Travel

Fun with the Monkeys

No guesses where?

Have you ever been clouted around the head by a monkey? No? I hadn’t either, until last week on Gibraltar. It wasn’t a deliberate act on the monkey’s part. At least, I don’t think so! I had read the advice on not interacting with them and just letting them get on with their lives. We’re the intruders, after all. I was happy to just take a couple of shots and move on.

The problem arose when I leaned over the wall, holding tight to my camera, to take a shot of a mother and youngster just below me. Mum was busy with her fruit and the youngster desperate to get in on the act. As he squirmed about, I tried to get a good shot. Suddenly- smack! Two medium sized monkeys had galloped along the wall and straight over my head. Serves me right for leaving it in such a vulnerable place! The good news is that I didn’t drop the camera down the face of the Rock. Now that would have been a disaster! Here’s the shot I was striving for.

Not so great, is it?

Might as well show you the others

Not great at all!

So, that’s me and monkeys! Shall I tell you about the rest of the trip? It was a pre-dawn start and a four and a half hour bus ride from the Eastern Algarve. Some foolish folks at Lagos, in the western end, had boarded at 4.20am! I’m fine once I’m on board and rolling. A new panorama unfolding outside my window is always a buzz for me. I watched the sun coming up through the umbrella pines in perfect contentment.

Over the Spanish border and just past Lepe, sudden thick fog descended and I had a moment of panic. I had left the Algarve sunshine for this? Somewhere south of Seville it began to clear and my nose was then pressed hard against the window. I hadn’t been prepared for the lovely lakeside scenery around Los Barrios, when finally, there it was, up ahead- the unmistakable shape of The Rock.

It was midday and melting hot. Pedro, our affable tour guide, had arranged for minibuses to whisk us up to the heights. Truth be known, there wasn’t much whisking going on! Traffic in Gibraltar was gridlocked due to some power failure or whim of its own. It’s that kind of place! A very smiley Moroccan eventually manoeuvered us onto his minibus and we set off. Some of the Brits on the bus were very offended by the German audio commentary. I just dissolved into giggles! A comedy of errors it definitely was. It was a relief to be free of the traffic and allowed off the bus at Europa Point.

Trinity Lighthouse. Isn’t it a good-looker?

The Mosque of 2 Holy Custodians was a nice surprise

And pretty tall too!

Nope! This canon’s not real

Another surprise- the Sikorski Monument!

The Polish influence seems to get everywhere!

But the best bit was Morocco, beyond the shimmering sea

But the best part was the sight of Morocco, lying in a shimmering haze

Normally I research a destination to death before I set foot in it, but I hadn’t been sure that Gibraltar would be an option, so I arrived equipped only with a few preconceptions. Back on the minibus, I was in for a very pleasant surprise. Have you heard of St. Michael’s Cave? A natural grotto, it was apparently used during World War II as a hospital. Currently it stages a beautiful light show. There is an auditorium too for private events.

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I’m not fond of caves but it had me entranced for a little while. The views from the top of The Rock were pretty impressive too. I would have loved to whizz down on the cable car but the minibus returned us to shore level. With not a lot of time to spare, I headed for the Tourist Information Office in Casements Square to pick up a map.

Looking out from The Rock

A tree with style but not many leaves!

I might have liked a wander through the town, but the main sights had been pointed out on our way down and my next priority had to be boats. There are two marinas, one of which (Queensway) seemed to include a rather nice bathing area. No time for that, so I headed to Ocean Village, which was also in the direction of the border where I had been dropped off. Yes, it was a little glitzy and fake, but I am a complete sucker for any kind of marina. The bars and restaurants were full of happy, smiling faces- endless cocktail hour, apparently. And boats!

Just a small one- please!

Just made for strolling

Or biking

An easy one to hijack?

Definitely not the cruise ship/hotel, ‘The Sunborn’

But I’m very partial to red

Sherry, anyone?

Beware the misters!

Boat heaven!

There was just time to linger for a wrap and a glass of wine, while the misters on the corners of the umbrellas sprayed us, and the food, at regular intervals! Pedro had warned us to allow plenty of time to return from the town and pass through the border controls. There was a no.5 bus but it seemed far more adventurous to walk back across the airport runway. I had hoped to see a plane landing and I was in luck. Barely had I crossed the runway than sirens sounded and the barriers came down. Such an air of anticipation! I shuffled my feet and gazed expectantly with the rest of the crowd. Ten or fifteen minutes passed. I awaited the heavy drone of engines and a rush of wings.

Eventually there was a tiny humming sound. My vision is not the very best and I had to peer quite hard to see the incoming flight. I barely just caught it on camera.

