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Holidays on the Island of Flowers: the most beautiful places in Madeira

PatrickJullien
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Holidays on the Island of Flowers: the most beautiful places in Madeira

Madeira is a true pearl that captivates with a mild climate and plenty of sunshine all year round. The island in the Atlantic Ocean belongs to Portugal, and thus to the EU. However, geographically speaking, the island is closer to Morocco. 737 kilometres separate the European island from the African mainland. In addition to a varied and exciting flora and fauna, Madeira can also boast historic towns and villages with original charm that invite you to visit and relax.

The island’s capital, Funchal

Funchal Botanical Garden, Madeira
The botanical garden of Funchal, Image: Cristian Mircea Balate / shutterstock

If you come to the island of Madeira , you usually end up in Funchal – whether by plane or cruise ship. With around 115,000 inhabitants, Funchal to the south is by far the largest city on the island, and the tourist magnet par excellence. Funchal’s old town is picturesquely located directly on the coast. In the narrow streets of the old town, it is wonderful to walk past small traditional shops and quaint restaurants and bars. If you want to experience the real life of the islanders, you should definitely visit the Mercado dos Lavradores. Here, locals and tourists alike stock up on fresh fruits, such as passion fruit, mangoes, guavas and bananas grown in Madeira, which are very popular here. Flower bulbs can also be purchased here.

Madeira is considered the flower island of Europe par excellence – anyone who has ever visited the Botanical Garden of Funchal will know why. The best way to get there from the city centre is by cable car. Already on the way, a breathtaking view stretches over the city. In addition, there are a whole series of churches worth seeing, such as the Sé Cathedral. Palaces that were built in colonial style often contain museums and can be visited inside and outside. For example, you can see everyday objects, antique furniture, paintings and azulejo, the typical Portuguese tiles. Football fans head for the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum, where there are numerous memorabilia of the footballer such as trophies, jerseys and fan letters to see. The ball artist is the most famous son of the island.

The Piscina Naturais of Porto Moniz

Porto Moniz, Piscinas Naturais Velhas, Madeira
Piscina Naturais of Porto Moniz, Image: Sina Ettmer Photography / shutterstock

Much smaller than Funchal is the coastal town of Porto Moniz. In the somewhat sleepy small town, at the very northwestern tip of the island, only about 1,700 inhabitants live. Nevertheless, the place, which was home to whalers in earlier times, is absolutely worth seeing. Directly in front of the waterfront promenade are several Piscina Naturais, natural swimming pools that have formed from volcanic rock. Here you can relax in the warmed Atlantic water and listen to the sound of the sea. In addition to tourism, fishing is now the main occupation of the inhabitants of Porto Moniz. Therefore, you should definitely try freshly caught swordfish with Madeira bananas and passion fruit sauce in one of the fish restaurants located directly on the harbour. Afterwards, you can track down the sea creatures in the Centro Ciência Viva, a show aquarium.

The thatched farmhouses of Santana

The thatched farmhouses of Santana, Madeira
The thatched farmhouses of Santana, Image: MisterStock / shutterstock

Santana is located on the north coast of Madeira and is widely known for its small thatched houses, which from the outside look like brick, brightly painted Indian teepees. Their peculiar architectural form made the houses one of the landmarks of the island. The thatched roofs have to be renewed about every four to five years: if you are lucky, you will come at the right time to witness this ancient task. In the past, the farmers of the village lived in the traditional houses, but today many of them are no longer inhabited, but can be visited. The houses are part of the Madeira Theme Park, which provides information about the history and culture of the entire island. Santana is also surrounded by a densely wooded mountain landscape, which has held the title of UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2011. If you are already here, you should take a hike into the enchanting surroundings.

The romantic fishing village of Camara de Lobos

Camara de Lobos, Madeira
Camara de Lobos, Image: Cristian Mircea Balate / shutterstock

Just a few kilometres from Funchal is Camara de Lobos. The place is considered one of the most original in all of Madeira. If you are good on foot, Camara de Lobos can be approached from Funchal via a coastal hiking trail that offers magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean. Even from afar you can see a whole row of wooden fishing boats, which are still in service here. The place itself was built on stone cliffs. So on a walk through the small town, it goes up and down a lot. Above the fishing village lies the most important growing area of Madeira wine. In the small bars of the old town, you can enjoy a glass of it in a romantic setting.

Machico: a visit to the oldest city in Madeira

Bay of Machico, one of the famous beaches of Madeira Island
Bay of Machico, one of the famous beaches of Madeira Island, Image: Cristian Mircea Balate / shutterstock

In July 1419, Portuguese explorers landed on the island of Madeira for the first time, and started the settlement of the island from here. This was the beginning of the history of the island as part of Portugal. Machico quickly developed into the center of sugar cane cultivation. The Capela dos Milagres church, built in the 15th century, is not only worth a visit, but also the oldest church on the island. Just like in the chapel of São Roque, the famous Portuguese tile paintings can be admired there. The Solar do Ribeirinho, a former mansion built in colonial style, houses a museum on local history. Near the quay of Machico, the Fort São João Baptista, built in the 18th century, rises above the city. Tourists are also attracted by a Caribbean-looking sandy beach, which was artificially created in the middle of the city center. This sandy beach is an absolute speciality in Madeira, where there are otherwise only stone beaches.

Three strong company outings in 2021 – finally getting out together again

PatrickJullien
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0
Three strong company outings in 2021 – finally getting out together again

We have been living in a very unusual situation for more than a year – one lockdown followed the next and personal contact with our fellow human beings, work colleagues and friends has been neglected. Reason enough, then, to be able to take a deep breath again. Summer is here and with it we are all happy to be able to get out again: whether in nature, in the city or at the lake it doesn’t matter for the time being – the main thing is that we are together again.

