Located between Brussels and Antwerp, it can be part of a perfect Flemish itinerary.

In my latest YouTube video, I’m taking you on a tour of Mechelen’s most iconic spots, perfectly suited for a single-day exploration. Here’s a sneak peek at what you absolutely shouldn’t miss, all showcased in detail in the video. Click on the pictures to see the beautiful walking tour.

St. Rumbold’s Cathedral (Sint-Romboutskathedraal)

The undisputed symbol of Mechelen and the first essential stop on your itinerary. Its imposing tower, almost 97 meters high, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and beyond. In the video, You can climb its 538 steps to reach the top – a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience!

The Grote Markt (Grand Market Square)

At the foot of the Cathedral lies the vibrant Grote Markt, the beating heart of Mechelen. Here, you’ll admire magnificent historic buildings, such as the Palace of the Great Council (Schepenhuis) and the Former Military Headquarters (De Beyaert). It’s the perfect spot for a coffee or a refreshing Belgian beer while soaking in the lively city atmosphere.

Mechelen City Hall (Stadhuis)

Also located on the Grote Markt, the City Hall is a fascinating architectural complex, blending various eras and styles. Its Gothic facade is particularly striking. Even if it’s not always open for internal tours, its external beauty is definitely worth a stop.

The Dijle River and Dyle Path

Mechelen is traversed by the Dijle River, and one of the most pleasant ways to explore it is by walking along the Dyle Path. This floating walkway allows you to admire the city from a unique perspective, passing under historic bridges and alongside charming canal-side houses. In the video, I take you on a relaxing stroll along this enchanting route.

The Grand Beguinage (Groot Begijnhof)

Step into a serene oasis of tranquility at the Grand Beguinage, another UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic complex of charming houses, courtyards, and a church once housed devout laywomen who lived a semi-monastic life. Wander through its cobblestone streets and soak in the peaceful atmosphere – it’s like stepping back in time. The video captures the quiet charm of this unique historical site.

These are just a few of the highlights that make Mechelen a perfect destination for a day trip. In my video, you’ll find all these main places and you can have an idea on how the life is on a Sunday afternoon:

Where to eat:

Best Street Food: When you’re in Belgium, fries aren’t just a side dish; they’re an institution! SebFriet frituur is the ultimate destination for them. Forget the chain shops and get ready to savor perfectly made frites, golden and crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. It has also gluten-free options.

Best Belgian food: If you’re looking for an elegant and memorable dinner, book a table at De Fortuyne. the experience here is centered around the chef’s surprise tasting menu, featuring creative and meticulously crafted dishes.

Favorite by locals: For a casual, crowd-pleasing meal loved by residents, head to Poule & Poulette. The concept is simple yet effective: free-range roast chicken cooked low and slow, served in various ways, often accompanied by fresh salads or, naturally, Belgian (not French lol) fries. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a Belgian classic like the Vol au Vent (chicken and mushroom stew in puff pastry) in a lively, welcoming atmosphere without breaking the bank.

Where to sleep

Budget accomodation : If your goal is to maximize your exploration while minimizing costs, the 3 Paardekens – City Centre Hotel is the ideal choice. This hotel is perfectly located in the heart of the city and offers clean, functional rooms for approximately €80 – €100 per night. It’s the perfect no-frills base for travelers who plan to spend most of their time out enjoying Mechelen.

Mid-range accomodation: For travelers seeking superior comfort and additional amenities without an excessive price tag, the Hotel Vé is a fantastic 4-star option. Housed in a former public swimming pool, this stylish hotel offers modern design and excellent relaxation facilities, including an indoor pool and sauna. With prices typically ranging from €115 – €160 per night, it’s the right choice for a comfortable and rejuvenating stay.

Luxury accomodation: For an exclusive and unforgettable stay, the Martin’s Patershof is Mechelen’s most unique luxury experience. The hotel is situated inside a beautifully restored deconsecrated church. Rooms and suites showcase original Gothic architectural elements, such as soaring arches and stunning stained-glass windows, combined with contemporary design. While starting prices are competitive, securing a premium suite or booking during peak season means rates typically range from €160+ per night, ensuring a truly special and magical stay.

Best activities in and around Mechelen:

• Want to have a private walking tour of Mechelen? Find out here.
• Particularly recommended to visit the beautiful city of Leuven with the oldest university of the Benelux: you can visit by yourself or book a private walking tour.
• Want to visit Leuven and Mechelen together by train in the same day? Here you find the option.
• Do not forget to visit the Belgian beautiful capital Brussels.

Don’t miss the chance to discover this pearl of Flanders! Watch the video, get inspired, and start planning your Mechelen adventure!

Table of contents

1. Table of contents
   1. Map
   2. Brussels
   3. Maastricht
   4. Valkenburg
   5. Aachen
   6. Cologne
   7. Dusseldorf
   8. Essen
   9. Extra: Monschau
   10. Travel tips

Map

Brussels Winter Wonders, Belgium

The captivating journey begins in Brussels, where the city transforms into a Christmas wonderland. Step into a fairy tale as you admire the breathtaking lights show illuminating the iconic Grand Place. Explore the Winter Wonders market, discover unique crafts, and indulge in delectable Belgian chocolates and waffles. Don’t forget to taste the famous mulled wine and experience the charming ice-skating rink.

Opening times: 24th November – 31st December 2023

Magic Maastricht

Now the are moving to the Netherlands to the picturesque city of Maastricht! It turns into a true winter dreamland during the festive season. Wander through the charming cobblestone streets, marvel at the stunning Saint Servatius Basilica, and immerse yourself in the magical ambiance of the Vrijthof Square Christmas market. Treat yourself to local delicacies like oliebollen and slurp on piping hot glühwein as you browse the countless stalls offering unique holiday treasures. The beauty of Maastricht in Winter is also related to the lights you can find throughtout the city, giving it even more charm.

Opening times: 30th November – 31st December 2023

Christmas Town Valkenburg

Prepare for a truly unique experience as you venture to Valkenburg. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the Velvet Cave, transformed into a mesmerizing underground Christmas market. You can visit the unique underground market also in the Gemeente and Mergelrijk Cave. Discover hidden treasure troves, marvel at stunning sculptures carved from sand, and sip on hot cocoa in the crisp underground air. This market is sure to be a memory you’ll cherish forever.

Opening times: 17th November 2023- 7th January 2024

Aachen Christmas Market

Continuing our expedition, we arrive in Aachen, Germany, where a heavenly festive experience awaits. The Aachen Christmas Market, set against the magnificent Aachen Cathedral backdrop, boasts over 120 stalls showcasing handmade crafts and mouthwatering holiday treats. Don’t miss out on the delicious Aachener Printen, a local gingerbread specialty, and the famous Glühwein pyramid.

Opening times: 26th November – 23rd December 2023

Cologne Christmas markets

Prepare to be dazzled as we reach the majestic city of Cologne. Home to Europe’s largest Christmas tree, Cologne’s Cathedral Christmas Market is a feast for the senses. Soak up the festive atmosphere as you amble through the twinkling stalls filled with handmade crafts, sip on traditional feuerzangenbowle, and listen to captivating holiday melodies resonating through the air. Don’t miss climbing to the top of the Cathedral for a breathtaking panoramic view! And also, from my point of view, you will find the most beautiful markets of the entire area.