Can you spot it?

I’m sure that I missed lots, but I got a flavour of the place, which is all that a visit like this can give. Was it what I expected? Mostly, yes. A little crazy, but with a certain charm.

Jo’s Monday walk : Ilha da Culatra

Shall we start with a ferry ride?

This week’s walk is on the island of Culatra, so you’ll have the added bonus of a ferry ride- always irresistible to me. But for those of you who are poor sailors, let me assure you of gentle, calm waters. I referred briefly to Culatra in my I is for Ilhas (islands) post and I thought it might be time to take a closer look. I think you might like it.

Departure points for the ilha are from the city of Faro, the Algarve’s capital, or from the nearby fishing town, Olhão. It’s a short 30 minute sailing from the latter. The ferries depart at 9.00, 11.00, 15.00 and 17.00, so what are we waiting for? Don’t forget your sunscreen, and flip-flops will be just fine for this trip.

Is this water flat enough for you?

There's always someone who likes to make waves!

There’s always someone who likes a little fun!

Here we are, at the first port of call already!

The ferry docks first at the eastern end of the island, with a busy little marina, the church and a couple of restaurants. If you like you can get off here and walk along to Farol, but I like to stay on till the second stop, 10 minutes later. As the ferry chugs alongside the island, the lighthouse for which the settlement is named looms larger. Often your flight path into the Algarve will carry you over the islands and you have an aerial view of Farol.

Almost there…

Closer!

And we’re disembarking!

Ok, so you’ve indulged me the watery stuff. Thank you! Now it’s time to stroll a little. You’ve probably guessed what we’ll be going to see, haven’t you?

It’s visible wherever you look

Not quite hiding behind the beach houses

Even on the tiles!

Unless you deliberately look the other way

There are plenty of beguiling sights

Palms and pretty houses

And pathways to explore

But eventually you come face to face!

The lighthouse is situated on a rocky headland, above a small beach, crowded with locals on a weekend. Continue past that and you have seemingly endless sand. Off with those flip-flops and away you paddle!

A good situation?

Are you paddling?

I think that’s a wreck out at sea?

After a while you will see a sign board pointing inland and a boardwalk. This is your cue to put the flip-flops back on and follow it, over some low dunes. You will see the first port where the ferry docked ahead in the distance. Arguably the best bit of the walk starts now. As you approach the village the path becomes lined with an array of beach houses and their gardens. All shapes and colours are represented- some tasteful, others… well, let’s say interesting.

The boardwalk

Across the dunes

It’s not as far as it looks

Till you come to the Social Centre

And the first of the beach houses

Closely followed by…

Many more

With their attendant bougainvillea

Did I mention tasteful? Quirky, maybe

Lots of pink

And assorted pots

Now you’re back at the marina, with its host of little fishing vessels. There are several small bars and restaurants where you can blend in with the locals while you await your return ferry. The ticket office only opens 10 minutes before the boat is due, but you might well have bought a return- ide e volta. The ferry will stop again at Farol so you can do this walk in either direction, or both ways if you’re keen!

A motley medley of containers

And numerous working vessels

Some very nifty ones

And the odd bike

It’s a busy spot

The church is at this end of the island, too

Watched over by Our Lady of Fatima

Then it’s farewell to Culatra

And hello Olhao!

I hope you didn’t mind the boat ride too much? One of my favourite things about the Algarve is the number of ferry rides I can take. My husband rather meanly keeps count and sometimes I’m rationed! There were 8 boat rides this visit. (that’s there and back, of course)

Many thanks for your time and your company. Will you join me next week on a Monday walk? The details are on my walks page or just click on the logo below.

Now for the good stuff! Time to put the kettle on and read my ‘shares’.

I didn’t have Alesund on my ‘list’ till I saw this post. I do now! Thank you, Cardinal :

The City Center of Alesund

Show me a walk by a river? I’m hooked! Thanks, Drake :

Other side of the river

Pauline keeps revealing interesting facets of Canberra :

Inner city chic : I’m loving Canberra

If you’re a lover of tranquility you can’t fail to love Amy’s garden :

Portland Japanese Garden

You’ll love this walk with Jude too. It’s on level ground for one thing! :

Wild Rye

One last nostalgic stroll with Sylvia… But, don’t worry- she’ll be back to visit family. Here’s to new beginnings, Ad! :

One last nostalgic walk before we leave this paradise

And now, meet Ana. I’m sure she’s known to many of you and I’m so happy she has joined us this week :

A guided history walk of Guildford

And last but never, ever least, Yvette is back! Have you been to West Point, Virginia? You’ll enjoy this visit. :

West Point, VA

Thanks again to all my contributors. Have a happy week!

