we would have the beach to ourselves. I think they need to rewrite their tour description!
“Uncrowded” Cala Sant Francesc
I enjoyed wandering around the Marimurtra Botanical Garden and admiring its more than four thousand plant species. However, my highlight of the day trip was the hilltop Garden’s coastal views. The Garden provides the most spectacular views of Costa Brava’s beautiful small coves, crystal clear waters, and the rugged coastline of the Mediterranean Sea.
The Mediterranean Sea framed by Marimurtra Botanical Garden
Explore Catalunya’s detailed description for The Costa Brava tour states: “After leaving the beach and gardens, we will continue up to the old castle ruins for another amazing view of the coast.” Unfortunately, this did not occur, leaving me disappointed, as I would have loved to see more of Costa Brava’s coastline.
Lunch was delicious. I had a great salad with lettuce, brie cheese, walnuts, and fruits for my mains. Since I am not fond of ice cream, I had the Mel i Moto – a traditional Catalan dessert of Catalan cheese with honey. It was an interesting dessert but not unpleasant, and I could have had another bowl with more honey. Since arriving home, I have tried making this dessert with ricotta cheese, but it doesn’t taste the same (not as good).
My impression of Tossa de Mar is that of a very crowded tourist town, one I would typically avoid. However, I did enjoy the views from the lighthouse and fortifications of Costa Brava’s dramatic coastline.
Costa Brava’s rugged coastline at Tessa de Mar
Overall, the day trip to Costa Brava was long but enjoyable, and I recommend it.
Explore Catalunya promotes this day trip as a journey back to the medieval age, visiting the beautifully preserved villages of Besalu and Tavertet and enjoying free time in Rupit village.
The tour as I experienced it:
Leaving Barcelona at 8.30 am, we arrived in Besalu, our first medieval village, at about 10.00 am. Upon arrival, we (there were five guests on the tour) were given 20 minutes for a coffee and a bite to eat. We then headed across Besalu’s most significant feature – its 12th-century Romanesque bridge over the Fluvia River with its seven arches and a fortified gateway at its midpoint. Having crossed the bridge, we immediately entered Besalu’s medieval old town, where our Explore Catalunya driver-guide provided a 20-minute guided familiarisation walking tour around the Old Town.
The medieval town of Besalu and its Romanesque bridge.
After the guided walking tour, we had one hour to explore Besalu independently.
Founded in 878 AD, Besalu is an enchanting medieval town in the foothills of the southeastern section of the Pyrenees. It is one of Spain’s most beautiful and best-preserved medieval towns and was declared a historic and artistic site of national importance in 1966.
Today, Besalu has a population of 2,512 (2023) living there permanently.
Besalu is home to an 11th-century church and hospital, a 12th-century monastery, the remains of a medieval castle, and an ancient Jewish Quarter, where you will find the ruins of a medieval synagogue and a 12th-century Mikvka (Jewish ritual bathhouse).
Besalu’s old town is built entirely from sandstone, giving the village a golden, warm hue. Cafes fill the pretty squares, and narrow cobblestone streets wind through the village. As to be expected, souvenir shops line the streets. However, glancing into shops as I walked past them made me think they were of a better quality than most you see.
A narrow cobblestone street leads to a small square
10th-century Iglesia Sant Vicenc – the oldest church in Besalu
Besalu’s main square, Placa de la Llibertat, is in the centre of the old town and a great place to sit with a drink or ice cream and people-watch.
Cafes and restaurants line Besalu’s main square
I found the wooden chairs attached to the Old Town’s stone walls a thought-provoking addition to Besalu’s medieval architecture. However, I never got an answer about the reason for this art installation.
After about an hour’s drive from Besalu and up narrow, winding roads into the Pyrenees, we arrived at the medieval village of Rupit. A river, forest, waterfalls, and caves surround the village, which is 822 metres above sea level in a valley adjacent to the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park.
Rupit was in stark contrast to Besalu. Instead of the pale stone buildings that give Besalu an air of warmth, all the houses in Rupit are built with basalt stone, giving the village a dark, forbidding appearance.
The medieval village of Rupert, with houses built in basalt
Rupit is smaller than Besalu, with about 160 permanent residents and just two main streets. The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has described it as “one of the jewels of Catalonia in Spain.”
Rupit has received two awards in recent years:
UNWTO named it ‘Best Tourism Villages 2022’ for its “development of sustainable and responsible tourism.”
It has been awarded ‘European Charming Villages’ by the COSME Initiative of the European Union.
Before arriving in Rupit, our driver-guide gave us the option of free time to explore the village or to join him at a local restaurant for a set menu Catalonian lunch. I opted for lunch with three other guests and our driver-guide – a big mistake! Don’t get me wrong, the three-course lunch was delicious and a leisurely affair, but it took all our allocated two hours of free time in Rupit.
Two hours for lunch in Spain is the norm, but we had no time to explore the village. After several guests voiced their disappointment, our driver-guide gave us ten minutes to explore Rupit.
A street in Rupit
Rupit, where many streets are stairs
Our final stop before heading back to Barcelona was at a clifftop lookout in the tiny village of Tavertet, overlooking the valley below and the Guilleries mountain range. From this viewpoint, we could see the large Sau Reservoir, villages, and the odd lone house in the valley below.
View of the valley and mountain range from Tavertet lookout
My tour review / final thoughts:
Besalu:
Grabbing a takeaway coffee instead of sitting down for 20 minutes would have been a better option, allowing more time for the guided walk around Besalu.
I would have liked more time to explore Besalu at a relaxed pace rather than rushing from street to street to see as much as possible and take as many photos as possible.
According to the detailed description on Explore Catalunya’s website, the Medieval Villages tour includes “visit a restored mikveh (an old Jewish bath from the 12th century), and see the remains of a medieval synagogue”. Neither of these happened.
We were discouraged from seeing the old Jewish bath with an explanation that to do so was too hard. We would have to walk back over the bridge (at this point, we were inside the walled town) to the tourist office, get the key for the bath, and then take the key back to the tourist office once having seen the bath. There was also an admission fee involved.
I got the distinct impression that our guide just couldn’t be bothered taking us to visit the restored mikvah and ruins of the medieval synagogue. I found this extremely disappointing as I have a strong interest in Jewish history.
Castellfollit de la Roca:
On the drive to Rupit, our driver-guide pointed to Castellfollit de la Roca village, perched on the edge of a basalt precipice. I have seen several photos of Castellfollit de la Roca on Instagram and have always been in awe of its precarious location. I was okay with not exploring the village but felt incredibly disappointed that we drove straight past and didn’t pull off the road for a photo stop.
Rupit:
Opting to have lunch in a restaurant in Rupit was a missed opportunity to explore the village. It was a shame that our driver-guide failed to advise us that lunch in the restaurant would take up all our free time in Rupit. Had he done so, I would have grabbed something to eat at the bakery and used the two hours to explore the village and walk along the river to discover its pools and waterfalls.
Tavertet:
Explore Catalunya’s detailed description for this tour states that a visit is made to Tavertet village. “With your guide, visit this charming village, which was declared a National Property of Cultural Interest due to its 48 preserved houses from the 17th and 18th centuries. Learn interesting facts about this village as you admire the houses and the 11th-century Romanesque Church of Sant Cristofol.” However, we did not visit Tavertet; we merely drove straight through to the viewpoint on the cliff edge of the village for a panoramic view of the valley below. It was a shame we did not go into Tavertet, as I was looking forward to seeing the houses.
Explore Catalunya advertises that The Small Group Medieval Villages Day Trip from Barcelona lasts 11 hours. However, on this day, it was only ten hours. The additional hour would have allowed the advertised visit to Tavertet village or more time in Besalu.
Final thoughts:
Besalu is a delightful village worth visiting. However, I would have found a full day in Besalu to explore all its nooks and crannies of more value.
Ten minutes to explore Rupit and a short walk along one street to the restaurant was not enough time to make an informed comment on Rupit. However, what I did see had me wanting more.
I cannot comment on Tavertet, as we only drove quickly through the village to the lookout.
I enjoyed the Medieval Villages Day Trip, but I suspect the enjoyment was more about getting out of Barcelona for the day than the trip itself. In truth, I ended the day feeling disappointed and cheated.
Explore Catalunya promotes this day trip as “The only day tour from Barcelona that takes groups into the Pyrenees Mountains”.
There were five guests on this day trip (including myself) and our driver-guide, Steven. The tour’s destination was Vall de Nuria (Nuria’s Valley) in the Pyrenees via Vic and Queralbs.
The tour as I experienced it:
Our departure from Barcelona at 8.30 am had us arriving in Vic (pronounced Bic) about an hour later.
Vic is about 69 kilometres north of Barcelona on the Meder River. It is an ancient city, dating back to the Ausetan Iberians before Roman occupation in the 1st century AD, with an interesting and picturesque medieval Old Town.
