Traveling the world not only enables you to visit iconic destinations but it also allows you to stumble across gems that perhaps you normally wouldn’t think about experiencing. Located in the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy, Bologna is a city that we can well and truly attest is a place that should be on any Italian travel itinerary. Whether you have 24 or 48 hours, or perhaps you are planning on using this part of Italy as a base to explore other areas, when it comes to the best things to do in Bologna, there are plenty of reasons to justify a return visit.
Bologna is a city that frequently lies in the shadow of the more infamous Italian counterparts such as Rome, Milan, Naples, and Florence. However, after visiting this vibrant hub for just over 24 hours, we quickly realized that this city is somewhere we would love to return to in the future.
Don’t let the name fool you…Bologna is not just about “bolognese” or even the American “Bologna sausage” that you may be thinking about. In fact, when it comes to traditional cuisine found in Bologna, you may be surprised at exactly what you will find here. Let’s take a look at our experience in the Emilia-Romagna region and hopefully, after reading this post, you will be inspired to book a trip in the near future.
Where to Stay in Bologna?
Enjoying a visit to any destination starts with finding a great place to stay. If you can find a spot that is affordable, in a great location and has all the amenities you need, well it’s fair to say you are on to a winner. But when you find a place that has all of these benefits AND it’s somewhere that you immediately feel like you are at home, I think these types of places are very rare to stumble across and you should definitely cherish them.
Welcome to L’8Boutique Design Apartments located in the heart of Bologna! Having stayed in several different hotels during our European Eurail adventure, we arrived in Bologna unaware of what was awaiting us.
The moment we found the apartments, located conveniently just a short walk from the heartbeat of Bologna, we realized we had found a real gem.
We were welcomed by Federica, one of the two individuals (along with Francesca) who take care of these apartments, and she immediately showed us to apartment 802 located on the ground floor of this historic complex.
The first thing worth noting as you enter this apartment is the distinctive blend of modern vs contemporary style. The key code access offers the modernized feel while entering our apartment we noticed the chic, quintessential Italian decor that we love.
Our apartment had everything we needed to ensure our 24-hour stay in Bologna was perfect. The self-catering option allowed us to head down the street to the nearby Conad grocery store and collect a number of local ingredients so that we could create our very own Italian cuisine masterpiece.
Ok, so perhaps we need to do a little work on this but having the ability to cook your own meals is a huge benefit, particularly if you are traveling around Europe on a tight budget.
The living room, kitchen and dining room area are an open plan meaning that everything you need is readily available. Head through the doorway into the bedroom to enjoy a generous King size bed (I want to emphasize this because in Italy, finding a King sized bed isn’t always easy!).
The en-suite bathroom has a large shower, while outside is a small patio area perfect to enjoy a late night Lambrusco or two.
L’8Boutique is dedicated to the traveler who appreciates personality, style and impeccable service, as well as luxury, discretion and privacy.
Visitors to Bologna are spoiled for choice when it comes to hotel options, just like any other city across the globe. However, if you could take one recommendation from this post, we would strongly encourage you to consider staying at one of the L’8Boutique apartments…you WILL NOT regret it!
Ok, so you have found the perfect place to stay and now it’s time to head out and explore this beautiful city. Don’t worry, you won’t be short of options because there are plenty of awesome things to experience in Bologna.
If the sound of drinking Lambrusco is appealing, there are plenty of bars and restaurants scattered around this city that will offer you some of the best wine to be found in the region. Alternatively, you can always head to the local supermarket as we did and buy a couple of bottles to take back to your abode and enjoy a glass or two while indulging in your favorite Italian cheese selection.
But anyone with any aspirations of exploring the best of what Bologna has to offer will want to get out and wander the streets. Let’s take a look at 5 of our favorite reasons why Bologna needs to be an Italian city on your radar!
Piazza Maggiore
Similar to many of its more infamous counterparts, Bologna is made up of several “squares” that collectively create a series of distinctive architectural landscapes that make this a city you can quickly fall in love with.
At the heartbeat of Bologna is the Piazza Maggiore, the main square that is lined full of gorgeous Medieval and Renaissance-inspired buildings. If you have any interest in period style architecture, your eyes will quickly be drawn to the intricate details of the designs surrounding this square.
Although the history of this square dates back to the early 13th century, the name “Piazza Maggiore” actually dates back to during the 16th century. However, for a period of time, this name transitioned between this and Vittorio Emanuele II until it finally settled with the current name after 1945.
In terms of iconic buildings that can be found in the Piazza Maggiore, the list includes the Basilica di San Petronio, Palazzo dei Notai, Palazzo d’Accursio, Palazzo del Podestà and Palazzo dei Bianchi.
You could easily spend several hours admiring these architectural masterpieces but for those of you simply passing through, your attention will quickly be drawn to the Basilica di San Petronio because of its unique design and imposing stature overlooking the square.
Towers of Bologna
Bologna has long been renowned as being a city with an abundance of towers. However, today the number has diminished dramatically but there are still several iconic ones that are worth experiencing.
Of the plethora of original towers constructed, some of those that we can still see today include the Azzoguidi Tower, the Prendiparte Tower, the Scappi Tower, and the Uguzzoni Tower. All of these, if you have time, are well worthy of adding to your Bologna itinerary.
But there are two towers, known locally as “Le due Torri” that should be one of the first landmarks that you choose to visit during your adventure around Bologna. The 320-foot Asinelli Tower and the truncated Garisenda Tower form the “Two Towers” that are a magical sight but also a challenge waiting for you to conquer.
Get ready for a pretty intense climb of 498 steps to the summit of the Asinelli Tower but don’t worry, for those of you willing to pay 5 Euros to burn several hundred calories (after indulging in Bologna’s find foodie scene, you may be raring to go!), the breathtaking panoramic views across the city are worth the effort.
Basilica of San Domenico
If you have a keen interest in historic and spectacular architecture, a visit to the Basilica of San Domenico is a must during your visit to Bologna. Located just a short walk from the Piazza Maggiore, this gorgeous structure dates back to 1228 when it first opened its door.
St. Domenico of Guzman, the Spanish founder of the Order of Preachers, arrived in Bologna at the start of the 13th century and purchased a church where the Basilica stands today. After his death in 1221, the monks expanded the church to what we see today and honored St. Domenico by naming it after him. His remains are preserved in the chapel of San Domenico inside a marble ark.
Although the exterior of this church may not be anything distinctive that allows it to stand out from other Italian Basilicas, it’s the interior once you step inside that makes this such a unique and breathtaking experience.
Explore Bologna’s Porticos
Bologna is unique on so many different levels, none more so than the fact that there are 40km of porticos that create a distinctive atmosphere while taking a stroll around this city. Every city has something that helps it stand out from the rest and I would argue that Bologna’s portico scene is a feature unlike anywhere else in the world.
One of the main benefits of having so many of these cool “arch” style features scattered across Bologna’s architectural network is that regardless of the weather, you can enjoy this beautiful city in the comfort of being undercover. Bologna has the longest portico in the world, stretching 3,796 meters from just outside the city walls to the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca on the top of the Colle della Guardia.
The beauty of having so many porticos throughout Bologna (aside from the aforementioned benefit!) is that they add a wealth of character to a city that already contains a plethora of majestic architectural beauty. Each of the porticos has something distinctive, whether it’s the intricate details of the design, the color or the atmosphere created inside as locals and visitors alike stroll through the streets of Bologna.
Chiesa Dei Santi Bartolomeo e Gaetano
You have probably established by now that the theme of most of our recommended attractions in Bologna is architecture. But that’s for a very good reason. The Church of Saints Bartholomew and Gaetano is another breathtaking example of Renaissance style architecture and is associated with the Roman Catholic denomination.
Located near the site of the “Two Towers” adjacent to the Strada Maggiore, this gorgeous construction dates back to the early 16th-century.
A church dedicated to Saint Bartholomew likely goes back even further to the 5th-century but regardless of your interest in the history of this place of worship, your interest will likely spark up as you explore the interior.
Summary
Bologna is one of those cities that is frequently left under the radar of the more infamous counterparts but we are so happy that we decided to spend some time exploring this part of the Emilia-Romagna region.
In addition to being a beautiful city, it’s actually a great place to stay and utilize as a gateway to explore other parts of the region. We highly recommend staying in one of the L’8Boutique apartments and then heading to nearby locations to enjoy day trips before returning to your “home away from home”.
Places such as Rimini (where you can take a day trip to explore the landlocked country of San Marino), Parma (home of “Parma Ham”) and Modena (along with other places in this region, this is a great place to experience traditional balsamic vinegar) among many others are well within a short train journey (exploring any part of Europe by train and using the Eurail pass is without doubt the best way to get around) from Bologna.
For those of you that have never visited Bologna but are planning an Italian getaway, we hope that you are convinced that this is a place you should consider adding to your itinerary – you won’t regret it!
Botanical gardens are more than just a place to display a plethora of extravagant floral displays. Instead, they offer an opportunity for visitors to enjoy a peaceful haven of tranquility, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and a secluded spot where everyone can gather their thoughts and truly appreciate the beauty of nature. Harry P. Leu Gardens, in the heart of Orlando’s metropolis, is the perfect example of a botanical garden that fits this category.
We have been fortunate to experience some of the best botanical gardens not only across the United States but also around the world. Landscaped areas such as the Missouri Botanical Gardens in St. Louis, the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Huntsville Botanical Garden in Alabama and further afield, the Gardens by the Bay in Singapore are all examples of spectacular displays that we immediately fell in love with. The same can certainly be said for the Leu Gardens in Orlando.
Ready to find out why Leu Gardens is such an attractive location that should be on your radar for your next visit to Orlando? Let’s take a look at what makes this so appealing and why all the family will likely fall in love with this spot and probably find it difficult to leave!
History of Harry P. Leu Gardens
The Leu Gardens were started by Mr. and Mrs. Harry P. Leu when they purchased Leu House and 40 acres of surrounding land in 1936. Just like ourselves, the Leus were passionate travelers and visited all corners of the globe bringing back many exotic plants that we can see today.
Dating back to the 1880s, the Leu House Museum, which is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was once the focal point of this gorgeous area of Orlando. However, this family home is now only part of the reason why visitors are so attracted to Leu Gardens in the heart of the city.
In 1961, the Leu Family issued the deeds to this property/land to the city of Orlando and since then, this location has been home to one of the most popular attractions in this part of Florida.
The semi-tropical and tropical gardens are home to 50 acres of perfectly manicured landscapes, with a myriad of distinctive floral species native to Orlando and from around the world. A number of meandering trails make this an ideal location to enjoy an afternoon in the sun while this is also the perfect spot for everyone to learn about various floral displays and how they thrive in the Orlando climate.
Useful Information
Admission Times
If you are considering a visit to Leu Gardens, here is some valuable information that will help you plan the best time to experience this botanical garden. This park is open almost every day of the year, the exception being Christmas Day and is open between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM (the last admission daily is at 4:30 PM).
Ticket Prices
Looking for an affordable attraction when visiting Orlando? Welcome to one of the best spots in the city! At the time of this publication, prices to enter Leu Gardens were as follows. As always, we strongly recommend visiting the website for updated price information.
Adults – $10 Children (ages 4-17 years) – $5 Children (3 and under) – FREE
Admission includes access to all the gardens and the Leu House Museum. Unfortunately, during our visit, the museum was closed but hopefully, your visit will give you the opportunity to explore inside this gorgeous mansion. Regardless, it’s a gorgeous sight even from the exterior.
There are also several days throughout the year where admission to the gardens is free, so again, be sure to check out the website listed below for up-to-date information.
Parking is also FREE and there are ample spaces ensuring that your visit will not be spoiled by not being able to find anywhere to leave your vehicle.
Purchase your tickets, grab a map inside the visitor center and get ready to have an amazing adventure! The reality is that there is no right or wrong way to explore Leu Gardens.
There are designated walking trails scattered throughout the 50 acres but ultimately it’s down to personal preference as to which route you take. One thing I can guarantee is that regardless of which direction you take, there will be breathtaking floral displays awaiting you around every corner.
Rather than going into detail about every collection you can explore, I think it’s more appropriate to share some of our favorite experiences. We left the visitor center and immediately headed to the Lake Rowena Overlook. This deck is the perfect opportunity to relax and take in some breathtaking lake views while also keeping your eyes peeled for the local wildlife that finds this to be the perfect area to reside.
En route to Lake Rowena, take a moment to admire the Tropical Stream Garden where a host of tropical plants can be found and immediately makes you feel like you are in a location like the Amazon rainforest…ok, maybe a little exaggerated but certainly a tropical paradise that will capture your imagination!
The Rose Garden and Horseshoe Fountain are a definite focal point inside Leu Gardens and are yet another awesome place to sit on a bench, relax and enjoy your surroundings.
Take a moment to close your eyes and listen to the native birds chirping in the background and the sound of the water trickling through the fountain. As soon as you open your eyes, you are quickly transformed back to reality and ready to continue your journey around the gardens.
You may be wondering why the Rose Garden is such a focal point? Mrs. Mary Jane Leu had a real passion and appreciation of roses, so it’s no surprise that more effort has been placed on creating the perfect collection in this part of the botanical gardens.