Six word Saturday

I’m back, but where to start?

Maybe with where I’ve just been?

You recognise it, of course!

With a bridge you must have seen before

And its companion, the Military Bridge

Now sporting a love lock or two

So pretty at sunset!

With a caipirinha, maybe?

In the Praca da Republica

Or a meal at my favourite restaurant, ‘A Taska’

Some fine entertainment in the square

And a whirlwind of folk dance!

Followed by a stroll home in the moonlight

And that’s just a beginning! I hope you will excuse me but I have so much catching up to do this weekend, along with my normal chores. I should just about be ready for our Monday walk.

Have a happy weekend, won’t you? I’ll be round as soon as possible. Meantime, are you playing Six word Saturday? Visit Cate at Show My Face to see how it’s done.

Jo’s Monday walk : Captain Cook’s Monument

Captain James Cook on the village green at Great Ayton

I still have Paris stories to tell and photos to share, but life moves on, doesn’t it? Late Summer is the most beautiful time of year on the North York Moors and I’ve been there several times in the past few weeks. I wish I’d had blue skies like the one above for this week’s walk, but we’ll have to settle for ‘head in the clouds’.

‘Where do you want to go?’ asked the long suffering other half, last Monday. ‘Somewhere with heather. Lots of heather!’ I replied. And where do you find the most heather? On the very tops of the Moors, of course. So, strong legs needed this week, but I’m in the Algarve next week so you can all have a lovely rest. Are you ready? Come on, then!

This is our start point

I’m starting out from the free car park at Gribdale Gate, just beyond the village of Little Ayton. You have several choices from this point but they’re all in an upwards direction.

This is ours!

That’s the target- the little spike above the tree line!

Always on the Moors you are aware of nature

While beneath our feet the bracken fades

You’re following a woodland trail and steadily you will gain height

There are occasional diversions on the edges of the path

With occasional diversions on the edges of the path

Your first reward- Roseberry Topping on the horizon

Roseberry Topping is an iconic landmark in these parts. The combination of geological fault and a mining collapse in 1912 created its distinctive shape. The link will take you to the National Trust website with lots of spectacular views. Joe Cornish is one of my favourite photographers.

Looking back you can see the moorland trail you have followed

A memorial beside the path

Ahead, the Monument

Captain Cook’s Monument is a 16 metre high obelisk, located on Easby Moor and visible for miles around. It was constructed of local sandstone and has stood on this spot since 1827. It bears an inscription celebrating Captain James Cook, who was born locally at Marton- “a man of nautical knowledge inferior to none”.

The heather stretches for miles

And miles!

It is the most glorious sight at this time of year, and well worth the climb, which can be taken slowly, with frequent pauses to look back. Many families with quite young children were making the pilgrimage, so how hard can it be? I wasn’t so sure about this next activity though.

Getting the heart rate going is one thing, but…..

He made it- thank goodness!

The Monument and Roseberry Topping in the same frame

You can continue on across the Moors and down into Kildale in the next valley. The total distance is only 2 and a half miles, but you would then have to make the return journey. I was content to simply descend the hill, much more rapidly than my ascent!

Just a little more heather!

And a last look at the Monument

Did I mention the heather?

There is a railway station at Little Ayton, on the Esk Valley Line, but I’m assuming you arrived by car. It’s all downhill back to the main village of Great Ayton, where James Cook spent many of his boyhood years. It’s a very attractive village, with the river running through it, and a good pub, the ‘Royal Oak’, on the village green.

You could visit Captain Cook’s Schoolroom Museum if you have the time. I’m ashamed to say that I haven’t managed it yet. I’d better make that a project for the winter. I apologise for the sullen skies but the heather is only at it’s purple best for a few weeks. As we drove home the sky began to clear, of course, and I leapt nimbly out of the car to frolic with the sheep.

He’s giving me a very suspicious look!

As I mentioned at the start of this walk, I’m going to the Algarve today and won’t be around to post a walk next Monday. I’ll be back the following one, 15th September, so if you have any walks you’d like to share, feel free to leave them in the Comments as usual. I’ll feature them the following week. Any doubts, click on my logo above. It explains how I run Jo’s Monday walks. Till then, happy walking! I’m off to put the kettle on and visit all these lovely people.