On a 20-minute guided walking tour around the Old Town, we passed through several small pretty squares with cafes preparing for the day.
A bicycle adds a touch of romance to a courtyard cafe.
A pretty square makes an ideal spot for a cafe.
The guided walking tour ended in Cathedral Square at the Roman Catholic cathedral, Catedral de Sant Pere Apostol (Cathedral of Saint Peter the Apostle).
I found the interior of Vic’s Sant Pere Cathedral to be unlike anything I had seen previously. Huge, almost monochromatic canvases painted by Joseph Maria Sert representing the mystery of redemption cover the walls, making the interior dark and gloomy – an unexpected contrast to the cathedral’s light-coloured stone exterior. It wasn’t a place I wanted to linger! However, your reaction may be very different.
Vic’s Sant Pere Cathedral
Joseph Maria Sert painting inside Sant Pere Cathedral
Explore Catalunya’s visits to Vic coincide with traditional market days, which take place on Tuesdays and Saturdays in the arched main square (one of the biggest in Spain). Stalls of every sort filled the square.
Our half-hour of free time had me scouring the market stalls and nearby shops for something suitable for a takeaway lunch. Steven advised us that the food at Vall de Nuria’s café was not the best and recommended that we buy lunch in Vic.
From Vic, we drove up into the Pyrenees to the small village of Queralbs, which sits at an altitude of 1,236 metres. It is the last vehicle-accessible village on the way up to Vall de Nuria (Nuria’s Valley), a beautiful valley in the eastern Pyrenees. The final six kilometres from Queralbs to Vall de Nuria must be travelled by rack railway – a 20-minute journey to an altitude of 1,964 metres. But first, there was a guided walking tour through Queralbs.
Queralbs is an ancient village dating back to 833 AD. With its traditionally built stone houses perched on the side of the mountain, “this impossibly quaint, picture postcard beautiful hamlet is one of the most memorable parts of the day” (Explore Catalunya). I couldn’t agree more! The village was picture-perfect.
The village of Queralbs in the Pyrenees.
The traditional stone houses of Queralbs.
The walking tour ended at the Romanesque Esglesia de Sant Jaume (Church of Saint James) – one of Spain’s oldest surviving Romanesque churches.
Queralbs’ Romanesque St James Church.
Time to catch the rack railway train to Vall de Nuria!
Vall de Nuria is a glacial valley in the eastern Pyrenees, 120 kilometres from Barcelona, 1,964 metres above sea level, and surrounded by mountains nearly 3,000 metres high. It is remote and only accessible by rack railway. The ski resort and Nuria Lake dominate the valley, offering spectacular mountain landscapes, winter skiing, and summer hiking trails.
Vall de Nuria viewed from the top of the cable car run.
Vall de Nuria landscape with a view of the lake and resort.
With two hours to explore the valley before catching the train back down the mountain, I decided to hike one of the many trails in the hills around the valley. These trails range from easy to challenging.
Given my limited time, I chose an easy trail, the Way of the Crosses. I was told it would take 50 minutes to walk, but I knew it would take longer as I would keep stopping to take photos and admire the breathtaking views. The trail gets its name from the Christian Way of the Cross tradition, with twelve crosses along the way. I made the hike easier on myself by walking down the mountain rather than up. I did this by taking the cable car to the summit, bringing me to an altitude of 2,170 metres. Consequently, I passed the crosses in reverse – from twelve to one.
Way of the Crosses – Station 6.
Way of the Crosses – Station 5.
We missed our scheduled train back down the mountain to Queralbs because one couple failed to turn up at the meeting point even though Steven’s instructions were clear. No one knew where they were. I could tell Steven was worried, but he handled it calmly. Eventually, Steven decided we would catch the next train and leave the unreliable couple to fend for themselves. Surprise, surprise! When we arrived back at Queralbs Rack Railway Station (45 minutes late), our errant couple were waiting for us. They had decided to forego the meeting point and catch the train on their own.
From about halfway down the Stations of the Cross trail, the sky was getting blacker and blacker. By the time I reached the bottom, thunder was rolling around the mountains.
Vall de Nuria – a storm rolls inover the Pyrenees
Just as we were about to board our train back down the mountain, the heavens opened, and heavy rain and hail bucketed down. As we travelled the six kilometres from Vall de Nuria to Queralbs, the rain got heavier and heavier. Running from the train to the station building had us soaked to the skin, and I mean soaked. Water was pouring off me, off my hair and my clothes.
Our misfortunes did not end with a missing couple and soaking rain. Shortly after leaving Queralbs for our drive down the mountain, we came to a grinding halt. Traffic wasn’t going anywhere! The river beside the road was a raging torrent, so I thought maybe the road was flooded. After about 20-30 minutes, the male of our errant couple went to investigate what was happening up ahead – to make up for their “misunderstanding” about the meeting point. He told us there was a mudslide with rocks over the road and water pouring down the mountain. People were staring at this catastrophe, immobile. But our errant male (sorry, I will always think of him as such) started moving the rocks, and others helped. We were moving again! Meanwhile, it was sunny and 30 degrees Celsius in Barcelona!
My tour review / final thoughts:
In Vic, I struggled, wasting a lot of time trying to find suitable food for a takeaway lunch. I couldn’t even find a small supermarket in the streets around the main square. I found a bakery that looked promising, but the queue was too long to wait for service. I was conscious about arriving back at the meeting place on time. Had I known in advance about the recommendation to purchase a takeaway lunch, I would have brought food with me. In hindsight, I am sorry I didn’t risk the cafe at Vall de Nuria because the lentil salad I bought in Vic for lunch was pretty ordinary.
Explore Catalunya advertises the tour as 11 hours in duration. However, the tour was 11 hours only because we were late leaving Vall de Nuria back to Queralbs and encountered a mudslide driving down the mountain. I felt cheated because I would have loved more time on the mountain. The additional hour would have allowed me time to walk around the lake, visit the sanctuary, or have a cup of coffee.
I thoroughly enjoyed this day trip to the Pyrenees Mountains. What an adventure!
Don’t get me wrong; I have enjoyed all my day trips with Explore Catalunya, but this one seemed a bit more special. Perhaps it was the breathtaking landscape of the Pyrenees or just being in the mountains? Perhaps it was the enchanting village of Queralbs or the experience of the Rack Railway? Perhaps it was the adventure of getting soaking wet from a massive storm or driving through a mudslide over the road? Even though all the tours were very different and memorable, this day trip to the Pyrenees was special. It was not your ‘usual’ sightseeing tour and, for the most part, was the more relaxed.
A word on booking tours with Explore Catalunya:
I booked all my tours with Explore Catalunya in person, visiting their office in Barcelona at Carrer Palau de la Musica, 1. When booking in person, I received a €10,00 senior discount on each tour. However, when visiting Explore Catalunya’s website, I found nowhere that a senior discount can be applied when booking a tour.
As we conclude our journey through these five memorable day trips from Barcelona, I hope the experiences I shared have inspired you to venture beyond the city’s boundaries and explore the wonders just a short distance away.
Barcelona is a gateway to extraordinary adventures, allowing you to immerse yourself in captivating landscapes, delve into rich history, and be inspired by world-renowned art. The day trips I took from Barcelona left me with a lifetime of memories.
So, if you find yourself in Barcelona, let these day trips be your guide to exploring the richness that lies beyond the city’s borders, for Catalonia is a region of endless discovery. Allow yourself to be swept away by the allure of Montserrat, the coastal beauty of Costa Brava, the timeless appeal of medieval villages, the majesty of the Pyrenees, and the surreal world of Salvador Dali.
Thank you for joining me on this unforgettable journey through Catalonia’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures. Until next time, here’s to the endless horizons of discovery and the timeless magic of travel!
Disclaimer: This post contains no affiliate links. All views and opinions are my own and non-sponsored. All photos are my own and remain the copyright of Just Me Travel.
Have you found this review of day trip tours from Barcelona a helpful resource? Which would be a day trip not to be missed? I love hearing from you. Please leave a comment below.
I look forward to reading and responding to your comments on which day trips from Barcelona you might include on your next holiday to Spain that this post has inspired.
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Author’s Note: Please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and follow government advice.
Ethiopia’s Coffee Ceremony is Deeply Rooted in Tradition and Social Significance. Journey to the birthplace of coffee itself – Ethiopia – where coffee isn’t just a drink but a…
Ethiopia’s Coffee Ceremony is Deeply Rooted in Tradition and Social Significance.
Journey to the birthplace of coffee itself – Ethiopia – where coffee isn’t just a drink but a ritual steeped in tradition and social significance. This is the Ethiopian coffee ceremony, where time stands still to honour hospitality and respect, strengthen bonds, and foster conversations.