What is important for each and every one of us privately is all the more important for the job. We have now seen enough of our colleagues in front of the camera in the home office. Now it’s time to get out again and enjoy the summer together – for example, at exciting

company outing ideas

 that will become a real hit, especially in summer 2021. We take a look at three of the best company outings and tell you about our experience:

1. Off-road through the terrain of the Eifel

The Eifel is embedded in western Germany and is divided into the North Eifel and Volcanic Eifel and stretches from north to south on a line from Euskirchen in North Rhine-Westphalia almost to Trier. Many also speak of the South Eifel when it comes to the geographical area in Bitburg in Rhineland-Palatinate. We dared to take part in an off-road challenge on Polaris vehicles and raced cross-country through nature. The team event provides adrenaline and a lot of fun, although you don’t necessarily have to be very sporty to participate.

We steered the vehicles ourselves and thus made our way through rough terrain deep in the Eifel. In between, we stopped and were able to enjoy bread on a stick at the campfire at the edge of a cave. If you want, you can abseil down a cliff that goes down about 20 meters – it’s a real adrenaline rush. Finally, we enjoyed a picnic at a lake and learned how to build a raft. In the best weather, we then ventured out onto the lake with our watercraft, which meant a wet adventure for some of us. Due to the perfect weather we were able to dry quickly and the barbecue in the evening inspired everyone once again.

Learn more about

the off-road rally through the Eifel

2. Scavenger hunt with app through the city

First of all: if someone thinks that a scavenger hunt is only for children, you are far from it. We are absolutely thrilled with this company outing, which, by the way, can take place almost anywhere. We booked the scavenger hunt in Cologne and were able to see various hot spots up close. We started at the cathedral in Cologne – during the first tasks we already noticed that real Cologne knowledge is not really available – but we still did well. The scavenger hunt is carried out with an innovative app and includes quiz questions, some of which are very funny, music rate games, video challenges and portrait shots. We played in two teams to strengthen the challenge character.

The scavenger hunt led us along the Rhine towards Cologne’s old town. Fortunately, the local restaurateurs were allowed to reopen, at least in the outdoor area, which is why we were able to enjoy a few “snacks”. Exciting tasks were also partly physical puzzles, in which we had to draw certain caricatures and thus create connections.

The app is very easy to understand and we were thrilled. You can use the app for private events. Best of all, it is free of charge for private users, so you can also spontaneously design the children’s birthday party innovatively at any time.

Learn more about

the scavenger hunt with app

Beach party or farm event as a company outing

The combination sounds a bit crazy, but both topics for company outings have so much in common. Because both team events are about winning. At the Beach Olympics and Farm Olympics, we showed who is physically and mentally ahead of the others. At the Farmers’ Olympics, wheelbarrow races, rubber boot throwing and, as the supreme discipline, cow milking competitions on a noble wooden cow called “b-etty” are not neglected. On the other hand, it is different at the Beach Olympics, where the aim is to knock over the opposing team in the sand in a tug-of-war or to compete together and against each other in beach volleyball games.

Both company outings also have it in terms of culinary delights: a barbecue awaits all guests at the end, cool drinks throughout the day and music ensures the best atmosphere. For us, this is a reason to plan both events again, as they – like the other tips – last a whole day and really provide distraction.

Find out more about the beach Olympics, a company outing or a team event on the farm

Result:

It felt like we had survived the pandemic, at least for a few hours. Despite the distance, these company outings not only offer fun and entertainment, but also provide more motivation in the team. Everyone is carried away by the group idea – this has flipped the switch for us and shown us that it is best to be outdoors together.

Pollença, the pearl of the north of Mallorca

PatrickJullien
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Pollença, the pearl of the north of Mallorca

Mallorca’s northeast is not free of surprises… Located in the northernmost part of the Serra de Tramuntana, the town of Pollenca is one of the most atmospheric on the island.
Where the mountain range and the sea meet, on a wide curving Mediterranean bay, the town invites you to stroll with its winding streets, picturesque natural stone houses and important art treasures.

And yet the country town is quite idiosyncratic. With a dozen art galleries and the annual international music festival, Pollenca stands out from the rest of the provincial towns. In addition, the mostly wealthy Pollencin residents cultivate their own dialect and traditional crafts.

You can tell that the town with its port offshoot Port de Pollenca is a special place. A place for lovers of beauty, a place for Mallorca connoisseurs.

A look at the history book reveals: Several megalithic buildings prove that people settled in the area as early as the Bronze Age. It dates back to Roman times, which is still well
bridge over the Torrent de Sant Jordi on the northern edge of Pollenca. The proximity of the Roman city of Pollentia (near today’s Alcudia) brought prosperity, but this soon dried up due to the vandal storms of the 5th century. The really big time dawned with the Moors, who transformed the valley into a lush garden with their water pumping technology. After the Christian reconquest, churches and monasteries were built.

Arrive & look around

Here, where the cliffs fall 200 metres deep into the Mediterranean Sea and a road boldly carved into the rock winds over 18 kilometres from Port de Pollenca to the lighthouse of Mallorca’s northeastern tip, built in 1892, the town of Pollenca spreads its very own flair: its location and atmosphere make it something special – Pollenca is a Mallorcan work of art.

Between heavenly realms and earthly pleasures

Two hundred and sixty-five steps lead to the Calvary in the shade of dark cypresses. The road struggles upwards in narrow serpentines – twelve large stone crosses testify to the importance of this hill. Via the Stations of the Cross you finally reach the small pilgrimage church with the large view. This view of the town, the Puig de Maria opposite, up to the two bays of Pollenca and Alcudia is just as stunning as the one on the stairway mountain of the “calvari” – as ochre-coloured and cypress-lined as the houses of the town.

Must see! Active and creative in the pretty artists’ town of Pollenca….

A visit to the Casa Museum Dionis Bennassár on Roca 14 is worthwhile. In the house of the artist Dionis Bennássar (1904-1967), 240 of his works are exhibited. The artist belonged to the group around the Art Nouveau painter Hermenegildo Anglada Camaraca.

Others end up in Puig de Maria, the city’s local mountain, crowned by the former nunnery Mare de Déu del Puig. Just behind the last houses of the monastery complex, the path leads to an old pilgrimage path. From there, there is a stunning view.

Tip: a stop at the Klosterstübchen compensates for a rather arduous ascent.

Attention festival fans! The popular international music festival takes place every year in August in the courtyard of the Dominican monastery, framed by the cloister. In winter, Mallorcan folklore is offered here on Sundays. In addition, the monastery houses an old people’s home as well as the local history museum.