My first walk this week is from a lady you might not know? Say ‘hello’ to Jill, at Jill’s Scene :

Breckenridge, Minnesota

Drake takes us to lovely Ribe in Denmark, and climbs a tower, too! Energetic, like me :

Step back time

Amy has the BEST photo of a cross mother swan in this post :

Zilker Park, Austin

I’ve always enjoyed ’tilting at windmills’. Jude has the most beautiful one I’ve seen in a while :

Tilting at Windmills

Some fabulous footage of the Azores from Cardinal Guzman, also joining us for the first time :

Horta- Azorean Islands

Take care and ‘bye for now!

Six word Saturday

Five places to go back to

Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

I was invited a while ago by Booked.net to take part in their promotion and maybe have the chance to win myself an iPhone6. All I had to do was write a post about 5 places I would be happy to go back to. It’s a tempting idea and it just happens to work well with my Six word Saturday.

Barcelona had to be on my list. Gaudi’s work left me speechless (and you should know, that’s not easy to do!) and I would be more than happy to revisit Parc Guell. The main reason for going back would have to be to observe the progress of the incredible Sagrada Familia. It’s not due for completion for a number of years yet so I shall postpone my revisit a while.

The lovely location of The Vintage Hotel on the banks of the Douro

Somewhere far more serene than Barcelona, the Douro region of Portugal made a lasting impression on me. Using Porto as a base, I had only a couple of days to explore the natural beauty of this landscape. The highlight for me was cruising back from Peso da Regua along the Douro River, the vineyards rolling away on either shore. I am quite determined to return some day and stay in one of the hillside villages where I can savour the pure, clear air. (and maybe sample the grape) Springtime, with the blossom all around me, would be ideal. Or Autumn, when all those vines turn wine red!

The frocks shimmered in the dark and then began to change colour

Shimmering frocks at Lumiere 2013, in Durham Cathedral

The city of Durham is right on my doorstep, and I return to it again and again. The University and student population make it a lively place and there’s always an event of some kind going on. Currently the Cathedral is fund raising via their Buy a Lego Brick campaign. I did, of course, and it’s fun to return and see the project grow.

If you really want to see something special, you should time your visit for Lumiere. This event only takes place once every two years, the next being November 2015. It’s a long way off, but put it in your diary. I’ll be there!

The view from the cafe in magnificent Musee d’Orsay, Paris

How could I not include my new love, Paris, in my list? I wandered far and wide around the city and found nothing to disappoint. Even sitting on the top deck of an open top bus with the rain streaming down my neck didn’t seem so bad in Paris! The wonders of Versailles and Monet’s incredible garden at Giverny will stay with me forever but I would love to go back. I don’t really think it matters how or when.

The Algarve, a place where my spirit soars

My last choice won’t come as a surprise to anyone who knows me, and I’m returning there on Monday. The Algarve is where I am at peace with the world. I have spent endless hours wandering on its beaches, and hope to spend many more. Tavira feels like home to me, and that’s always a reason for going back. It’s time for another glass or two of port in this beautiful riverside setting. I’d love it if you could join me there some day.

I won’t be around for Six Word Saturday next week. I’ll be wandering on one of those beaches! But I hope you’ll still join Cate at Show My Face.

One of the entry conditions of the Booked.net promotions was to name 5 other bloggers to participate. I’m not sure if we’re out of time but my nominations would be Le chic en Rose, lolawi, Behind the Story, Stranger in USA and Hey Jude.

“Booked.net – Top Destinations to Go There”

Impressed by Versailles

Water babies at Versailles

As the sea of humanity surged past me up the platform, I had to wonder just how much I was going to enjoy the experience of Versailles . The 7 million yearly visitors couldn’t all be wrong, but I’d had the impression that at least half of them had been on the train with me!

I had crisscrossed Paris to join the RER train to Versailles-Rive Gauche on line C5, at Javel Metro station. Standing on the platform, with a twitch of anticipation, I could see the Eiffel Tower looming in the distance as I watched for the approach of my double decker train. This was to have been a first- a ride upstairs on a train- but it was not to be! When the train pulled in, it was already full to sufficiency, and I had to spend the journey leaning up against a swaying wall. Just a little deflated, I had 30 minutes in which to wonder whether Versailles could possibly hold this volume of people.

Arriving at the palace gates, I felt hugely relieved that I ‘d had the foresight to book tickets for the gardens online. The queues were immense, but following the signs to the right, I slipped peacefully past the ticket barrier and into the empty gardens. No queue! This might not be so bad, after all. The day was rather overcast, but I had 20 minutes to explore before the fountains were turned on at 11.00am.

Time for cherubs!

And more cherubs

A statue

More lovely cherubs!

Another statue

An urn

And a few more cherubs!

There wasn’t any question that this place was built to impress, and impress it did! I felt a thrill of excitement as the fountains began to trickle. In a few moments my cherubs were magically clothed in a veil of water.

