Spain - Guadalest Hilltop Village

 

Sometimes one just has to act as a "tourist" to explore the gems in a country where you don't live 

Guadalest is one such place - surrounded by the mountain ranges of Aitana, Serrella and Xorta this magical village is one of the most visited in Spain.

The road up into the mountains is very twisty and one suddenly comes upon a red robot (traffic light) on the corner. Being law abiding citizens we stopped not knowing why as no cars came past! It turned out to just a tight bend on the road and a very short section. It is an interesting drive if you enjoy twists and turns and there are viewing places to stop and catch your breath again.

This hilltop village was declared an "Historic-Artistic" site in 1974 and is now one of the most visited villages in Spain.

Looking down from above the blue waters of the Guadalest "Lake" (Reservoir) look most inviting. 

There is a hiking path around the lake and water sports happen here. As the lake gets up to 94 m deep care should be taken if swimming. 

In order to view the Castle of San Jose one needs to first go thru Orduna House. This was first built in 1644. The family of Ordunas served as guardians of the fortress and were governers of the estate for almost 300 years. The furnishings of the house belong to the Orduna family and one can imaging what a symbol of wealth this was in this tiny village. The third floor offers a gallery of sculptures and paintings - many of these are for sale. The library contains 1265 volumes - an impressive collection of ancient history. Going down the antique staircase you will find the access to the Castle of San Jose situated on top of a rock. At an altitude of 595m it is a climb but well worth the views over the mountains and valley. 

"The medieval castle overshadowing the Guadalest valley was originally built in the 11th century, during the Muslim rule over the Iberian Peninsula. It served to control the valley, as infighting between the smaller kingdoms left by the disintegration of the Caliphate of Córdoba was constant".

It is always mind-blowing to walk thru a town that has stood for 1000yrs yet only has approx.200 residents. Forgetting to buy that special something way down the mountain could cause a serious domestic argument! 

There are many shops to wander into, selling local crafts, honey, olive oils and much more. 

This town is worth a 2 night stop - sadly we were only on a day visit.

There are numerous museums - sadly we did not have enough time to visit these as the trek to the castle took awhile and then lunch beckoned at L'Hort where we enjoy delicious tapas. 

As we exited the restaurant the rain came pelting down so we made a dash for the car.

A hilltop town well worth visiting when in the district of Alicante, East Coast, Spain.

Be ready to walk.....climb those steps and enjoy the magnificent views over the valley

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Spain - Denia - East Coast

 

Denia Costa Blanca Spain

Denia: Costa Blanca, Spain

Denia lies on the East Coast of Spain in the area known as the Costa Blanca.

The charm of the city lies both seaside and by exploring the town's various districts as well as the castle.

We were amazed at the number of cars parked in every available space. Given the huge number of apartment blocks in Denia I suppose this does explain the sheer volume of cars. 

Denia Spain - Sailors out for a fun event

The Marina of Denia has over 500 moorings and we chanced upon a number of yachts heading out in the glorious sunshine while enjoying our ramble along the promenade. 

Denia Castle Spain

"Built on top of a cliff overlooking the coast, inhabited and fortified since Roman times, Denia castle is the symbol of the city. It is an unmissable attraction for those who spend their holidays in the area.

The fortress, that has been declared a "Monument of Cultural Interest" by the Spanish Government, was built in the 11th century, during the period of the Arab domination. The original architectural style was Almohad, but over the centuries the complex has undergone numerous changes and reconstructions. Today it is possible to identify elements added during the Renaissance period and the 18th century, as well as the remains of a Roman settlement".

"Denia, the capital of the Marina Alta area at the northern end of Alicante province has had a castle since Roman times when the town was known as Dianum but its main development came with the conquest of the area by the Moors. Built on a rocky promontory overlooking the town and the sea, the castle can be seen from anywhere in town. The impressive arched entrance dates from Moorish times but inside various buildings date from the castles development over the centuries". 

Denia Spain

Pavement cafes abound in the streets running up from the harbour - great for people watching, wandering the shops and enjoying some lunch in the old town. 

"Denia's historical centre is a fascinating mix of modern architecture and ancient neighbourhoods; of elegant buildings and old fishermen's houses; colourful and modern streets and alleys with an ancient flavour".

