Category: Europe
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Kleifarvatn Lake: Stark Contrast to Volcanoes and Lava Fields (Iceland)
Located on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwestern Iceland approximately half an hour from Keflavik airport, Kleifarvatn is the largest lake in the Setlún Geothermal Area. Meaning “draining lake” as there are no visible inlets or outlets (they are underground), it a stark contrast to the volcanoes and lava fields that make up this area of…
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Setlún Geothermal Area/Krýsuvík: Steamy! (Iceland)
Sitting at the heart of the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwestern Iceland, the Setlún Geothermal Area/Krýsuvík is an area of high geothermal activity. Steam rising from both streams and pools of mud in this area where lava sits close to the surface. Located just north of Grindavik, which has seen repeated volcanic eruptions since 2021 and…
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Bridge between Continents: Mind the Gap (Iceland)
Driving Iceland’s coastal Route 44 on the Reykjanes Peninsula, you suddenly come across a bridge in the middle of nowhere. While the bridge itself is nothing special (my personal opinion is that it is a bit of a metal monstrosity and the reason why there are no photos of the bridge itself), what it represents…
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St Conan’s Kirk: Argyll’s Hidden Gem (Scotland)
As you head towards the Scottish Highlands and the Hebrides, you no doubt will have to pass through parts of Bute and Argyll – an absolutely beautiful area that is also defined by mountains, islands, lochs and more. There are also some amazing historical sites – Rest and Be Thankful, Ardchattan Priory, and McCaig’s Tower,…
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Mdina: Malta’s Silent City
Perched on a hilltop in the heart of Malta, Mdina, the ancient fortified city known as the “Silent City,” invites travellers to step back in time and explore its storied past. With its labyrinthine streets, grandiose baroque cathedrals and tranquil atmosphere, Mdina offers a unique glimpse into Malta’s rich historical tapestry. As you wander through…
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Comino (Malta): A Boat Trip to the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and Santa Maria Caves
Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Among its many jewels is the tiny, picturesque island of Comino. Known for its stunning lagoons and dramatic caves, Comino offers a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility and adventure in equal measure. On a sunny day,…
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Best Western Fowey Valley: A review (Lostwithiel, Cornwall)
About Best Western Fowey Valley Best Western has been operating in the UK for over 30 years now, offering a series of independently owned and operated hotels. Located just a 10-minute drive from the Eden Project, this modern hotel in Lostwithiel offers free Wi-Fi, an outdoor heated pool, free parking, and an on-site restaurant. All…
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SO City Hotel Adults Only: A comprehensive review (St Julian’s, Malta)
About SO City Hotel Adults Only SO City Hotel Adults Only is a three-star hotel that caters to adults – primarily due to its location (more on this below) but also due to its layout. This 10 story building (with a rooftop bar and pool) consists almost exclusively of double rooms with the 10th floor…
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Saarburg: Fairytale Town on the Saar
Saarburg is a gem of a town nestled amidst the rolling hills of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. It enthrals visitors with its rich history, beguiling medieval architecture, and captivating natural beauty. Unlike the brash clamour of modern German cities, Saarburg offers a tranquil escape. Time seems to have slowed its pace here. Sturdy medieval ramparts pierce the…
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The Falkirk Wheel: A Wonder of Modern Engineering
Scotland is a land steeped in history, from ancient castles to storied battlefields. Yet, nestled in the heart of the country lies a marvel of modern engineering that seamlessly blends innovation with the charm of the waterways: the Falkirk Wheel. A Canal Conundrum For over a century, a logistical headache plagued central Scotland. The Forth…
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Unveiling Dunollie Castle: History, Haunts & Breathtaking Views
Standing sentinel over the Scottish coast just below the Scottish Highlands, Dunollie Castle tells tales of a bygone era. Steeped in history that stretches back to the dawn of Gaelic kingdoms, it was a seat of power for the Clan MacDougall. In its heyday, it witnessed battles, power struggles, and the ebb and flow of…
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Quedlinburg: Unearthing the Timeless Magic of Germany’s Hidden Gem
Immerse yourself in the captivating charm of Quedlinburg, a quaint town nestled in the heart of Germany’s Harz Mountains. Esteemed for its impeccable preservation of medieval architecture and striking antiquity, Quedlinburg boasts a timeless allure that attracts travellers from across the globe. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it stands as a living testament to…
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Schönbrunn Palace Gardens: The Emerald Oasis of Vienna
Amidst the bustling heart of Austria’s iconic capital, Vienna lies a haven of serene beauty and grandeur – Schönbrunn Palace Gardens. These gardens, integral to the historic Schönbrunn Palace, weave a rich tapestry of nature’s splendour and royal extravagance. As one of the city’s most popular attractions, Schönbrunn Palace Gardens is a testament to Vienna’s…
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Eden Project, UK – The Eighth Wonder of the World
There are some things that humans have made in the name of science that are just amazing. One example is Biosphere 2 for climate change and space research in Arizona. Another is the Eden Project in Cornwall, England. History The Eden Project arose out of an idea from 1996. At a site in St Blazey,…
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McCaig’s Tower, Oban, Scotland – The Scottish Amphitheatre
Located in the Scottish Highlands, the port city of Oban is the gateway to the Hebrides. McCaig’s Tower stands tall on Battery Hill overlooking the city and the bay. McCaig’s Tower was the idea of John Stuart McCaig, a banker who wanted to do two things: The result is McCaig’s Tower, which is an open…