Not only did she enjoy this as much as we did in terms of a relaxing environment, she also noted that this was the perfect place for future generations to learn about nature and botany.
The Butterfly, Herb and Vegetable Gardens are just a short walk from Mary Jane’s favorite spot and yet again, offer an opportunity to learn all about culinary ingredients and of course, one of the favorite spots for the kids to enjoy as they interact with the various butterflies fluttering around!
Leu House Museum
Head to the heart of the gardens to take a peek at the gorgeous Leu House Museum. Although we indicated the Rose Garden was the focal point of the gardens, this historic home is surely the “real” pièce de résistance, particularly for the architecture lovers out there.
Guided tours of the property are available daily every 30 minutes on the hour and half hour. Tours last around 25 minutes and really give visitors the opportunity to learn more about the Leu family and what these botanical gardens meant to them.
If you visit during a time when the tours are not running, as we did, it’s actually a really cool experience to just walk around the grounds and admire the exterior design. The restoration of this museum is such that it truly reflects what luxurious Florida living was like in the late-19th century.
Summary
These are just a very brief snapshot of the diverse collection to be found in Leu Gardens. Whether you are an avid botanist or simply someone that enjoys the relaxing ambiance throughout a botanical garden, this is one of those places you cannot help but fall in love with.
I think it’s fair to say that Leu Gardens “puts a smile on everyone’s face” which is actually what the gardens indicate about the Butterly Garden. I would argue that you can say this about the whole experience! Heather and I have already mentioned that we cannot wait to return here the next time we visit Orlando.
With so many amazing things to do in the Orlando area, taking a couple of hours out of your itinerary to visit this attraction is definitely a great way to relax and re-energize your batteries as you prepare for more exhausting experience when you tackle the likes of Disney World in one day or the best of Universal Studios.
The annual Dickens of a Christmas festival in Franklin, Tennessee is the perfect opportunity for all the family to enjoy the holiday festivities while taking a whirlwind trip back in time to the Charles Dickens era. While there are plenty of things to do in Franklin all year round, visiting during the festive season is definitely a great opportunity to experience this unique festival. Whether you are an avid reader of Dickens’ classic novels or simply want to experience the gorgeous town of Franklin located 20 minutes south of Nashville, this annual festival is the perfect opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit.
For those of you that have visited Franklin previously, you will understand exactly why the historic downtown is the perfect location to host this Dickens inspired event. However, if you have never been to Franklin, you will be in for a real treat and this is the ideal time of the year to visit to not only enjoy the Dickens of a Christmas festival but also all of the history that surrounds this part of Tennessee.
We have been fortunate to visit Franklin on several occasions and during our recent visit, we found out exactly why the Christmas season is the best time to be there. Let’s take a look at why the Dickens festival is such a popular attraction for locals and visitors alike who come from all corners of the globe to experience this annual event.
Dickens of a Christmas
It has become quite the tradition for Franklin, Tennessee to host the Dickens of a Christmas festival every year. Generally scheduled during one of the first two weekends in December, this event is one that attracts over 50,000 visitors to Franklin every year and understandably so when you see everything you can experience here.
For those of you that love everything associated with Christmas, you cannot help but fall in love with this festival! Heather and I visited for the first time in 2017 and immediately fell in love with it. Whether it’s the locals serving their delicious Christmas fare, the characters dressed in period attire or simply because Franklin is transformed into a scene typical of a Dickens novel, this festival is one that everyone should experience at least once…but we have a feeling it won’t be your last visit!
Franklin is the perfect location to host the Dickens of a Christmas festival. With a quaint downtown area that fits the idyllic Dickens tradition, it’s hardly a challenge to create the “Dickens-esque” appearance that is instantly recognizable when you become part of this festival. Don’t get me wrong, the locals go to A LOT of effort to ensure everything goes smoothly but Franklin just has that “feeling” which makes it an easy location to transform.
Indulge in Local Christmas Produce
The Dickens of a Christmas festival is the perfect time for locals from the surrounding area to showcase their products. From creative arts and craft designs to decadent cuisine options, there are plenty of market stalls to keep visitors occupied and intrigued by the prospect of some of the options available.
We stumbled across some great festive delicacies such as locally made gingerbread, sweet and savory dip mixes and of course, hot chocolate and coffee to ensure everyone stayed warm during the chilly December weekend. Perfectly manicured hand-made journals, gorgeous paintings of the surrounding Tennessee countryside and quirky yet quaint decor items are available for purchase.
Every year there is something different for visitors to enjoy, so it’s no surprise that this is a festival that you should mark on your calendar every December!
Interact with Dickens Characters
Get ready to mingle with your favorite characters from Christmas classics such as A Christmas Carol around downtown Franklin. Whether you want to have a quick chat with Fagin from Oliver Twist or Jacob Marley and Ebenezer Scrooge from A Christmas Carol, you can be sure that these characters will be easy to spot.
A selfie with these infamous characters is one of the best reasons to visit the Franklin Dickens festival and it’s the ideal place for all the family to create some festive spirit in this idyllic Victorian setting. As you stroll around the market stalls, you never know which Dickens character you will stumble across next.
In the heart of downtown Franklin is the Civil War Monument, creating the perfect backdrop for a family photograph with Tiny Tim, Scrooge or any other character, particularly when the iconic Christmas tree is unveiled in this location.
Experience Festive Fun
One of the best experiences at the Dickens of a Christmas festival is the “hands-on” interactive demonstrations that take place throughout the downtown area. A local blacksmith, woodcarving, bookbinding, broom making, yarn spinning and much more continue the Victorian theme.
This is an opportunity for everyone to learn about how things used to be done before technology and the Industrial Revolution shifted the future of manufacturing.
As mentioned, a number of Franklin cuisine options are available courtesy of local food trucks and street food vendors, so be prepared to visit this festival with a hearty appetite. While indulging in your favorite Christmas fare, head over to the stage or the local church to enjoy live entertainment to continue the festive spirit.
A kids zone, festive contests and much more collectively create the perfect family environment that everyone is sure to enjoy. Listen to the Roaming Carolers singing your favorite Christmas tunes and get ready for two opportunities for the whole town to join in and create a “town sing” experience that will provide a memorable experience that everyone will cherish. Or perhaps mingling with the local town crier will spark your festive juices!
Summary
There is no better way to start the Christmas season than by visiting the Dickens of a Christmas festival in Franklin. After visiting this festival for the first time in 2017, it’s fair to say that Heather and I are raring to head back again in the future and hopefully make this a tradition of visiting every year. When you hear that 2018 is the 34th year that this festival has taken place, after visiting for the first time, you will realize exactly why it’s such a popular event.
It’s difficult to highlight any one particular experience but I think that Franklin is the ideal spot to hold such a festival with such a quaint main street providing the perfect backdrop to inspire the Victorian theme. Before heading to this festival, we ask that you make a wish…that it will snow and create the picture perfect experience! We all love a White Christmas right?
Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles County is a charming, hidden gem that for years has frequently been forgotten despite the inherent beauty throughout the location. Venice Beach, located just a short distance from the heart of the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, is a coastal town famous for its iconic boardwalk, yet its the breathtaking sight of the picturesque canals that make this location frequently renowned as the “Venice of America.”
Whether you have been fortunate enough to visit the famous European counterpart in the heart of Italy and see the iconic canals with your own eyes, I am 100% convinced that you will have all seen gorgeous pictures of those romantic gondolas wandering through the Venetian canals. Ok, so Venice Beach, California may not possess such romance but there is a real calming ambiance present throughout this town as you take some time to wander up and down the canal paths.
We spent several hours in Venice Beach, not only exploring these gorgeous canals and spectacular homes that line them but also finding out why this area has frequently been renowned as being “the lost canals”. The history of this area dates back to the early 20th century but we will share more on this later in the post. Hopefully, you will be intrigued as we were to explore this beautiful part of Venice Beach and after reading this post we are confident that your desire to visit this area of California will be pretty strong.
Venice of America – Fort Lauderdale vs California
When you first hear the words “Venice of America,” you could be forgiven for thinking that we are referring to Fort Lauderdale. This area of Florida has long been renowned as being dubbed as such because of the 400+ miles of canals that line this region. Combine this with the fact Fort Lauderdale is home to more yachts than anywhere else in Florida and you can quickly realize why this would be renowned as the American equivalent to Venice, Italy.
But don’t tell anyone in Venice Beach, California that Fort Lauderdale should lay claim to being the Venice of America. In fact, when you visit this part of California, you will soon realize that this is undoubtedly the spot that deserves to have such a title.
History of Venice Beach Canals
When Abbot Kinney started designing the original canals in Venice Beach, he incorporated several references to the Italian counterpart, ranging from the decadent architectural beauty that we associate with Venetian design to the strong desire to launch a cultural renaissance there. Perhaps this was a little exaggerated but as you take some time to stroll around this part of Venice Beach today, I think you could easily argue that he had some success on both fronts!
Kinney’s primary focus was clearly to create an American equivalent to the original Italian city that we are all familiar with. But don’t let this fool you that this was the only purpose. In fact, this intricate canal system played an integral role in his transportation plan for the entire Venice Beach community. What better way to get around and not worry about traffic than by hopping on the canal (or on foot along the canal paths!) – I mean it makes sense right, that’s how you get around cities like Venice and Amsterdam!
So…the plan was put into place and the original canals opened back in 1905! What could go wrong? Unfortunately, plenty! The canals quickly became polluted, primarily because they were poorly maintained and many visitors to the area started to use cars as opposed to public transportation.
A major flaw with this was that Venice Beach had very little in terms of parking spaces and so the local community saw the canals as a hindrance and potentially could be used to create more spaces for the influx of cars.
Congratulated Venice on her foresight in sacrificing sentiment to progress (Governor C.c. Young)
Fast forward to 1929…the above quote essentially tells the story of what happened! That’s right, concrete was deposited into the canals and by the end of the year, all of them were completely paved…except for…that’s right, the remaining six that we see today.
Explore Today’s Canal System
Even though the present day canals in Venice Beach survived the onslaught of concrete in the area, they certainly fell into a category of being in serious disrepair. Locals simply saw these as a nuisance and frequently they were up for discussion in terms of how to incorporate them into Venice Beach urban renewal plans.
Finally, after 40 years of serious neglect, the canals were given a little TLC and the regeneration of them led to the amazing sight we see today. And when you stroll around this area, you cannot help but feel a sense of privilege as you explore an area that was once such a neglected space and yet today, is such a decadent display of beauty.
The canals provide a pleasant space, perfect for serene walks through dense, multi-layered landscapes, unusual and sometimes funky architecture. (Atlas Obscura)
For the architecture aficionados out there, the homes that stretch alongside the remaining Venice Beach canals are a sight to behold. Take a moment to find your perfect house because we are convinced you will likely see at least one that you immediately fall in love with. I joked with Heather that she could pick any house around the canals that she wanted to move in and well, it didn’t take long for her to have a long laundry list of possibilities!
Perhaps dreaming of being able to afford one of the properties around this neighborhood in Venice Beach is a long shot but there is nothing wrong with having aspirations right? Regardless of how realistic this is, enjoying some time in this serene environment is a relaxing experience that everyone visiting Venice Beach should look forward to.
Other Reasons to Visit Venice Beach
Although this post is primarily about the Venice Beach canal system, you won’t want to leave this coastal hotspot without venturing to the beach to enjoy epic scenes of the Pacific Ocean.
We already referenced the infamous “boardwalk” earlier but that is certainly another iconic attraction in the neighborhood that should attract your attention. From the best local cuisine to a myriad of local shops, The Venice Beach Boardwalk is the ultimate attraction in Southern California.
In summary, packed into its one and a half mile, the boardwalk has more diversity in demographics and retail then probably anywhere else in the world. (veniceBeach.com)
Other things to do in the area include the quirky yet incredibly cool Mosaic Tile House. This 1940’s home is an experience you likely won’t have ever seen before and if you are a fan of Gaudi’s Spanish architecture, you will LOVE this spot! By the way, this is a FREE attraction so be sure to have this on your radar.
Do we have any avid TOMS shoe owners reading this post? I know one for sure and that’s Heather! Venice Beach is home to the flagship TOMS Store and this venue is frequently used to host local community networking events because of the coffee shop and juice cooler that is part of the store.
Summary
Visitors to Los Angeles and the surrounding area may not immediately think about visiting Venice Beach but for those looking for a relaxing experience while in the area, this is certainly a place that should be on the radar. Whether you only have one day in Los Angeles or plan on spending more time around this part of California, a visit to Venice Beach is definitely worth the effort.
Reflecting the traditional style of Venice, Italy, California’s equivalent is today a haven of modern, luxury homes lining the canals.
You may not have the opportunity to see a romantic gondola passing under the bridges but what you will enjoy is a relaxing atmosphere perfect to just get away from the hustle and bustle of LA life. We thoroughly enjoyed our brief visit to Venice Beach and the tough part is trying to convince Heather that those homes along the canals are just a little bit out of our budget!! We can all dream though!
When you think about climbing to the highest point in any location, it’s fair to say that you will be doing this for one of many possible reasons. Are you looking to stay in shape? Do you want to conquer a bucket list of “high” mountains? Or perhaps, if you are like us, you are simply hoping to experience the breathtaking panoramic scenes from the summit that will reward you for the effort to reach the top. Arcadia Valley in the heart of Missouri may not be the first area you think about venturing to on a hiking excursion but having visited this area a couple of times recently, we want to share a few reasons why this should be on your radar.