Opening times: 23rd November – 23rd December 2023

Dusseldorf

Next on our journey is Dusseldorf, where tradition and modernity come together to create a truly unique Christmas market experience. Stroll the picturesque old town and marvel at the historical buildings adorned in lights. Immerse yourself in a world of craftsmanship, mouthwatering delicacies, and mulled wine. Don’t forget to take a ride on the Ferris wheel for a bird’s eye view of this enchanting city.

Opening times: 23rd November – 30th December 2023

International Christmas Market Essen

Our final stop takes us to Essen, the ultimate culinary delight of our Christmas market tour. Particularly recommended is the Kennedy platz, with the impressive light roof, transformed into a captivating market filled with regional delicacies and unique handmade crafts. From hearty German sausages to freshly baked gingerbread, Essen’s market is a feast for the senses and the perfect way to conclude our unforgettable journey. You can even visit the Middle Ages Market.

Opening times: 17th November – 23rd December 2023

Extra: Monschau

The Monschau Christmas market offer a charming and festive experience in the heart of the German town. Nestled amidst the picturesque cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses, the markets showcase a delightful blend of traditional crafts, food, and festivities. You can wander through the stalls, admiring the beautiful handmade crafts and sampling delicious treats like gingerbread and mulled wine. The atmosphere is filled with joy and merriment in fairytale town, as live music creates a cheerful backdrop to the cheerful season. The Monschau Christmas market is a true winter wonderland that celebrates the magic of the holidays.

Opening times: 26th November – 30th December 2023

Travel tips:

• All the markets and destinations can be reached by train. Alternatively you can do it by car, but then you need to park the car and the city centres may have long queues and traffic.
• A day per market is enough so you may complete the whole itinerary in 8 or 9 days. However if you want to take time to visit also the places, you may consider to visit only some of them.
• In such situation, I recommend as must-see: Brussels, Valkenburg, Aachen, Cologne and Essen. Monschau has that fairytale atmosphere you may love it.
• The Christmas markets tend to be crowded during the weekends, but in bigger cities like Brussels or Cologne even during the week. It is recommendable to visit them during the week to avoid big crowds.
• Do not miss my previous posts about the Xmas Markets: Valkenburg, Aachen and Cologne.
• To book the train tickets you can book via the Belgian Railways in Belgium, NS in the Netherlands and the Deutsche Bahn in Germany.
• To book the hotels, the best way is to do so via Booking.com.

Are you ready to embark on this enchanting Christmas adventure? Join me as we traverse the dazzling European Christmas markets by train, creating memories to last a lifetime. Embrace the festive spirit, indulge your senses, and experience the joy of Christmas like never before. All aboard for the merriest journey of the year!

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Table of contents

1. Table of contents
2. What is Forest Bathing?
3. Therapeutic Benefits
4. Techniques and Practices
5. Integrating Forest Bathing Into Daily Life
6. Forest Bathing for Healing the Mind
7. Forest Bathing and Physical Well-being
8. Conclusion

What is Forest Bathing?

Forest bathing is not your regular woodland walk; it is an immersive experience that involves engaging all the senses. It is about mindfully connecting with nature and allowing it to heal and restore your mind and body. Participants are encouraged to slow down, observe, and experience the natural environment without any distractions.

Therapeutic Benefits

Numerous scientific studies have shown the positive impacts of forest bathing on mental and physical health. Some benefits include a boosted immune system, reduced stress levels, improved mood, increased focus and creativity, and lowered blood pressure. By inhaling phytoncides (airborne chemicals released by plants), the body experiences a natural boost in its immune function.

Techniques and Practices

Forest bathing involves various techniques to enhance the experience. Mindful breathing, meditation, and sensory awareness exercises help to deepen the connection with nature. By intentionally observing the sights, sounds, smells, textures, and even tastes of the forest, participants can fully immerse themselves in the therapeutic environment.

Integrating Forest Bathing Into Daily Life

While it may not always be possible to escape to the woods, incorporating elements of forest bathing into your everyday routine can still offer significant benefits. Suggestions include spending time in local parks or green spaces, creating a mini indoor garden, practicing mindfulness outdoors, or even bringing natural elements, such as plants and natural scents, into your living space.

Forest Bathing for Healing the Mind

Forest bathing offers a powerful antidote to the stresses of modern life. Spending time in nature has been proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and attention-deficit disorders. It provides a sanctuary for mental relaxation, allowing individuals to rejuvenate and find balance amid the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Forest Bathing and Physical Well-being

In addition to its mental health benefits, forest bathing can also contribute to physical well-being. The slow-paced, gentle exercise involved in forest bathing is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Spending time in nature can promote overall fitness, improve cardiovascular health, and even boost the body’s ability to fight off illness and disease.

Conclusion

Forest bathing is far more than a simple walk in the woods; it is a holistic practice that blends mindfulness, nature, and therapy. By immersing ourselves in the healing elements of the forest, we can reap countless benefits for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. So, why not take the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and embark on a journey of self-discovery and renewal through forest bathing? Start your transformative experience today and let nature nourish your mind, body, and soul.

You can also check also the Body & Mind page and also the hiking routes.

Do you want to try it out? You can get contact me here even for a FOREST BATHING HOME SESSION:

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It is a 90km (55 miles) loop ride that goes from Valdobbiadene to Conegliano and it is for sure the heart of the area where the delicious and world wide famous prosecco is produced. Last but not least, in 2019 the whole prosecco area between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene has become world heritage site and therefore part of the Unesco sites.

Ready to explore it?

Table of contents

• Itinerary
• Valdobbiadene
• Cartizze/ Osteria senza Oste
• Abbey of Follina
• Castelbrando
• Molinetto della Croda
• Conegliano
• Travel tips
• Where to stay

Itinerary

Valdobbiadene

This route starts from Valdobbiadene, the heart of the Prosecco area, and from the enchanting square with nice palaces such as the town hall, the enchanting Villa de´ Cedri, the church of St John Baptist, built in 1972. It is an ideal place where to enjoy local delicacies in typical trattorie / agriturismi. It is also an ideal place to hike or cycle and if you feel more brave and adventurous you can also climb the Mount Cesen (Pianezze) and enjoy the superb view of the the Venetian plan.

Cartizze/ Osteria senz´Oste

Located in the municipality of Valdobbiadene, the Osteria senz´Oste is located exactly on the most important hill of the whole area: the Cartizze. Only here you can find the best grapes of the prosecco vineyards, as the Cartizze quality is the highest you can have ( even higher than the Prosecco Superiore DOCG). You can also enjoy one of the best landscapes over the vineyards and the uniqueness of the Osteria senza Oste is that there is no owner/host to serve you.