Water rats, sun worshippers and water sports enthusiasts also get their money’s worth: They all cavort at Cala de Sant Vicenc, located northeast of Pollenca. The beach area is framed by a 300-metre-high rock face in the east.

Bay of Port de Pollenca
Bay of Port de Pollenca, Image: vulcano / shutterstock

And finally you reach Port de Pollenca, a “fishing village where you live as life should be, simple and content” …., according to the journalist Gordon West in 1929 on his trip to Mallorca!

Here you walk under ancient pine trees, past beautiful villas and hotels from the Wilhelminian period. Three local areas invite you to linger:

  • A wide sandy beach that stretches several hundred meters from the southern entrance to the village to the extensive facilities of the marina and fishing port.
  • Followed by the old town centre with the tree-lined Plaza Miguel Capllonch,
  • And last but not least, the highlight…., the Passeig Vora Mar with the extension Carrer Colon. This magnificent footpath and cycle path runs for almost 2 kilometres along small shady stretches of beach, past old villas. Almost at the end is the Illa d’Or, the beautifully located (and most expensive) hotel in the town with one of the best restaurant terraces in Mallorca.

But that’s not all! The old fishing village is the hotspot for water sports enthusiasts: For surfers, sailors, kayakers and yacht owners, a paradise is revealed. On the beach by the harbour there is white sand, plenty of space and extensive service.

Pollenca is a lively tourist resort with a rich offer of sports and entertainment. The charming town at the foot of high mountains is undoubtedly one of the most interesting cities on the whole island. The white bay is ideal for windsurfing. In the alleys of the former fishing village, you can still feel the atmosphere that attracted wealthy Britons as early as the 1930s. The fine sandy beaches around the village and the beautiful promenade still inspire.

Don’t miss it! Enjoyment in the most beautiful places – tips for a cosy stop

There are a number of good restaurants near the harbour and on the quay of Port de Pollenca. The typical Mallorcan restaurant Bona Cepa near the harbour and a visit to the bar “Sail & Surf” for a cold beer can be particularly recommended.

No less inspiring is the “Argos”, conspicuous by its simple decoration. There’s nothing to distract from the creative Mediterranean cuisine here – except perhaps the sea view.

It doesn’t get any greener than this: The restaurant of the Pension Bellavista offers the perfect setting for the creative vegetarian recipes – heavenly delights in a magical ambience.

Durbuy – the smallest city in Belgium

PatrickJullien
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Durbuy – the smallest city in Belgium

The city of Durbuy is the ideal destination for a weekend getaway with its size. It is located in the Belgian province of Luxembourg and in the Ardennes. Its location makes it an attractive starting point to explore the region with its rich history and charming landscape. Although the village of Durbuy has had city rights since the 14th century, its dimensions do not come close to that of a city. That’s what makes it so charming. It is clearly arranged and at the same time offers numerous sights. In addition to the historic old town, these include the Ourthe, on whose banks Durbuy is located. Near the city are charming destinations such as Wéris or Barvaux.

Old town and garden art in Durbuy

Old town of Durbuy
Old town of Durbuy, Image: NAPA / shutterstock

The highlight in Durbuy is the historic old town. The narrow, cobbled streets lead past well-kept half-timbered houses and remnants of the old city wall. Small shops and cafés make for a longer walk than the size of the old town would suggest. The Halle aux blés from the 16th century, which is part of Wallonia’s exceptional heritage, is worth seeing. Originally it was a grain hall, then an administration building. Nowadays, the house houses a museum of Belgian art on three floors. Rue Daufresne de la Chevalerie is considered the oldest street in the city and is completely paved with pebbles from the Ourthe. Above the old town is the Chateau d’Ursel, the castle of Durbuy. The castle creates a picturesque panorama, but cannot be visited.

The Parc des Topiaires is worth seeing. It is located on the banks of the Ourthe and shows topiary figures. The more than 200 figures made of boxwood attract families in particular. In addition to many animal figures, the shape trees also show people and scenes and stimulate the imagination. A visit to the park is suitable for friends of garden culture with its avenues, beds and trees. Another attraction of the city is the Homalius Rock or Roche à la Falize. On the one hand, it is the highest point in Durbuy. On the other hand, its special shape is a popular photo motif. If you don’t let yourself be distracted by the picturesque lake and the water features, you will discover the different rock layers of the rock formation. From the old town, a promenade leads to the rock.

The historic town centre is small and the distances to the other attractions of the city are short. Nevertheless, it is worthwhile for visitors to take the tourist train, the Petit Train Touristique, as it provides excellent views.

Discover Durbuy culinary or on the river

Château de Durbuy
Durbuy Castle, Image: Sergey Dzyuba / shutterstock

In addition to the romantic, medieval ambience, Durbuy scores with culinary specialties. These include, for example, the crayfish, to which a separate festival is dedicated in summer. It is worth checking the calendar before visiting the city. In September, the Beer, Bread and Cheese Festival focuses on local producers. In addition to numerous stalls with local specialties, the festival includes music and other program items. A classical music festival takes place regularly in October and a Christmas market in winter.

If you want to try the specialties of the city, the Marckloff brasserie and the Saint-Amour manufactory are the right place for you. In the manufactory, jams, syrups and jellies are made from local fruits. In the brasserie there is a micro-brewery for the Marckloff beer produced here. In addition to insights into production, both companies offer the opportunity to taste and buy the products.

For more exercise and activity, head to the nearby Adventure Valley adventure park. The adventure park benefits from the surrounding nature and offers tours by kayak and mountain bike. A high ropes course and discovery tours are among the activities available there. Away from the adventure park, kayaks can also be rented in Durbuy to explore the Ourthe. The region is ideal for extensive hiking and cycling tours.

Megaliths and labyrinths as excursion destinations near Durbuy

Only a few minutes’ drive away, the surroundings of Durbuy offer romantic nature with numerous hiking trails and man-made excursion destinations worth seeing. The labyrinth in Barvaux is not only entertaining for families with children. The labyrinth of plants is set up in such a way that you can rest in between. In addition to the large labyrinth, there are other smaller facilities and activities such as a barefoot path.