Taum Sauk Mountain is the highest point in Missouri, so during one of our recent trips to St. Louis, we decided to check out this location in hope of finding some spectacular scenery across the Saint Francois Mountains in the Ozarks.
Although this is the highest point, there are plenty of other attractions in the Arcadia Valley including the spectacular sight of Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park and Elephant Rock State Park to name just a couple of attractions we are going to cover.
The Ozarks are certainly an attractive region in Missouri and Arkansas but I strongly recommend considering the best time of the year to visit in order to fully appreciate the beauty here. Our visit was in early Spring when there was very little color and I think the Fall would certainly be the perfect time to enjoy the natural beauty here. Let’s take a look at our adventure as we embarked on a journey to the top of Missouri!
A weekend in St Louis may also lead to spending a couple of days in the Ozarks and this is definitely a great part of Missouri to explore.
How to Reach the Arcadia Valley?
If you are an avid hiker or love checking off the highest points from your bucket list, you will know that many “high points” can be either inaccessible or very difficult to reach. This is definitely NOT the case with Taum Sauk Mountain in Missouri. In fact, it’s probably one of the easiest across all 50 US states!
The Arcadia Valley includes the towns of Arcadia, Ironton, and Pilot Knob but it’s the access to the gorgeous Ozark Mountains that makes this such an attractive region in Missouri.
If you are planning on staying close to the Arcadia Valley and prefer not to take the “camping” route, why not consider staying in nearby Farmington, MO.
There are a number of hotel options available and from here, you are just a short distance from all the attractions we reference below.
For those of you interested specifically in reaching “the top of Missouri”, here are the directions you should follow.
Located about 100 miles south of St. Louis, Taum Sauk can easily be reached by taking US Route 67 to Farmington;
Follow Missouri Route 221 to Pilot Knob;
Head along MO Route 21 to Taum Sauk Mountain State Park.
It is a well-signposted route and until the final stretch (only a mile or two) it is all tarmac road so you don’t have to worry about “offroading” or dealing with gravel/dirt roads. Both Johnson’s Shut-Ins and Elephant Rock State Park are within a short driving distance of Taum Sauk (30-45 minutes).
There are numerous overlooks on this route that we strongly recommend experiencing especially when we tell you that the culmination of this route is not necessarily what you might be expecting!
The majority of the climb to Taum Sauk Mountain can be accomplished by vehicle and it’s only the final stretch once you reach the State Park that you have to park your car and take a short hike to the summit.
Arcadia Valley Scenic Overlooks
The drive throughout Arcadia Valley and the journey to the summit of Taum Sauk Mountain is potentially more attractive than the actual experience once you arrive at the highest point. There are numerous spots that you will want to pull over on the side of the road and just admire the natural beauty surrounding you.
There are also a couple of overlooks once you reach the final part of the drive that actually provides further information on the view and some iconic attractions you can see in the distance.
Located in the St. Francois Mountains, the park’s wooded areas and rocky glades provide a beautiful, solitary experience for hikers.
For those of you that are not particularly adventurous and simply want to appreciate as much beauty as possible from the confines of your vehicle, Missouri’s highest point is one of the more rewarding experiences if you have limitations restricting you from hiking around.
But the real beauty starts when you put on your favorite hiking shoes and head out into the Ozarks to appreciate those “wooded areas and rocky glades” as the Missouri State Parks website refers to them.
The St. Francois Mountains offer some of the most spectacular scenery throughout the state of Missouri. As you will later see with some of our other recommended spots worth visiting close to Taum Sauk Mountain, this unspoiled landscape is epitomized by rugged natural beauty.
The various overlooks provide ample opportunities for visitors to appreciate this landscape and it’s no surprise that this is a popular spot among local hikers looking for an idyllic paradise of solitude.
Taum Sauk – The Top of Missouri
I am sure you have probably been waiting for the ultimate experience of reaching the highest point in Missouri.
Unfortunately, it’s a little bit of a disappointment and nothing at all like we expected. After parking our vehicle, we followed the directions through a wooded area in search of the highest point.
The information plaza suggested that the “highest point” could be found by following the picturesque trail for just over 1,000 feet. Surely there was a spectacular overlook awaiting us when we reached the end of this trail?
Actually, when we arrived at the highest point in Missouri, we honestly had no idea about it. In the heart of this wooded forest, a large rock with a plaque signifies the tallest point.
I recall looking at Heather and asking her if she thought this was serious or someone was playing a joke on visitors to the area. Nope, the plaque is pretty much it and when you arrive here, you can grab a stamp for your passport book of state parks and remind yourselves that you reached the summit by visiting a rock in the middle of a forest.
After stumbling across this “rock,” we soon realized that exploring this part of Missouri was much more than just finding the highest point. From this point, you can start hiking deep into the Ozarks to enjoy some spectacular scenery.
The Mina Sauk Falls Trail is a three mile, moderately rugged hike that offers visitors the opportunity to the tallest waterfall in the state. The 132-foot drop over a series of rocky ledges is definitely a hike worth experiencing for any avid waterfall aficionados out there. If you continue along this trail, you will reach Devil’s Tollgate, an 8-foot wide passage through volcanic rhyolite that stands 30-foot high!
Taum Sauk Mountain Information
Taum Sauk Mountain State Park features a campground containing 12 basic campsites for those looking to stay overnight or explore more of the Ozarks. Drinking water and a vault toilet are available so although it’s certainly not luxury accommodation, it’s a typical camping option that allows visitors to the area an option to stay in the heart of the St. Francois Mountains.
An on-site picnic area is also available along with a variety of information points which provide a valuable resource if you are visiting with little to no knowledge of Taum Sauk and the surrounding wilderness.
The Taum Sauk section of the Ozark Trail is a 35-mile stretch with numerous trails that take aspiring hikers over historic mountains that offer amazing vistas and overlooks and of course, for those that love waterfalls as much as we do, you have the opportunity to see the highest waterfall in Missouri along this section.
Johnson’s Shut-Ins
The rugged terrain of the St. Francois Mountains continues as you head over from Taum Sauk to another popular part of this region – Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park.
The history of Johnson’s Shut-Ins dates back over a billion years ago when the igneous rocks, bright pink granites, and blue-gray rhyolite rocks, were formed from a large amount of volcanic activity.
The East fork of the Black River flows to the north of this state park and as the river passes through the resistant igneous rock, the valley narrows creating steep sided “shut-ins.”
The Shut-Ins are undoubtedly the popular attraction here for visitors to enjoy a quick dip in the heat of summer. But there are plenty of other reasons to visit, including a number of scenic hiking trails and an observation deck overlooking the scenic pothole shut-ins and the valley beyond.
For those that are just passing through and don’t want to spend all day hiking around, be sure to allocate at least one hour to experience the infamous Shut-Ins. The short paved trail passes along the Black River and offers picturesque views throughout the valley and during our visit, the rapids that form as the river passes through the rhyolite rocks.
At the end of the boardwalk, there are a number of steps with more overlooks that are equally fascinating while the end of this trail offers the true adventure seekers the opportunity to wander into the Ozark wilderness by following the blue blazing on the trees.
Elephant Rocks State Park
Perhaps the quirkiest attraction in this part of the Ozark Mountains is Elephant Rocks State Park. The giant boulders scattered across this landscape date over 1.5 billion years and today, provide visitors of all ages an opportunity to clamber over and enjoy spectacular views across the Ozarks.
Hiking trails are yet again at the forefront of the best activities here, in particular, the short Engine House Ruins trail which runs through some rugged, natural terrain before arriving at an 1890s engine house that was used to repair trains that passed through this part of Missouri.
But the real attraction at Elephant Rocks State Park are the granite boulders that everyone wants to enjoy. The hiking trails throughout the park lead you to some of the most spectacular overlooks among these boulders in the heart of the Arcadia Valley.
Summary
Although the journey to the top of Taum Sauk Mountain in the Arcadia Valley may end with a tinge of disappointment depending on what you were expecting, it’s well worth visiting this part of Missouri to appreciate the natural beauty throughout the rugged landscape.
Johnson’s Shut-Ins State Park was probably our favorite spot throughout the valley as the views over the river and rapids was breathtaking. It’s possible that we visited at the perfect time of the year when the river was high but regardless, the scenery around the Ozarks is spectacular and truly a hidden gem in the heart of Missouri.
I will let you determine the beauty or value in visiting the specific point noted as the “top of Missouri” but I think it’s fair to say your motives should be far beyond seeing this one spot and your experiences throughout the mountains will far outweigh your impression at that one solitary rock signifying the highest point.
Do you have any desire to climb to the highest points in states? Do you enjoy hiking and do you have a preference over the landscape that you hike?
There is something quite magical about waterfalls. Whether it’s the relaxing sound of water trickling over the edge or the powerful rushing flow that we associate with some of the world’s strongest falls, the inherent beauty of these natural features are what makes these such an appealing attraction for us as we travel the world. During our recent trip to the UK, we experienced camping in Devon, which is something we would strongly recommend to anyone with aspirations of enjoying the best of the UK! In the heart of this county is Dartmouth National Park and it’s here where you can find one of England’s tallest waterfalls – Canonteign Falls!
I’m not going to like, I have a huge passion for exploring waterfalls, regardless of their size. England may not be known for its waterfalls, likely because in comparison to some of their global counterparts they are relatively small, but this should take nothing away from the breathtaking beauty they possess.
Canonteign Falls wasn’t an attraction we initially had planned on our Devon itinerary but after visiting the local tourism office, we quickly realized this was a landmark we couldn’t afford to miss. After reading this post, we are convinced that you will likely feel the same way!
one of the most idyllic places on earth
Canonteign Falls Location
Standing at a height of 220 feet, Canonteign Falls is about as majestic as they come in England but honestly, it’s all about the overall experience of visiting this waterfall that makes it such a magical adventure. Located in the heart of the Teign Valley and Dartmoor National Park near Chudleigh, this is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in South Devon.
For the adventure seekers out there that love to hike and explore “off the beaten path”, the hiking trails throughout the wooded area surrounding Canonteign Falls are an experience that will quickly catapult this to the top of any adventure bucket lists.
Location wise, Canonteign Falls is easily accessible from either Exeter or Torquay, dependent on where you are staying. Just a short drive through the country roads of South Devon, be prepared for some pretty narrow lanes and potential obstructions along the route.
Unfortunately, Canonteign Falls is only open at certain times of the year and is very much dependent on the weather. Generally, this attraction is open between March and November, though there may be certain days where it is closed due to adverse weather conditions.
We always recommend calling ahead of time before venturing along those country roads with the potential of disappointment. However, South Devon is renowned for being the “English Riviera” with plenty of awesome weather so there will likely be a day that you can experience Canonteign Falls!
Opening Times
Low Season Monday to Friday – 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday and Sunday – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
High Season Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission Prices
Adults – £7.95 Children (Age 5-16) – £6.25
***We strongly recommend checking out the Canonteign Falls website for discounts (there are frequently 10% offers available).***
Hiking Trail to Waterfalls
After paying the admission fee and grabbing a map of the area, get ready to head out on an adventure along a self-guided hiking trail to the waterfall. We were told that it would take anywhere from 60-90 minutes to complete the trail, with plenty of stops needed to capture pictures of the gorgeous falls and admire the flora and fauna throughout the wooded area.
Visitors to Canonteign Falls will experience two sets of the waterfalls – one natural and one man-made! The spectacular Lady Exmouth Falls were built under her direction in 1890, though the natural falls are equally as breathtaking.
Lady Exmouth Falls are the highest manmade waterfalls in England, measuring 70m (over 220 feet). It’s no surprise that this waterfall is renowned as one of the most picturesque spots for avid photographers visiting Devon.
Clampitt Falls is the first set of falls that you stumble across during the early part of the hiking trail. Although they may not be quite as tall or powerful as their man-made counterpart, this natural phenomenon is a glorious spectacle well worthy of spending some time to explore and enjoy the relaxing surroundings.
The trail is well kept and relatively easy to hike, regardless of your hiking skills. There are a few spots where you have to climb steps that get pretty steep, but overall it’s a great workout with plenty of photo opportunities to keep your mind away from feeling tired.
Woodland Wildlife Encounters
The beauty of exploring this area of Dartmouth National Park is that there is so much more to experience than just the gorgeous waterfalls.
You never know what wildlife encounters you will have as you wander through the woodland, while for those of you that have a keen interest in floral beauty, there are plenty of your English favorites to be found throughout this landscape.
The landscape around Canonteign Falls provides the perfect natural habitat for robins, blackbirds, finches, woodpeckers, nuthatches, and wrens, while you may also be fortunate enough to spot a deer or two in the vicinity of the waterfalls.
Relaxation by the Lakes
Canonteign Falls is home to seven distinctive lakes, each offering a relaxing location to enjoy the natural surroundings. The Lower Lakes is the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing walk, particularly if you are not too keen on hiking through the woodland area to reach the falls themselves.