The restaurant is located in an old barn and cellar and you can serve yourself by buying some local products such as bread, ham, cheese and soppressa. And to buy prosecco, you must climb the hill and go to the vending machine. Please make sure to take your credit card or if you are Italian the sanitary card to choose and buy one of the different bottles of prosecco. All the productrs come from local companies/producers so you will enjoy really the local cuisine.

Abbey of Follina

The Abbey of Follina is an ancient religious building located in Valmareno, between the woods of the Venetian Prealps. The abbey complex dates back to the 12th century and is an excellent example of Romanesque architecture, with beautiful frescoes and other works of art inside. The cloister with the colonnade, the small basilica and the close water flow make this place absolutely a peaceful haven in the middle of the hills. And during Christmas, the abbey is the location of the nativity scene representations made by local artists and students.

Castelbrando

Castelbrando is an imposing medieval fortress located on the hills above Cison di Valmarino, in the province of Treviso. The origins of Castelbrando date back to the Roman age as it was a defensive fortress and hosting also baths. There are still the archeological remains of the old castrum. The castle has been enlarged several time during the Middle Ages. Now it is a hotel & spa and when I can (when I am back to my hometown Montebelluna) I go there for some relaxing day. Due to the position, the beauty of the castle, I recommend to book a night

Molinetto della Croda

The Molinetto della Croda is a beautiful mill located in Refrontolo. This old watermill was the symbol of the old agricultural heritage from the past centuries.Built around 1630, the mill was abandoned in 1953 and only in 1991 the municipality restored the abadoned building and now the mill is still in operation, producing flour and walnut oil. You can visit the museum/mill and enjoy the beautiful waterfall and the landscape from the trails around the mill.

Conegliano

Conegliano is a picturesque city famous for the oldest wine school in Italy and to be the birthplace of the painter Giambattista Cima. The beautiful historical centre offers many tourist attractions, including the Castle, Piazza Cima, and the ancient Collegio di San Francesco.

Travel tips

• The best way to travel along the Prosecco Road is by car, little bus or motorcycle. For sure, if you have more time you can visit it by bicycle.
• Duration: you can even make it in one day. However, to not rush too much i would recommend to visit the different places in 2-3 days. It is better to slow down, enjoy the landscape, drink the best prosecco you can ever have and local delicacies, walk, hike, bike, etc.
• Prosecco tasting: for me the best and absolutely wine producer of the whole area is Col Vetoraz. You can visit the company and have a tasting of different king of prosecco by booking here. Please note that i am not affiliated to this company, but it is just a personal taste. Try
• Other places to visit along the Strada del Prosecco: the beautiful Villa Brandolini in Solighetto, the Torri di Credazzo in Farra di Soligo, the church of San Vigilio in Farra di Soligo and the lakes in Revine.
• Surroundings: if you want to visit another beautiful small medieval town, do not miss Asolo. Not far from the prosecco hills, you can spend one day in Treviso, or visit the enchanting Canova temple in Possagno if you are into architecture. Last but not least, if you want to continue your nature itinerary/experience you can travel to the stunning Dolomites.
• If you are into nature, the province is a paradise for hiking, trekking and cycling: the hills and the mountains like Mt Grappa and Mt. Cesen represent an ideal place, together with the forest of Cansiglio and the caves of Calieron.
• Time to visit: from March to November – I recommend to go between end of March and May, where you can enjoy the Primavera del prosecco (prosecco spring). You will find feasts, expos, local tasting, etc – please find more info here.
• Local food to try: the soppressa ( a kind of salami from cow & pork meat), the sopa coada (a kind of lasagna in soup), vegetables such as Radiccio, different crunchy grilled meat dishes and the pinza, a local cake. As this is the land of the tiramisu – do not forget the tiramisu.

Where to stay:

Here you find some recommendations where you can sleep along the Strada del Prosecco. These links may contain affiliate links – so you will book at the same price and i may get a commission.This is also a good way to support the blog for time and effort spent.

• Budget accomodation: in Valdobbiadene you can stop by La Caneveta al Piave, a holiday house with parking available and Italian breakfast included. Prices are in around 90 Euros per night per two people or 180 Euros per night per 4 people.
• Mid-range accomodation: located in a freshly renovated farm not far from Conegliano, the beautiful Relais La Dolce Vite offers you a quiet space to relax and enjoy nature. Prices from 150 Euros per night per double room.
• Luxury accomodation: well here I have to remind for sure the beauty of Castelbrando, the castle on top of the town of Cison of Valmarino, with the exclusive setting of a medieval castle with superb view. Prices as of 250 Euros per double room per night. And huge breakfast included

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You can choose between different kind of walks/hikes, if you look for a city walk or a more difficult hike in the nature with ascent. So here you find the best hiking trails in Limburg, Netherlands.

Having walked along 100+ hiking trails in the region, here you find the ones that were more scenic and spectacular.

For this reason I divided the hiking trails in the following sections (this is not a chart but a list):

1. CITY WALKS
   1. City walk Maastricht
   2. Historical walk Vaals
2. NATURE WALKS – easy difficulty
   1. Geul and St. Gerlach Castle Valkenburg Va15
   2. Pungelroute Landgraaf LA02
   3. Wandelroute Sl1 – Gulpen-Wittem – Slenaken
   4. Molenplas circular walk
3. NATURE WALKS – medium difficulty
   1. Route Bemelen – Groeve Rooth Caves
   2. Plateau de Castaert caves route
   3. Wandelroute – Valkenburg – Kastelen in het Geuldal
   4. Wandelroute Vi2 – Eijsden-Margraten – Vineyard route Noorbeek
   5. Brunssummerheide
   6. St. Pietersberg caves route

CITY WALKS

Let´s start from the city walks: besides the nice hill region, Limburg has beautiful cities like the capital Maastricht or Valkenburg. However, two of the best city walks involve the same Maastricht and the border town of Vaals with a walk that reaches the famous Drielandenpunt (Three lands point).

City walk Maastricht

Maastricht is the capital of the region and is also one of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands. In this approximately 4 km long walking tour you will see the most important places of the city with some hidden spots too. By clicking on the link above you will find a map and discover some of the places here, between historical spots, impressive basilicas, parks and medieval gates and ramparts.

Historical walk Vaals

Vaals is a border town located on the south-eastern Limburg. In this nice 6,2 km walk you will reach the Drielandenpunt (Three lands point), where Netherlands, Belgium and Germany meet, the Vaalserberg, the highest point of the Netherlands, but also you will discover a nice historical centre with some nice landmarks such as Von Clermont House and Bloemendal Castle. You will cross also the woods and finally get to the Drielandenpunt by following an initial steep ascent. You can also then climb the 50 meters high King Boudewijn Tower and enjoy the seesight.

NATURE WALKS – easy difficulty

The easy walks are basically hikes that are suitable for all people, with minimum difference in elevation. They do not require a particular training and can be done by anyone.

Geul and St. Gerlach Castle Valkenburg Va15

This 4,3 km long walk goes along the Geul river between Houthem and Valkenburg, showing you beautiful waters sights, caves and also amazing views over the Geul valley. You will reach also the beautiful St. Gerlach Castle, where you can see the garden with amazing artistic sculptures.