The village of Wéris and its surroundings impress with megaliths and megalithic tombs. Wéris is best known for its well-preserved dolmens and menhirs, which are considered cultural heritage. If you are interested in these Stone Age stone settings, you can find more information in the Musée des Mégalithes located there. The village centre with its typical Walloon architecture is also worth a walk.

For those interested in culinary delights, the trip to the Chèvrerie d’Ozo goat farm is worthwhile. Here you can discover environmentally conscious and authentic Belgian cheese and its producers. In addition to the farm’s own cheese sale, the farm can be explored with the goats. In addition, guided tours of the dairy are offered.

If you don’t just have a weekend for Durbuy, you will find numerous other historical destinations of the Ardennes and geological attractions such as caves and rock formations in the area. The more than ten villages around Durbuy offer deceleration and typical Walloon architecture.

TOP 5 outdoor activities in Munich

PatrickJullien
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TOP 5 outdoor activities in Munich

The Bavarian capital of Munich offers many opportunities for outdoor activities. It has numerous parks and leisure facilities that invite you to enjoy activities with family or friends. If you like to relax after work, you can also do so alone with your favorite sport.

Interactive map with the best outdoor activities

There really is something for everyone in Munich when it comes to outdoor activities. Those who are looking for a challenge and like to be active in sports will get their money’s worth, as will all those who prefer to take it easy.

The interactive map of Planet Sports shows the various possibilities in Munich and the surrounding area. It is designed in such a way that the various outdoor hotspots can be reached by Munich S-Bahn or U-Bahn. A detailed description of each hotspot is available.

These are the top 5 possibilities:

Surfing on the Eisbach wave

Eisbachwelle Munich
Surfing on the Eisbach wave, Image: RudiErnst / shutterstock

If you would like to surf, you can do so at the Eisbach wave on Prinzregentenstraße. It can be reached by the Lehel subway or the Prinzregentenplatz subway. There are no opening hours and admission, because the Eisbachwelle is accessible to everyone. The Eisbach wave is considered the most constant and best river wave in the world and is about half a meter high. It is not suitable for beginners. Only experienced surfers and professionals should surf on the Eisbach wave, as there is a greater danger for beginners. International surfing greats also appreciate the Eisbach wave for their activities.

Isar Trail – a must for mountain bikers

Mountain bikers will be thrilled by the Isar Trail. It can be reached by subway Thalkirchen. It starts at Schlichtweg and is eight kilometres long. Again, the activity is free and possible at any time, as there are no opening hours. From the city, the Isar trails always lead south along the Isar. The cycle path leads through a beautiful landscape. The good thing is that it’s not just reserved for experienced mountain bikers. Even those who rarely ride a mountain bike or dare to ride a bike for the first time will not be disappointed. It takes beginners about 50 minutes to complete the route.

Flying Fox in the Olympic Stadium

If you want to experience Munich from above, you shouldn’t miss Flying Fox in the Olympic Stadium . You climb to the roof of the Olympic Stadium at a height of 35 meters accompanied by a tour guide. The Olympic Stadium at Spiridon-Louis-Ring 21 can be easily reached by the Olympiastadion subway. It is open from Monday to Sunday from 12:00 to 18:00. A tour is subject to a fee. The fast-paced rush on Europe’s longest Flying Fox lasts 90 to 120 minutes. A flight offers a breathtaking view over Munich.

Skatepark Theresienwiese

A must for all those who like to show off their skills on a skateboard is the Theresienwiese skate park (T-Wiese). It is located on the Bavaria Ring, near Hans-Fischer-Straße, and can be reached by the Poccistraße subway. It is open indefinitely, except during the Oktoberfest. The skate park has three large long boxes, several banks, hip, several manual pads and spacious tarmac areas. It is partially illuminated and is also suitable for inline skates.

Robertobeach beach complex

Munich’s largest indoor and outdoor beach facility is Robertobeach, Am Eventpark, in Aschheim. The facility can be reached by S-Bahn Feldkirchen. In summer, it is open from Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and on Saturday, Sunday and public holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. In winter, the facility is open from Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. and on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. You are guaranteed to get into a holiday mood here.

 

Wallonia in Belgium

PatrickJullien
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Wallonia in Belgium

Wallonia in the French-speaking south of Belgium is the largest region of the kingdom and is a multifaceted holiday destination. Tourists can get to know interesting historic towns, visit romantic villages and the historic castles and palaces of the Meuse Valley.

Highlights include the former coal mines in Hainaut as well as the many nature parks. Nature lovers and athletes are drawn to the extensive forests of the antennas, to the beautiful lake and river landscape and to the High Fens, the high plateau with its many moors.

Those who spend their holidays here can combine culture, tradition, nature, sports, city trips and excursions into the countryside! Wallonia invites you to an unforgettable journey of discovery of UNESCO sites worth seeing.

Province of Liège

Thuin, Wallonia
Sunrise in Thuin, Image: Khaled Louis Fazely / shutterstock

The cultural centre of the Walloon region is home to the Grand Curtius Art Museum and the Archéforum. In addition to other interesting art museums, the cathedral’s treasury is one of the city’s most important sights.

The province of Liège not only inspires with Europe’s largest port, but also with the extensive low mountain regions. Nature lovers and athletes will find a wide range of leisure activities in the middle of nature, which is rounded off by the High Fens, the famous plateau with the impressive moor landscape.

Remembrance tourism

Those interested in history will get their money’s worth in this key region for commemorative tourism. Traces of the Battle of the Bulge, the First and Second World Wars include memorials, museums and cemeteries in La Roche, Bastogne, Arlon and Sankt-Vith. Other interesting cities are Stavelot, Huy and Malmedy.

A visit to the city of Waterloo, where the Battle of Waterloo changed European history, is a must.

Highlights for city travellers

Walloon cities have a lot to offer for those interested in culture.
The city of Namur delights with its famous citadel, while Dinant is the cradle of the saxophone. The city of Mons with its Grand Palace in the centre is worth a visit.