Irish Pub Denia Spain

"Once you arrive in the port area, you can visit the barrio Baix la Mar, the old seaside district. Located just below the castle, this neighbourhood is shaped by narrow streets and characteristic fisherman houses, with picturesque facades painted in pastel colours. In the area closest to the port there are many bars and restaurants where you can taste some excellent fresh fish".

We walked thru this tunnel - it was very scary or so it felt at the time. In later years used to ripen bananas of all things and now currently this walkway. There is information of the walls given all the history - well worth the walk thru.

Denia is naturally also famous for it's beaches being on the Mediterranean sea - with approx. 15km of various beaches there is something for everyone. Platja Punta del Raset is long and wide.

Las Rostos lies to the south and Las Marinas lies North

Platja Punta del Raset

Our favourite daily walk was along the boardwalk in the south part of Denia where we joined many locals all out walking with their children and their dogs. Or a group of ladies chatting away as they strolled along without a care in the world. It was lovely to see all the happy faces. The restaurants along this promenade had lovely views, both of the mountain and the sea. It was great fun going here for a meal.

All in all a great town to explore - lots of walking, plenty of restaurants, beaches for everyone, interesting shops and lovely views all around. The only negative is the parking! But one does eventually find a spot, albeit pretty far from where you actually want to be!

Until next time,

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Germany - Eifel Region

 

Wilder Kermeter Eifel National Park

After our wonderful days along the Middle Rhine Valley, our next stop was the Eifel National Park amd surrounding areas. A blissful 2 weeks were spent in this area - truly pristine and calming piece of Germany. 

Our first walk in the Eifel National Park was at the Wilder Kermeter area. This area is specifically suited to those with handicaps although there were lots of couples with prams as the paths are very smooth and flat. The park has 240 km of hiking trails, 110 km of cycle paths and is extremely popular. The board walk area had some fascinating info on the various mushrooms (10 species) found in the forest - all different shapes and sizes. 

Next was a drive to Heimbach. Our first stop was at Abbey Mariawald for their famous pea soup! Filling and delicious! The road winds up the mountain and appears a favourite with bikers. There were many out today, being Sunday. It is well worth the stop, no matter what the weather. 

Abbey Mariawald Heimbach Germany

Castle Hengebach is perched above the Rur river in Heimbach and the narrow, winding stairs go up and up in the dark! Built in the 11th Century it is among one the oldest buildings in the Eifel region. We did not climb right to the top but the views would be worth it, looking over the town and valley. 

Castle Hengebach Heimbach Germany

River Rur Heimbach Germany

Heimbach is very pretty with a number of half-timbered houses, plenty of pavement cafes and a peaceful river walk (Rur)

All in all a very pleasant day of exploring.

Thunderstorms expected tomorrow! 

Weather so far has been exceptional with temperatures ranging from 28 degrees to coolest 22 degrees.

Day 2:

Deer Park Hellenthal Germany

Today the forecast was thunderstorms and rain. So we opted to visit the Deer Park in Hellenthal. There are various deer - Red deer, fallow deer, roe deer, sika deer plus wild boar. The bird of prey flight show has falcons, buzzards and eagles flying high!  It is a must see.

Deer Park Hellenthal Germany

The area is huge and offers many picnic tables. Ideal for families - the children will be enthralled.

Privately owned. 

The birds of prey are bred and trained by the falconers. 

Deer Park Hellenthal Germany

Driving back we saw beautiful fields of canola ( or whatever it is called in Germany) 

Germany is very green, roads go every which way so without "Betsy" we would be totally lost! 

#TomTom rules! 

Day 3

Bad Munstereifel Germany

Today we visited the town of Bad Munstereifel. As most will remember this area of Germany was devastated by floods July 14th and 15th 2021. The town is beautiful and one can hardly believe that the trickle currently in the River Erft could cause such huge damage. Construction is ongoing nearly 10 months later. Only the odd shop or 2 open in the main historical area. The buildings are stunning so it was very sad to see the devastation. 

Bad Munstereifel Germany

Even in Gemund where we are staying there was flood damage -folk ate still trying to rebuild with partial assistance from the German government. 