This post illustrates this timeless ritual, from the meticulous preparation of the coffee to the communal enjoyment that follows. Get ready to be immersed into the heart and soul of Ethiopian culture through its world-renowned coffee ceremony. It is a truly wonderful and unique experience!
I love coffee. I have drunk it in many countries with varying degrees of appreciation. Well, now I have found coffee heaven. It’s in Ethiopia, and there is a whole ceremony surrounding its making and drinking.
Ethiopia is the home of coffee. The coffee plant originated in Ethiopia, with the beans first brewed in the 11th century. So, Ethiopians have had a lot of practice doing stuff with coffee, to the point where a whole ceremony developed around brewing and drinking coffee. The coffee ceremony is an integral part of Ethiopian culture and hospitality. It is a significant social occasion.
Ethiopians have a delightful story around the discovery of the benefits of coffee. A goat herder noticed his goats acting excitedly and ‘dancing’ on their hind legs after eating the bright red berries from a particular tree. When he tried the berries himself, he felt energised. He grabbed some berries and rushed home to tell his wife, who told him he must share these “heaven-sent” berries with the monks in the nearby monastery. The monks did not share the goat herder’s elation, believing the berries to be sinful and the work of the Devil. They tossed the coffee berries into the fire. However, the smell of the roasting coffee beans made the monks rethink their view of this sinful drug, and they removed the coffee beans from the fire. They crushed the coffee beans to extinguish the glowing embers and covered them with hot water to preserve them. The aroma of the coffee made all the monks want to try it. After this, they vowed to drink coffee every day because they found the coffee’s uplifting effects helped keep them awake during their holy devotions. And so, Ethiopia’s coffee tradition and culture were created.
I loved the ceremony as much as the coffee itself. Unlike Italy, where coffee is drunk quickly whilst standing, preparing and drinking coffee in Ethiopia is not to be rushed as the hostess must not miss any step.
Wherever I travelled in Ethiopia, the coffee ceremony was always the same. There was something reassuring in this familiarity of freshly roasting coffee beans and the smell of fresh-cut grasses that were invariably laid on the ground. The laying of cut grasses on the floor sets the scene for the coffee ceremony.
When ordering coffee in a Western-style restaurant in Ethiopia, the coffee is brewed following the established ritual in a reserved area of the restaurant and served on a tray lined with fresh-cut grasses.
Coffee is served on a tray with fresh-cut grasses.
Ethiopian coffee ceremony: the traditional steps
Coffee berries growing on the tree.
First, the raw coffee beans are rubbed together in water in a pan to remove the skins on the beans. Then, they are roasted over a charcoal brazier, releasing the aromatic oils from the beans. The hostess – I never saw this ceremony conducted by a man – brings the pan of smoking, roasted beans around for you to waft the smoke towards you, to draw in the aroma of the roasted beans.
Washing the raw coffee beans.
Once roasted, the beans are ground with a mortar and pestle. Traditionally, the mortar and pestle are made of wood.
Grinding the roasted coffee beans.
While grinding the beans, the hostess is boiling water in a terracotta “jebena” over an open fire. A jebena is a traditional Ethiopian clay coffee pot with a bulbous, round bottom, a long, narrow neck topped with a wooden or straw stopper, and a handle.
The jebena I bought in a local market in Bahir Dar.
Once the coffee beans are ground, the resultant powder is added to the boiling water in the jebena. The combined water and ground beans are boiled for a couple of minutes and then rested to allow the coffee powder to sink to the bottom of the pot.
By this stage, if you are a coffee lover like me, the smell of freshly brewed coffee will have your mouth watering in anticipation of what will come.
Finally, the coffee is poured into small, handleless porcelain cups (similar to Chinese tea cups). The pouring is done from as high as possible above the cups – about a foot above the cups. The hostess will usually serve coffee with popcorn or peanuts.
Ethiopian coffee ceremony: a social event
Coffee isn’t just a drink in Ethiopia. It is an essential component of Ethiopian culture and society. Being invited to coffee in Ethiopia is considered a sign of friendship and respect. It is a time to extend the hand of hospitality, promote social relations, and catch up on neighbourhood news.
A girl pours coffee for customers in a coffee house in Lalibela.
A coffee house at the remote Blue Nile Falls.
Ethiopian coffee is drunk sweet, and black. In fact, very sweet – 2 to 3 teaspoons of sugar. Mind you, the teaspoons are minuscule. I learnt to enjoy black coffee. However, by the time I left Ethiopia, I was drinking my coffee with a lot less sugar.
When drinking coffee in Ethiopia, etiquette requires you to have three cups of coffee. The first cup is to welcome you, the second is about friendship, and the third is to say goodbye. Denying coffee at any of the three servings is considered rude. Remember, these are tiny cups, so having three is less in quantity than a mug of coffee.
Ethiopian coffee is the best I have ever tasted. The two women I was travelling through Ethiopia with told me I said, “Oh, that’s good coffee”, every time I had a cup of coffee. This must have driven them mad because we had lots (and I mean lots) of cups of coffee. Finally, one of my travel companions told our diver-guide that Ethiopia needs to change its tourism slogan from “13 Months of Sunshine” to “Oh, That’s Good Coffee”. He just laughed.
So, if you ever find yourself in Ethiopia, immerse yourself in the magical and captivating experience of the coffee ceremony. You won’t be disappointed!
To learn about Ethiopia’s coffee ceremony’s cultural and social history, visit the Institute of Ethiopian Studies Ethnological Museum in Addis Ababa. This well-organised, delightful museum on Addis Ababa University’s main campus is dedicated to preserving, studying, and presenting Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage.
The Ethnological Museum is open daily, excluding public holidays, with entrance fees charged at different rates for adults, students, and those wanting to take photographs. Engage one of the available guides who provide valuable information and insights about the museum’s collections.
The Coffee Story, Ethnological Museum.
From the first crackle of roasting beans to the three rounds of shared cups, the Ethiopian coffee ceremony is more than a mere caffeine fix. It is a ritual filled with tradition, hospitality, shared moments, and a deep appreciation for the humble coffee bean.
The ceremony unfolds in deliberate steps: roasting beans over coals, grinding them by hand, and brewing them in a traditional pot. Each step contributes to the welcoming atmosphere and deep-rooted traditions that define the Ethiopian coffee ceremony.
Whether you have experienced it firsthand or are curious about it from afar, the Ethiopian coffee ceremony stands as a testament to the beauty of cultural rituals and the power of a shared cup of coffee to bring people together, wherever they may be.
Editor’s Note: I originally published this blog post in March 2019 and have updated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Disclaimer: This post contains no affiliate links. All views and opinions are my own and non-sponsored. All photos are my own and remain the copyright of Just Me Travel.
International travel will inevitably lead to translation challenges. Read about my communication issue in Ethiopia’s Simien Mountains, which I can laugh about now but, at the time, impacted my physical comfort.
Postcards From Spain: Your Ultimate Iberian Bucket List for Creating Unforgettable Memories in Spain. Are you travelling to Spain? Are you looking for things to do, places to visit,…
Postcards From Spain: Your Ultimate Iberian Bucket List for Creating Unforgettable Memories in Spain.
Are you travelling to Spain? Are you looking for things to do, places to visit, sites to see in Spain? This post covers an extensive list of top places of interest and things to do in Spain to ensure your Spain bucket list is complete.
The post is not an exhaustive list of the incredible things you should not miss while in Spain. For example, the theatre, amphitheatre, and bridge are not the only Roman sites Merida has to interest the visitor. And there is a fabulous archaeological museum worth visiting.
I have presented my Spain bucket list as postcards (often multiple postcards per destination), with each postcard an authentic personal experience. From historic landmarks and hidden gems to cultural marvels and breathtaking landscapes, my Spain Bucket List of 47 Incredible Things You Should Not Miss is designed to be your go-to resource for planning the journey of a lifetime.
About My Spain Bucket List
I have compiled my Spain bucket list from my personal experiences of spending almost three consecutive months in Spain.
Before arriving in Spain, I spent one week in France on a barge cruise travelling on the Canal du Midi.
My first 18 days in Spain were on the Spanish Heritage Tour with Insight Vacations. This tour almost internally circumnavigated Spain, helping me to familiarise myself with the country, the people, and the culture.
For the remainder of my time in Spain, I travelled solo, basing myself in Seville (three weeks), Merida (one week), Barcelona (four weeks), and Girona (one week). North, south, east, and west, I covered much of Spain in almost three months while allowing time and space to immerse myself.
When I travel, I send digital postcards of the highlights of my travel experiences to family and friends, sharing what I have seen and done. Each entry in this post includes those postcard-worthy moments that vividly capture the essence of each unmissable experience.
Spain has many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 49 to be precise. It wasn’t until I wrote this post that I realised how many of those sites I visited.