A myriad of wildlife can also be found residing in this part of the landscape and honestly, I don’t blame them because this truly epitomizes everything you associate with Devonshire beauty. Wildlife includes kingfishers, bats, butterflies, wildfowl and otter but don’t be surprised if you stumble across another species while enjoying the solitude of Canonteign Falls.
For those of you that enjoy taking a book to relax in the outdoors, there is the perfect spot known as “Poet’s Corner” located near the grassy meadows that surround these lakes. A circular bench can be found located next to an ancient oak tree, providing the perfect backdrop to allow yourselves to be whisked away in your favorite novel.
Summary
Visiting Canonteign Falls is more than just experiencing one of England’s tallest waterfalls. Yes, the views are breathtaking once you reach the summit of the climb through the wooded area but it’s everything you encounter throughout the hike that makes this such an incredible attraction worth visiting.
Although you will be told it will take around 60-90 minutes to complete the hike, I would argue that you could easily spend double this amount of time if you chose to, simply because of the spectacular scenery and desire to take in the amazing Devonshire landscapes.
This is the first significant waterfall that we have visited in the UK and if this is anything to go by, we are in for a real treat when it comes to exploring some of the other iconic waterfalls across the country.
Do you enjoy exploring waterfalls? Which is your favorite and do you have any “hidden gems” that you would recommend we visit?
Looking for the best coffee in Nashville? You have come to the right place! We almost consider ourselves to be “locals” in Music City with the frequency that we head across I-40 to experience this beautiful metropolis in the heart of Tennessee. Each time we visit Nashville, we look to experience something unique and the beauty about this rapidly growing city is that it’s always easy to find something new.
Whether you enjoy the artisanal experience inside a local coffee shop or simply prefer to indulge in your favorite espresso, it’s fair to say the following collection offers a distinctive blend of taste, aroma, ambiance and much more.
If you read any of our other posts highlighting the best coffee shops in Memphis or our preferred coffee houses in Oklahoma City, you will know that we love visiting local spots to experience more than just coffee. It’s about the coffee shop experience!
Nashville plus the aforementioned coffee shop experience is a great combination. Not only can you enjoy the very best of Music City by exploring some of the awesome downtown attractions in Nashville, but you can also re-energize your batteries by grabbing your favorite espresso beverage at one of the many coffee shops.
Best Coffee in Nashville
One constant that we always love to enjoy is finding great local coffee shops. And when I tell you that Nashville is home to an eclectic, diverse blend of amazing coffee shops, that truly is an understatement. There are SO MANY amazing local spots to choose from that honestly, it would be a crime to see yourself heading through the doors of Starbucks.
Ok, ok we are guilty of it too…there is nothing quite like the convenience of knowing a Starbucks is right around the corner. But this post is NOT about this global conglomerate, rather it’s focused solely on identifying some of the best coffee shops in the Nashville area.
From the heart of downtown Nashville to the surrounding suburbs such as Franklin, there are plenty of local gems to choose from and there are many more that we look forward to visiting in the near future. Whether you heading on a long weekend trip to Nashville or simply passing through, it’s fair to say that one of these coffee houses won’t be too far from your travels and should definitely be on your radar.
Bongo Java
Fido
Honest Coffee Roasters
Milk and Honey
Falcon Coffee Bar
Red Bicycle Coffee and Crepes
Crema
Steadfast Coffee
8th and Roast
Dose Coffee
Barista Parlor
The Well Coffeehouse
Just Love Coffee
Bongo Java
Let’s start with downtown Nashville. If you are planning on staying in the heartbeat of Nashville, look no further than the amazing Omni Nashville Hotel which is perfectly situated to explore some of the best attractions across the city…and of course, home to one of the best coffee shops – Bongo Java.
Bongo Java, established in 1993, is “Nashville’s oldest and most honored coffeehouse.” This brand is based out of Nashville and has several locations across the city but our experience was inside the Omni Hotel where you can enjoy breakfast and your favorite cup of Joe before venturing out into the city.
The beauty of Bongo Java is that everything is so unique and unlike any other coffee house that we have visited. The diverse menu offers such distinctive flavors and they arguably push the boundaries of creating eclectic espresso beverages to the limit by combining ingredients that perhaps you normally wouldn’t associate with a traditional coffee shop.
Let’s take a look at one of our favorite examples – the Broadway. Advertised as “Whisper Creek Tennessee sipping cream caramel, espresso, and milk” this may just sound like a glorified caramel macchiato but when you taste it, you realize that there must be some hidden secret inside the drink that makes it taste so good.
Need a little more convincing? Take a look at this menu from Bongo Java East Nashville.
Fido
One of the best neighborhoods around Nashville for a great breakfast is the Hillsboro Village area. Head over to the Pancake Pantry and you will quickly see why this place has such a glowing reputation. But the Hillsboro neighborhood is more than just this one spot, in fact, we would argue that this is just one reason to explore.
From amazing street art to an awesome coffee shop, this is one of the neighborhoods you cannot afford to miss. Wait…did I mention an awesome coffee shop? That’s right, although technically part of the Bongo Java collection, we would argue that “Fido” deserves to be on its own when thinking about the top coffee shops across Music City.
Fido blurs the line between upscale coffeehouse and casual restaurant
So, what makes Fido such an amazing coffee shop? Aside from having a really cool interior that is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, the eclectic menu is particularly appealing and will certainly satisfy everyone’s coffee needs.
However, for the “non-coffee” drinkers out there (come on guys, you need to try some of these local coffee offerings and you will quickly be converted!), there are plenty of diverse options available.
Unsurprisingly, the name Fido comes from the fact this building is a converted coffee shop. Don’t worry, you won’t be stumbling across any feline friends during your visit but you will certainly be tempted to experience many of the beverage options!
Honest Coffee Roasters
Our journey around Nashville’s best coffee shops saw us venture south to the beautiful town of Franklin. Technically not in the city of Nashville, we still think the coffee shop we stumbled across here should be included in the collection of best spots to visit in Music City.
Honest Coffee Roasters is located inside the Factory, a renovated former stove works building that is now home to an eclectic blend of local eateries, boutique shops and of course, this delectable coffee shop. For those of you that have traveled around the South, you may have heard of Honest Coffee Roasters given that they have a location in downtown Huntsville, Alabama which is equally awesome.
Looking for the best things to do in Franklin during a weekend getaway? Aside from experiencing the awesome civil war history landmarks and artifacts across the town to learn all about the Battle of Franklin, pay a visit to Honest Coffee Roasters to enjoy a delicious latte or other perfectly manicured espresso beverages.
When you watch the folks creating your coffee, pay close attention to the intricate details and precision that is put into manicuring your beverage – that’s what they call it an art an a “meticulously roasted” concoction.
Milk & Honey
One of the trendiest coffee shops in Nashville can be found in the thriving neighborhood known as The Gulch. Milk and Honey is a hip coffeehouse that offers an eclectic blend of coffee options but is perhaps one of the best spots for visitors to Nashville that are looking for a choice of either espresso-based beverages or alternative options.
Whether you are visiting Milk and Honey to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner, there is a vast array of options available on the menu. A light snack featuring a decadent cupcake or perhaps the tantalizing prospect of picking your favorite gelato flavor is something you won’t want to miss at this cool coffee shop.
Artisanal style epitomizes everything inside Milk and Honey, so you can be sure that everything you order will be freshly made and handcrafted to perfection. It’s not just about the presentation of course, but this coffee shop emphasizes the importance of ensuring the critical details are not left untouched.
Falcon Coffee
The best coffee shops can frequently be found in the weirdest places. Who would have thought that an old church would transform into the perfect location to house a quirky yet amazing coffeehouse?
There is an eclectic, growing blend of distinctive neighborhoods in Nashville and one, in particular, appears to be heading in the right direction. The Wedgewood Houston area is one that is seeing constant growth and transformation and with coffee shops like the Falcon Coffee Bar moving into the heart of the neighborhood, it will hopefully see continuous development in the future.
Home to both the Flamingo Cocktail Club and Falcon Coffee Bar, this former church offers the perfect “opposites attract” philosophy as you walk through the front door into the coffee area before heading into the back for a trendy cocktail area that comes alive in the evenings.
Combine these concepts with the fact that this actually used to be a church and well, you can see why I use the term “quirky”…it’s hardly the quintessential coffeehouse but it actually works really well. Falcon Coffee accommodates every visitor, from coffee lovers to tea connoisseurs and even has a variety of vegetarian/vegan options to ensure everyone is taken care of.
The Red Bicycle Coffee and Crepes
Nashville is home to various styles of coffee shops, each with a unique twist and aesthetic appearance that attracts locals and visitors alike. When it comes to the boutique, artisanal style coffeehouses, the Red Bicycle Coffee and Crepes company is one of the very best in the city.
As you have probably established, the Germantown neighborhood of Nashville is a pretty competitive area with a number of awesome coffee shops to choose from but Red Bicycle Coffee and Crepes certainly offers something distinctive to help it stand out from the crowd.
Although Red Bicycle has two other locations, Germantown is the flagship store with perhaps the best curb appeal of any coffee shop across Nashville. Think about a local coffee shop in Italy or France and well, I think this store wouldn’t look out of place in either country.
Once inside, visitors can enjoy everything from traditional drip coffee to a wide selection of creative espresso beverages. Of course, the pièce de résistance is the “crepe” selection. From the sweet bananas foster to a savory breakfast crepe, there is a little something for everyone’s palate.
Crema
Nashville is blessed to have a bunch of eclectic local coffee shops, each with a unique aspect that allows them to stand out from the rest of the competition.
Another of our favorite spots is Crema, not only because of the awesome coffee options but also because of the location in close proximity to Nashville’s downtown vicinity, also known as the heartbeat of Music City!
Do One Thing…Do It Well
In terms of prime time location in the heart of Nashville, Crema is undoubtedly the best with incredible views across the Cumberland River and the downtown neighborhood.
Crema’s focus on “doing one thing” and “doing it well” emphasizes the integral desire to have a perfect experience with the customer. Every visitor to Crema or any other coffee shop for that matter is not necessarily a connoisseur. But this shouldn’t stop a coffeehouse creating an environment conducive to encouraging a return visit.
That’s what it’s all about right? Crema certainly does this on various counts! Great coffee, awesome customer service from the baristas who make an effort to make you feel welcome and finally, the perfect location to admire the beautiful city of Nashville!
Steadfast Coffee
If you love a coffee shop based on its modern appearance and decor, there is no better spot than Steadfast Coffee located in the Germantown neighborhood. Trendy, modern, vibrant and colorful are all words that perfectly describe this coffee shop.
This is the perfect spot to visit at any time of the year, with a gorgeous outdoor patio area providing the ideal setting for a summer’s evening while the modern indoor area offers plenty of seating.
The focal point inside Steadfast is undoubtedly the bar area located in the center of the coffee shop. I love how this immediately captures your attention and regardless of where you are seated, you are never far away from watching the local barista expertly master the next beverage.
While we do everything in our power to roast and serve the best coffee possible, coffee itself isn’t actually the core of our company. It’s our guests. (Steadfast coffee)
When you read that Steadfast’s philosophy is focused solely on the “guest experience”, it’s no surprise that this spot has been voted “Best in Tennessee” as voted by Food and Wine Magazine. Yes, the coffee may come second but don’t let that fool you because the menu items here will not disappoint.
I enjoyed an Iced Butterscotch Latte which on its own sounds delicious but that’s only part of the story. I noticed on the menu that it’s advertised as being “rested” – what does that mean? I inquired and was told that the Steadfast baristas make a batch of these lattes (espresso, milk, and butterscotch), jar them and allow them to sit in the refrigerator until ordered. I can 100% attest that this unique approach has an amazing effect on the drink!
We visited during the fall season, so Heather was able to sample the “seasonal” Spiced Apple Cider, the perfect accompaniment to get some respite from a chilly day in Nashville.
8th and Roast
Gourmet coffee aficionados who love the “hand-poured” experience are going to fall in love with 8th and Roast’s two locations found in Nashville. Whether you are visiting the original on 8th Street or prefer the newer spot on Charlotte Avenue, this trendy coffee shop is definitely one of the best options in terms of offering the best coffee.
For those of you passing through Nashville’s International Airport, you can also enjoy freshly brewed coffee at 8th and Roast inside the terminal. From creative espressos to traditional drip coffee, 8th and Roast has a diverse menu offering that will leave every coffee lover wanting a return visit.
I enjoyed one of the best caramel lattes I have sampled anywhere (and I have sampled A LOT of these around the world!) and we both indulged in two pastries to help convince us that 8th and Roast is the perfect place to enjoy breakfast and start your day exploring Nashville.
Dose Coffee
If you are looking for a cool, ultra-modern and lively coffee shop, look no further than Dose Coffee. Serving “exceptional tea and coffee” since 2009, Dose is a popular coffee shop for good reason. Unlike many local coffee shops that frequently have limited menu options, Dose is the exact opposite with an extensive coffee selection and dining options available.
Cuisine options are available throughout the day and whether you are looking to sample one of the freshly made bakery items or need something with a little more substance, you can be sure the friendly baristas will have something perfectly prepared for you.
Barista Parlor
We have been fortunate to visit all of the above mentioned coffee shops across Nashville but we felt that this post wouldn’t be the same without adding a “local’s” perspective. Thanks to our friend Ashley who is a Nashville native, she has provided her own following opinion on what she considers to be one of the best coffee shops in Nashville.