Elevation; 34 meters; Best time: Jan – Dec; Recommended equipment: hiking/training shoes & hiking apparel

Pungelroute Landgraaf LA02

Another 4,3 km long route is located between Kerkrade and Landgraaf and will take you to walk in the beautiful natural reserve Strijthagenbeekdal, a nice forest where the Strijthagenbeek canal flows. You will also walk around the artificial Wilhelminaberg to get to the Strijthagen Castle, surrounded by artistic sculptures too (Artland).

Elevation; 48 meters; Best time: Jan – Dec; Recommended equipment: hiking/training shoes & hiking apparel

Wandelroute Sl1 – Gulpen-Wittem – Slenaken

From my point of view the most spectacular and scenic hiking route you may find in Limburg. From the village of Heijenrath you walk in the beautiful Bovenste bos (forest) and at some point you will enjoy the incredible landscape of the most beautiful Limburg hills. It is a bit longer than the other easy routes (7,1 km) and has a steep ascent on thw way back, but the sights are amazing.

Elevation; 64 meters; Best time: Jan – Dec; Recommended equipment: hiking/training shoes & hiking apparel

Molenplas circular walk

Another walking tour that I recommend you is the Molenpas circular walk. This is ideal for nature lovers as you have the opportunity to do some birdwatching, see some Galloway cows or Konik horses. You will cross the stoned Molenplas bridge over the Old Meuse river, have a coffee at the Hompesche windmill and even see the prehistoric Boommonument (tree monument), that was created by using trees that were buried about 1500-2000 years ago and resumed by the gravel extraction.

Elevation; 7 meters; Best time: Mar- Oct; Recommended equipment: waterproof hiking/training shoes & hiking apparel

NATURE WALKS – medium difficulty

Medium difficulty walks require a minimum training as they can have some different terrain, longer length and higher elevation.

Route Bemelen – Groeve Rooth Caves

This is a beautiful route that will take you to some really geological and natural places. You will climb the steep Bemelerberg to enjoy a beautiful landscape of the Meuse valley, walk to see the caves of Gasthuis and Nevenkoelenbosch. You will walk in the nice town of Bemelen, see the cave with the Chapel of Mary and then reach the beautiful geological monuments of Koeberg and Schiepergsgroeve with their impressive natural theaters. And finally you will see the other quarry, the Groeve ´t-Rooth. Route recommended for adventure seekers.

Length: 10,3 km; Elevation; 128 meters; Best time: Mar- Oct; Recommended equipment: waterproof hiking shoes & hiking apparel

Plateau de Castaert caves route

This is an adventurous route that start in Maastricht close to the Chalet D´n Observant where you can see the beautiful ENCI quarry and then you will soon cross the border with Belgium. In this spectacular route, you will become an authentic adventurer/explorer and access the Lost Valley, that looks like a jungle, and go close to the entrance of the caves of the Plateau de Castaert. Here you will find many entrances to the old quarries (Ternaaien, Lanaye en Feij). You will also see the Farm de Caestert and the ruins of the old castle. You can also enjoy superb seesights over the Meuse Valley. Please be aware that some parts are exposed so if you are afraid of heights be careful.

Really important!!! The Wallonie government forbids the access to the Lost Valley so if you go over there you do it at your own risk. The pictures are taken when the area was stil accessible (in 2020).

Length: 7,1 km; Elevation; 137 meters; Best time: Mar- Oct; Recommended equipment: hiking shoes & hiking apparel. Some points are really steep and slippery so do not use sneakers/training shoes.

Wandelroute – Valkenburg – Kastelen in het Geuldal

This is most likely the most spectacular route for those who love combining nature and monumental places like castles. You will walk along the Geul river and see the enchanting Kasteel Oost (Castle Oost) and most of all the Kasteel Schaloen (Castle Schaloen), that reminds the Val de Loire castles in France. After that, the trail will take you uphill to the Biebosch. Over there you will see some caves if you go a bit off trail and then reach the Wilhelminatoren, the tower that dominates the town and walking close to the amusement park Agogo.You will finally get toValkenburg where you will enjoy the sight of the Valkenburg castle ruins, the gates and the lively main and pitoresque streets.

Length: 7,4 km; Elevation; 117 meters; Best time: Jan – Dec; Recommended equipment: hiking shoes & hiking apparel.

Wandelroute Vi2 – Eijsden-Margraten – Vineyard route Noorbeek

This is a vineyard route so you must do it in August/September to fully enjoy the sights of the vineyards. If you decide, however, to hike here, the landscape is still great as you see the hills of Noorbeek in the beautiful Heuvelland. Not only that, you will also see the pitoresque half-timbered houses.

Length: 7,8 km; Elevation; 136 meters; Best time: July/September; Recommended equipment: hiking shoes & hiking apparel.

Brunssummerheide

The Brunssumerheide is the largest heathland in Limburg and it is an incredible environment and one of the natural areas that I would recommend to visit in the Netherlands. In this beautiful trail you will discover this diverse environment where you will walk through pine forests, sand dunes and grass meadows. And especially in July/August, when the heath is blossoming, you will see the beautiful purple color. And as you will walk also over a sandy trail, you will feel to walk on the seaside. You go up and down frequently so be trained

Length: 8,4 km; Elevation; 205 meters; Best time: July/September; Recommended equipment: hiking shoes & hiking apparel.

St. Pietersberg caves route

St Pietersberg or the Mount St Pieter is one of most known hills in the Netherlands (it is called mountain). Not only for the famous Fort St. Pieter, but also for the geological importance given by the limestone quarry (ENCI), the underground network, the caves like the Devil´s cave (Duivelsgroot). In this great hiking route, you will also enjoy panoramic views over the Meuse valley, Maastricht and the ENCI quarry. You will go down the staircase and enter in one of the caves and get back to million of years where the Mosasaurus was swimming.

Length: 6,8 km; Elevation; 117 meters; Best time: March – November; Recommended equipment: hiking shoes & hiking apparel.

Well there is not really a ´hard difficulty´ section as so far I have not found one but I will add it as soon as I will face one

Some final tips

Are you looking for some hiking apparel? I recommend you to check the hiking apparel section in the Travel & Resources area.

As hiking is very beneficial for your health, please check the Body & Mind section to discover also how you can improve your general well-being, including the forest bathing.

Do you also want to discover other routes? Here you find also other incredible hiking routes.

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From my point of view, these are also the most beautiful ones I have seen so far: so do not miss them!

Ready to explore it?

First of all, it depends how you reach Cologne: you may opt for the train, get to the main railway station (Cologne Hauptbahnof) and therefore start the route from the Cathedral market. In my case, I came by car and therefore parked the car close to the Neumarkt. You will find the map of the markets at the bottom of the post.

Before starting, I want to point out that each of the Cologne Christmas markets has its own theme so you won´t find the same market. Another important tbing so mention is that the entrance is free.

At the Neumarkt, you can find the first beautiful one:

1) The Angel Market – Markt der Engel

The Angel Market or Mark der Engel is really nice and has a great charming atmosphere. It is inspired to the statue of the angel you can find in the market. The twinking lights are created in form of stars, the wooden white cabins selling handicrafted products and the nativity scenes contribute to this magical atmosphere. You can find the opening times and more info here.