Cities steeped in history

Fans of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance should pay a visit to the cities of Rochefort, Marche-en-Famenne, Bouillo and La Roche-en-Ardenne. Saint-Hubert, Europe’s hunting and nature capital, attracts tourists from all over the world with its rich historical heritage, impressive abbey palace and beautiful basilica.

Castles and palaces

In the middle of the wonderful natural landscape of the Ardennes, beautiful castles, palaces and gardens invite you to visit. Among the most beautiful castles are Jehay, Beloeil, Modave, Freur and Seneffe, while the most worthwhile castles are Franchimont and Reinhardstein. Holidaymakers should not miss the water gardens of Annevoie, which were created more than 250 years ago.

Ardennes

Durbuy, Wallonia
Durbuy, the smallest city in Belgium, Image: NAPA / shutterstock

Shaped by nature and history, the antennas in the south of Wallonia are the country’s green lungs. Romantic villages, forests, plateaus and wonderful river valleys guarantee a relaxing holiday.

The valley of the Ourthe is a real feast for the eyes with the river that makes its way past old abbeys and castles. The contrasting valley of the Semois, with its abruptly rising rocks and beautiful wooded slopes, is a paradise for nature lovers. The Ardennes offer numerous hiking trails through unspoilt forests and lonely valleys.

High Fens

This plateau offers numerous designated hiking routes on solid ground or wooden footbridges. Many hikers are drawn to the East Belgian long-distance hiking trail GR 56, which partly leads through the High Fens. Some of the most popular starting points for hikes include Botrange, Mont Rigi and Narague Michel.

Outdoor activities

Thanks to its vast forests and hills, lakes, rivers and caves, Wallonia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, biking, climbing, kayaking, sailing, swimming and playing golf are just some of the activities that make Wallonia so attractive for sports enthusiasts.

Cosmopolitanism

Wallonia is cosmopolitan and multicultural. The university town of Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve is an internationally important centre for science and culture with student flair.

Carnival and city festivals

The long history is reflected not only in the cities, but in the whole of Wallonia. Many places have made a name for themselves with their colorful carnivals. The most famous is the Binche Carnival with its Gille figures, i.e. men in bell costumes. Holidaymakers should not miss this cultural event, as the carnival was awarded by UNESCO in 2003.

In the southern Belgian region, a wide variety of traditional city festivals are celebrated, where parades are not uncommon. Absolute highlights are the parades in Mons and Ath with the dragons and giants.

Culinary arts and gastronomy

Wallonia has made a name for itself far beyond its borders with its unique cuisine and gastronomy. Holidaymakers can look forward to abbey cheese specialities and monastery beers. Of the nine Trappist beers in the world, three of them are brewed in this Belgian region.

Climate and ideal time to travel

The ideal time to travel is between June and August, as pleasant temperatures prevail in summer and little rainfall falls. The maximum average temperature in July is 22 degrees Celsius, while the temperature in January averages four degrees Celsius.

Wallonia is located in the temperate climate zone. The oceanic climate is mild and humid.

Journey

There are three airports in Wallonia. Holidaymakers can choose either the airport in Liège, Namur or Charleroi.

Marseillan Plage on the Étang de Thau

PatrickJullien
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Marseillan Plage on the Étang de Thau

Picturesque freshwater lagoon surrounded by unspoiled nature

The names of the cities sound very similar, and both destinations are located in the south of France on the Mediterranean coast. Nevertheless, the small Marseillan Plage should not be confused with the French metropolis of Marseille. Marseillan Plage is located 210 kilometers west of Marseille, about 50 kilometers from Montpellier, and close to the Spanish border. The fishing village, which is quite small with less than 8,000 inhabitants, is picturesquely located on the Étang de Thau lagoon. Since 1947, the place has borne the official title of “seaside resort”. In addition to beach vacationers and water rats, all nature lovers also get their money’s worth here. In the vicinity of the city there are numerous nature parks, such as the Haut-Languedoc Nature Park or the Camargue Nature Park, which invite you to go on excursions.

Relaxation, seafood and boat tours on the Étang de Thau

Marseillan Plage beach
View of the beach of Marseillan Plage, Image: Fts-Drone / shutterstock

The Étang de Thau lagoon has a circumference of 55 kilometres. Marseillan Plage, as well as the towns of Mèze, Sète, Bouzigues and Balaruc-les-Bains, is located directly on this freshwater lagoon, which is separated from the sea by a sandbank. The lagoon is fed with fresh water from the Pyrenees. Around the beaches of the Étang de Thau, tourists will find a variety of water sports facilities. In all cities there are, for example, sailing, surfing and diving schools. You should definitely try the oysters farmed in the region in one of the idyllic beach bars. In addition to tourism, the locals live from fishing, which is also reflected in the menus of the Étang de Thau. The Tielles, delicious dumplings filled with squid in tomato sauce, or the braised squid called rouille, are also delicious. If you would like to see the lagoon from the water, you can take a boat tour, which leads to the oyster beds of the Étang de Thau, among other places.

Excursion to Sète, the Venice of Languedoc

With just under 45,000 inhabitants, Sète is by far the largest town on the Étang de Thau. The city is also called the Venice of Languedoc, and that’s no coincidence. In the center of Sète is the Canal Royal, which has a Mediterranean feel with Italian influences. Here you can walk past bars, restaurants and small shops, cross a total of twelve bridges on a walk through the city, and marvel at box-like apartment buildings with colorful facades. The fishing port is particularly worth seeing. Here it is also very worthwhile to stop in one of the small restaurants and taste the freshly caught seafood. Mont Saint-Clair is considered the highest point in the city at 183 meters. From here you have a magnificent view over the city and out to the Mediterranean Sea. In the Espace Georges Brassens, the chanson singer Georges Brassens, who has cult status in France , is commemorated. The Musée Paul Valéry is equally interesting inside and out. The museum, which was built in the 1960s, is one of the Corbusier buildings. In addition to an exhibition on the city’s history, there is also a tribute to one of the city’s most famous sons: Paul Valéry, a well-known poet and philosopher. There is also a maritime museum and several galleries to visit. The many lighthouses, such as the Pointe des Onglous, which line up along the canal around Sète, are picturesque.