How This Post is Structured
Welcome to Spain, a land of rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes. Planning a trip to this captivating country can be overwhelming, given its wealth of experiences. Fear not, for I present you with the ultimate trip-planning resource – a comprehensive list of 47 unmissable things to see and do in Spain.
The links immediately below take you to many cities, towns, and villages (in alphabetical order) I visited in Spain. I have then made suggestions, based on my personal experience, of things to see and do within those cities, towns, and villages.
Join me as we travel through my Spain Bucket List postcard series.
My Spain Bucket List isn’t just a checklist but an invitation to plan what to do and see during your visit to Spain to make the best of your trip. So, join me as I unveil the 47 incredible things that make Spain a destination like no other. Let’s go!
BARCELONA
Barcelona is on the Mediterranean coast in the northeast of Spain and is the capital of Spain’s Catalonia region. It is known for its art and legendary architecture.
Basilica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Familia
Otherwise known as Sagrada Familia.
Barcelona and the Sagrada Familia are synonymous – you can’t have one without the other. It is the most-visited monument in Spain and is the only temple in the world still under construction. The Sagrada Familia has been under construction since 1882 and is estimated to be completed in 2026. However, according to my guide, this completion date is not likely to be met because of COVID-19. The building of Sagrada Familia relies heavily on tourist dollars, and none came in while the basilica was closed during the pandemic.
While I failed to see the beauty in the basilica’s exterior, Antoni Gaudi, the Sagrada Familia’s famous architect, has excelled himself with its breathtakingly beautiful interior. See my photo gallery.
The stunned-glass windows create a magical light show inside the basilica.
The Sagrada Familia interior.
The beautiful ceiling inside Sagrada Familia.
Christ on the cross hangs suspended from an umbrella over the main altar.
A note on Antoni Gaudi (because his architecture appears multiple times on this bucket list): Antoni Gaudi is Barcelona’s most famous architect and led the way for the Modernista movement, which is best known for its architectural style. UNESCO recognised Gaudi’s exceptional creativity and contribution to architecture development by placing seven properties he built on the World Heritage List in 1984. UNESCO has collectively listed these seven properties as the “Works of Gaudi”.
In 2003, Gaudi was on the path to sainthood when the Vatican opened the beautification process for him, the first step towards declaring his sainthood. It is now 2023, and Gaudi still needs to become a saint. The Catholic Church does not rush the beautification process. And there is a question mark over what miracle Gaudi caused!
Casa Batllo
The beautiful facade of Casa Batllo.
The building, now known as Casa Batllo, was constructed in 1877. When Joseph Batllo purchased it in 1903, he gave Antoni Gaudi total creative freedom to complete the entire remodelling of the house, which was completed in 1906.
The interior of this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a vision of wrought iron, wood, stained glass, ceramic tiles, and stone ornaments. The building is energy efficient with extensive use of natural light. Casa Batllo’s exterior was given a unique façade by Gaudi, where stone, glass, and ceramics form waves that mirror a calm sea, and the balconies are shell-shaped.
Located at number 43 on Passeig de Gracia, allow at least 1.5 hours to explore the house.
Casa Mila
Located at number 92 on Passeig de Gracia, Casa Mila was an apartment block completed in 1912, and Antoni Gaudi was the architect. It is popularly known as La Pedrera, meaning “stone quarry” in Catalan, because stone was the primary building material for the façade and balconies. A visit to Casa Mila includes (at additional cost) the apartment where the Mila family lived, still intact with antique furniture. The rooftop provides excellent views over Barcelona.
Casa Mila has two intriguing features:
There is barely a straight wall in the building, and
The rooftop is a sculpture park of chimneys that looks like something out of Star Wars. The Spanish poet Pere Gimferrer called it The Garden of Warriors.
“Warriors” march across Casa Mila’s rooftop.
Ciutadella Park
Go people-watching in Ciutadella Park, Barcelona’s largest landscaped park on Passeig de Picasso.
There is much to see and do in Ciutadella Park.
Ciutadella Park is the place to see and be seen, particularly on Sunday afternoons when people gather to play instruments, relax, take a punt on the boating lake, view the extravagant Cascada Monumental, a cascading waterfall fountain topped by a chariot-rider flanked by gryphons which Gaudi helped design, admire the sculptures scattered around the park, or visit the zoo.
Palau de la Musica Catalana
Palau de la Musica Catalana (Palace of Catalan Music) is a concert hall in the Sant Pere district of Barcelona, built between 1905 and 1908. The modernist architect Lluis Domenech i Montaner constructed Musica Catalana as a home for the Catalan Choral Society.
I went to see the Palau de la Musica Catalana because it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1997), and I had seen some photos and thought, That’s pretty. “That’s pretty” was an understatement! I was in awe; it was breathtaking! Could there be anything this beautiful? The stained-glass skylight and windows flood the Concert Hall with natural light, the majestic organ has 3,700 pipes, and the 18 muses surrounding the stage, with 18 instruments from different parts of the world, represent music without frontiers.
Palau de la Musica Catalana’s main auditorium seats 1,970, with a further capacity of 600 seats in the Petit Palau (chamber music hall). Discover the secrets of this hidden gem with an in-house guided tour, which includes hearing a short piece played on the organ. Magical!
Check out my photos to see why you should visit this unique Concert Hall.
The interior of Palau de la Musica Catalina.
The iconic stained-glass skylight.
Sculpted muses with musical instruments form a backdrop for the stage.
The stained-glass windows and breathtakingly beautiful ceiling.
The architect was Antoni Gaudi’s teacher. I can see the influence on Gaudi.
There is a good café (Palau Café) in the Palau de la Musica Catalana foyer where you can eat inside or under the umbrellas outside.
Palau Guell (Guell Palace)
Palau Guell is a luxury mansion on Carrer Nou de la Rambla in the El Raval district of Barcelona. The famous architect Antoni Gaudi designed the palace’s seven floors for the industrial tycoon and Gaudi’s patron, Eusebi Guell, which he completed in 1890. All the palace rooms open onto the spectacular central hall, like an internal courtyard.
The building’s exterior is rather unremarkable, so the interior was a complete surprise. It was spectacular and certainly worth a visit! See for yourself.
Palau Guell was Gaudi’s first actual commission in Barcelona and has been on UNESCO’s World Heritage List since 1984.
The lobby Palau Guell.
The luxurious central hall.
The lobby’s beautiful staircase with its stained-glass window (also designed by Gaudi) leads up to the luxurious central hall that also serves as a source of light for the rooms leading off it over several floors. Gaudi liked to incorporate wood in his designs, and the wooden ceilings in Palau Guell are works of art.
Gaudi installed his signature chimneys on the roof in 1895. There are 20 chimneys in all, which also ventilate the house.
Antoni Gaudi’s signature chimneys on the roof of Palau Guell.
The audio guide was descriptive, informative, and easy to follow.
UNESCO placed Palau Guell on the World Heritage List in 1984. A definite must-see!
Park Guell
A guided tour of Park Guell, designed by the famous Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi, was an optional excursion in Barcelona offered by Insight Vacations on my recent tour with them – and one I couldn’t miss.
Visiting Park Guell was on my bucket list in Barcelona, and it didn’t disappoint. Gaudi’s distinctive, imaginative, and nonconforming architectural style fascinates me and appeals to my photographic eye. Gaudi decorated most of his structures with mosaics made from broken, colourful ceramic and glass pieces.
The 200-metre undulating tiles snake-like bench circles the terrace.
The former guard’s residence (left) and sales office (right) at Park Guell’s Olot Street entrance.
The whimsical multicoloured 2.4-metre-long dragon or salamander has become the symbol of Barcelona.
I didn’t know about Park Guell’s original intention as a luxury residential complex (gated community), but this plan was abandoned in 1914 as it was financially unsuccessful. It was opened to the public as a municipal park in 1926.
At more than 17 hectares, the park is one of the largest green spaces in Barcelona.
The Spanish Government declared Park Guell a Monument of Cultural Interest in 1969 in recognition of its historical, architectural, and artistic uniqueness. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 and a Catalan National Cultural Interest site in 1993.
I finally learned how to pronounce ‘Guell’ – ‘Gway’, with the ‘G’ pronounced like the ‘g’ in ‘girl’.
Fun Facts:
Gaudi had a workman drop his pants and sit in the soft plaster for a perfect anatomical curve to ensure the stone bench was comfortable.
The former guard’s residence and sales office have been dubbed the Hansel and Gretel gingerbread houses by the children of Barcelona.
BESALU – Medieval Town on the Fluvia River
Founded in 878 AD, Besalu is an enchanting medieval town in the southeastern section of the Pyrenees. It is one of Spain’s best-preserved medieval towns and was declared a historic and artistic site of national importance in 1966.