2) Heizelsweihnachtmarket – the Home of the Gnomes

This is the one of the Cologne Christmas markets that i prefer. You can reach it by walking from the Neumarkt along the Schildergasse that is the shopping street. Once you get to the Heumarkt you find the Heinzelsweihnachtmarket or the House of the Gnomes. It is called like this as the gnomes as they are everywhere. It is also the largest market.

As you see below, the entrance is spectacular and then you can find the ice-rink and the markets. At the end of the Heumarkt, there is also a Alpine-style bar/restaurant and places where you can drink the gluhwein (mulled wine) and eat other specialties.

The Heinzelsweihnachtmarket occupies also the Alter Markt, where you can find nice cabins and the column where some music bands play.

It extends up to the little square close before the Cathedral, where you find the Weinachtspyramide am Kölner Dom, where you find the most intimate market of the city.

3) Cathedral market – Weihnachtmart am Kolner Dom

The Cathedral market has this scenic spot as it is dominated by the Unesco Cathedral and the huge tree with many light bulbs that create a kind of starlight tent. It has like 150 shops. I must say that I prefer a kind of fairy-tale picture like the Market of the Angel or the House of Gnome as this one looks more modern and minimalist. However, it is compulsory to take a pic under the huge Christmas tree and the starlight tent.

4) Nikolausdorf – Village of St Nicholaus

The Nikolausdorf or the Village of St. Nicholaus is another nice market located in Rudolfplatz immediately close to the Hahnentor. It displays half-timbered like houses and is dedicated mostly to Santa Claus, with his house, the village chapel and so on. This has a more intimate atmosphere and I loved it a lot.

5) Harbour Christmas Market – Hafen Weihnachtsmarkt

The Harbour Christams market is located close to the Imoff Chocolate Museum and has theme with ships, pirates, lighthouse. It is not as great as the previous ones, so you may stroll around and i strongly recommend to stop for a hot chocolate cup at the museum bar. The Malakoff Tower completes the scenery.

6) Heavenue – the LGBTQ+ Christmas market

Not far from Rudolfplatz and the Nikolausdorf, you can find the colorful and pop art style Heavenue, that is the LGBTQ+ Christmas market. The atmosphere was really like party one and many led light ( especially light blue and purpl) make this market particular and different from others. For sure if you want to see something different from the traditional ones, this is the place to be.

Map:

Travel tips:

• If you come by car, please make sure to park close to the Neumarkt as it has a ´strategic position´ to reach easily the markets on the eastern side and then the ones around Rudolfplatz.
• It is also recommended to come by train and start your visit from the Christmas market at the Cathedral.
• If you want to visit other Christmas markers around, I would recommend the underground markets of Valkenburg and the Aachen Christmas market. If you want to visit the markets of the three countries, please check the post Europe Christmas markets tour by train.
• Please make sure you visit the markets when it is dark (so after 4pm in December and 5pm in November), as they look much better with all the lights.
• It may take half day to visit these markets – if you want to visit also the other ones I would recommend to stay overnight.

For suref you come by car, please find a place close to the Neumarkt so you can strategically

Where to stay:

• Budget accomodation: Weltempfänger Hostel, located just at 12-minute underground ride from Cologne Cathedral, has twin rooms with bathroom and breakfast included. Price 84 Euros per night per double room.
• Mid-range accomodation: the Hotel Ludwig Superior is located at just 5 minutes walking distance from the Cathedral and has large bedrooms and breakfast. Prices start from 146 Euros per double room. It has a strategic position to visit the Christmas markets
• Luxury accomodation: Hyatt Regency Köln, that offers great views of the Cologne Cathedral and located close to the Rhine River. The hotel has classical-style rooms and suites, breakfast included and prices start from 268 Euros per night per double room.

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Temple of Hephaestus

 

Just to understand the importance of the city for the Western civilization but also for the entire world, Athens is known to be the birthplace of the democracy, a centre for the arts, learning and philosophy, with the centre of Plato’s academy and Aristotle’s lyceum. It was a powerful city-state in the past and now it is the centre of the economic, financial, industrial, political and cultural life in Greece.

This is a sample of itinerary that will lead you through the ancient Athens and also part of the modern Athens.

Day 1
Taking into consideration that this is probably your day of arrival and that it takes mininum half an hour to reach the city centre by taxi, the time during the first day could be quite limited. In our case, the hotel was not that far from Syntagma square and the Cathedral, so we started from the Cathedral

1) Mitropolis – Athens Cathedral 

Day 2: 

Here you are in front of an historical stadium: the Panathenaic Stadium, literally Stadium of all the Athenians or Kallimarmaro, “beautiful marble”, the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. This stadium was first built by Lykourgos in 330 BC for the Panathenaic Games and then modified by Herodes Atticus during the Roman occupation.

It hosted the opening and closing of the first Olympic games in 1896 and then used again as Olympic venue in 2004. It is also the last venue in Greece from where the Olympic flame is given to the host nation. The cost to visit the stadium is 5 Euros.

8) Syntagma Square and the Parliament

At the north-western limit of the National Garden, you can find the heart of Athens, that is Syntagma square, the heart of modern Athens from both an historical and social point of view and from a commercial and political factor.

9) Omonia

Any person in Athens won’t recommend you to walk in this district. Located at the northern side of Syntagma, it has the reputation to be not so safe and plenty of drug takers. However, despite its clear state of degrade, it has some parts where there are nice restaurants and also nightlife. If you take some safety precautions, this district is going to be a nice discovery – off the beaten path place.

Day 3
10) Acropolis of Athens

This site does not need any presentation: it is an ancient citadel located upon a rocky hill and it is the most famous monumental area in Greece and hosts the symbol of Greece in the world: the world famous temple called Parthenon. The first fortification was built in 13 Century BC but it was Perikles to give it the most important monuments that we can see now.

Other important landmarks are: the theatre of Dionisius, the Herodeon, the monumental gate Erechtheion, the Propylaea,  and the sanctuary of Zeus Polieus. It was inserted into the list of Unesco World Heritage sites since “is the most striking and complete ancient Greek monumental complex still existing in our times”.

I will write a specific post about this monumental complex. The price is 20 Euros per person and it takes approximately 2-3 hours to visit it. Due to its importance, there will be many visitors so get ready to be in queue.

11) Mount Lycabettus

The Mount Lycabettus is a Cretaceous limestone hill in Athens and the highest point where to enjoy the landscape of the entire city. You can have a 360 degrees view over the city and it has on his top the Agii Isidori, a little white Orthodox church.

You can climb it (it takes 15-20 minutes to reach the top) or pay 7,5 Euros per person and take the Lycabettus Funicular. I recommend to take it if you had walked a lot, but really it does not take a lot to climb it.

11) Plaka

A pitoresque district with typical houses and roofs, Plaka is the old historical neighborhood in Athens and has narrow streets and neoclassical architecture. It has a nice atmosphere with nice shops and restaurants. Really recommended a walk over there.