Holding hands!

A gentleman with a large ‘key’ made his way around the gardens, in an unhurried fashion, turning on the fountains in sequence. The race was on to visit as many of the garden rooms as possible before the fountains stopped again at 12.00.

Here we go!

Laying down on the job?

Note the hooves

Taking aim!

Prancing steeds

Apollo’s bath

The surrounding grove

Fountain of Apollo’s Chariot with the Grand Canal in the background

You might have noticed the odd umbrella in the background. A light drizzle had started to fall. With just a few minutes till the fountains ceased playing, it was time to consider food and shelter. As the skies suddenly opened, instant decision was required and ‘La Flotille’ was the nearest port in a storm. With my back to the burners and the rain pouring off the awning, a Grand Marnier crepe and a pichet of Bordeaux helped to pass the time rather nicely.

Half an hour later, the sun made a welcome appearance. A couple of rowers were out on the Grand Canal, but a gentle stroll to the Grand Trianon seemed a better bet. Dappled sunshine and puddles- such a nice combination!

Rowing boats on the Grand Canal

Grand Trianon

Courtyard of the Petit Trianon

If your legs are tired, take the bus!

There were still more garden rooms to visit and I had my favourites. The Ballroom was landscaped by Le Notre in 1680 and is decorated with millstones and shells brought back from the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea by the French Navy of that time.

The Ballroom was particularly lovely

Urns and statues sharing the space

The gilded urns truly beautiful

And gloriously detailed

The Mirror Fountain was commissioned by Louis XIV in 1702. It currently performs to music at 10 minute intervals all day long- the only fountain to do so.

And the Mirror Fountain twirled all day long

Dancing to the music of Rameau and Lully

Climbing the steps back up to the Water Parterres, I could look down on the Orangerie in all its magnificence. The clouds came and went but the beauty was endless.

The Orangerie, beautifully laid out

Seen from above

And with moody skies

I love the creatures on the urns

Looking in!

The grandeur of the Water Parterres

Full of drama!

Reclining elegantly

And with exquisite strength

850 hectares of parks and gardens means little to me, but I can tell you that it was huge, and absorbed all those people from my train with ease. And many more! The fountains play again from 15.30 to 17.00 and at 17.20 the grand finale of the Neptune Fountain.

On Saturday evenings throughout the Summer there is a Fountains Night Show. What a spectacle that must be! The Versailles website is a wealth of information and I could recommend a visit to anyone. Because of the scale of the place a little disruption from renovation is inevitable and on my visit the Latona Parterre and Water Theatre Grove were unavailable.

The incomparable chateau

Are you wondering about the Chateau? I had made a conscious decision to limit my visit to the grounds. I did not want to share the Hall of Mirrors and in August there would have been little choice. Another day, maybe!

Versailles is chalk and cheese with my lovely Giverny, but there’s room for both in this world. Don’t you think?

Jo’s Monday walk : the village of Giverny

Isn’t this perfection?

I took so many lovely images on my visit to the Monet garden in Giverny. It was quite hard to leave. But I had little idea of the other treats that lay in store for me in the village. I thought that this Monday you might like to join me in a gentle stroll in the Normandy sunshine? You won’t even need hiking boots! Sound promising?

Shuttered windows peep from behind a Russian Vine covered hedge

Claude Monet lived in the village of Giverny from 1883 to 1926 and there is no doubt that it has prospered hugely as a result of this. Still it remains a very charming place and it’s not difficult to see what drew Monet and his artist friends here. There were only 300 people living in the village when Monet first spotted it from the window of a passing train and decided he wanted to live there. Today Rue Claude Monet is the principal street of the village.

A legend among the ivy

Normally I save food for the end of my walks but you may remember that I’d already travelled from Paris and spent a couple of hours at the Monet garden. The Musee des Impressionismes has a very pleasant restaurant and gardens and is just a few steps further along Rue Claude Monet. We had a combined ticket with Monet’s garden, saving a few euros, but you didn’t need to enter the museum to eat in their restaurant, or to see the garden.

I was very happy with my Caesar Salad and vin blanc

While somebody decided he’d earned a big beer

The venue was rather nice

And we even found time to admire the garden

Of course, we had to check out the paintings too, and then it was time to venture into the village. We wandered along, admiring the shuttered windows. They looked so French!