Besalu is home to an 11th-century church and hospital, a 12th-century monastery, the remains of a medieval castle, and an ancient Jewish Quarter, where you will find the ruins of a medieval synagogue and a 12th-century Mikvka (Jewish ritual bathhouse). However, its most significant feature is its 12th-century Romanesque bridge over the Fluvia River with a gateway at its midpoint.
The medieval town of Besalu and its Romanesque bridge.
Keep an eye out for sculptures of chairs scattered around the old town.
BILBAO – The Many Faces of the Guggenheim Museum
Bilbao is an industrial port city in northern Spain and the biggest city in Basque Country. The opening of the Guggenheim Museum in 1997 saw the revitalisation of Bilbao as it transformed from a nondescript town to one of Spain’s bucket list destinations.
Front facade.
Side facade.
The spider sculpture in front of the Guggenheim Museum.
The Guggenheim Bilbao is a modern and contemporary art museum in Northern Spain’s Basque Country. But before the art, it is, first and foremost, the most fantastic piece of architecture. Wow-factor architecture! Do you agree?
The best views of the Guggenheim are from Salve Bridge, from where I took the above photos. The Salve Bridge is informally known as the Guggenheim Bridge because it merges into the Guggenheim Museum. I particularly liked the spider sculpture in front of the museum.
Take the funicular to the top of Mount Artxanda for great views of Bilbao and the Guggenheim Museum.
CANGAS DE ONIS – Roman Bridge of Cangas de Onis
Cangas de Onis is a picturesque town in Spain’s northwest province of Asturias.
The five-arched Roman Bridge of Cangas de Onis spanning the Sella River is not Roman. In fact, it is medieval, possibly dating from the late 13th century.
Roman Bridge of Cangas de Onis.
Roman or medieval, it still makes for an interesting bridge in a picturesque landscape. It is a graceful humpback bridge with a large, pointed central arch and is one of the best-known symbols of the Principality of Asturias.
From the centre of the arch hangs a reproduction of the famous Victory Cross – the symbol of the re-conquest of Spain from the Moors. The original Victory Cross is a work of precious metal dating to the start of the 10th century. You will find the Cross in Oviedo Cathedral.
CORDOBA
About 130 kilometres northeast of Seville, Cordoba was an important Roman city and a major Islamic centre in the Middle Ages. In Cordoba, three different cultures peacefully coexisted: Jews, Muslims, and Christians.
Roman Bridge of Cordoba
Cordoba’s Roman Bridge.
The stunning Roman Bridge of Cordoba was built across the Guadalquivir River in the first century BC. It has 16 arches supported by robust spurs with semi-cylindrical buttresses and is 247 metres long. It has undergone several reconstructions over the centuries, and today, only the 14th and 15th arches at the northern end are originally Roman. However, it remains a beautiful historical bridge. Since 2004, it has been a pedestrian-only bridge.
For those familiar with the TV series “Game of Thrones”, the Roman Bridge of Cordoba doubled as the Long Bridge of Volantis spanning the Rhoyne River in Season 5.
The Roman Bridge is part of the historic centre of Cordoba, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.
Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba (Mezquita-Catedral of Cordoba)
It is also known as the Great Mosque of Cordoba.
Walking into the mosque stopped me dead in my tracks. It was one of those “Oh my goodness” moments. The main hall is a forest of pillars supporting over 850 double-arched columns – a spectacular sight that is breathtakingly beautiful and unforgettable.
Check out my photo gallery of the eclectic interior of Cordoba’s Mosque-Cathedral:
The mosque leads to a chapel.
A cathedral within a mosque.
The Islamic double-arched columns.
A statue of Christ inside the Mosque-Cathedral.
The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba is steeped in history and is a unique blend of cultures and architectural styles – Islam and Christianity.
Building commenced on the mosque in 785 and took over two centuries to complete. It was once one of the most important mosques in the Islamic Kingdom. When the Great Mosque was converted into a Christian Cathedral in 1236 after the conquest of Cordoba by Ferdinand III, he never demolished the mosque. The cathedral was built in the centre of the mosque.
The Mezquita was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.
The Mosque-Cathedral is the Cathedral of Cordoba, and Muslim prayer is prohibited. However, historical beginnings linger. My guide told me that Catholic couples say they are marrying in the mosque, not the cathedral.
The Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba is one of the most unique buildings in the world, an absolute must-see when in Spain. It is easy to see why the people of Spain voted the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba number one in their list of The Twelve Treasures of Spain.
COSTA BRAVA – Catalonia’s Coastline
The Costa Brava is a coastal region of Catalonia in northeastern Spain, stretching from the town of Blanes, 60 kilometres northeast of Barcelona, to the French border.
On a day trip from Barcelona, the picturesque Costa Brava was stunningly beautiful with its white sand coves, turquoise waters, and rugged coastline.
Costa Brava viewed from Marimurtra Botanical Garden.
Costa Brava’s coastline.
I took the above photos of the Costa Brava from the cliff-top Marimurtra Botanical Garden near Blanes.
FIGUERES – Dali Theatre-Museum
Near the border with France and about 136 kilometres north of Barcelona, Figueres is famous for being the birthplace of the artist Salvador Dali.
Built by Salvador Dali – the Dali Theatre-Museum in Figueres.
Salvador Dali’s painting “Soft Self-Portrait with Grilled Bacon” 1941.
The Dali Theatre-Museum in Figueres, Catalana, is a museum solely dedicated to the Spanish artist Salvador Dali – a genius of Surrealism. The museum, built by Dali, is considered the largest surrealist object in the world and is crowded with his artworks – paintings, sculptures, photographs, and jewellery.
I have been a fan of Salvador Dali for many decades, and visiting his theatre-museum was on my bucket list as soon as I started planning my trip to Spain. And I wasn’t disappointed! Over several hours wandering through the theatre-museum, I got a glimpse into his unique world.
Dali is buried in a crypt beneath the dome of his Figueres Theatre-Museum.
Here’s some trivia for you: Dali designed the Spanish lollipop Chupa Chups logo. I never knew Chupa Chups were Spanish! I may need to attend more trivia nights because who created the Chupa Chups logo is, apparently, a frequently asked trivia question.
GIRONA
Girona is a city located between the Pyrenees and Costa Brava – just a short train ride from Barcelona and about 60 kilometres south of the French border. Girona is famous for preserving the medieval old city, located at the confluence of the Ter, Onyar, Galligants, and Guell rivers.
For Game of Thrones fans, you can take a tour of all the filming locations in Girona.
Jewish Girona
Courtyard with the Star of David in the Museum of Jewish History.
Girona has a long history of Jewish habitation, dating back to at least the 9th century AD and is one of the best-preserved Jewish Quarters in Europe. A guided walking tour of Girona’s Jewish Quarter in the old town, known as El Call, takes you on a fabulous history and architectural trip as you make your way through a labyrinth of narrow streets.
The walking tour I joined concluded with a guided tour through the Museum of Jewish History.
Girona’s last remaining synagogue is home to the Museum of Jewish History. The synagogue was in use until 1492 when the Jews were expelled from Spain. The museum aims to preserve and spread the history of the Jewish life that developed in Spain and Girona.
Medieval Girona
A walk along Girona’s three kilometres of medieval walls is a walk along the path of history and provides fantastic panoramic views of Girona and the Old Town.
View of Girona’s Old Town from the medieval wall.
Initially built by the Romans, Girona’s medieval walls were rebuilt and extended in the Middle Ages. The walls surround the historic city centre and are some of the most complete walls in Spain. There are four access points to the walls, but I recommend waking the entire length for the ever-evolving views of this beautiful city. I accessed the wall at Placa Catalunya (Catalonia Square) and walked its length to the Jardins de la Francesa (French Gardens).
Girona’s medieval walls.
Painted Girona
Girona is a city in Spain’s northeastern Catalonia region, at the confluence of the Onyar, Ter, Galligants, and Guell Rivers. It’s known for its medieval architecture, walled Old Quarter, Barri Vell), Jewish Quarter (Call), and the Roman remains of the Forca Vella fortress.
The colourful houses on the banks of the Onyar River are perhaps the most recognised and photographed landmark of Girona.
The coloured houses of Girona reflected in the Onyar River.
In the late 20th century, a small group of artists and architects chose the colour palette for the houses’ facades. The best way to see them is from one of the bridges spanning the Onyar River. I took the photo above from Pont de Sant Agusti, my favourite reflection spot.
Initially built by the Romans, Girona’s medieval walls were rebuilt and extended in the Middle Ages. The walls surround the historic city centre and are some of the most complete walls in Spain. There are four access points to the walls, but I recommend waking the entire length for the ever-evolving views of this beautiful city. I accessed the wall at Placa Catalunya (Catalonia Square) and walked its length to the Jardins de la Francesa (French Gardens).