Map / itinerary:

Click on the top left to see the days and/or on the top right to enlarge the map.

Travel tips:

• How to get to the city centre from/to the airport: 
  • Metro Line 3: it takes approximately 40 min to reach the station Syntagma
  • Bus: the line X95 connects the airport to the station Syntagma (around 60 minutes) for 6 Euros
  • Taxi: the fastest and most expensive way – it takes 20-30 minutes depending on the traffic and the fixed rate is 38 Euros. However, during the night there is an extra fee.
• Best time to visit Athens: from March to May/June and from September to November due to the nice temperatures. During the summer it is really hot so you could not enjoy to visit the monuments like the Acropolis without protection from the sun.
• How many days do i need to visit Athens?: The ideal length of stay is for sure 3 days
• Where to stay: I would definitely recommend the districts of Plaka and Monastiraki – you can reach  any monument and places to visit on foot.
• Off the beaten path Athens and unusual places to see and do: the pitoresque district of Anafiotika, where you feel like in an island with lazy cats around and charming atmosphere; from the Mets district you can access to the park behind the Panathenaic stadium and get in…for free and have a nice and alternative view over the old stadium.
• Surroundings: for sure the port of Piraeus is the ideal location for your trips to the islands. If you want to visit really close landmarks close to Athens you can go to the Unesco World Heritage Site Monastery of Dafnì (at only 10 km from the city), the Kaisariane Monastery with the serene Forest Park at 8 km, the archaeological site of Eleusi with its Eleusinian mysteries at 21 km, and the Mount Parnis at 12km. If you want to visit the famous place of the battle, you can visit of course Marathon and its lake.
• Safety: beware of the Athens street or scam bar! Watch out because there are men around that even if you think you are smart or clever can friendly and politely ask you where are you from and try to help you. Then they ask you if you want to follow them into the bar where they work and there…you find sort of night club where women approach you and ask for drinks. The bill will be really expensive and you will have to pay immediately or you could get surrounded by people who threaten you. Please read some reports here.
• Despite that, Greek people are really friendly and in the restaurants you can get desserts or licoors for free. In my travel I have never seen such restaurant owners that give you for free more than one shot of ouzo or self-produced licoor.
• They love to eat and stay outside and in the restaurant they can smoke. Regarding the cuisine, Greek food is delicious and is based mainly on meat. If you are vegan or vegeterian, I am sorry to say…this is not the ideal place for you.

Where to eat and go out:

• Street food: recommended the Falafellas, where to eat fantastic falafels in the Monastiraki district. The place has always lines since the falafel are delicious.

• Mediterranean/ Greek cuisine: Restaurant Atitamos in the district Omonia. We spent in three people 48 Euros in total and I would recommend the Feta Atitamos and delicious meet.

• Greek cuisine: restaurant Maiandros in Monastiraki. A bit more touristic and with prices on average higher than the restaurants we tried. Normally we spent around 50 Euros in 3: here the bill was 71, but I have to recommend the delicious moussaka. The area is more crowdy and there was a band singing traditional Greek music,

• Wanna go to the oldest distillery in Athens? Well you cannot miss the Brettos Bar in Plaka.

  

  You can try all the spirits you want (me the Ouzo Gold 42%) and smoke cigars.

• Another beautiful bar that was close to the hotel with small tables and nice chairs is for sure the Heterocliton Wine Bar, not far from Syntagma square.

 

Where to sleep in Athens: the best areas are for sure Plaka, Monastiraki and Syntagma.

This section contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).

• Budget accomodation: If you prefer the old good hostel and the dormitory, BedBox Hostel is one of the best in town. Located at just 300 meters from Monastiraki Square. Breakfast not included and prices from 18 Euros per person per night.
• If you opt for a small hotel – Tempi Hotel islocated in a quiet and pedestrian area close to Monastiraki. Some rooms have the view of the Acropolis and the flea market. It is particularly indicated for couples: prices from 53 Euros per double room per night.

• Mid-range budget: the place where we stayed – Athens La Strada, offers single or triple rooms. It is located close to Syntagma and Monastiraki (300 m and 200m) in the heart of Athens with top breakfast and view of the Acropolis. Prices from 170 Euros per double/triple room per night.

• Luxury accomodation: the Hotel Grande Bretagne, close to Syntagma and the Parliament, with some balconies with views to the Acropolis, is for sure a top luxurious hotel you should choose. Big restaurant, great spa, indoor and outdoor swimmingpool, you can choose rooms without breakfast from 453 Euros per double room per night and 530 Euros with breakfast included per night.
• If you prefer the apartment, for the same price another great choice is Aldis Plaka Mansion by K&K, 1 minute walk from Anafiotika and 200 m from the Acropolis.

Have fun and enjoy this beautiful and ancient city!

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After having visited the beautiful Kutna Hora, the next destination of the Prague-Bratislava road trip is Litomysl, a nice town located in the Eastern Bohemia, for sure off the beaten path and known for the Renaissance castle, part of the Unesco sites, and its historical centre.

Ready to explore it? You will find the map at the end of the post

I got to Litomysl by taking the train from Kutna Hora and from the railway station I started to visit this beautiful town. Located close to the border with Moravia, in the 13th Century an old fortified settlement grew on an important trade route between Bohemia and Moravia.
Litomysl, despite the size, displays many interesting things to the visitor:

1) The Smetana House (Smetanuv Dum)

Smetana House, theatre of Litomysl

The Smetana House is the house of the composer Bedrich Smetana, born in this town. This beautiful Neorenaissance building is now the theatre and the cultural centre of the city. You can also visit the nice interior. You can check opening times and events here (watch out: only in Czech!)

2) Smetana Square (Smetanovo Namesti) – the main square

Smetana Square, the main square of Litomysl

The Smetana Square is the main square of the town and it is particularly beautiful for the pastel colorful facades of the buildings. It is particularly one that caught my eye and it is the Knights House (Dum u Rytiru), built in 1540 in Renaissance style and for sure one of the most beautiful facades in town.

The Knights House – gallery

3) Piarist church and college (Piaristicky kostel a kolej)

Piarist church and college

The Unesco World Heritage site – pic byMichal Louč / CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0)

Litomysl castle decorations

5) Church of the Raising of the Holy Cross

Church of the Raising of the Holy Cross

You find this church on the way back to the main square. It was first built in 1356 and then during the history renovated with Baroque style, the church regained its importance after the renovation of Monastery gardens and thanks to its position.

Travel tips

– How to get to Litomysl: if you are coming from Prague, it will take you two hours by car or by train. I came from Kutna Hora and it took one hour. As I was then heading to Brno, I took the bus (another great experience).

– Do you want to visit it? You can either book a guide or if you travel by yourself, please note that not everywhere they speak English! Especially to me, I had to order dish from a Czech menu in the restaurant and when I took the bus, the driver did not speak English. So take a small dictionary with you.

– Do not miss when you visit it:  the Monastery Gardens with sculptures of Zoubeck and the street art close to the Piarist church. 

