Matador Network's Blog, page 375
December 19, 2022
This Floating Bar in the Turquoise Waters Near Fiji Is Only Accessible by Boat or Jet Ski
Maybe this bar in Fiji is called Cloud 9 because it’s as close as the people who visit will ever get to heaven on Earth. No matter the meaning behind its name, Cloud 9 bar is well worth a visit: It floats in the middle of the ocean in Fiji , and offers a luxurious experience in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
The Cloud 9 bar in Fiji is a bar that floats in the middle of the crystal clear, turquoise waters that Fiji is known for. The bar is two levels, offers a fully stocked bar, and serves pizza. The bar sometimes hosts a DJ, so expect a party atmosphere. Given the location and space, it might not be rowdy but probably won’t be totally low key either.
Cloud 9 also offers 30 and 60 minute jet ski and island tours, which take people to the secluded tropical islands around Roro Reef, including the uninhabited Modriki Island. You can also book a parasailing tour in advance.
Guests are permitted to jump off the bar into the turquoise waters below, so swimming off Cloud 9 is encouraged. You can also rent snorkeling gear for $15.
If you’re hoping to simply relax while sipping a tropical cocktail, the bar is outfitted with comfortable deck chairs and chaise lounges where guests can take in the turquoise waters and endless horizon.
Where is Cloud 9 barThe Cloud 9 bar is on a secluded stretch of ocean surrounded by small islands and coral reefs. The exact location is the Vanua Malolo waters on Ro Ro Reef. The island to bar is Denarau, and it’s probably easiest to get to Cloud 9 from there unless you’re staying at a nearby resort.
How to get to Cloud 9 barThe bar is about a 45 minute boat ride from Port Denarau, one of the most bustling tourist hubs in Fiji. The bar recommends booking one of the official transport boats from the port directly to the bar. These ferries depart at 9 am and 1 pm, and return to the port at 2pm and 6pm, your group could easily spend the day at Cloud 9.
If you’re staying at one of the resorts, including Funky Fish resort and Malolo Island Resort, you can take a 10 minute speedboat ride out to the bar. Guests are also welcome to arrive by jet ski or sea plane.
There is no entry fee, and the bar does not take cash. 
Stop for This Legendary Burger Inside an Authentic Wild West-Style Saloon
On a lonely stretch of Highway 50, in the middle of desert, there is a shack on the side of the road that serves a dish that has become legendary: It’s the Middlegate Station monster burger.
Middlegate Station is located along a desolate stretch of desert road on Highway 50, known as America’s “Loneliest Road.” And this isn’t an exploration: Around 17 people live in the town of Middlegate. The building has an interesting history, too: According to Travel Nevada, Middlegate Station was erected in 1806 as a stop along the Pony Express (a short lived mail delivery service).
The Middlegate Station bar and restaurant is what people in Nevada call a Sagebrush Saloon, a historic bar usually on a dirt road that harkens back the history of America’s Wild West. Outfitted in 19th century wooden planks, Middlegate Station is one of the places that Americans seeking their fortune in the country’s early days might have passed through.
The Bureau of Land Management eventually purchased the building, and restored it into the motel and restaurant it is today. There’s also spaces for RVs and a nearby campground. These days, the restaurant is known for its monster burger – a culinary creation so big, most people can’t even get their entire mouth around it.
A pound of ground beef split into two patties is topped with piles of lettuce, tomato, and onion, then stacked on sourdough buns bigger than the average adult’s open palm. The massive burger is then topped with two onion rings held up by toothpicks with olives in the middle to give it a set of bulging eyes. Remember, this is the monster burger.
The Middlegate Station monster burger is large enough that even picking it up is a challenge, but if you can finish the whole thing, you get a t-shirt in return. So if you need to refuel on a Nevada road trip, or you want a peek into what a saloon from Old West might have looked like, add Middlegate Station to your itinerary.