If there’s one thing Nashville has a shortage of, it’s definitely not coffee shops. With so many choices, it’s hard to know where to go or which one is the best. In my honest opinion, most of them are amazing and have something to offer so I can’t really choose an absolute favorite but I do love Barista Parlor.
With five locations since just 2011, they’re growing fast! I’ve only been to the Germantown location but I love how big it is! It’s perfect for sprawling out and getting lots of work done or for a good dose of people watching. The huge windows allow for lots of natural light too!
The Germantown location is perfect for grabbing a coffee following a visit to the Farmer’s Market, Bicentennial Park or any one of the restaurants in the neighborhood’s growing foodie scene.
Be sure to check out Ashley’s travel blog at Wild Hearted for more inspiring stories of Nashville and beyond!
Although we haven’t visited the Germantown location of Barista Parlor that Ashley referenced, we did take some time to visit another of their flagship shops in East Nashville. I can certainly see why Ashley considers this to be one of the best around Nashville because the unique decor and overall ambiance makes this the perfect place to relax for a few hours with your favorite drink.
The Well Coffeehouse
Stumbling across great coffee shops is one of best experiences when you are exploring a city. It’s no surprise to hear that the coffee market is rapidly increasing and one thing we love about Nashville is that there are so many to choose from.
From local coffeehouses to chain establishments and those in between, we enjoy experiencing all of the above.
The Well Coffeehouse is one of those “in between” establishments given that there are several locations scattered across Nashville’s diverse neighborhoods.
We visited the location in Brentwood, south of the main city center and immediately fell in love with this place. If you love spacious, trendy coffeehouses, The Well Coffeehouse is certainly going to check all of the boxes.
We love coffee. We love people even more.
From a variety of seasonal drinks, including the wonderfully named “Fan-Figg’n-Tastic” and “Straight Up Buttercup”, to a number of hand-crafted pour overs, coffee lovers are not going to be short of options here. And don’t worry, for the non-coffee drinkers, there are plenty of other options available.
Just Love Coffee
Every time we visit Nashville, we find something new and unique and our recent visit to Music City was no different when we stumbled across Just Love Coffee. The beauty of this coffee shop is that it is way more than just your traditional coffeehouse.
Offering a diverse menu of breakfast, lunch and dinner items, in conjunction with the myriad of coffee options available, Just Love Coffee epitomizes the “one stop shop” experience for people looking to enjoy their favorite espresso while grabbing a bite to eat.
The signature items at Just Love Coffee are the delicious waffle concoctions, so be prepared to have your sweet tooth ready before visiting any of the franchise locations around Nashville. We couldn’t resist trying the cinnamon roll waffles though I have to admit, there were plenty of other options on the menu that we were tempted by.
The “Toffee Coffee” featuring a “delectable combination of toffee nut, caramel, and dark chocolate” was irresistible and Heather opted for the traditional Hot Chocolate…you hear that presentation is everything but it’s fair to say that although they hit the nail on the head with that, the taste was equally amazing!
Summary
Nashville’s coffee scene is definitely an underrated attraction for this vibrant city. Although you may never visit a destination solely based on their coffee shops, it’s one of those things that if you love your morning coffee, you will quickly come to appreciate the plethora of options available throughout this city.
Favorite coffee shop from this list of awesome spots? That’s a really tough one because each one has something distinctive that makes it appealing for visitors. I think it’s ultimately dependent on what you are looking for on a given day.
If you need somewhere to work, places such as Crema, Steadfast Coffee, and Barista Parlor are likely going to be popular spots while if you are focused purely on awesome coffee, well 8th and Roast is probably our favorite.
It’s fair to say, you cannot go wrong with any of these awesome coffee shops and just like many of our posts reviewing spots across a destination, it’s barely touching the surface as there are many others that you should consider visiting. If you have visited any other Nashville coffee shops that you recommend, please comment below!
You have probably established by now that we love street art. There is something quite captivating about the artistic creativity that is generated through the various murals that are designed throughout a location. We love it so much now that whenever we travel, street art is generally pretty high up on our list of desired things to see in a destination. This was certainly the case when we headed to the heart of Texas to explore the vibrant capital city of Austin. When it comes to street art in Austin, this city epitomizes everything there is to love about weird and wonderful creative design.
What is it about street art that makes it such a cool experience worth taking time out of your itinerary to explore? In our opinion, it is a great way for local designers to showcase their masterpieces and perhaps become known around the world like iconic street artists such as Banksy, Vhils, and others. But it’s more than just becoming famous! It’s about utilizing a medium to perfectly reflect the city and allow locals the opportunity to voice how they perceive their “home”.
Our love of street art has seen us experience a distinctive blend of designs not only in the US but across the globe. Street art in Oklahoma City may not be the first place you think about experiencing this but it’s definitely a place you should consider visiting. Memphis is arguably our home city and the Memphis street art scene is undoubtedly one that everyone should experience.
But this post is all about Austin, Texas and perhaps after reading this, you will understand why the slogan “Keep Austin Weird” is more relevant than you may first imagine.
Street Art in Austin
The Austin street art scene offers an eclectic blend of artistic creativity, ranging from some of the best murals we have seen across the globe to some lesser-known gems that are ingenious and perfectly reflect the beautiful Texas capital.
Whether you are venturing away from the heart of downtown Austin to the thriving Domain neighborhood or perhaps staying around the heartbeat of the city, there are plenty of awesome murals to keep you occupied.
Our visit to Austin saw us spend most of our time in the downtown area and unsurprisingly, we stumbled across a myriad of amazing murals that immediately made us realize that Austin is arguably the “street art capital of the world.”
An ambitious claim but after admiring the various murals, I’m sure you would agree that this is a pretty strong contender for this coveted title (not sure if there is technically such a thing but we personally have our favorite cities and Austin is definitely near the very top!)
Although the majority of this post will focus on downtown Austin, we did venture outside of the central business district to explore some gems in the Eastern side of the city and I think it’s fair to say we found a pretty diverse collection.
6th Street Murals
From the intersection of 6th Street and I-35, all the way to 601 W. 6th Street, the street art scene is definitely thriving in this part of Austin. Of course, 6th Street in Austin is renowned for being a collegiate party scene with plenty of dive bars, local stores, and recognition as being the “live music capital of the world.” But our visit to 6th street was in a quieter sense as we opted to explore the artistic beauty at various intersections.
The extremely colorful mural highlighting Austin as being the “music capital” and “1839” as being the year this city was founded is definitely one of our favorites across the city.
For the feline lovers, the mural depicting a cat relaxing in the city on East 6th St & SB I-35 Access Rd is definitely going to be a popular attraction.
As you wander along 6th Street, take a moment to hop inside Voodoo Doughnuts (be sure to bring cash as they do not accept any cards!) and indulge in one (or more) delicious sweet treats…you will not regret it!
The difficult choice is deciding which to pick as there is quite the collection available. This is the perfect way to enjoy a quick “sugar rush” to energize you as your journey seeking out Austin’s epic street art scene continues.
It’s very possible that after the donut, it may have the reverse effect but I think after finishing this post, you will be intrigued enough to continue. Before venturing too far along 6th Street, admire the mural depicting Texas’ stereotypical greeting “Howdy Austin”!
I’m sure we have all seen those typical Western movies or perhaps some of the famous characters from episodes such as Dallas and well, it’s fair to say that Austin typifies the pride throughout the Lone Star State!
Murals South of Downtown Austin
For those of you willing to put on your favorite walking shoes, take a stroll across the Colorado River (that’s right, a small part of this iconic river passes through downtown Austin) along Congress Avenue and get ready for a real treat when it comes to flamboyant street art. Perhaps Austin’s most iconic mural can be found in this neighborhood, although the one later in this post may arguably be just as popular.
“Greetings from Austin” is a mural located at 1720 South 1st Street and is undoubtedly an image you will frequently see on Texas postcards or Instagrammable selfies. We couldn’t resist the temptation and honestly, it’s one of those moments you should cherish because this is one EPIC mural!
Quintessential Austin can be found in the above mural but the future of street art could well be depicted in the following mural. Welcome to Austin Ron Burgundy and just as states in the mural…
You stay classy austin!!
East Downtown Artistic Creativity
If you are visiting Austin during college football season, we highly recommend trying to head over to Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium to watch the Texas Longhorns in action in front of 100,000 spectators. Regardless of your interest in collegiate sports, it’s certainly an experience even if you just drive by on game day as we did during our adventure to find more street art.
Whether you choose to pay attention to the rowdy football stadium or simply continue your journey, the moment you arrive in the neighborhood full of awesome street art, your thoughts will focus solely on this amazing creativity on display. The plethora of murals in such a concentrated space means that the Eastern side of Austin’s downtown neighborhood is one of the highlight areas that should be on your radar.
For the couples out there that want to show their love for each other, the iconic “You’re My Butter Half” is definitely a popular spot and of course, we couldn’t resist grabbing a quick selfie here.
But this is just the start of the murals and I highly recommend just walking around and stumbling across the various displays around the neighborhood.
A diverse variety of restaurants, ranging from local vegan spots to traditional Texas barbecue are available throughout this neighborhood, so be sure to grab a bite to eat if you are looking to sample something authentically local.
Ready for dessert? Head to the amazing Spun Ice Cream and watch as your chosen flavor is spun, unlike anything else you have experienced before!
Summary
Austin has quickly jumped to the very top of our list of amazing street art destinations. The beauty of this city is that it is so unique and unlike any other city across the United States. If you have ever visited New Orleans, you will know exactly what I am talking about in terms of “quirkiness” but when it comes to Austin, well the locals there just love to thrive on the “weird” stereotype that floats around this city.
The reality is that we barely touched the surface in terms of things to do in Austin and only saw a very brief glimpse of the extensive blend of street art on display. The iconic “Greetings from Austin” mural is probably my favorite though I think Heather would argue the above image is one that perfectly reflects our relationship.
If you have any plans for visiting Texas, we strongly recommend adding Austin to your itinerary…you won’t regret it!
Europe is home to many amazing historical landmarks, architectural masterpieces and of course, possesses a rich cultural heritage unlike anywhere else in the world. One of the best ways to appreciate and better understand this amazing continent is to explore the diverse blend of castles, each with their own unique story and impact on the nation they reside. When it comes to the best castles in Europe, well it’s a tough decision because there are so many amazing ones to choose from.
Whether you are experiencing historic Windsor Castle or York Castle in England or the picture perfect Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany, you can be sure that Europe is home to an amazing collection of breathtaking landmarks.
Best Castles in Europe
Thanks to many of our amazing friends around the world, we are delighted to put together one of the most in-depth guides to historic castles across Europe. This is certainly not an exhaustive list of all the castles and I am quite sure there are plenty of others that should have made this guide but for those of you interested in developing an itinerary to travel Europe to explore these epic landmarks, hopefully, this guide is a great starting point.
To make life a little easier, here is an interactive guide to all of the castles featured in this post. As you can see, there is a pretty epic road trip or Eurail train journey to be experienced here if you want to check out all 50 (and likely stumble across many others along the way!) castles.
[show-map id=’9′]
Please feel free to comment at the bottom of this post with your favorite castles and particularly share your recommendations on which others should be added to this list…but for now, please sit back and enjoy the collection of European castles that will leave you in awe through their architectural beauty, lavish designs and all the amazing stories surrounding them.
Check out the following table of contents to make life a little easier in navigating to your favorite castle(s) and below each castle is a “Return to Table of Contents” link so you can pick and choose which castles you want to explore…or of course, become an expert on all 50 of them!
St George Castle dominates the horizon of the Lisbon city center in Portugal. Castelo St George sits atop one of the seven hills in a commanding position looking over the old Lisbon downtown area. Lisbon monuments such as Rua Augusta Arch sit below you at the bottom of the hill.
The original settlement on this site in Lisbon city center dates back to 48BC. Castelo St George has been in place since the 6th century when it was fortified by Roman Visigoths and eventually the Moors used it as a Royal seat of residence until the 11th century. Did you know Lisbon is older than Rome?
Today, Castelo St George welcomes tourist on mass as they make there way up the hill to the gate. Visitors will be rewarded with one of, if not the best viewpoint in Lisbon. The outer walls let you view Lisbon in a 180-degree arc. Say hello to the statue King Afonso in the adjacent courtyard seemingly still overlooking his royal palace.
Further exploration will find the remains of the Alcaçovas Palace complex where you can walk the walls, and an archaeological museum to discover artifacts found on site. Castelo st George should be one of your first stops when visiting Lisbon.
The castle in Lancut is the best that we have ever been to! Why? Because it has everything that you can possibly expect from the beautiful landmark: amazing interiors and stunning architecture. It was built in the 17th century and belonged to Lubomirski and Potocki families.
Lancut Castle is surrounded by the park, so after sightseeing, you can just walk around and relax. Lancut is a lovely little town located just 2 hours driving from Krakow. If you decide to go there, be sure to visit not only the castle but also the carriage house. It has one of the largest collection of horse-drawn carriages in the world.
Blackness Castle is one of the best castles you can experience in Scotland. It is very close to Edinburgh, making it extremely easy to visit. It sits on the shores of the Firth of Forth, in a small town called Blackness.