GRANADA
In the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in southern Spain’s Andalusia region, Granada is a culturally rich city with 800 years of history as a Muslim Kingdom. Granada’s architecture strongly reflects its Muslim heritage.
The Albaicin
Moorish and Andalusian architecture coexist in World Heritage Albaicin.
Walk through Granada’s ancient Arab Quarter that retains its medieval Moorish origins. Get lost in the Albaicin’s maze of narrow cobbled streets and small squares washed in white. Situated on the hill across from the Alhambra, Granada was founded in the Albaicin and was the capital of the Nasrid Kingdom in the 15th century.
The Albaicin was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its eclectic but harmonious mix of Moorish and traditional Andalusian architecture.
The Alhambra
The Alhambra is a massive palace and fortress complex located in Granada. Built by the Nasrid Dynasty – the last Muslims to rule in Spain – and commencing in 1238, the Alhambra is a beautiful testament to Islamic architecture and Moorish culture. The complex includes the Alcazaba, palaces, the Medina, gardens, cemetery, workshops, baths, etc. and is enclosed by a massive, fortified wall with towers.
Myrtle Courtyard in Comares Palace looking towards the Hall of Ambassadors.
Courtyard of the Lions in the sultan’s private dwellings.
Partal Gardens and the Tower of the Ladies.
View of the Alhambra from the Generalise on the Hill of the Sun.
The Alhambra is just one of ten UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Andalusia. However, many believe it to be the most spectacular.
Often referred to as the 8th wonder of the world, the Alhambra was on my must-see list of places to visit in Spain, and I wasn’t disappointed. I had a three-hour guided tour around Alhambra, but you could easily spend all day in the complex.
I crossed this one off my bucket list!
MADRID – Madrid Architecture
Madrid is the capital of Spain and sits almost exactly in the middle of the country. Most famous for the Prado Museum, it was Madrid’s eclectic architectural styles that endeared the city to me.
Cibeles Palace (Madrid’s City Hall)
Madrid has some of the most beautiful architecture in Spain, and Cibeles Palace (the former headquarters for the Spanish Post Office) deserves all the photographic and film attention it gets.
Now Madrid’s City Hall, the post office, I discovered when I had to post a parcel to Australia, can still be found in the building through a side entrance.
The best way to appreciate Madrid’s architecture is to walk the city.
MERIDA
A visit to Merida in Spain’s Extremadura region in southwest Spain is like a trip back to the Roman Empire. Founded in 25 BC (Colony of Augusta Emerita), this UNESCO World Heritage City is one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world. The Roman theatre, amphitheatre, and bridge are unmissable stops along any tour of the ancient Roman city of Merida, and all within an easy walk of each other.
A Modern Play in an Ancient Setting
Merida’s Roman Theatre.
The Roman Theatre, with a seating capacity of about 5,000 spectators, was built from 16 to 15 BC and is Merida’s most spectacular Roman monument. I liked that, centuries later, it is still being used for its intended purpose.
I saw a musical play in the Roman Theatre on my second night in Merida. The play, which didn’t start until 11 pm because of the heat, was entirely in Spanish. I didn’t understand a word, but seeing the play in that ancient setting was one of those once-in-lifetime experiences and was magical.
A standing ovation for the actors of the play in Merida’s Roman Theatre.
Roman Bridge of Merida
Roman Bridge, Merida
Merida’s Roman Bridge over the Guadiana River was built in the first century BC. At a length of 792 metres and with 60 arches, it is one of the longest bridges in Spain and the longest surviving bridge from ancient times. Carrying road traffic for most of its life, it became a pedestrian-only bridge in 1991.
The Roman Bridge requires two visits – one during the daylight hours and the other at night after sunset. Why? At night, the bridge is lit in multiple colours and is best viewed from the path bordering the Guadiana River.
The Roman bridge lit up at night.
Roman Merida
Roman amphitheatre, Merida.
Opened in 8 BC, Merida’s Roman amphitheatre was the setting for popular gladiatorial contests and beast hunts. It has been determined that the arena could seat between 15,000 and 16,000 spectators from all social standings.
Roman Merida is much more than the amphitheatre, bridge, and theatre. Don’t miss the Temple of Diana, Triumphal Arch, Roman Forum, La Cassa del Mitreon, and the Archeological area of Moreria.
MONTSERRAT MONASTERY – Monastery and Hiking Experience
Montserrat Monastery is an 11th-century Benedictine monastery on Montserrat Mountain (meaning ‘serrated mountain’), 60 kilometres northwest of Barcelona. The monastery hangs onto the side of the mountain 725 metres above sea level.
Montserrat Monastery is perched on the side of the mountain.
I took this photo of Montserrat Monastery across the valley at the Cross of St Michael. This lookout was about one and a half hours into my very steep descent down Montserrat Mountain, and I still had about 20 minutes to go before I arrived back at the monastery.
To start my hike from the top of Montserrat Mountain, I rode the Funicular de Sant Joan from the monastery to the summit, about 300 metres above the monastery. I took the path to the left of the Funicular station that wound around and down the mountain, taking in spectacular views.
View from Montserrat (‘serrated’) Mountain.
While the hike down the mountain was not technically demanding (it’s a paved path nearly all the way), I did find the steep descent challenging. There were times when the decline was so steep my back was almost vertical to the path. The heat was another challenging factor. I’m sure I was on that mountain on its hottest day ever recorded!
A trip to Montserrat Monastery is about more than just a starting point for hiking around the mountain (and there are several you can do). The monastery is famous for the statue of the Black Madonna housed in the basilica and for one of the oldest boys’ choirs in Europe.
The Black Madonna inside Montserrat Basilica.
The setting alone makes Montserrat Monastery worth a visit. The hike added value!
PAMPLONA
Pamplona is best known for its legendary multiday festival, the Running of the Bulls (Feast of San Femin) in July.
A Monument to Culture
Agree with it or not, the annual running of the bulls is an integral part of Pamplona’s culture. The city even has a monument (Monumento al Encierro) dedicated to the traditional bull-running, freezing a moment in time of the race.
Pamplona’s monument to the running of the bulls.
For those who don’t know, the running of the bulls occurs during the festivities of San Fermin, where thousands of people try to outrun stampeding fighting bulls through the streets of Pamplona.
Ernest Hemingway in Pamplona
Statue of Ernest Hemingway in Cafe Irina.
Ernest Hemingway props up the bar in his favourite café in Pamplona – Café Iruna on Plaza del Castillo.
Hemingway had a love affair with Pamplona, visiting the city nine times, each time for the Festival of San Fermin and the running of the bulls.
Hemingway’s first novel, “The Sun Also Rises” (1926), is set in Spain, with Pamplona and Café Iruna heavily featured. The novel portrays American and British expats who travel along the Camino de Santiago from Paris to the Festival of San Fermin in Pamplona and watch the running of the bulls and the bullfights.
PUBOL – Gala Dali Castle
Pubol is a small village where Salvador Dali bought a castle for Gala, his wife. Her castle is now a museum. I recommend taking a guided tour.
There’s an elephant in the garden.
You will find four elephant sculptures by Salvador Dali in Gala Dali’s castle garden. The castle features other artworks by Salvador Dali, and Gala’s crypt is there.
I knew Dali was a painter but was unaware his artistic talents extended to sculpturing.
Interesting fact: Dali needed Gala’s written permission to visit her at the castle.
QUERALBS – Ancient Village in the Pyrenees
Queralbs is a small village in the Pyrenees with a population of about 80. It sits at an elevation of 1,236 metres above sea level. It is the last vehicle-accessible village on the way up to Vall de Nuria (Nuria’s Valley), a beautiful valley in the eastern Pyrenees. The final six kilometres from Queralbes to Vall de Nuria must be travelled by rack railway – a 20-minute journey to an altitude of 1,964 metres. But first, there was a guided walking tour through Queralbs.
Queralbs is an ancient village dating back to 833 AD. With its traditionally built stone houses perched on the side of the mountain, it is a lovely, picture-perfect village.
The village of Queralbs in the Pyrenees.
The traditional stone houses of Queralbs.
The walking tour ended at the Romanesque Church of Sant Jaume (Saint James).
Queralbs’ Romanesque St James Church.
Time to catch the rack railway train to Vall de Nuria!
RONDA – New Bridge
Ronda is a hilltop city in the Andalusian Province of Malaga. It sits dramatically above a deep gorge that separates the city in two. It is the home of modern bullfighting, but that wasn’t why I was there. I was in Ronda to see the New Bridge.
Ronda’s New Bridge spans El Tajo Gorge.
I have seen many photos of Ronda’s New Bridge on Instagram, been amazed, and wanted to see it myself. It was on my bucket list of sites to visit when in Spain.
The New Bridge (Puente Nuevo) spans the 98-metre-deep El Tajo Gorge, separating Ronda’s old town from its new town. The New Bridge is not new; it was completed in 1793 after 40 years of construction and with the loss of 50 lives.