Dive Into the Turquoise Waters of Flinders Rock Pools, Just Outside Melbourne
Flinders is a small, charming seaside fishing village, where tourists gather to explore the tide pools and swim and snorkel at Ocean Beach. Located on the Bass Strait coastline, Flinders is a haven for marine life. Tucked away in this area, a short drive from Melbourne, are a series of secluded natural ocean pools that resemble tropical swimming holes, called the Flinders rock pools.
What to do in Flinders, AustraliaThe town of Flinders is about an hour and a half from Melbourne by car, and is home to two marine national parks, Mushroom Reef Marine Sanctuary (a rocky beach with tide pools and a reef where families can explore and observe marine life including anemones and sea stars) and Mornington Peninsula National Park.
Photo: FiledIMAGE/Shutterstock
Snorkeling, sailing, and catching the squid which are abundant near the beach are favorite activities at Flinders Pier, in town.
For adventurers looking for a short hike and spectacular views, Flinders Blowhole is another natural phenomenon in the area. A wooden boardwalk leads down to the turquoise waters of a cove surrounded by cliffs and a rocky beach. Water doesn’t spout out of the blowhoe, despite the name, but powerful waves crash against the exposed cliff sides, spraying jets of water into the air.
Photo: FiledIMAGE/Shutterstock
Nestled among the cliffs at Cape Schanck, just a short walk from Ocean Beach, to get there, head to Blowhole Track on Borneo Road. There’s a car park where the views are enjoyable, but a wooden boardwalk leads down the beach and cliffs for an even better look at the ocean; some people even climb up to the top of Elephant Rock to feel the full force of ocean. Just wear a waterproof jacket as you’re likely to feel the ocean spray.
What are the Flinders rock pools?It might sound cliche, but the Flinders rock pools really are a hidden gem – the pools not well known by anybody but locals and concealed within an unmarked landscape of grassy hill sides. But once you find the path down the rock pools, the journey is well worth it.
The Flinders rock pools are naturally formed swimming holes situated among the rocky beach. The waters are so turquoise and clear they look almost tropical. The pools are protected by natural rock walls which keep the rough waves from harming swimmers. The result are peaceful naturally formed pools of sun-exposed water with unobstructed views of the ocean just beyond the rocks.
The best time to swim is at low tide, otherwise the whole beach is submerged under water.
Where are the Flinders rock pools?People who have been to the rock pools before say to drive down Borneo Road, you’ll run into a small parking area between Punchbowl Road and Keys Road. This where you will start your journey to the rock pools. If you’re having trouble finding it, try inputting Cairns Bay Walk into your GPS. The drive is about a half hour from Flinders.
Once you park, look for the sign that reads “Walking Track – Cairns Bay,” which will point you in the direction of the paths which will eventually lead you down to the beach. There is no sign announcing that you have arrived at the rock pools, but there is a wooden staircase leading down to the beach. You can traverse the rocks below or take narrow dirt paths through the beach.
Because the rock pools are such an isolated stretch of road that isn’t clearly marked, the beach is secluded and quiet and free from crowds. Resist showing off your adventure to friends or social media, to preserve the peaceful nature of this swimming spot.
Why the Albuquerque Balloon Festival Needs To Be on Your 2022 Travel List
The Albuquerque Balloon Festival is one of the most unique and memorable travel experiences for any outdoor enthusiast. This annual event draws thousands of visitors from around the world who come to witness the colorful hot air balloons fill the sky with color. Whether you are looking to enjoy an exciting adventure or just relax and take in the sights, a trip to Albuquerque is sure to be full of wonder and beauty.
Planning your Albuquerque balloon festival experience can be overwhelming, but there are several key elements that must be considered when creating your itinerary. First, you will need to decide what type of transport you would like to use for getting around Albuquerque during your stay. Many travelers opt for car rentals as it gives them more freedom over their schedule and lets them explore the city at their own pace. However, if you prefer to take public transportation there are several bus and train options available.
Next, make sure to book your Albuquerque hotel room in advance as availability can be limited during the peak times of the year when the Albuquerque Balloon Festival takes place. Many hotels also provide discounts for booking early so it is important to plan ahead for this as well. Finally, research restaurant options that are near your accommodation as Albuquerque has some wonderful eateries that offer a variety of delicious dishes.