The castle has a wonderful history and was actually featured in the Outlander TV series. We visited on a cold, breezy day. We loved that they offered coffee in the little ticket store, and they even gave an explorer pack for our son to use during his visit. This had knight toys, a jester hat and many other little things for him to keep himself amused with during our visit.
One of the rooms of the castle had shield boards and rope hoops to play a tossing game. Blackness Castle is shaped like a ship and is also known as the ship that never sailed.
By Tasha, David, and Travis from Meldrums on the Move
Caerphilly Castle, in Wales, is one of the best castles in Europe. As the second largest castle in Britain, it not only has a rich history since it was built in the late 1200’s, it also has a tower dubbed “The Leaning Tower of Wales”. The medieval castle’s south-east tower leans to a greater degree than the leaning tower of Pisa, the result of both damage and subsidence.
In 2016 a dragon appeared on the banks of the castle and promptly moved inside. Dewi was joined by the very beautiful Dwynwen and they have since had two babies. There are many rooms and areas to explore in this castle and in the summer of 2018 a new attraction called the Dragon’s Lair was added to delight visitors of all ages. It’s a must-see castle in South Wales.
The Loire Valley in France showcases an abundance of stunningly ornate castles (or rather châteaux). One of our favorites has to be Château de Cheverny. I could say that it is because of the grand entrance, the exquisite artifacts oozing with history, or the perfect garden views. But with this chateau, it’s actually its quirks and extra activities it offers to the public. Whether it be jazz in the gardens, a murder mystery tour, or the visually engaging Tin Tin museum, there’s something for everyone.
As we were visiting the Loire with kids, this chateau is a particular favorite as our boys loved watching the hounds being fed (every day at 11:30 am), before finding the LEGO structures hidden around the rooms of the chateau’s interior. Ensure you take a picnic to enjoy down by the river and if you manage to find your way out of the maze, reward yourselves to some delicious home-made ice-cream at Cafe de l’Orangerie.
In central Sweden, about 200 kilometers west of the capital Stockholm, you’ll find the small town of Örebro. The town is not one of the most well known in Sweden, but it’s known for one thing in particular – its beautiful 800-year-old castle.
Örebro Castle is a beautiful old-fashioned castle, situated on a small islet in the middle of the river Svartån. Many historic events have taken place here, making it a special place in Swedish history.
Why not take a stroll along the river, sit down for a cup of coffee at one of the cafés or have dinner overlooking the old town as the sun sets?
Caernarfon Castle, built by Edward I following a successful charge across North Wales, is a wonderland of turrets, towers and magnificent gates. The King wasted no time in marking the castles significance with the birth of his 4th son who would become the first Prince of Wales and go on to reign England as Edward II.
King Edward had the walls built in bands of different colored stones – a nod to Constantinople – which intended to show strength. The huge towers which surround the inner courtyard are polygonal in shape and are unique in Edwardian castles.
The Eagle Tower, with its three polygonal towers sprouting from it, is the jewel in Caernarfon Castles crown. It’s a long climb up a narrowing stairway but the views from this most westerly point of the castle are amazing. Anglesey beyond the Menai Straights to the North-West and Snowdonia National Park to the South-East.
Hluboka Castle is probably one of the most fascinating castles in the Czech Republic. The white marble walls create the perfect picture scene both during the day and at night when it gets illuminated. If you like waking up early in the morning, you might witness the ascension of hot air balloons on the background, fully enhancing the fairytale feel.
This Renaissance castle with Baroque elements is big in itself, but it is also surrounded by a vast garden with flowers and fountains that will make for a great picnic spot as well. Besides taking a tour inside the castle, you can stop for lunch or dinner at the restaurant in the chateau which is a 4-minute walk from Hluboka Castle.
Hluboka Castle is situated in the South Bohemia region, only 10 km away from Ceske Budejovice, the region’s capital.
In the midst of the French countryside on the Spanish border lays a tiny town with an important historical significance. Meet Carcassonne – a home of the largest fortified city in Europe.
Its citadel, the Cite de Carcassonne, is a medieval fortress dating back to 12th century of the Gallo-Roman period. Importantly, it has been added to the UNESCO list of the World Heritage Sites. The uniqueness of this place lays in its restoration process carried out in the second half of the 19th century.
The magnitude of the fortress with its fairytale collections of towers, drawbridges, artifacts, and atmospheric cobbled streets left us speechless. The unforgettable experience of walking along the fortress’ walls with the panoramic 360C view of the city as well as the view of the castle from the distance are the memories we will cherish forever.
Sudeley Castle sits amid 1200 acres in the honey-stoned Cotswolds, just dripping with English Royal History. King Henry VIII’s sixth wife, the only one to survive him, lies buried in the beautiful 15th-century church and Queens Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth I and Lady Jane Grey also visited here.
Yet today it’s also a private home, providing a curious mix of pageantry and personal life (and a pheasantry with 16 rare and endangered species.) You can sip afternoon tea, let children run through the adventure playground and stroll through crumbling ruins and immaculately preserved halls.
All within one place and that’s why I love it so much: within the grounds of Sudeley Castle.
One of our favorite castles in Europe is the “Othello Castle” located in Famagusta on the Northern occupied part of Cyprus.
We love Famagusta generally because this is where Stefan’s family all originate from. So coming here is always an important discovery trip for Stefan.
We particularly love the Othello Castle because it is located in the gorgeous Famagusta Old town, which is rich with history dating back to the Romans.
Othello Castle was built in the 14th century by the Lusignans to protect the port against possible enemy attacks. It was also used as the main entrance to the walled town of Famagusta.
It was later sold to the Republic of Venice who added the iconic relief of the Lion of St Mark. It was during this period when it got its name and has been romanticized. Shakespeare’s play “Othello” was written in around 1603 and was believed to be set here.
The most well-known castle in Ireland is probably Blarney Castle, site of the kissable Blarney Stone that Ireland is famous for. The castle is surrounded by beautiful grounds but the structure itself is just a shell.
The legend is that if you kiss the Blarney Stone you will be granted the gift of gab or you will become eloquent. Depending on your tolerance for silly touristy gimmicks you may or may not feel compelled to visit Blarney Castle and kiss the stone.
It is possible to visit the castle on a day trip from Dublin, but it is better to schedule a stop on your way to or from Ireland’s spectacular west coast.
Over 700 years of Dutch History in one place, or better saying, in one castle. The Muiden Castle is by far the most gorgeous medieval castle in the Netherlands. Only 15km away from Amsterdam, this castle offered protection to the city on the Eastern front. Today, this UNESCO Heritage Site entertains tourists of all ages.
The castle’s interior was restored and the new 17th-century decoration gives the Muiden Castle an imposing medieval look. Especially because of the interesting collection of weapons and armor. As a very traditional castle, Muiden Castle (Muiderslot in Dutch) is surrounded by water and you can reach it in the old-time style, by boat.
PS: If you visit the Netherlands in the spring, I’m sure you will fall in love with their neatly cared gardens.
Once known as the Impregnable Castle of Bohemia due to its thick walls, Loket Castle is one of the oldest and most valuable castles in the Czech Republic. The castle and the town of Loket are like something out of a storybook and ridiculously photogenic! Indeed the town and the castle both appeared in the 2006 James Bond film Casino Royale.
In contrast, Loket Castle includes possibly the goriest museum of torture that I have ever seen! I actually left the exhibit after only a few minutes as the moving exhibits were just a bit much but if you enjoy a bit of gore you will absolutely love it!
This lovely 12th-century castle is less than 10 minutes from the gorgeous spa town of Karlovy Vary and 2 hours from Prague.
Lichtenstein Castle, not to be confused with the country, is a strong contender for the most magical castle in all the land. Located in the Swabian Jura of southern Germany, the gothic revival style and the way it’s built upon this escarpment make it look like it came straight out of a fairytale – and in some ways it is.
The modern castle was inspired by the novel Lichtenstein and was built in the early 1840s. It’s still owned by the Duke of Urach but it’s open to the public daily.
Nowadays it’s a tourist attraction with tours all throughout the day and several hiking trails nearby. The easiest way to get there is by car.
There is nothing I love more than seeing the turrets of a castle in the distance especially ones that I had no idea about. As we were riding the “Hop On Hop Off” bus around Copenhagen, I briefly saw them in the distance.
Rosenborg Castle is different from many we have seen. While it houses many everyday items that the Danish royal family used, it held more artwork than I have seen at many others. The pictures were so beautifully painted and there were so many different types, ranging from landscape to floral among many others.
The portraits were incredible. It felt like the eyes were following you around everywhere you went. The rooms are a little darker than the usual bright rooms we have seen as well. It made you notice all of the tiny things within the rooms so much more and it also made the pieces that were housed in them so much more significant.
Another amazing set of items that this castle holds are the Royal Crown Jewels in a vault underneath. The vault was manned by two soldiers that had the biggest guns I have ever seen in my life. As we walked around looking at all of the amazing and expensive jewelry, we were all thinking how amazing it would be to actually wear it!
As I said to the girls it is possible…the next Queen of Denmark is an Aussie girl!
Located at the bank of the Scheldt river, Het-Steen, or simply “Steen Castle”, is a 9th-century castle that happens to be the oldest monument in Antwerp, Belgium.
Originally raised as a castle which is evident from its design, it was then expanded into a formidable fortress with stone wall and gatehouses that defended the city for centuries. Steen Castle later served as a prison, a residence, a sawmill, and a fish warehouse until it was reopened to the public as a museum in 1863. Now that’s what you call a multipurpose monument!
The best thing about this fascinating castle is that it stands right across the city center, near the port. When you go to the T-Steen you can also enjoy watching the sunset, gazing at the ships sailing by and the windmills at the horizon. You’ll certainly notice the Semini statue, a symbol of fertility, which was maimed by Catholic priests in the 16th century.
One of the nicest looking castles in Europe is San Michele Castle, located in Cagliari, Italy. Visiting is one of the nicest things to do in Sardinia, and the best part of it is that, since it is not on the main tourist trail, it is actually very quiet. The castle surmounts the mountain that takes its name, and this location is perfect to admire gorgeous, 360 degrees views of the city.
The castle was likely founded in the late 12th century, though it reached its peak importance between 1350 and 1511, when the Carroz, an important Spanish family, made it its residence. The castle had defensive functions: it has 3 main towers and used to be surrounded by a moat.
It was abandoned in the early 17th-century and subsequently used as a sanatorium during the plague of 1652-1656, and later on again as a defensive point against French invasion.
Nowadays, the castle can be visited throughout the year. It often hosts an art exhibition. The bonus for animal lovers is the protected cat colony that lives in the beautiful park that surrounds it.
By Claudia Tavani from My Adventures Across The World
Bled Castle is standing on a mighty steep cliff 1300 m high, surrounded by impressive natural beauty, mountain ranges in the background and a unique view of the picturesque lake and its island. Bled Castle with the lake and its island together represent an icon of Slovenia and is the most visited historic and cultural attraction in the country.
This medieval and oldest castle in Slovenia houses a museum collection (representing the historical development of Bled town), a castle printing works (traditional manual printing), the castle cellar, the castle smithy, a small chapel, nice restaurant with a view of the lake and two courtyards.
The castle also hosts wedding ceremonies, numerous cultural events, from which the most important are medieval days.
We are Sion and Ben from The Globetrotter Guys and while we love to travel the world, we never forget where we come from!
Sion is originally from North Wales and was lucky enough to live just 5 minutes drive from the beautiful Conwy Castle (Castell Conwy in Welsh!) which has been classed as a world heritage site by UNESCO.
Conwy Castle can be found on the North Wales coast and is situated in the town of the same name. The castle was constructed in 1283 and its walls encompass the whole town. This is one of the main reasons we love Conwy Castle, you can walk the walls around the entire town and get the best views – it’s the best way to see Conwy!
The castle sits on the edge of the Conwy River. The combination of the river, the castle and surrounding greenery makes this a spot not to be missed!
If you are considering a Loire Valley itinerary to explore some truly stunning castles in France, you should definitely include Chenonceau Castle to your visit!
It is definitely a must-see in France, thanks to the originality of its architecture and its unique history. You will start the visit by walking through the main alley covered with plane trees, allowing the overall beauty of the castle to slowly unveil.
You will soon reach the two gardens and will get captivated by the history of the castle and its inhabitants. You will learn about the jealousy, the rivalry of two strong women of the French History, Catherine de Medici and Diane de Poitiers and will be surprised to learn that this castle is the only one in the Loire Valley that has been built and restored by women.
Its architecture is fascinating: not only from the inside with the bedrooms, the study of Catherine de Medici, the living room but also from outside. The castle is built spanning the Cher River and the elegance of its arches and the subtle water motion underneath add to its splendor.
Castel dell’Ovo is probably one of the most beautiful castles in Naples, Italy. It lays on a tiny island named Megaris, tied to the mainland by a charming stone bridge. This place is possibly the most romantic spot in Naples at night: many couples come here to swear eternal love! At its feet, there is a tiny fishermen’s village named Borgo Marinari.
The castle name, translated to English, means “Egg Castle”. The reason behind it is an ancient legend about the poet Virgil. Everyone believed him to be a powerful sorcerer. He thus said that he’d put a magical egg into the Castel dell’Ovo foundations to protect the city.