Pink flamingos and white horses in the Camargue Natural Park

Flamingos Étang de Thau
Flamingos at the Étang de Thau, Image: PAUL ATKINSON / shutterstock

The Camargue Natural Park is located about 40 kilometres east of Marseillan Plage, in the delta of the Rhône. The area around the Camargue Natural Park is very sparsely populated, which is why visitors encounter pure nature here. The wetland consists of sea salt flats, rice fields, reeds, swamps and ponds. A large population of pink flamingos can be found here. A number of other waterfowl also settle here. A little further inland, a heathland dominates, where bulls and the well-known white Camargue horses can be found.

Active across the Haut-Languedoc Nature Park

Only about 20 minutes by car from Marseillan Plage, the Haut-Languedoc Nature Park attracts all nature lovers who want to discover the exciting flora and fauna of the south of France in addition to high peaks and lakes. The region has a Mediterranean climate, rain rarely falls. More than 2,500 plant species, such as sundews and black cumin, downy oaks and Douglas firs can be found here. Rare animal species such as the Bonelli eagle, otter, mouflon and genet can also be found here. Hikers climb the Massif de l’Espinouse, from where you have a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountain peaks. There are numerous well-marked hiking and mountain biking routes that lead through the 260,000-hectare area. You always pass turquoise lakes, deep gorges, wide valleys, numerous peaks and picturesque villages where time seems to stand still. In addition, forest landscapes alternate with moors and meadows. At 1,211 metres, the Pic de Nore is the highest peak in the Haut-Languedoc Natural Park. Climbing routes have also been designated and tested. The mountain lakes of Raviège and Avène are wonderful for swimming on hot summer days.

The Reserve Naturelle Nationale du Bagnas

Within walking distance of Marseillan Plage is the Reserve Naturelle Nationale du Bagnas, one of the most important bird sanctuaries in France. 250 different bird species cavort here, such as the little grebe, the spoonbill, various swallow species, songbirds, birds of prey and waders. Guided tours of the protected area are offered in different languages. On foot, and by bike, however, you can also set off on your own. It goes past salt marshes, artificially created ponds and swamps, through forests, meadows and vineyards.

On the road with caravan and motorhome: what you absolutely have to take with you

PatrickJullien
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On the road with caravan and motorhome: what you absolutely have to take with you

If you move into the big wide world with your caravan or motorhome, you always have your little house with you. However, the emphasis is on small. On the one hand, you are much more flexible when travelling with a caravan or motorhome than when travelling with a suitcase or backpack and staying in hotels. On the other hand, you don’t want to carry cumbersome and useless things that you don’t use in the end. Many things can also be procured on the go if you have forgotten them at home. Other forgotten things inevitably force you to drive back home before the adventure has even begun. What is really important for a holiday with a caravan or motorhome, and should not be missing from the packing list, can be found here.

Rented or “home”?

Camping
To make the camping holiday perfect, you should think about some utensils in advance, Image: Andrey Armyagov / shutterstock

First of all, it is important to consider whether the caravan or motorhome is a rental vehicle or your own camper. If you rent a vehicle, you should definitely find out in advance how the motorhome is equipped, in detail. Gas cylinders are of particular relevance, without which there is neither hot water nor heating. You should definitely ask in advance whether the basic equipment includes a filled gas bottle, or whether you as a tenant have to take care of filling it yourself. In any case, it is recommended to always have an additional filled spare gas bottle with you, even if the rental caravan generally only contains one gas bottle. If there are already two filled gas bottles, you should refrain from adding another one so as not to increase the weight of the motorhome unnecessarily. This is because a higher weight increases fuel consumption. Furthermore, you should ask in advance what kitchen utensils are available for a rental car. It is also best to inquire about the number of plates, pots and cutlery. Especially if you want to travel with the whole family.

What you should not forget under any circumstances

What should not be missing depends on the one hand on the personal holiday plans, and on the other hand also on the destination country. If you travel abroad, you must not forget your identity papers, passport, any travel visas you may need and an internationally valid driver’s license. Since, if you are traveling in your own motorhome, you start directly from home, and do not head for the airport first to start your vacation, as is often the case, forgetting these documents is unfortunately a classic. At the latest at the first border you have to drive back and pick up the documents at home. By the way, it is always advisable to copy all documents and keep a bag with the copies separately, possibly hidden. Of course, you don’t want this, but motorhomes are occasionally broken into. It’s good if the thieves don’t steal all the documents. You should also think about credit and debit cards, cash and a foreign health insurance card. For example, if you are planning hiking tours, you should pack the appropriate hiking maps, hiking guides, hiking boots and other equipment. If you only move into your motorhome or caravan in the destination country, you should pack sparingly in advance. You then also limit yourself to clothing and documents. Things for daily use should be bought here on site.

The basic equipment

In addition to the gas cylinders mentioned above, you need a drawbar lock for a caravan to be able to lock the car. Motorhomes are locked with keys. A cable drum and two adapter cables secure the power supply. For proper parking, you need four drive-on wedges or wooden boards each. For the water supply, you need a few water canisters with a capacity of ten to 20 litres, a water hose and tap connections in different sizes. The camping toilet requires toilet fluid and tabs. You will also need kitchen and barbecue utensils, camping table and chairs, outdoor lighting, dishwashing bowl and washing-up liquid, clothesline and washing powder as well as a small toolbox for repairs, duvets and pillows, leisure and swimwear and towels.

Our tip: It is also possible to consume beverages in a cultivated way on a camping holiday. The company silwy, based in the Bavarian Forest, has developed crystal glasses with built-in magnets in the glass base, which have been specially developed for travel in motorhomes, caravans and boat trips. Glasses are available for all kinds of drinks – from wine glasses to elegant whiskey glasses.

But how does it work to ensure that the lenses are not damaged during transport? silwy magnetic glasses find their perfectly matched counterpart in flexible, metallic NANO-PADS. Thanks to the special nano-coating, they adhere to almost any surface. This allows you to stow the glasses in the storage space to save space (e.g. upside down). These nanopads are easy to clean with water, so that everything is also hygienically perfect.