White against soft grey stone

Gentle green on pink, with neatly tied nets

Smart and efficient looking

Smothered in green

Neat and rather stylish

Or carried away on a tide of flowers

This artist’s gallery beckoned me inside

I stopped a little further along Rue de Claude Monet to peer inside a gallery. “Come in, come in” beamed the proprietor (in French, of course), patting his head to indicate that I should keep mine low. I would have loved to start snapping the sea of canvases in the tiny space, but it didn’t seem polite. I had the impression that we could have become lifelong friends and that I’d take breakfast in the cafe next door. Fortunately I was rescued by another customer descending the steps, and the ‘patting of head routine’. A true show of French gallantry.

‘Le Coin des Artistes’ at no. 65 was first a grocery store, then a cafe-bar in Monet’s time, and is now a smart looking bed and breakfast. At no. 81, Hotel Baudy has been recently restored and was also a popular meeting place for artists . A few steps further, Eglise Sainte Radegonde dates from the Middle Ages and is the burial place of Monet and many of his family.

Hotel Baudy

A peep inside

Village life!

The view across the fields to the river

Sainte Radegonde church

Monet’s grave

The village is long and slim and at the end you can turn down to Chemin du Roy to complete a circuit back to your beginnings. I was much taken with the narrow interconnecting lanes, which reminded me a little of the Wynds in Yorkshire. Following my nose led to Rue du Milieu (Middle St.) looking over garden walls as I go. I do like to be nosy!

The prettiest of my ‘Wynds’

A quiet courtyard garden

Over a garden fence

A map of the village

Giverny lies on La Route Normandie Vexin, midway between Rouen and Paris, in the midst of chateau territory. With the Seine on its doorstep, boat trips are also an option. I took great delight in this village, which offered me far more than I had expected. I hope you found it a lovely place to ramble, too. Indulge me with a last few shots from the Monet garden?

What can you say?

And borders full of delight

Joyfully extravagant

And wildly flamboyant

I enjoyed my time in France so much! There may still be a post or two to come but I think that next week’s Monday walk will be back in the UK. I try to keep them seasonal and the Yorkshire Moors are in full bloom at the moment. I do hope that you’ll join me but I will have limited time to respond to you as I’ll be back in the Algarve by Monday evening.

There won’t be a Monday walk on 8th September, but I’ll remind you about that next week. Meanwhile, are you ready for a good read?

I think most of you will find Drake’s style much more relaxing than mine :

Few steps, large atmosphere

While Paula shows us exquisite beauty in Istria :

Macabre Fresco

I took the hint this week- no steps to climb! Here’s a lovely flat walk from Jude :

A walk along the Dee

Does fun in the sun in Texas appeal? It will if you join Amy! :

Lake, river and trails in Austin

Or come and have a hug, and a little history, with Sue’s Mum :

Canada’s Battle of Batoche-Louis Riel’s last stand

Finally a walk recommended to me by my dear friend Meg. Have you been to Ethiopia? :

Walkabout to the Blue Nile Falls

That’s it till next week. Happy walking!

Six word Saturday

Paris images that made me smile!

One of the delightful statues on Pont Alexandre III

Doorknobs to die for!

A leaning Eiffel Tower or two in Galerie Vivienne

Rodin’s wonderful sculpture garden

Soupe a l’oignon- to keep my strength up!

The clock at Musee d’Orsay

More delicious door knobs!

Wedding album shots, while the world looks on

Worshipping at the Louvre

The sparkling Seine by night

In concert at Saint Chapelle

A parting shot at Charles de Gaulle airport

My parting shot, at Charles de Gaulle airport

Sigh! It’s wonderful to look back on. I hope you enjoyed it too. It’s a long Bank Holiday weekend here in England, so plenty to see and do. I’ll still be walking on Monday so I’ll see you then. Have fun, whatever you do, even if that’s nothing at all!

Cate at Show My Face would love you to play Six word Saturday, if you can find the time.

Giverny- not a walk, more of a linger!

What could be more lovely than a pond full of water lilies?

It was a very special day, for three reasons:

1. I got to ride upstairs on a ‘double decker’ train (twice!)

2. It was our Silver Wedding anniversary

3. We visited Monet’s fabulous Giverny!

Just a couple of weeks before we had watched Monty Don browsing the borders in splendid isolation (except for the camera crew). We joked that we might not find quite so much space on the iconic bridge, and so it proved. But I couldn’t honestly say that it detracted one bit from the occasion for us. It was, quite simply, fabulous!

Here’s just one example!

Based in central Paris, I had pre-booked train tickets from Gare St. Lazare to Vernon, the nearest railway station to Giverny. Apart from a few moments of anxiety when the ticket machine wouldn’t cooperate, all went smoothly. Soon I was safely ensconced upstairs on my SNCF super smart train, strong coffee and pain au chocolat et noisettes stickily in hand.