– If you are into art, you can also the Portmoneum museum

– Best time to visit Litomysl: spring, summer and beginning of autumn

–  It takes no more than one day to visit Litomysl, even half a day if you are in a hurry!

Next stop: I took the bus on the way to Brno!

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The first communities Paleovenete founded the city at the confluence of the resurgence rivers Sile and Botteniga. This was the first settlement than then developed during the Roman period as “comune” (municipality) and then in the Middle Ages with a strong economic and architectural development. During the 15th Century many elegant houses ( Venetian Gothic) are built and painted with frescos and the city gets the status of urbs picta. Under the Venetian domination, the city became a fortress to protect the Republic from invasions.

In this history there are all the elements you can find in Treviso: the city of canals, frescoed houses, old medieval town and the walls, still almost intact. 

1) Piazza dei Signori: located at the centre of the old medieval town, Piazza dei Signori represented also the political centre during the Middle Ages. It is an elegant square with the Palazzo del Podestà,

the Palazzo dei Trecento that represented the independence from the Church and the Emperor

and the elegant stairway to the Salone dei Trecento, where the members of the municipality where used to gather.

Now there are many bars and restaurants that surround the square and you can stop if you want for a coffee or a meal.

2) Fontana delle Tette: from the main square, if you walk towards the Cathedral along Calmaggiore, elegant street with beautiful houses and shops, at the first gallery on the right (that is also the old Roman street “cardo maximus“, you can find one of the hidden symbols of the city. La Fontana delle Tette was built after a long period of dryness during the 16th Century. When a podestà (major) was elected, the statue was pouring red and white wine from the breast. Sadly, now it pours only water…

3) Cappella dei Rettori: if you come back to Piazza dei Signori and cross the Palazzo di Podestà, you get to Piazza dei Monti di Pietà. If you turn left and move towards Piazza San Vito, you find another hidden jem: la Cappella dei Rettori (Chapel of Rectors). This Renaissance masterpiece, dated 16th Century, shows some remarkable paintings.

4) Piazza San Vito: left the Cappella, you get to Piazza San Vito where you can see the Neoromanic palace and the fountain.

5) Loggia dei Cavalieri: getting back to Piazza dei Signori and walking along Via dell’Indipendenza, you can easily reach the Loggia dei Cavalieri, built during the 14th Century as meeting point of the local aristocracy that wanted to challenge the rising power of the bourgeoisie during the Middle Ages. A sense of lightness and the frescoes make this place remarkable.

6) Pescheria and Casa dei Carraresi:walking along Via Martiri della Libertà, you get to the Pescheria, or the fish market. This is an island surrounded by the Cagnan canal where the fish market takes place. In the picture below, you can also see the Casa dei Carraresi that hosts important expositions.

I recommend also to explore the little streets around. You can find small streets with canals that really a worth a visit and most of all a picture. You can find watermills too. However I recommend to leave the square and walk along the Buranelli canal.

7) Water views along Canale dei Buranelli
Not far from the Pescheria, if you walk north along the Buranelli Canal you can find this stunning view.

Another “water view” is for sure on the way between la Pescheria and the Piazza dei Monti di Pietà, or Piazza dei Signori. So in Vicolo Trevisi, you can find also this stunning view.

8) The Bronsa – the shadow of the poet Comisso
Always along the canal of Buranelli, there is also another hidden place you should not miss: first of all for the sight over the canal again and second for the shadow that you can see over the facade of a house. It represents la Bronsa, the boat of the Trevisan poet Giovanni Comisso.

Source: http://www.italianways.com/il-canale-dei-buranelli-e-i-paesaggi-di-giovanni-comisso/

9) The University – Quartiere Latino
Not far from la Pescheria and also the Buranelli Canal, another interesting place to go is for sure the new Latin District (Quartiere Latino), recently restored and reniewed. It is a calm and intimate district close to the University. If you cross the entire district, you will find the Dante bridge (Ponte Dante), “dove il Sile e il Cagnan s’accompagna“.

10) Walking along the walls and bastions: when Venice was threatened by the Cambrai League, the Republic decided to turn Treviso into a fortress city. Now you can walk along the walls and ramparts and find several gates, where you can even find the Lion of St. Mark. Here you can see the south-eastern rampart of St Paul and the Palazzo Dolfin-Giacomelli. This is a 5km itinerary.

11) The Cathedral (Duomo di Treviso): the complex of the cathedral is the most impressive structure of the city. The entire complex has been built in different times and can be reached from Piazza dei Signori walking along the Calmaggiore.

Source: Wikipedia – Szeder László

It displays five huge domes, a sort of temple entrance (despite it is dated 15th Century), a nice interior with the Cappella dell´Annunziata where you can find the stunning painting by Tiziano. the Annunciation (Annunciazione).

Besides that you can even find the original crypt and Baptistery that date back to the 11 and 12th Century.

12) San Nicolò
Another impressive religious building is the San Nicolò church. It is located in the southern western part of the old medieval town and dominates the surroundings. Built around the 13th Century by the Dominican friars in Treviso, you can see many decorations and the wooden ceiling, stone and brick columns, a stunning organ and frescos.

Source: Wikimedia

13) Eating in a typical hostaria: if you want really to live Treviso as a local, you must absolutely find a typical hostaria and enjoy the typical food and drink a nice glass of wine or prosecco. Sandwiches with porchetta or soppressa, polenta, radicchio rosso, cheese together with a glass of wine, prosecco or the traditional spritz ( known as Aperol Spritz worldwide) and a slice of tiramisu are some of the traditional finger food you can taste. You will see many locals enjoying this from 6pm (before dinner) till late night! Please check my recommendations below.

Source: https://www.viaggi-lowcost.info/

Map: click on the top left to see the days and/or on the top right to enlarge the map.

Travel Tips:

• How to get to Treviso: from Venice you can take the train and stop in Treviso Centrale, while from the airport you can take the bus nr. 6. The bus nr 6 is the same you take if you land in the airport of Treviso and you must take the train to go to Venice.
• Best time to visit Treviso: spring, summer and autumn. It is recommended to avoid July and August due to the heat.
• One day to visit the main attractions is enough: the medieval old town is compact in size. Anyway, it can be a good starting point to explore the charming province.
• Surroundings: of course the world famous Venice; the province of Treviso offers really diverse and charming spots, of course all off the beaten path: Asolo, considered one of the most beautiful medieval small towns in Italy; the prosecco road, an incredible trip between the vineyards from Valdobbiadene to Conegliano, where to taste the local wine; the architecture road that takes you to enchanting villas and unique places like Villa Barbaro, Villa Emo or the Temple of Canova, Do not miss the cities of Conegliano, Vittorio Veneto and the forest of Cansiglio.
• If you are into nature, the province is a paradise for hiking, trekking and cycling: the hills and the mountains like Mt Grappa and Mt. Cesen represent an ideal place, together with the forest of Cansiglio and the caves of Calieron.
• If you are into war and historical battles, the province has also an itinerary regarding the WWI (percorsi della Grande Guerra) with many monuments like the Military Cemetery on the top of Mt. Grappa.