It wasn’t easy to get photos of the bridge from the top. Unfortunately, my visit did not take me to the valley below New Bridge, where I would have been able to view the entire bridge.
SAN SEBASTIAN – Swim, Eat, Repeat
San Sebastian (called Donostia in Basque) is a resort town on the Bay of Biscay in northern Spain’s Basque Country.
There are no Roman ruins or Moorish architecture in San Sebastian, but you will find urban beaches, eclectic architecture, and a food lover’s paradise. San Sebastian has the second most Michelin stars per capita in the world.
San Sebastian’s famous La Concha Beach is said to be the most beautiful urban beach in Europe. The beach can be busy, but it offers magnificent views of the city and Old Town. Of San Sebastian’s two other main beaches, Ondarreta Beach is a family favourite, while Zurriota Beach is popular with young people and surfers.
San Sebastian’s La Concha Beach with city views.
Strolling along the city’s promenade is a must to admire the beaches and mansions that line this iconic walk.
Conde Nast Traveller’s 2023 Readers’ Choice Award voted San Sebastian the best city to visit in Europe.
SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA – Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela is the capital of Galacia, in the far northwest of Spain.
Arriving in Santiago de Compostela with Insight Vacations, I joined a small group on a guided walk through the city’s parks and old town, ending at the cathedral in Plaza del Obradoiro.
View of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela from Alameda Park.
The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is the reputed burial place of Saint James the Great, one of the apostles of Jesus Christ. The cathedral fronts Plaza del Obradoiro and is the destination for pilgrims walking or cycling the Camino de Santiago (the Way of St James).
Pilgrims arrive in Plaza del Obradoiro after completing the Camino.
The Cathedral and the Camino are UNESCO World Heritage-listed – 1985 and 1993, respectively.
SEGOVIA
Segovia is in central Spain, about 90 kilometres north of Madrid. It is famous for its historic buildings and a great city to visit.
Alcazar of Segovia
The fairy tale Segovia Alcazar.
Continuing a UNESCO World Heritage theme in Segovia, the Alcazar of Segovia (Fortress of Segovia) is a medieval castle that was home to 22 kings.
Its exterior looks like something out of a fairy story. Some say the castle inspired the design of Cinderella’s Castle at Walt Disney World. Can you see the similarity?
Of all the Alcazars I visited in Spain, the Alcazar of Segovia was my favourite. The decorated ceilings were beautiful, and I loved the stained-glass windows.
Hall of Horses in the Old Royal Residence.
Stained-glass window in the Throne Room.
The Gallery Room.
The Hall of Monarchs.
Cathedral of Segovia
Segovia Cathedral.
UNESCO World Heritage-listed in 1985, Segovia Cathedral was the last Gothic cathedral built in Spain.
Construction on the cathedral began in 1525, but it wasn’t consecrated until 1768. Sitting on Segovia’s highest point in Plaza Major (the city’s main square), the Cathedral of Segovia is an imposing building.
I couldn’t enter the cathedral because the Corpus Christi service was underway.
Roman Aqueduct
Segovia Roman Aqueduct.
The Aqueduct of Segovia is a Roman aqueduct built around the first century AD to channel water from springs in the mountains 17 kilometres away to the city’s fountains, public baths, and private houses. Said to be the world’s best-preserved Roman aqueduct, it was in use until 1973.
Twenty thousand four hundred stone blocks were used to construct Segovia’s Aqueduct with no mortar or cement between them. The highest point of the aqueduct is on Plaza del Azoguejo, which stands over 28 metres high, with a total of 167 arches.
This masterpiece of engineering was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
SEVILLE
Seville is the capital of Andalusia and the former capital of Muslim Spain. It is a charming city that lacks the crowds of Barcelona and Madrid. Seville is a city of large open spaces, beautiful architecture, and Moorish influences. It is home to the biggest Gothic cathedral in the world, has the largest historic centre in Europe, and is famous for its flamenco dancing. It is hard not to fall in love with Seville when its people evidently take so much pride in their city.
Jardines de Murillo
Exploring the old Jewish Quarter on my own in Seville’s Old Town, I came across the pretty, landscaped, well-maintained urban Jardines de Murillo (Murillo Gardens). Its ceramic tile-covered benches provide welcome spots to relax from the heat under the shade of enormous fig trees.
Jardines de Murillo in Seville’s Jewish Quarter.
Jardines de Murillo (Murillo Gardens).
The gardens border the external walls of the Real Alcazar. The gardens are filled with fountains, children’s play equipment, and a monument to Christopher Columbus.
Jardines de Murillo was my favourite garden in Seville. Its intimate atmosphere saw me returning several times. Never crowded, I would take a book to read while eating a sandwich or sit to gather my energy to continue exploring Seville.
Plaza de Espana
Iconic Plaza de Espana, Seville
The semicircular Plaza de Espana (Spain Square) in Maria Luisa Park blends Renaissance and Moorish-inspired architectural styles. It was built specifically for the 1929 Ibero-American Expo, which aimed to improve Spain’s relations with its former Latin American colonies and make symbolic peace.
Plaza de Espana is a cultural icon, Instagramable, and touted by all the guidebooks as a must-see. So early one morning, on a cooler day in Seville (only 39 degrees Celsius), I played tourist and walked to the plaza.
Along the base of the building, there are 48 benches representing each of Spain’s provinces decorated with colourful ceramic tiles depicting significant historical events. Expect to find visitors and nationals alike taking photos of themselves sitting on the bench of their province or the province of their heritage. Not being of Spanish parentage, I took photos of the benches of the places I had visited.
Plaza de Espana – The tiled bench representing Barcelona.
There are four bridges over the mini canal in front of the plaza. These represent the ancient kingdoms of Spain: Castile, Leon, Navarre, and Aragon.
I enjoyed my few hours at Plaza de Espana and even saw an impromptu flamenco show on the building steps.
Don’t leave Maria Luisa Park without a stroll through its tropical gardens.
Maria Luisa Park.
Real Alcazar (Royal Alcazar of Seville)
The Alcazar of Seville is a thousand years of art and history, combining five periods: Muslim, Gothic, Mudejar, Renaissance, and Romantic.
The Courtyard of the Maidens in Real Alcazar.
Tilework in the Vault Room.
The Ambassador’s Hall.
The Moors greatly influenced southern Spain, and Real Alcazar is another example of beautiful Islamic architecture. Built in the tenth century as government premises, it became a Royal Residence in 1248 when Ferdinand lll moved into it. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Real Alcazar is the oldest Royal Palace still in use today and is used by the King of Spain and his family when in Seville.
The Alcazar’s formal gardens are worth a wander through but don’t eat at the café (unappetising fast food).
One of the many fountains in the Alcazar’s historic gardens.
Seville’s Real Alcazar featured as a location in the Game of Thrones television series.
Seville Cathedral – The Tomb of the Great Navigator
The tomb of Christopher Columbus in Seville Cathedral.
Although probably Italian by birth, Christopher Columbus (known in Spain as Cristobal Colon) completed four voyages across the Atlantic Ocean sponsored by the Spanish monarchy.
His tomb in the Cathedral of Seville is held aloft by four figures representing the four kingdoms of Spain during Columbus’s life: Castile, Aragon, Navarre, and Leon.
Columbus’ body has been moved several times, and the remains in Seville Cathedral are in doubt. DNA testing in 2006 confirmed the body in Seville was either Christopher Columbus or his brother.
Seville Cathedral was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
Triana
Triana is a charming working-class neighbourhood in Seville on the west bank of the Guadalquivir River. Puente de Isabel ll (often called Triana Bridge) is the gateway to Triana from the city. Don’t expect spectacular sights but an authentic quarter with surprisingly few tourists.
Isabel ll Bridge viewed from Triana.
Traina is especially famous for:
The Azulejo tiles you see throughout Spain.
Being the birthplace of flamenco.
Azulejos are terracotta tiles covered with opaque glazing. They have been used in Spain since around the 13th century. You will see them everywhere, decorating walls (internal and external), fountains, pavements, and much more. Triana has some lovely shops where you can buy good quality Azulejo products to take home.
See an authentic flamenco show at Almoraima (Calle Pages del Corro, 70) – an intimate venue where the passion of the dance is tangible and visible.
Mercado de Triana (on your right as you leave the bridge) is a lively indoor market with fresh fruits, vegetables, meat (especially Iberian ham), herbs, and fish. You can grab lunch while in the Mercado.
Calle de San Jacinto is Trian’s pedestrian-only street. With its plethora of cafes, bars, and restaurants, you are spoilt for choices of somewhere to eat and people-watch.
Head to Calle de San Jacinto for lunch or dinner.