Should the egg ever break, the castle and the whole city would fall into ruin: people were terrified every time a war or an earthquake happened! Neapolitans, after all, are still very much superstitious!
Castel dell’Ovo is yet another one of the many things you can visit in Naples for free. The view from the cannons terrace is absolutely spectacular!
Of all the amazing castles littered throughout Ireland, I couldn’t have been happier to stumble upon this one. Balleycarbery Castle, covered in ivy and moss, was built in the 15th century and once owned by the McCarthy Clan. My husband and I were driving counterclockwise on the Ring of Kerry and decided to take a little detour following random signs.
We weren’t too motivated given our over-crowded Blarney Castle experience, one of the most popular stops in the area. We decided to go for it anyway. Small, quaint, and almost completely isolated which definitely added to the whole experience.
One of the many reasons why going off the beaten path has its rewards. The castle is beautifully covered in green moss, you are free to walk through the corridors and stairways peeping out its arched windows imagining what it may have been back in its glory.
Located on the right bank of the Tiber River, the Castel Sant’Angelo is one of the most intriguing buildings in all of Rome. It has a complex history and was initially built between 123 and 139 AD to be the mausoleum for Roman emperor Hadrian and his family.
Converted into a papal fortress in the 6th century, it was named after Pope Gregory the Great had a vision of the Archangel Michael miraculously ending the plague that was running rampant through Rome. In the 13th century, a secret passageway, the Passetto di Borgo, to the Vatican was added so that popes in danger could escape to the thick, fortified walls of the castle.
Most notably, during the 1527 sack of Rome, Pope Clemente VI took refuge here. Despite Castel Sant’Angelo’s turbulent history, today it serves as a museum where visitors can see beautifully appointed papal apartments, prison cells and torture chambers, Renaissance art, and some of the best views in Rome.
Once upon a time, castles were the heart of the village. In one seaside Dublin suburb, that’s still the case.
For more than 800 years, Malahide Castle was home to the Talbot family. That long, sometimes brutal, history is illustrated in guided tours that show the castle as it was during the last Baron Talbot’s lifetime, right down to his military uniform, laid out as if he would be getting dressed at any moment.
In 1975, his wife sold the demesne to the Irish State. Since then, the vast grounds have been the community’s playground, with football fields, walking paths, a cricket pitch, and even a golf course. Along with the castle, the Lord Baron’s beloved gardens, greenhouses, and conservatory – the Malahide Botanical Gardens – are not to be missed. Being just 20 minutes from central Dublin, Malahide is as vital today as it’s ever been.
Castles are generally foreboding hunks of stone with a gruesome history attached to them. And while I’m all about the history, sometimes a break from routine can work wonders on the way you look at something. Exhibit A: Warwick Castle.
Situated at a bend along the Avon river, Warwick Castle has been fought over ever since construction began in 1068. After changing hands for seven centuries, it was converted into a country house.
The Tussauds group bought the castle exactly four decades ago and have since converted parts of the castle into play areas where children go happily while the adults inspect the castle’s history over the centuries. It might be a kitschy castle for some but there’s a way of enjoying Warwick if you can look past the obvious tropes created by its parent company.
There are lifelike statues of prominent members of the castle (because Madam Tussauds!) as well as a collection of arms and swords impressively arranged in the former great dining hall. Finally, I encourage you to climb the ramparts to inspect the castle grounds, Avon and breathe in centuries of history from the top of the castle.
I have seen many beautiful castles in the past in the UK and in France. However, recently I fell in love with a variety of German castles, not only because of their rich history but also the incredible architectural beauty.
My husband and I were driving along the Swabian Alp between Stuttgart and the Bodensee when we noticed a giant castle in the distance. It was built on top of a hill and looked like it came straight out of a fairytale. We decided to make a detour to take a closer look.
Hohenzollern Castle is built on the ruins of a former castle dating back to 1267. You can book a guided tour that takes you through the myriad of beautiful rooms and for those of you traveling with kids, this is the castle you should visit. They can dress up like kings and queens and are entertained by actors throughout the tour.
While many drool over the Bavarian castles near Munich, if you really want to experience the beautiful medieval castles in Germany then head either to Rhine or Moselle river valley region. Our favorite castle in that region is Burg Eltz which looks just as majestic in person as it does it photos.
Eltz Castle is still owned by the same family that lived there since the 12th century. It’s absolutely free to roam around the castle and you only pay an entrance fee if you want to go inside to see the family rooms.
The castle is about 2 hours away from Frankfurt and 1.5 hours away from Cologne. There is a short hike to get to the castle through the forest nearby which starts from the parking lot. You also have the option to take a shuttle bus to the castle if you don’t want to hike.
A visit to Gozo is a must do when visiting Malta and the Cittadella in Victoria is one of the most popular attractions.
Perched high above the city, it has been at the center of activity on the island since Neolithic times and was fortified during the Bronze Age around 1500 BC. It was later developed by the Phoenicians and in Roman times it became a complex Acropolis.
As Malta has been invaded and occupied by many countries through the centuries the Cittadella has served as a fortress and a garrison and has been the source of refuge for many.
Today, the Cittadella – also known as the Castello, contains a number of churches and historic buildings, including the magnificent Cathedral of the Assumption, which was built between 1697 and 1711. The Cittadella has been included on Malta’s preliminary list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1998.
Having undergone a massive 5-year restoration process we were very impressed to discover what is effectively a small ancient town in perfect condition and were stunned by the beauty and workmanship that has been involved in creating her.
Located in Spain’s central Castile and León region, roughly an hour’s drive northwest of Madrid, the historical city of Segovia is blessed with a handful of architectural marvels. The phrase “fairytale-like” gets thrown around a lot—but in this case, it’s a fitting epitaph for the 12th-century Alcazar of Segovia.
It’s so picture-perfect, the Alcazar is said to have inspired the design of not one but two iconic castles in pop culture: The Queen’s castle in Snow White, and Cinderella’s castle.
Variously used as a royal palace, a prison, and an academy, the Alcazar takes its name from the Moorish word for castle or fortress. The halls and chambers are just as exquisite as the exterior—I love the stained glass and incredibly intricate ceilings.
Take your time when visiting the pretty interior courtyards strung with ivy, and make sure you climb the Tower of Juan for wonderful views of Segovia and its Roman aqueduct.
Perched above the picturesque Bavarian countryside not far from the town of Fussen, Neuschwanstein Castle is, without doubt, one of the best castles in Europe.
Built for King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 19th century, the castle is believed to have inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle and today it attracts thousands of visitors every year.
The interior of the castle, with its towers and turrets, can only be visited on a guided tour but its well worth parting with the ticket price to see the exquisite furnishings inside. The wealth of the 19th-century royals beggars belief – and to think Neuschwanstein was just one of three castles Ludwig had built!
After checking out the inside of the castle, take the path to Marienbrucke. The scenery along this 15 to 20-minute walk is stunning and when you reach the Marienbrucke, you’ll have the best views of Neuschwanstein Castle.
Riga Castle was built in 1330 and located on the bank of River Daugava, due to many wars, the castle needed to be renovated and reconstructed which also resulted in its appearance and size changes throughout the history.
Today, Riga Castle is the house of the Latvia president, there are also many museums that tourist can visit any time of the year. What I love about this castle is how simple it looks but it carries history and survived many wars. It is also located in the Old Town of Riga which means that it is very easy to visit.
If you are looking for the best things to do in Riga, exploring this historic castle is definitely one of the best attractions.
As soon as we saw a viral photo of Scaliger Castle on Lake Garda in Italy, we knew we had to see it for ourselves and we did. It is just as magnificent as the photos reveal, if not more. The castle is known as the “Sinking Castle”, however, that is not the case. It is actually just a rare example of medieval port fortification.
The reason why we love Scaliger Castle so much is that, in addition to its unique look of sinking into the lake, it has a true fairytale feeling to it. It has a drawbridge, a moat, beautiful architectural towers and stunning views from the top. Scaliger Castle is an amazing sight to see and explore while you are in Northern Italy.
Peleș Castle in Romania is definitely a must-see. Its charm will instantly seduce you, especially given its location. Situated in Sinaia, a less than 2 hours drive from the capital, Bucharest, it lies in the middle of the Carpathian Mountains. So, you not only get to view a magnificent castle, but you will also be impressed by the surrounding mountains.
The Peleș Castle is Romania’s most famous, and many will also say the most beautiful, castle. It was home to the Crown of Romania, its construction started in 1873 and ended in 1914. Unfortunately, when the Communist regime made its way in Romania, the King was forced to abdicate and the castle transformed into a museum.
Today, Peleș Castle receives numerous visitors coming from all corners of the world to enjoy this splendid historic building.
The Tower of London is one of the UK’s most historic castles. It’s a must-see for anyone planning a visit to London. It’s not every day you get to see the Crown Jewels, the execution site where three of England’s Queens were beheaded and suits of armor made for kings like Henry VIII and Charles I.
Go at the beginning or end of the day to avoid queues to see the Crown Jewels – it’s worth it to see some of the most famous jewels and diamonds in the world.
Try to spot the iconic ravens and be sure to go on a Beefeater tour where you’ll hear some of the more gruesome stories about the Tower’s history.
There are plenty of beautiful castles around Europe, but neither can rival Pena Palace’s eccentricity. I mean, unless it’s an inflatable McDonalds castle, bright red and yellow are not the colors you associated castles with, right?
Being a beautiful representation of the 19th-century trend for exoticized romantic architecture, Palacio Nacional da Pena is one of the biggest attractions in Portugal. Located on a top of a hill and surrounded by dense forest, it is arguably the most picturesque palace in the world.
If you want to visit Sintra and check out the Pena Palace, you better get there early. Only a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon away, the place is one of the most popular day trip destinations and getting there later would mean you have to spend your day waiting on lines than enjoying the vivid colors of this quirky castle.
Located near Loch Lomond in central Scotland’s Stirling district, Doune Castle should look very familiar to anyone with an interest in popular culture. Built in the early 1400s for Robert Stewart, the Duke of Albany (and grandson of Robert the Bruce), the medieval castle has been inhabited by Scottish legends ranging from Mary, Queen of Scots to Bonnie Prince Charlie.
In more recent times, it has appeared in everything from Monty Python & the Holy Grail and Game of Thrones to Outlander. The reason for its popularity should be obvious from your visit: The castle is vast and largely empty, leaving plenty of room for imagining its ancient history.
The excellent audio tours (narrated by Monty Python’s Terry Jones and Outlander star Sam Heughan, depending on which track you choose) add great historical context to rooms such as the Great Hall, Lord’s Hall, and kitchen. It was arguably our favorite castle in Scotland but get there early if you visit in peak season and want to avoid the crowds.
By Bret Love and Mary Gabbett from Green Global Travel
The castle of Lenzburg, located in the “Kanton” (like a state) of Aargau in Switzerland, is special due to its location on top of a hill, which rises up over 100 meters. The oldest parts of the castle date back to the 11th century and is a heritage site of national significance. Since the castle went into the hands of the state in the 60’s, it was renovated and re-opened as a museum later, which it still is today.
The castle of Lenzburg is also a perfect day trip from almost every major city in Switzerland, but especially when visiting Berne, Lucerne or Zurich. Together with the nearby castle of Hallwyl, it’s certainly a good choice for everybody that loves castles.
While it’s Prague that gets most of the attention in the Czech Republic, the whole country is full of beautiful historic castles. One of the most important – and a World Heritage Site – is Kroměříž Castle. The first residence was built in 1497 and then rebuilt at the end of the 1600s after the Swedish army had ransacked it. At this time, it was home to the politically-powerful bishops of Olomouc.
Today you can only visit the interior of Kroměříž Castle on a guided tour. What is so incredible is not just the building, but the treasures inside. And it goes well beyond the ornate furniture and grand decorations.
The library has tens of thousands of books, with manuscripts from composers like Mozart and Beethoven. And the artworks that are kept here are considered the second-best collection in the country. The gardens that are attached to the castle are also beautiful and one of the other main reasons it was added to the World Heritage List.
In the heart of Milan, Sforzesco Castle is an imposing fortress built by the powerful Sforza family in the 15th century. Surrounded by a moat, the turreted castle is a huge complex that houses several museums dedicated to the fascinating, yet often overlooked, history of the city.
While rival Florence is often credited with being the cradle of the Renaissance, it is fair to say the great artists were nurtured in Milan. At Sforzesco Castle, Leonardo da Vinci was commissioned to decorate several rooms as well as famous Last Supper painting found at nearby Santa Maria delle Grazie. You can see his entrancing frescoes in the Sala delle Asse and then bask in the beauty of Michelangelo’s last sculpture known as the Rondanini Pietà.
Sforzesco Castle is in central Milan surrounded by beautiful Parco Sempione. It is a must-see stop for history and art lovers visiting northern Italy.
The medieval Castel del Monte is located on a hill overlooking the northern Puglian landscape of olive groves and rugged stone terraces. It’s a curious structure – some have even implied it’s not a castle at all due to its lack of a moat or drawbridge – that inspires the imagination, but that does look somewhat out of place in its surroundings.
Despite its unknown original purpose, the castle draws in visitors with its unique charm. Built in an octagonal shape, the original design drew on many different cultures for inspiration – many of which are evident as you explore the site.