Where to eat – the best restaurants and hostarias in Treviso:

• Finger food – Osteria dalla Gigia: definitely one of the best and cheapest hostarias in Treviso, at few meters from Piazza dei Signori and also Hostaria dai Naneti, close to Palazzo dei Trecento, both ideal to taste delicious cicchetti and prosecco while you are exploring the city.

• Local cuisine: places with good price/quality are for sure the Ostaria Arman, that serve tasty local dishes, or the Trattoria all´Antico Portico, with its delicious local specialities and unique location.

• Traditional cuisine and fish: Ristorante Antico Morer, a nice restaurant that serves local and fish specialities. The prices are a bit higher, but it is really worth!

• Eating after dinner: a nice spot where to have a drink and eating always some cicchetti after dinner is for sure Hostaria al Botegon, where many locals and young people gather during the night.

Where to sleep in Treviso:

• Budget accomodation: B&B Hotel Treviso is an elegant bed and breakfast located close to San Nicolò, in one of the nicest areas of the city, ideal for couples, breakfast not included (7,20 Euros per person) and prices from 65 Euros per night per double room.
• Mid-range budget: Locanda San Tomaso, located close to the museums of Santa Caterina and the Pescheria, is an interesting hotel in a 18th Century building with old-style furniture and environment. Large buffet breakfast included and prices from 95 Euros per double room per night.

• Luxury accomodation: Ai Due Fiumi is an elegant apartment to stay at and offers a charming view over the river Sile with balcony. Prices from 370 Euros per double room per night.

Enjoy this fantastic city and do not miss the other beautiful places in the land of Venice!

 

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]]> https://diariesexplorer.com/2018/08/25/the-best-and-unusual-things-to-do-in-treviso-in-one-day-italy/feed/ 8 64 https://diariesexplorer.com/2018/06/03/top-eifel-national-park-hiking-trails-rurberg-einruhr-rundweg/ https://diariesexplorer.com/2018/06/03/top-eifel-national-park-hiking-trails-rurberg-einruhr-rundweg/#comments Sun, 03 Jun 2018 13:48:00 +0000 https://diariesofanexplorer.blogspot.com/2018/06/top-eifel-national-park-hiking-trails.html The Eifel National Park  is one of the biggest natural parks in Germany and the biggest of the North Rhine Westphalia. It is also the first conservation park that protects upland beech forests on acidic soil exposed to an Atlantic climate. The park now protects more than 2.170 endangered plant and animal speces. You can find wildcats, beavers, bats, etc.

 

One of the most beautiful parts is for sure the Volcanic Eifel, where approximately 350 little volcanoes have modeled this land with fire and water, creating nice lakes and enchanting peaks. That is why it has been awared European Geopark status and part of the UNESCO Global Geopark Network.

 

Last but not least, it is joining the German National Competition for Sustainable Tourism Destination as finalist. That is why it should be always into your ecotourism destinations list.

 

This natural park has an incredible network of 240 km of hiking trails. Since one of my passions is hiking and trekking, I try to choose the most spectacular hiking trails and in this case after a research I choose one of the top Eifel National Park hiking trails: Rurberg – Einruhr Rundweg. Click on the picture or here to open the map on Google Maps:

 

You can also download the .gpx here.

Features:

Difficulty:          easy
Distance:            9,1 km
Duration:           2h – 2h 15 min (in my case 1h 56 min)
Min altitude:      281 m
Max altitude:     447 m
Total ascent:      200 m
Total descent:    196 m

The hiking is easy: it requires a bit of training but it can be done in 2- 2h 15 min. You can choose as starting point the town of Einruhr or Rurberg. In my case I opted for the pitoresque Einruhr.

The first part of the hiking trail skirts the lake Obersee: you can have great views of it.

As soon as you get close to Rurberg, the trail starts going uphill and crossing the forest.

Once you get to Rurberg you can enjoy a beautiful sight. It could be also a nice spot to have a little break and drink something.

The lake you see here is named Eiserbachsee. At this point, the trail climbs up to reach its peak at 447m. You walk in the wood and you can enjoy great sightseeing points over the Dedeborn or the Obersee itself. This is also the most difficult part of the hiking trail.

For sure, another beautiful spot is when you get close to Einruhr again, thanks to the sight over the lake from the wood.

Here it ends one of the top Eifel National Park hiking trails: Rurberg – Einruhr Rundweg.

Travel tips:

• Best time of the year: from April to October

• It is suitable for families with children

• How to get to Einruhr / Rurberg: you can get there by car or bike.

• Surroundings: do not miss Aachenand the fairytale town Monschau.

 

Recommended hiking apparel:

SUPER SLIM WALLET WITH PROTECTION:

Zitahli Front Pocket Wallet For Men, Slim Money Clip Wallet With Strong Magnetic Closure, RFID Blocking: whatever is your destination for sure you need to make it hard for thieves to steal your money and cards. The slim wallet is perfect for this purpose and therefore offers protection to your cards from stealing data via the RFID protection. Ideal also as hiking apparel. Click here for more info.

HIKING BELT WITH WATER BOTTLES

WATERFLY Fanny Pack Waist Bag: Large Hiking Fannie Pack with Two Water Bottle Holders Lightweight – Ideal for short or long walks: you can fill the bottles with your favorite liquid or minerals, The pocket can easily contain your slim wallet, keys and your smartphone or GPS gear. For me info, click here. 

 

 

 

WATERPROOF UNISEX OUTDOOR LIGHT JACKET

33,000ft Men’s Rain Jacket Waterproof Cycling Running Packable Raincoat with Hood Lightweight Windbreaker with Mesh Lining: ultralight unisex waterproof jacket, anti-static, windproof with removable cap. It is ideal when the weather changes fast, Ideal for outdoor climbing, fishing, hiking, car travel, picnic, cycling etc. It is good also in cold weather. Available in different colors.

 

OUTDOOR MEN’S HIKING SHOES

 

Timberland Men’s White Ledge Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot : these shoes are ideal for easy tracks and trails. They are designed waterproof for outdoor hiking and enough light for walks like the one above.

OUTDOOR WOMEN’S HIKING SHOES:

Salomon Women’s Pathfinder Hiking Shoes: this is another model super-light that is ideal for easy/medium hiking trails like the one I did. It provides great grip for wet/dry surfaces. It also helps when the feet get too hot thanks to a ventilation system even in case of warm weather.

After having put the recommendations for the hiking apparel for this particular hiking trail, now it is time to recommend where to say in Einruhr.

Where to stay in Einruhr/Rurberg:

• Budget accomodation: not exactly in Einruhr, but in Simmerath, at 2,7 km, you can stay at the Fewo Zum Sonneschein, an apartment with free wi-fi and barbecue facilities, kitchen. Prices from 39 Euros per night per two people; available also for solo travelers, 35 Euros per one person.

• Mid-range accomodation: the Hotel Schutt is one of the top spots in Einruhr, with its buffet breakfast, sauna and view over the gardens. Prices from 88 Euros per double room per night. Absolutely recommended.

Do not miss the Eifel National Park!

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