But life goes on in Bad Munstereifel - kids chatter on their way home from school but mostly it is quite eerie in the main drag where the noise is quite ear-splitting from the rocks being thrown into skips and the grinding of the many construction machines. 

Bad Munstereifel Germany

 Bringing the memories back of those devastating floods in International TV was rather sobering.

And now the sun is out again!

Day 4

Monshau Germany

Today we set off to visit Monschou, a former cloth making city of the 18th century. The town achieved worldwide fame thru the work of Johann Heinrich Scheibler. We visited the huge Rotes Haus ( Red House)  Museum which shows the history of the cloth making era. The house was built around 1760 and the rooms are furnished as they were for this family residence.

Monshau Germany

This is a town in the Rur Valley and offers quaint streets, pavement cafes, historic buildings and even a house perched right next to the river!  

Monshau Germany

The Protestant Church is built in the middle of the town at the confluence of the Rur and Laufenbach rivers. The first service was held in 1789. 

Despite our hold up at the beginning of the trip due to a previous accident where the officials were measuring from all angles, we enjoyed our day in this historical Town. 

We did a short drive into Belgium - straight road and lots of logging activity. Just to say we were in Belgium!!

Day 5

Lake Rursee Germany

Our cruise on Lake Rursee was magical today. We started off at Schwammenauel. The parking area here is huge - it was nearly empty when we arrived and very full when we left! The boat goes along this beautiful lake with trees on all sides. Yachts, paddle boats, SUP, guys fishing from boats etc. Next stop was Eschauel then Woffelsback (beautiful from the water) then Rurgberg where we turned around for the return journey. All in all a sunny, cheerful day.

Lake Rursee Germany

 

Only problem was that the supermarkets are not open Sundays so we spent some time looking for petrol stations to get some rolls as the fridge is empty! Thank goodness for "Betsy" 

This drive took us thru an area not yet visited so it was all good! 

I find it fascinating that the fields are right next to the roads - no fences in sight. Cycle paths everywhere. 

Eifel Area Germany

Roads are very narrow - single lane in some places. The drivers are pretty good so no hassles. 

Day 6

Fishing on Lake Frielingen Germany

Today we first did the circuit of Lake Freilingen (near Blankenheim). A pretty lake and an area that allows visitors to fish, swim, barbeque or just relax. The lake is fed from a fresh water spring and covers an area of 11 hectares. The deepest part is 10 metres. 

Lake Freilingen Germany

Sadly, there was a plaque for a little 8 yr old with 3 teddies. Presumably she drowned.

Lots of walkers out, swimmers in the lake - yikes in the cold! And a lone guy paddling a boat and fishing. A lovely walk in the fresh air.

Lake Freilingen Germany

Next we visited the lovely historic centre of Blankenheim. Featuring numerous half-timbered buildings, a beautiful old hotel, city gateways, the water mill that was part of the medieval system to supply water to Castle Grafenburg and cobbled streets. 

Blankenheim Germany

The river Ahr runs through the cellar of a house in the town apparently. Not sure if I would fancy owning that building! 

We walked up to the castle - it is apparently now either a guest house or something similar. 

The views of the town from above were worth the many steps.

Blankenheim Germany

"Betsy" took us via villages, agricultural fields, a highway and much round and about to get us to Lake Freilingen. Nobody knows how her mind works! Thankfully the way back to Gemund was quick and easy. 

A great outing and a wonderful walk.

Day 7

Our accommodation in Gemund Germany

We left Gemund this morning in the rain! The receptionist has a brother in Goodwood, Cape Town so maybe will will see her in the future. 

Our walking trail in Gemund Germany

The rain carried on for most of the trip, at times just a drizzle and other times a downpour with poor visibility. The last part of the journey to Saarbrucken was on the Autobahn. Traffic was fairly heavy. Road works in places. 

Thailand is known as " The Land of Smiles" - Germany should be "The Land of Trees" The trees are incredible and everywhere just so green. 

The area all around the Eifel is so pristine that's its been a wonderful experience.

Ideal for hikers, bikers, those looking for colourful villages and interesting history - The Eifel has it all!

Hiking Path Gemund

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Germany - Middle Rhine Valley

 

Hotel Boat Rhine Valley

Our long awaited holiday after 2 years of Covid eventually arrived.

It was an uneventful flight except for the guy behind coughing and sneezing all night! 