The train glided out of the station and I spent the first few minutes replying to all the messages of goodwill and trying not to get my phone sticky. 51 minutes later I was disembarking at Vernon and boarding a ‘navette’ or shuttle coach for the 15 minute ride to Giverny.

Bathed in gentle sunshine, I was pleased to discover that the queue outside Monet’s house was quite short (miniscule by Versailles standards!) I listened to different accents from around the world as I edged forward, with rising excitement. I almost had to pinch myself! Just a murmur of doubt- would it live up to expectations?- before I was at the ticket office.

You probably know how it looks from TV and books?

Little ‘pops’ of colour

And subtle beauties

As well as flamboyant creatures like this

Delicates like these

Classic beauties

And bronze-leafed flirts

Everywhere I looked, I fell in love! Wouldn’t you?

Just a world full of loveliness!

Then we meandered by the stream

And found another kind of beauty!

I had been enchanted by these two little girls since I saw them skipping across the road from the railway station, in pink wellies on a sunny day. I had tried to take a photo of them sitting, heads together, on a bench, but when I asked if I might, they took flight. Mother’s warning not to talk to strange ladies! So how could I resist when I found them with Mum, on Monet’s bridge?

You know what’s coming next, don’t you?

The water lilies, of course!

Captured from every conceivable angle

Beside a boat

And through a variety of pretty flowers

Like these

And as close as I could get

Without falling in!

Then, a threat of rain. We headed back towards the house, still marveling at the beautiful borders.

Full of plants such as these

And this burgeoning beauty

Of course, everyone had the same idea. While the gardens had been easy to admire, with a little patience and good timing, the house was the only shelter from the sudden downpour. Despite this, I was delighted with it and the light-heartedness of the gaily coloured rooms. Pretty pastel walls were adorned with the oriental pieces that Monet had loved. I snapped with enthusiasm until I was advised that photography within the house was not allowed. I don’t suppose I should but I’m going to share just one image. It might encourage you to make the journey, mightn’t it?

Don’t tell anyone, will you?

And after the rain? Glorious sunshine, causing the plants to lift their heads and smile.

A rain-kissed blossom

Among a sea of beauty

Such as this!

I hope you’ve enjoyed sharing our special day. Whenever anyone mentions Giverny from now on I will be able to return to this little bubble in time.

There’s still a little more to come but nothing can top Giverny for me. I’ll let you decide for yourself. Many thanks for reading and for your continuing support. My world would be a much emptier place without you.

Jo’s Monday walk : Discovering Montmartre

Where else but the Moulin Rouge?

Whenever I visit a new city I like to take a guided walk with a local. You might remember that in Barcelona I accompanied Aleksandra on an eye-opening tour of the old side. Paris was no exception.

A couple of my blogging friends are Paris experts and Lucy at On the Luce has a great post on which I spotted Discover Walks. I was tempted by several of the choices, and so it was that, last Monday, I met Olivier. A personable and very charming 20 year old, I knew at the outset that I was going to enjoy my walk. And it was free, apart from a tip!

We met outside Blanche Metro station, at Place Pigalle, looking directly at that Paris icon, the Moulin Rouge. There was quite a big group of us. Why don’t you tag along? I promise not to give away the best stories. You’ll have to join Olivier for those. I should warn you that this area is very steep, but we’ll take it slowly and pause to admire the views.

With all of Paris at our feet!

We started off up Rue Lepic- a street full of shops and locals. It was tempting to linger over some of the pastries on display, but I hoped there would be time for them later. For now, I wanted to absorb all that Montmartre has to offer. Originally a village, outside of the city walls, the name Montmartre derives from martyrs who once were tortured and died on this hill. Despite being incorporated into the city of Paris in 1860, Montmartre retains a strong identity and almost a village feeling. It’s a community to which you would love to belong.

Olivier carried with him a satchel full of goodies and it wasn’t long before he was delving in. Outside Bateau-Lavoir, on tiny Place Emile-Goudeau, he produced a copy of a painting. In this former piano factory, in 1907, Picasso painted his Cubist ‘Les Demoiselles d’Avignon’; a portrayal of 5 naked prostitutes, outrageous for its time. No longer is there evidence of the squalid conditions he and his compatriots lived in, as the building has since burned down. A replica currently marks the spot.

The facade of Le Bateau-Lavoir (laundry boat)

In Rue d’Orchampt, the tragic story of beautiful Dalida

And the ill-fated building where she met her end

A sample of modern artwork in the nearby passage

Artists and their haunts abound in Montmartre. Dalida was unlucky in love. After the suicides of three of her lovers she finally committed suicide herself. A beautiful home isn’t everything, is it?