Silwy also offers clever, easy-to-release magnetic hooks . Easily detachable and ideal for attaching useful hooks for kitchen utensils such as towels or kitchen utensils.

Of course, personal belongings should not be missing: for example, a smartphone with a charging cable, books or e-readers, games and sports equipment such as bicycles, badminton games or an inflatable boat. Under no circumstances should the warning triangle and first aid kit be forgotten. For this purpose, a medicine cabinet with painkillers, tablets for diarrhea, sun and mosquito protection is recommended.

The food

Opinions differ on the subject of food. Some holidaymakers like to shop at home and start their holiday with their usual types of sausage and cheese. Others prefer to equip themselves on the road. This also depends a little on where the journey leads. For example, if you travel to Scandinavian countries, shopping for food locally is very cost-intensive. Then it is advisable to take at least a basic set of food such as coffee, tea, milk and vacuum-packed meat, sausage and cheese with you. Alcohol is also very expensive there and can be imported up to a certain amount. Fresh food is best bought locally. If you travel to the south, you will usually find cheaper food there and shop better in the holiday country. Then it is sufficient to take food with you for the journey. However, what can already be bought well at home are spices, salt, oil, vinegar, ketchup or mustard.

Save weight

The more weight you carry around, the more fuel you need. That’s why you shouldn’t necessarily take the silverware with you on your motorhome holiday. Professionals recommend camping tableware made of plastic or enamel and plastic cups instead of glasses and cups. Bowls should also be made of plastic. Clothes can be washed on the go instead of packing fresh clothes for four weeks.

The tiny island nation of Tuvalu is an oasis of peace in the Pacific Ocean

PatrickJullien
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The tiny island nation of Tuvalu is an oasis of peace in the Pacific Ocean

Difficult to reach and far from all neighbors, but still worth the trip

With an area of just under 26 km², the Pacific island state of Tuvalu is the fourth smallest country in the world. The name means “group of eight” in the Tuvaluan language, but in fact there are nine different atolls and islands. However, the southernmost island of Niulakita was uninhabited until the 20th century. Tuvalu currently has almost 12,000 inhabitants, about half of whom live on the atoll of Funafuti and in the municipality of Funafuti from nine villages. The rest of the population is spread over the islands and atolls of Nanumanga, Nanumea, Niulakita, Niutao, Nui, Nukufetau, Nukulaelae and Vaitupu, each with between 300 and 500 inhabitants. It is not without reason that Tuvalu is often referred to as the most isolated and remote independent country in the South Pacific. Every year, only about 1,000 to 2,000 holidaymakers visit Tuvalu, primarily with scheduled flights departing from Suva on the Fiji Islands only twice a week.

On the atolls and islands, the inhabitants speak different languages

It is believed that the ancestors of the inhabitants came mainly from Samoa and Tokelau as well as Tonga and Uvea (Wallis Island). These settlers were all Polynesians except for Nui, where many people are descendants of Micronesians from Kiribati. There are three different language areas in Tuvalu. The first area includes the islands of Nanumea, Niutao and Nanumaga. The second is the island of Nui, where the inhabitants speak a language derived from I-Kiribati. The third language group includes the islands of Vaitupu, Nukufetau, Funafuti and Nukulaelae, where both Tuvaluan and English are spoken today. The first European explorer of the islands of Tuvalu was the Spanish explorer Alvaro de Mendana, who sighted today’s island of Nui during a voyage with the ship “Capitana” through the eastern Solomon Islands in January 1568 and gave it the name “Isla de Jesús”.

There is only one small hotel in all of Tuvalu for foreign visitors

From the 19th century onwards, more and more Europeans came to Tuvalu because of whaling, the slave trade and Christianisation, and many of the inhabitants died of the diseases introduced as a result. In 1892, Tuvalu became the British protectorate of Gilbert and Ellice Islands, and in 1915 it became the crown colony of the same name. During the Second World War, Tuvalu became the scene of fighting between the Japanese and the Americans, but after the end of the war, the British colony remained. Niulakita was incorporated in the 1950s, and in the 1970s the Tuvaluans voted in a referendum with over 90 percent for complete state independence, which was finally achieved on October 1, 1978. Tuvalu has been a member of the United Nations since 2000, and in the same year the state caused a stir with the lucrative leasing of its Internet domain “tv” for 50 million US dollars. As early as 1993, the only hotel on Tuvalu to date, the “Vaiaku Lagi” was opened in the main village of the same name on the island of Fongafale.

Underwater enthusiasts will get their money’s worth diving here

The few guests come to Tuvalu mainly because of the world’s unique diving areas, since 1999 the 33 km² marine reserve “Funafuti Conservation Area” around the tiny islands of Fuagea, Fualopa, Fuafatu, Tefala as well as Tepuka Savilivili and Vasafua in the southwest of the Funafuti atoll has been one of the most famous diving areas. Other natural monuments worth seeing on Tuvalu are the caves and mangrove forests on the Nanumea Atoll, which is also culturally quite independent and self-confident, the more than 700 km² coral reefs around all atolls and islands as well as the remains of rainforest and, of course, the many fantastic tropical beaches under palm trees with clean, blue to turquoise shimmering water. Tuvalu is not a destination for spectacular discoveries: there are no hills or mountains, rivers or gorges, and no architectural heritage. And yet it is a charming Pacific destination, where you can relax in the shade of a palm tree on one of the pretty beaches.

Tuvalu’s spatial isolation has contributed to the preservation of ancient traditions

The traditional local culture is still very much alive, which the people of Tuvalu like to show, for example, with their traditional dances at festivals and special occasions. The massive deployment of U.S. troops during World War II left the island nation with a number of wartime remnants, including runways, bunkers, and plane wrecks on the main island of Fongafale and near the village of Nanumea. Also on the tiny island of Motulalo in Nukufetau there is a runway and some plane wrecks. If you are interested in stamps, the Philatelic Office on Funafuti is a must. The Tuvalu Women’s Handicraft Centre at the airport is a good place to see and buy local handicrafts. However, if you have time, try taking a boat to one of the outer islands and admire the locals’ skills in making ornaments, fans, mats, baskets or wood carvings.