Today, you can walk around the site for free, marvel at the vast views and relax on the lawn for a picnic. But to venture inside you’ll have to pay a small fee for the privilege.
Cardiff Castle is special because it’s a mixture of Roman fort, bona fide medieval castle and extravagant Gothic fantasy all rolled into one.
It dominates Cardiff city center and is one of the first places many visitors to Wales see. The 12th century keep tower gives a great view over the city, and the 19th-century outer walls hide tunnels which doubled as bomb shelters during World War II.
However, the most memorable part of Cardiff Castle is the 19th-century west wing, an ornate riot of decorated rooms and apartments built by the Third Marquess of Bute. He made his fortune from the nearby South Wales coalfields, and indulged his fantasies here and at fairytale Castell Coch, on the outskirts of the city. Bute Park, next door to the Castle, is a beautiful place for a walk with great views of the Castle exterior.
Perched on a hill overlooking the River Sazava, the Český Šternberk castle is one of the most impressive in the Czech Republic. Built in the mid-13th-century by Zdeslav of Divišov — the castle received the name of his personal coat of arms which is characterized by an eight pointed star.
In fact, the name is made up two words — Stern meaning star and Berg the mountain, perfecting describing this magnificent castle. The Český Šternberk castle has been under a private ownership for the past 800 years.
First built in Gothic style, in the 16th-century, Baroque elements were added to its design. Its 15 rooms are decorated with gorgeous furnishings, opulent chandeliers and house an exquisite art collection. From the pretty rose garden visitors will enjoy splendid views of the river.
Located in the Danish town of Elsinore (English name derived from the Danish Helsingør) on the narrowest point of Øresund (entrance of Baltic Sea) between Sweden and Denmark, Kronborg is one of the most famous renaissance castles in Northern Europe.
Kronborg is best known as the Hamlet’s Castle. Yes, this is the place where Shakespeare set Hamlet in. It hosts a famous Summer Shakespeare Festival. You can experience the rendition of Hamlet from June to August. It’s a delight to witness the in-place performances in different parts of the castle. The castle offers free tours in English and Danish for visitors.
The castle was burned to ashes destroying most of the precious adornments. It was rebuilt and remained intact to the present day. Kronborg became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.
Helsingør can be reached from Copenhagen in just 40-45 minutes by train or rented car. It’s among the best day trips from Copenhagen. We visited the castle with kids. It turned out to be an amazing experience. The admission is free for kids (0-17) while it costs 140 DKK for adults.
Bran Castle in Romania is a beautiful 14th-century castle with a nefarious past. The real-life Count Dracula, aka Vlad the Impaler, once lived here in this beautiful part of Transylvania, which formed the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s classic novel Dracula.
Despite its roots as one of the scariest places in literature, Bran Castle is actually surprisingly beautiful, located high on a hill amongst the forest in the outskirts of Brașov, one of the most beautiful cities in Romania.
I love it because I wrote a paper about Dracula during college and it was magical (and a tiny bit spooky) to get to visit this castle in person and imagining the book’s happenings taking place in real life. It is unique for its place in literary history as well as real-world history, as equally famous in legend as in historical importance.
Arundel Castle is my favorite castle in the UK, and it lies on the south coast of England in the county of Sussex. Its history goes back a thousand years and this is reflected in its architecture. The ancient keep and battlements are the oldest area of the castle and lie partly in ruins; but the rest of the castle is a magnificent stately home, complete with an enormous hall full of treasures.
Some of the rooms are set out as miniature museums showing what life was like in medieval times and also during the civil war. Arundel Castle has belonged to the same family for hundreds of years, and they still live there today.
The gardens are equally as impressive especially in the springtime during the annual tulip festival, when thousands of bulbs bloom at once. The gardens are filled with water features including a crown that appears to float on a fountain. In short, Arundel Castle is unmissable inside and out and is worth making the effort to get to!
Laxenburg, a town just outside Vienna, is a small getaway destination for those who want fresher air, fewer people, less busy area, and just being close to nature for some hours. The town is most famous for the Laxenburg Park/Castle grounds which has castles and museums to explore, there’s also an English park, ponds that ducks and birds enjoy, and an island.
One of the more known castles in Laxenburg is the Franzensburg, it’s a moated castle on the island, which can be reached by going around the property or by riding a cabled boat across. When you visit, it is most likely that you’ll see boats of all kinds by the bank – these boats are for rent in case you want to spend some hours in the water.
The Franzensburg houses a museum, which holds paintings of known painters (life-size ones), sculptures (made of marble), furniture, wood ceiling installations, as well as weapons from the 12th to the 19th century. The museum is called “little” treasure house of Austria, which ironically, is far from being little.
Think Edinburgh, think Edinburgh Castle. This dramatic fortress perched high on a volcanic rock is for some the cherry on a very delicious cake. Every year a staggering 2 million visitors pass through its fortified gates. The castle’s esplanade transforms into one of the most dramatic concert venues in the UK playing host to artists such as Rod Stewart, Tom Jones, and the world-famous Military Tattoo. So, what is all the fuss about?
Well to start with, historically it’s the most important stronghold in Scotland, a Royal castle has been present here since the 12th century. The oldest remaining parts of the castle are the 12th century St Margaret’s Chapel, the 16th Century great hall and Royal Palace, where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to her son. Highlights include the Stone of Destiny (a sacred object used for the coronation of Kings), the 15th Century Scottish crown jewels, Mons Meg and the Great Hall.
The castle is in the very center of Edinburgh with easy access from the Royal Mile. Historic Scotland and the army are responsible for maintaining and managing the castle. We strongly recommend that you buy your tickets ahead on the official website and add this special site to your Edinburgh bucket list!
Spišský Hrad (Spiš Castle) has three major claims to fame:
It is one of the biggest castle ruins (some say the biggest) in Central Europe
Slovakia’s proudest UNESCO World Heritage Site and a top destination
my favorite castle in Slovakia because it’s both spectacular and brings back fond memories of frequent visits on school and family trips.
The 12th-century castle sits atop a travertine hill. First a border fortress, then expanded several times, particularly in the 14th century, it was a longtime power center of the rich Spiš region. One of the Hungarian kings was born here. After a big fire destroyed it in 1780, Spiš Castle fell into ruin until the 1970s conservation.
Image attributed to Pixabay under CC0 1.0
The museum located here showcases the castle’s history, historic weaponry, and feudal justice practices. Night tours are very popular, and reenactments and performances draw big summer crowds.
When I lived in Magdeburg, Germany I visited the beautiful Schloss Wernigerode in the Harz mountains, and it has since become one of my favorites. Similar in style to Bavaria’s Neuschwanstein, albeit smaller, this baroque style castle was once a medieval fortress.
A little over 1 mile/2 km from the Wernigerode train station, you can easily reach the castle by foot. If you’d rather not walk up the hill to the castle, you can hop on the cute Bimmelbahn tourist train.
Once at the top, be sure to enjoy the stunning view of historic Wernigerode below! There are a couple different tours you can choose from in order to explore different parts of the castle, and there are discounted rates for kids and families. Once you’ve had enough of the castle, be sure to walk back down to the town center and take in the beautiful half-timber buildings in the market square.
Quite a collection of amazing castles…how many of you have visited all 50? I can’t imagine there are many out there so plenty of inspiration for sure as you plan your next European adventure! I know we are excited about exploring many of these.
I want to thank all of our amazing friends from around the world for sharing these gorgeous castles. With so much history, heritage and spectacular architectural design, these castles are the “Best of the Best” when it comes to Europe’s finest structures. Which castle do you think should be number one on everyone’s list? In our opinion, there is no best castle as each one has something unique that makes it so amazing!
When it comes to finding the best things to do in South Iceland, you could be forgiven for thinking that this involves waterfalls such as Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss or perhaps the distinctive black sandy beaches in Vik. But if you head further along the southern Icelandic coast, you will reach a spot that is famous for being home to an amazing landscape of glacial bliss. Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is undoubtedly an attraction you won’t want to miss along with the infamous “ice beach” where you can find gorgeous remnants of glacial ice that float out into the ocean. But wait…there is more! In the shadow of Jokulsarlon is yet another breathtaking natural attraction – Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon!
If you think about destinations around the world that are spoiled for untouched natural landscapes, it’s hard to imagine that anywhere but Iceland will be at the very top of most lists.
It’s true, Iceland really is spectacular and honestly, it’s so much more than just the infamous nickname, “The Land of Fire and Ice!” Let’s embrace this name though and focus our attention on ice because it’s fair to say, that’s what most “newbies” heading to Iceland will likely associate with this nation.
Vatnajökull Glacier
During our epic 7 day Iceland road trip where we visited all corners of the Icelandic nation, our final stretch saw us spend several hours at the base of the Vatnajökull glacier. The majestic sight of both Jokulsarlon and Fjallsarlon glacier lagoons at the south end of the Vatnajökull glacier ensures that everyone visiting this part of Iceland has an opportunity to admire the power of ice (and nature in general) at work.
Vatnajökull is the largest ice cap in Iceland and the third largest glacier in Europe. Given that it covers 8% of Iceland, it’s fair to say that this natural phenomenon has a pretty important impact on the landscape and when you visit Fjallsarlon, you will quickly realize the vast size of this glacier.
Vatnajökull National Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the connection between volcanoes and ice…in other words, identify exactly why Iceland is known as the Land of Fire and Ice.
Where is Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon?
Both lagoons are easily accessible but we want to focus our attention on finding out why Fjallsarlon deserves as much of your attention as Jokulsarlon. Let’s start by taking a look at exactly where Fjallsarlon is located in Iceland. If you are planning a road trip around the ring road as we did, it’s fair to say you cannot miss this area. However, I will rephrase that by saying it’s difficult to miss Jokulsarlon but it’s much easier to just drive by Fjallsarlon without noticing it.
Why? 99.9% of tour buses and other tourists are going to drive directly to Jokulsarlon and not even contemplate visiting Fjallsarlon. This alone is a good enough reason to justify visiting Fjallsarlon. To put the location into perspective, here is where it is located:
Vik to Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon – 183 km (2 hrs 25 minutes)
Hofn to Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon – 90 km (1hr 10 minutes)
Reykjavik to Fjallsaron Glacier Lagoon – 363 km (4 hrs 45 minutes)
Experience the Power of Ice
After parking your vehicle, be prepared to take a short trail to a viewpoint overlooking the glacier lagoon. I promise you, nothing will prepare you for the sight when you cross the summit because it truly is a breathtaking sight.
I want to reiterate that the lack of tourists, unlike most other tourist spots around Iceland will likely make you think that Fjallsarlon isn’t worth visiting but ultimately this will be your loss if you choose to miss this spot.
The gravel trail leads you down to the edge of the glacier lagoon and it is when you reach this point that you really begin to appreciate the power of ice. We were incredibly fortunate to visit Fjallsarlon at a time when some glacial carving was taking place and it’s not just the sight of this taking place but also the sound that makes you realize how powerful nature can be.
From floating icebergs to the towering glacier above the surrounding mountains, this Icelandic landscape is a real gem that you won’t want to leave. We enjoyed exploring the banks of the glacial lagoon and were incredibly fortunate to be stood there at the moment when it sounded like an earthquake was taking place.
When the ice calving from the Vatnajökull glacier started, we immediately noticed the glacial water starting to get a little choppier.
Lagoon Boat Tours
For those of you looking to experience a little more up close and personal adventure with Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon, why not take a 45-minute iceberg safari onboard a Zodiac boat. This experience is the ultimate adventure but at the same time offers a thoroughly informative tour where you can learn everything about glaciers and iceberg formation.
If you are lucky you will experience when a piece breaks off the edge of the glacier into the lagoon. (Fjallsarlon Boat Tours)
The benefit of taking a smaller boat around the lagoon is that you can meander your way around the icebergs and get relatively close to the edge of the glacier. Be prepared for ice calving to take place at any time and as I mentioned, the sound and sight of this is equally breathtaking!
After an epic adventure onboard the Zodiac boat, why not head inside the Bistro cafe to enjoy a coffee or sample typical Icelandic cuisine such as lamb meat soup.
Summary
Fjallsarlon is arguably even more spectacular than the infamous Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. Our recommendation is to visit both landscapes to appreciate the beauty of both because each one offers a unique perspective on the power of ice.
I want to reiterate that anyone visiting Iceland will be spoiled for choice when it comes to natural beauty but it would certainly be remiss of you to avoid Fjallsarlon. I have to admit, after we left Jokulsarlon our intention was to drive straight through to Vik but the moment we noticed the sign for Fjallsarlon we decided to take some time to check it out…I am sure you will agree from our pictures that this was one of the best decisions of our Icelandic adventure!
Have you visited Fjallsarlon or Jokulsarlon before? What other Icelandic attractions have you visited that are “less well known” but equally spectacular as their more infamous counterparts?
In 1975, his wife sold the demesne to the Irish State. Since then, the vast grounds have been the community’s playground, with football fields, walking paths, a cricket pitch, and even a golf course. Along with the castle, the Lord Baron’s beloved gardens, greenhouses, and conservatory – the Malahide Botanical Gardens – are not to be missed. Being just 20 minutes from central Dublin, Malahide is as vital today as it’s ever been.
