Embark on an epic journey with us as we explore the heart of Western Europe, one winding road at a time. Forget the fleeting glimpses from train windows; we’re diving deep into the soul of this diverse region, uncovering hidden gems and savouring the freedom of the open road. This blog is your passport to unforgettable road trips, where ancient history meets breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures collide.
Unique character of each nation
We’ll be traversing the charming countryside of France and cruising along its dramatic coastlines, navigating the historic routes of Belgium and Luxembourg, exploring the Dutch polders and experiencing the rich tapestry of Spain. From the majestic castles of France to the idyllic villages nestled in the rolling hills of Portugal, we’ll uncover the unique character of each nation, sampling local delicacies and immersing ourselves in the region’s rich heritage.
Unlocked secrets of Western Europe
Get ready for curated itineraries that blend iconic landmarks with off-the-beaten-path adventures, practical tips for navigating European roads, and personal stories that capture the magic of each destination. Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a first-time explorer, join us as we unlock the secrets of Western Europe, one kilometre at a time. Let’s hit the road.
Journeys
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A Journey Through Time in Troyes, France
Troyes. The name itself conjures up images of medieval markets, half-timbered houses, and, of course, Champagne. This charming city in northeastern France, the historical capital of the Champagne region, is a place where history whispers from every cobblestone and where the spirit of the past mingles effortlessly with the present.…
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What a show it was in Oudenaarde
We are thrilled to be in Oudenaarde, Flanders, where we have the incredible opportunity to immerse ourselves in a historical spectacle. The eventful life of Margaret of Parma is depicted with great interest, making for a truly captivating experience. It’s not just a spectacle, it’s a rich and vibrant journey…
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Arras, a city without frills
For a stopover on our journey south, we are looking for a place that is not immediately on the tourist radar, but has something special in it. Our choice falls on Arras, a city in Northern France. That provides a pleasant surprise, although it will undoubtedly be much more lively…
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Le Mont Saint-Michel
Le Mont Saint-Michel, located in the French region of Normandy, is one of the most iconic historical sites in the world. The rocky island commune, crowned by an impressive abbey, is situated in a tidal area. It is sometimes surrounded by water and at other times by exposed land. In…
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Ankie & Cees
We’ve been so lucky to explore so many amazing places by camper, car, yacht or plane! Suriname, the Antilles, Tunisia, South Africa, Israel, Denmark and Botswana are just a few of our destinations.
We’re always adding to our list of travels because we’re continually discovering new and amazing places to visit in Western Europe. And of course, we love nothing more than discovering hidden gems in Spain, our new home country.
We’ve even sailed from the Netherlands to Portugal twice with our sailboat, the NOMAS. We’ve been lucky enough to explore the stunning coasts of England, Denmark, France, Portugal, Morocco and Spain. We even sailed around Gibraltar, Italy, Croatia, Greece, Turkey… we’ve been there, done that, and loved every minute.
Chronicles
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Semana Santa in Spain: A Deeply Rooted Tradition
Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is one of the most important religious and cultural events in Spain. It takes place in the week leading up to Easter Sunday and is marked by elaborate processions, traditional music, and a deep sense of devotion. Each region of Spain has its own way…
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A Coffee Lover’s Guide to Spain
If you spend any time in Spain, you’ll quickly realize that coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a way of life. From the bustling cafés in Madrid to the sleepy seaside bars in Andalusia, coffee is everywhere. But it’s not just about caffeine; it’s about tradition, socializing, and taking a break…
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Time to get away in the Netherlands
In an earlier blog, we wrote that we had drastically revised our travel plans for summer 2024. Not to Scandinavia, not to Germany. Just nice holidays in the Netherlands without driving huge distances. And we haven’t regretted that for a moment. A small selection of the places we visited. Holidays…
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Within a week to Spain
Our intensions looked different, but plans are just there to be adjusted. For example, on a good morning, Ankie saw an advertisement for a motorhome that met our wishes. After some deliberation, we made a decision: this would be our new camper. A few days later we bought the Chausson…
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