Thankfully, we were all obliged to wear our masks during the flight.

So off we headed very early to find our accommodation in Lorch. We soon hit a snag as the road to Rudesheim was closed. So our driving in circles trying to get onto the correct road turned out to be a 4 hour exercise! So much for German efficiency! Or perhaps, our inefficiency!

 We did eventually find the village after driving a hellava long way thru a forest. Totally exhausted and ready to sleep after stocking up at the local Rewe supermarket.

The Middle Rhine Valley stretches for approx.65 km from Bingen & Rudesheim in the south to Koblenz in the North. The terraced slopes have vineyards, the villages are interesting and the castles go back a thousand years - some now just ruins. Traffic on the Rhine is constant - barges, hotel boats, sightseeing vessels. It's a fascinating sight daily. 

Our first day dawned sunny and bright with a high of 28degrees forecast. So we set off to find the pleasure boat dock. We found one in Kaub but the chap could not really explain the routes in English, so we opted for tickets to St. Goarshausen. It's a lovely short cruise and we were feeling very jealous of the Hotel Boats!

The famous Loreley Rock is just that - a huge rock! The river narrows to 130 m wide at this point and the legend lives on. 

We popped into a pleasant restaurant Rheingold in the village of St Goarshausen.

It made for a friendly and welcoming lunch spot and a very different cheese sandwich. Tons of cheese on top of Rye bread with olives, onion and some tomato. A large Konig Pils went down well. After lunch a drive to just before Koblenz. We tried to find a castle to visit but were not successful. 

Day 2:

Such a fun day today! We took the car ferry across the Rhine to the other side for a day of exploring. The castle in the river is called Pfalzgrafenstein - this has a 5 sided tower and white walls. Built as a Toll Station originally. 

 Our next stop was the beautiful village of Bacharach with the entrance thru city walls into a village that appears to be from a bygone era. The Altes Haus goes back to 1368. Imagine! It is now a restaurant. 

Altes Haus Bacharach Germany

The Postenturm Tower is high up on the hill and offers amazing views over the town and the Rhine. The hills behind are covered in vines - mainly Riesling. The ruins are Wernekapelle - the roof collapsed in 1689 after the French blew up the castle.

The church is St Peter stands tall and proud.

Bacharach Germany

 

We drove past quaint villages until we decided to stop in Boppard. This town has a lovely walk along the river, flowers, lots of trees and a gent with a truck, water tank and hose. He was watering all the geranium boxes along the river! 

We decided to try some German pizza at Ristorante Pizzeria Albona. A very friendly chap fetched us an English menu and was most obliging to make our pizza with a thin base. Watching the endless traffic on the Rhine is fascinating. The daily count passing Boppard is approx 300 per day!  300 millions tons of goods are transported every year! And then the trains run frequently with goods as well. 

View of the bend in the Rhine above Boppard, Germany

Sesselbahn Boppard - Germany

Next up was an amazing ride in a chairlift Sesselbahn Boppard. Boppard is called "the Pearl of the Rhine" and it is easy to see why during this 20 min ride over vineyards and thru forests to the top of the hill. 

Paragliding also happens from the top and there are bike trails and hiking trails. 

Our drive back to the ferry crossing was the end of a magic day! 

Day 3:

Bingen - Rhine - Germany

The day dawned cloudy, with a very cold wind. So we took the car ferry across the Rhine (great fun) and then a drive to Bingen. Bingen is a large town where old meets new. There is loads of construction happening in the old industrial area on the river. Very smart looking apartment complexes. The promenade walk was just what we needed with some beautiful flowers and trees. Chairs are provided and we saw many couples, families or singles relaxing with a book and just enjoying the tranquillity. And the pavement cafes were fairly busy as well. 

The roads are pretty narrow but driving is fine - we just don't understand the weird cement bits sticking out into the road? Perhaps to slow down traffic? 

The car ferry at Kaub is always busy Euro 6.50 per trip. It's quick and efficient. 

And so ends our trip in this beautiful part of the world. We have not got tired of gazing out of our apartment and seeing the constant stream of boats. It's been amazing! 

Perhaps too short a stay as so much more to do and see!

Rhine Valley Germany

Postenturm - Rhine Valley Germany

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