In spring and summer, the islanders like to compete in ball games

The national match in Tuvalu is called “te ano” (the ball). Two teams line up opposite each other and hit a ball. The goal is to keep the ball in the air for as long as possible, similar to volleyball. The only stadium “Tuvalu Sports Ground” with 1,500 seats in Vaiaku (Fongafale, Funafuti) often hosts football and rugby matches. Since 2008, the “Tuvalu Games” have also been held there every year from April to June in the sports of badminton, football, weightlifting, canoeing, athletics as well as rugby, tennis and volleyball. The regional cuisine has a lot of fresh fish, poultry and pork as well as coconuts and papaya prepared in various ways as ingredients, you eat with your hands and sit on the floor. One of the most important staple foods is “Pulaka”, a highly starchy tuber. The climate on Tuvalu is tropical all year round with average temperatures between 27 and 30 degrees Celsius, the best time to travel is from March to November, when it hardly rains

Serbia – country with a variety of sights on the Balkan Peninsula

PatrickJullien
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Serbia – country with a variety of sights on the Balkan Peninsula

Serbia is located in southeastern Europe on the Balkan Peninsula. The country has around 6.9 million inhabitants. Belgrade is the capital and largest city of the Balkan state. A continental climate awaits you on a holiday in Serbia. The country is becoming increasingly popular with tourists – in 2019, the country received around two million tourists. The most popular highlights for Serbia holidaymakers were the Serbian capital, the national parks, lakes, various major cities and imposing fortresses. Over 8% of Serbia’s total area is under nature conservation.

Belgrade – The capital of Serbia

Cathedral of St. Sava, Belgrade, Serbia
Cathedral of St. Sava in Belgrade, Image: trabantos / shutterstock

The Serbian capital Belgrade is located in the northern part of the country. Belgrade has around 1.3 million inhabitants, making it one of the largest cities in Southeast Europe. Belgrade is of central importance for the country’s economy and culture. During the 20th century, Belgrade was also the capital of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia.
One of the landmarks is the Belgrade Fortress. The fortress was built during the 15th century and expanded several times in the following centuries. Parts of the fortress were built as early as the 3rd century. The structure is located on a hill that is 125 meters high. From the observation deck you have a unique view of the city. The Kalemegdan Park, which is located around the fortress, is ideal for walks.

The Cathedral of St. Sava is also worth seeing. The cathedral, which was built in the neo-Byzantine architectural style, is one of the world’s largest Orthodox places of worship. The church is located on the 134-metre-high plateau of Vračar. The cathedral has a height of around 77 meters and was opened in 2018 after 92 years of construction. With a built-up area of 4830 m², it is one of the largest Orthodox houses of worship in the world. Another attraction is the St. Mark’s Church. A Serbian Orthodox church built in the neo-Byzantine style.

One of the most famous streets in the Serbian capital is Knez Mihailova ulica. A variety of shops, restaurants and cafés await you in the shopping street. The road stretches for almost 800 meters. An ideal starting point for a walk through the city center of Belgrade is the Republic Square.

Another highlight in the city is the Belgrade Zoological Garden. The zoo, which opened in 1936, is one of the oldest zoos in Southeast Europe. In the zoo, which is located not far from the city center, you can see lions, buffaloes and tigers, among others, on an area of around 7 hectares.

You have a fascinating view of the region from the Avala. The mountain is 511 meters high and is located just under 20 kilometers south of Belgrade. You can reach the mountain summit via a hiking trail.

National Parks in Serbia

Derdap National Park, Serbia
Derdap National Park, Image: Ovidiu Alexa

In the eastern part is the Đerdap National Park. The area of the national park covers an area of over 60,000 hectares. Fascinating gorges and rivers await you. The Đerdap Gorge is one of the largest gorges in Europe. In addition, the flora and fauna in the Đerdap National Park is impressive. Tours of the national park allow you to spot wolves, lynxes and brown bears. The unique lake “Iron Gate” is also located in the national park. The largest lake in the country was created in 1972.

In the west of Serbia lies the Tara National Park. It was founded in 1981 and has an area of over 37,500 hectares. During a hike through the national park, you can see, among other things, the Serbian spruce, a rare plant species.

Zlatibor Mountains

In the western part of Serbia lies the Zlatibor Mountains. The mountains are ideal for cycling and hiking. In addition, the mountains are characterized by their climate. The highest mountain in the mountain range is Tornik, which is 1496 meters high. During the winter months, the mountains are ideal for skiing.

Museums in Serbia

  • One of the most popular museums in Serbia is the National Museum of Serbia. The museum was founded in 1844. Over 400,000 exhibits on Serbian art and archaeology can be explored in the museum’s premises.
  • The Nikola Tesla Museum is located in the Serbian capital. The museum was built in memory of Nikola Tesla, a Serbian inventor.
  • Information about the history of the country can be found in the Museum of Vojvodina. The museum is located in Novi Sad, the second largest city in the country. Over 400,000 exhibits on the history of the region are on display in the museum.
  • One of the most famous art museums in Serbia is the Museum of Contemporary Art in Belgrade. Works of art from Yugoslavia and Serbia from the 20th century are exhibited in the museum, which opened in 1965.
  • If you want to learn more about the history of Serbia and Yugoslavia, visit the Museum of the History of Yugoslavia. The museum opened in 1996. The House of Flowers is also part of the museum.
  • The aviation museum is also worth seeing. In 1957, the museum, which is located not far from the international airport, was founded. In the museum, you will have the opportunity to discover airplanes and learn more about aviation in Serbia.

Major cities worth seeing

The second largest city in Serbia is Novi Sad. The city has around 230,000 inhabitants and was founded in the late Middle Ages. During a visit, you can expect to visit the Serbian National Theatre, the imposing Petrovaradin Fortress and the Danube Park, among others.

In Niš, the third largest city in Serbia, there is the Ćele Kula tower, which is well worth seeing. You can also visit the fascinating archaeological site “Mediana” in the city.

Other cities worth visiting are Kragujevac, Subotica and Zrenjanin, where the largest bog in Serbia, Carska Bara, is located.

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