Around the corner another copy of a painting emerged from Olivier’s satchel. Enthralled I looked at the windmills Van Gogh had painted, in their surrounding fields. His countryside setting was nothing like that before me. Once Montmartre had more than 30 windmills, used for grinding wheat and pressing grapes. Now just two remain. At the junction of rues Lepic and Tholoze, Moulin de la Galette is one of them. A Michelin starred restaurant, it’s definitely a sign of the times.

Later, in the Musee d’Orsay, I was to stare wide-eyed at Renoir’s immortalisation of the windmill in ‘Le Bal du Moulin de la Galette’, so beautiful in closeup. I can only manage a photograph.

A seat on the terrace should give you the nicest views

Our next introduction was to a gentleman by the name of Marcel Aymé. Have you heard of ‘The Man who walked through walls’? No, neither had I, but there he was, protruding from the wall! I gather that he haunts Rue Norvins by night- a good reason not to loiter.

Olivier with Dutilleul, the ‘hero’ of the book

A look at the Montmartre vineyard was to follow, but with strict instructions not to buy the product. Pollution levels in Paris are apparently not conducive to producing fine wine.

The Montmartre vineyard- it’s green enough, isn’t it?

And down the hill, ‘Au Lapin Agile’- the nimble rabbit- a cabaret spot

It’s a green and leafy space where you can hear the birds sing. It’s not until you start to approach the monumental church that things begin to get busy. I could happily wander these quiet back streets but inevitably you are drawn to Place du Tertre, where all of life spills over.

Approaching Sacre Coeur from the rear

A quiet drink on the way?

Or a visit to the Musee de Montmartre?

Our group progress inexorably upwards

Not for us the crush of the main square. We pass through peaceful gardens and emerge behind Sacre Coeur, where Olivier shares a final few tips and bids us ‘adieu’. A job well done! Merci!

Sacre Coeur from the gardens at the rear

You know where I’m going next, don’t you? But first let’s have a quick peek at Place du Tertre.

Such a pretty square

And full of beautiful art work

Restaurants

Artists

And pretty pictures

Too many people for me! I’m heading right for the top. I figure with all that practise up four flights of stairs to our apartment, 300 steps will be a piece of cake?

The church first, but I wasn't allowed to take photos

The church doorway, but I wasn’t allowed to take photos inside

Up close and personal with a gargoyle first

Maybe, don’t look down!

Out is good!

There’s that Eiffel Tower again!

A bit of a rest stop

With beautiful views!

Still a long way down

I’ll focus on a close up

I never did make it to La Defense!

But I was on good terms with the gargoyles!

Are you worn out now? You didn’t have to climb all those steps with me! My legs are a bit jelly, too. I hope you enjoyed my Paris walk. Back down is simple. Just meander! Many thanks to Olivier for his delightful assistance.

I turned my back for 5 minutes this week and you walkers took off at a pace! Please make some time to read these. There are some superb walks here. Put your feet up and enjoy! (and then start walking) Click on my Monday walks logo to find out more.

Drake? Well, he was at a quarry :

Secluded works of art

And Jude was in her beloved Cornwall :

Capturing Cornwall

Madhu made me sad with her wistful haveli photos :

Lucknow- a walk in the Chowk

And Pauline introduced me to a pretty section of Canberra :

Canberra Lakeside walk

While Amy was out chasing beautiful butterflies :

Trail walking

The definitive London walk- you won’t want to miss it! :

A glorious Summer’s day in London

And by way of complete contrast, Sue has us dangling in wide open spaces :

Grassi Lakes- the Canmore jewels

Not quite so reckless but another lover of the great outdoors, join Suzan on a bear adventure :

Close encounters of the Bear kind

Right back to London, Laura shows us a side that tourists seldom see :

Walkabout 3- the Branch Line

I thought I was eating choux pastry with Jude. It must have been those steps!

New Abbey Buildings

And finally my lovely Viveka in Vienna. You will never have taken a finer tour! :

Felt like a local

Happy walking all! See you next week.

restlessjo

Roaming, at home and abroad

Travel

Fun with the Monkeys

Jo’s Monday walk : Ilha da Culatra

Six word Saturday

I’m back, but where to start?

Jo’s Monday walk : Captain Cook’s Monument

Six word Saturday

Five places to go back to

Impressed by Versailles

Jo’s Monday walk : the village of Giverny

Six word Saturday

Paris images that made me smile!

Giverny- not a walk, more of a linger!

Jo’s Monday walk : Discovering Montmartre

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I’m back, but where to start?

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Five places to go back to

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Paris images that made me smile!

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