TOLEDO
While travelling with Insight Vacations through Spain, I opted for a day trip to Toledo, about 70 kilometres south of Madrid, the former capital of Spain.
The Mirador del Valle Lookout
Toledo panorama.
The panoramic view of Toledo from the Mirador del Valle Lookout was breathtaking and a great introduction to this ancient city that owes its rich heritage to the Jews, Muslims, and Christians who lived there in harmony. A city of three cultures, Toledo is a melting pot of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam with impressive monuments. The two large buildings on the city horizon in the photo above are the Cathedral of Toledo on the left and the Alcazar Fortress on the right.
Toledo’s historic centre was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 as an outstanding museum city.
Toledo Cathedral
Toledo Cathedral’s main facade from the Plaza del Ayuntamiento.
The magnificent Toledo Cathedral was built on the site of a former mosque and took more than 250 years to complete. It is one of Spain’s most famous and important cathedrals, with several monarchs buried in it. The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Mary and features Mudejar architecture (pointed horseshoe arches and ribbed vaults). It is considered one of Spain’s best examples of High Gothic architecture.
The famous “Transparente”, the cathedral’s altarpiece, is seen by many as Spain’s most important Baroque masterpiece. Created in 1732 by the sculptor Narciso Tome and his four sons, the altarpiece is several stories high, with fantastic figures done in marble, bronze castings, stucco, and painting.
The Transparente – Toledo Cathedral’s altarpiece.
A section of The Transparente – Toledo Cathedral’s altarpiece.
Toledo Cathedral is a veritable art gallery with paintings by notable artists: El Greco, Caravaggio, Van Dick, Goya, and Bellini, to name a few. The Sacristy is a small art gallery with a beautiful ceiling fresco painted by Luca Giordana and El Greco’s “The Disrobing of Christ” (“El Expolio”, 1579), taking centre stage on the high altar. Don’t miss the portraits of the 12 apostles painted by El Greco in the cathedral’s Sacristy.
The beautiful ceiling fresco and El Greco’s painting “The Disrobing of Christ”.
The Cathedral of Toledo is home to more than 100 relics, including fragments of the crown of thorns and the breast milk of the Virgin Mary. None are on public view!
My visit to Toledo was memorable, but the city deserved longer than a day trip.
VALENCIA
Valencia is a hidden gem often overlooked by tourists. It is a city that embraces its past while acknowledging the future. It is also the home of paella (a rice dish originally from Valencia). Contrary to common belief, traditional paella is not made with seafood but is made with chicken or rabbit.
My tour with Insight Vacations included a paella cooking demonstration and tasting at la Cigrona in Valencia’s Old Town.
Futuristic Valencia
The City of Arts and Sciences (La Ciudad de y las Artes las Ciencias) is a leisure and cultural complex with its architecture taking Valencia into the 21st century. The complex includes the Science Museum, an IMAX Cinema and Planetarium, Europe’s largest aquarium, and the Palace of Arts.
The City of Arts and Sciences’ Palau de les Arts (Opera House)
The Hemisferic and Science Museum at the City of Arts and Sciences.
Valencia’s Old Town
Founded in 130 BC, Valencia has been home to Romans, Visigoths, and Muslims, giving it a rich history. Its Old Town is one of the largest in Europe and the heart of the city.
Walking around the Old Town is like travelling back to the Middle Ages. La Plaza del Ayuntamiento is the main square and the hub of activity. It is enclosed by beautiful historic buildings featuring Gothic architecture.
I particularly enjoyed escaping the crowds and walking around the Old Town’s residential streets.
A residential street in Valencia’s Old Town.
A half day exploring Valencia’s Old Town with Insight Vacations was not long enough. I want to explore more! Valencia, I will be back!
VALL DE NURIA – A Beautiful Valley in the Pyrenees Mountains
Taking the rack railway from Queralbs, travel the six kilometres to the resort in Vall de Nuria (Nuria Valley). The journey took 20 minutes, climbing from an altitude of 1,236 metres at Queralbs to 1,964 metres at Vall de Nuria.
Vall de Nuria is a valley in the eastern Pyrenees offering spectacular mountain landscapes, winter skiing, and summer hiking trails.
Vall de Nuria viewed from the top of the cable car run.
Vall de Nuria landscape with a view of the lake and resort.
With two hours to explore the valley before catching the train back down the mountain, I decided to hike one of the many trails in the hills around the valley. These trails range from easy to challenging.
Given my limited time, I chose an easy trail, the Way of the Crosses. I was told it would take 50 minutes to walk, but I knew it would take longer as I would constantly stop to take photos. The trail gets its name from the Christian Way of the Cross tradition, with twelve crosses along the way. I made the hike easier on myself by walking down the mountain rather than up. I did this by taking the cable car to the summit, bringing me to an altitude of 2,170 metres. Consequently, I passed the crosses in reverse – from twelve to one.
Way of the Crosses – Station 6.
Way of the Crosses – Station 5.
I journeyed to Vall De Nuria on a day trip with Explore Catalunya.
VIC – The Old Town
The city of Vic (pronounced Bic) is about 69 kilometres north of Barcelona on the Meder River. It is an ancient city, dating back to the Ausetan Iberians before Roman occupation in the 1st century AD, with an interesting and picturesque Old Town.
On a guided walking tour around the Old Town, we passed through several small pretty squares with cafes preparing for the day.
A bicycle adds a touch of romance to a courtyard cafe.
A pretty square makes an ideal spot for a cafe.
I found the interior of Vic’s Sant Pere Cathedral to be unlike anything I had seen previously. Huge, almost monochromatic canvases painted by Joseph Maria Sert cover the walls, making the interior dark and gloomy – an unexpected contrast to the cathedral’s exterior. It wasn’t a place I wanted to linger! However, your reaction may be very different.
Time your visit for market day, which takes place on Tuesdays and Saturdays, with stalls filling the main square.
WHITE VILLAGES OF ANDALUSIA
The name White Village comes from the uniform white colour of the village houses and buildings, covered in lime to keep them cool in the hottest months as the white reflects the sun’s rays.
I visited two White Villages in the province of Cadiz – Grazalema and Zahara de la Sierra.
Grazalema
Grazalema, White Village of Andalusia.
Grazalema, located in Sierra de Grazalema National Park, receives the highest rainfall of the entire Iberian Peninsula. However, on the day of my visit, the skies were clear blue. I had a delicious salad for lunch in Grazalema at Restaurant Cadiz el Chico – Ensalada Caprichosa (lettuce, cheese, nuts, mustard and quince jelly, yoghurt, and red berry coulis) (€12 / AU$19.74).
Grazalema is an attractive village with the tiny porches of its whitewashed houses spilling over with potted flowers.
Zahara de la Sierra
Zahara de la Sierra, White Village in Andalusia.
Zahara de la Sierra is also located in Sierra de Grazalema National Park and has been declared a Historic Site. Being situated on the slopes of the Sierra del Jaral forces the streets to be staggered at different levels. Luckily, the guided walking tour through the village started at the top of the village, and we walked down.
Grazalema and Zahara de la Sierra have been chosen by the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages in Spain as two of the four most beautiful villages in Cadiz Province.
Adios Espana.
THE TWELVE TREASURES OF SPAIN
The Twelve Treasures of Spain lists twelve sites of great historical and cultural value to the Kingdom of Spain. The sites were chosen via a poll by two Spanish broadcasting stations, and the results were announced on 31 December 2007.
Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba
Cave of Altamira (Cantabria)
Seville Cathedral
Alhambra (Granada)
Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar (Zaragoza)
Teide National Park (Tenerife, Canary Islands)
Roman Theatre (Merida)
Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela
Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia)
Sagrada Familia (Barcelona)
Beach of la Concha (San Sebastian)
Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
Spain is a country that seamlessly weaves together a rich history, vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. In wrapping up this extensive guide to the ultimate Spain bucket list, I hope to have ignited your wanderlust and provided invaluable insights to help you plan an unforgettable trip to Spain.
From the architectural masterpieces of Antoni Gaudi in Barcelona and the ancient wonders of the Alhambra and Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba to the natural beauty of the Pyrenees and the hidden gems tucked away in charming villages, this bucket list is not just a checklist but intended as a practical guide for planning your itinerary, offering something for every visitor. My 47 memorable postcards spanning the length and breadth of Spain are just a glimpse into the diverse and incredible things not to be missed when visiting the Iberian Peninsula.
Happy planning and even happier travels!
Disclaimer: This post contains no affiliate links. All views and opinions are my own and non-sponsored. All photos are my own and remain the copyright of Just Me Travel.
Have you been able to find this Spain Bucket List a helpful resource? I love hearing from you. Please feel free to leave a comment below.
I look forward to reading and responding to your comments on where and what you might include on your trip to Spain that this post has inspired.
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Author’s Note: Please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and follow government advice.
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