Oller del Mas is a captivating winery nestled in the picturesque countryside near Manresa, about an hour’s drive from Barcelona. I’m on a tour with Viator, having just come from the morning at Montserrat and everyone is ready for some tasting, combined with tapas.… Read the rest
Montserrat
Montserrat, a majestic mountain range located about 30 kilometers northwest of Barcelona, is renowned for its unique rock formations, breathtaking views, and deep religious significance. The name ‘Montserrat’ translates to ‘serrated mountain’ in Catalan, an apt description of jagged peaks rising dramatically from surrounding plains.… Read the rest
Girona, Peratallada & Calella Day Trip
I have arrived in Barcelona and booked a Girona, Peratallada & Calella day trip. It’s a full day including two wonderful medieval towns and a glimpse of the coast. About as much as one can expect in a day.… Read the rest
Peratallada
Peratallada is one of the best-preserved examples of medieval architecture in Catalonia. After a visit to nearby Girona this morning, it’s been a beautiful drive through the countryside to get here.
As we approach from the car park, crossing a bridge and into the town, it becomes apparent the closer we get that this place is special.… Read the rest
Walking Frankfurt Am Main
There is a lot to see and do in Frankfurt Am Main so you would be forgiven for having a ‘to do‘ list on arrival, just like I did. In between all the activity though, it’s important to take in the ambiance of exactly where you are.… Read the rest
Walking Berat
We arrive in Berat wearied from a travel day although somewhat revived by our recent Byrek late lunch. It’s the perfect time to head out to explore the town, grab a sundowner and enjoy the early spring evening.… Read the rest
The Holy Place
Atop Melnik’s picturesque cliff tops, the St. Virgin Mary Spileotisa Monastery is perched. Known locally as the Holy Place, this tiny monastery, referred to a a cave (speleon) was built between 1209 – 1211. Its name is also associated with the Virgin Mary of the Holy Place at the Mount Athos monastery Vatopedi.… Read the rest
Bachkovo Monastery
Nestled in the Rhodope Mountains of southern Bulgaria, Bachkovo Monastery stands as a beacon of Bulgarian spiritual heritage and historical significance.
We arrive on a sparkling Spring morning after the night in Plovdiv and a quick stop on the way at Asen’s Fortress.… Read the rest
The Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis
Plovdiv is the modern site of the ancient city of Philipopolis. It is charming from the get go and given the range of things to see here, it is no wonder it was named Europe’s Capital of Culture in 2019.… Read the rest
Going Ape
We are going ape in Gibraltar, that tiny tip of land that sits with the Mediterranean Sea on one side and the Strait of Gibraltar, opening out to the vast Atlantic Ocean on the other. The divide does not refer just to the waters.… Read the rest