By taking into account these key elements, you will be able to craft an Albuquerque balloon festival experience that suits your needs and budget. With careful planning and preparation, you will be able to enjoy the beautiful sights and sounds of Albuquerque and the Albuquerque Balloon Festival.
When is the Albuquerque Balloon Festival?The Albuquerque Balloon Festival takes place every October and draws thousands of visitors from around the world. The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Park is open to the public for free during this time, so it is an ideal time to visit Albuquerque and experience the breathtaking hot air balloons fill the sky. Moreover, Albuquerque’s mild temperatures make it a great location for hot air balloon flights year-round.
What else should I know about visiting Albuquerque?In addition to its magical Albuquerque Balloon Festival, Albuquerque has much more to offer travelers looking for adventure or relaxation. Explore Albuquerque’s unique history in Old Town or take a stroll on the River Trail system along the scenic Rio Grande. Be sure to visit some of Albuquerque’s renowned museums such as the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History. Albuquerque also has a wide variety of outdoor activities, from biking and hiking to golfing and rafting.
No matter what type of experience you are looking for, Albuquerque is an amazing destination that has something for everyone. Create unforgettable memories with your Albuquerque Balloon Festival trip by planning ahead and making the most out of your time in Albuquerque.
Where to stay for the Albuquerque Balloon FestivalWe hope you love the Albuquerque hotels we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Hotels in Albuquerque can be hard to come by during the Albuquerque Balloon Festival, so it is important to book your accommodations well in advance. Albuquerque offers a wide selection of hotels from luxury resorts and chain hotels to budget-friendly motels. Be sure to check out Albuquerque’s many Bed & Breakfasts for an even more unique experience.
For those looking for convenience and affordability, staying at one of Albuquerque’s campgrounds or RV parks is also an excellent option. Regardless of what type of accommodation you choose, Albuquerque has something that fits any traveler’s needs and budget. With careful planning and research, you will be sure to have a fantastic Albuquerque Balloon Festival experience!
Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town
Photo: Booking.com
Those looking for a luxurious Albuquerque hotel should consider Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town. This four-star, award-winning Albuquerque hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Albuquerque’s Old Town district and provides guests with modern amenities and exquisite service. Enjoy some of Albuquerque’s best restaurants right outside the door or take a leisurely stroll around Albuquerque’s oldest neighborhood. The hotel also offers two outdoor heated pools, free breakfast, fitness center access, and more so you can relax after a day at the Albuquerque Balloon Festival!
When planning your Albuquerque Balloon Festival trip stay at Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town for an unforgettable experience. With its great location, excellent amenities and friendly staff, you will be sure to have an amazing time during your stay.
Price: From $129 per night
Albuquerque Sheraton Uptown
Photo: Booking.com
For those looking for a more upscale Albuquerque hotel, the Albuquerque Sheraton Uptown is an excellent choice. Located just 15 minutes from downtown Albuquerque, this four-star Albuquerque hotel offers guests plush accommodations and great amenities such as an outdoor pool, fitness center, and free high-speed internet access. Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet in the morning or simply relax in your spacious room with spectacular views of Albuquerque’s skyline.
Head to the Albuquerque Sheraton Uptown for your Albuquerque Balloon Festival trip for a luxurious experience that you won’t soon forget! With its convenient location and superior service, you will be sure to have an amazing time during your stay at this Albuquerque hotel.
Price: From $119 per night
Hilton Garden Inn lbuquerque Airport
Photo: Booking.com
If you are flying into Albuquerque for the Albuquerque Balloon Festival, the Hilton Garden Inn Albuquerque Airport is an ideal hotel to stay at. Located just up the road from Albuquerque International Sunport, this four-star Albuquerque hotel offers guests contemporary accommodations and excellent amenities such as a fitness center, outdoor pool and complimentary shuttle service to nearby attractions. With its convenient location and great value, the Hilton Albuquerque Airport is perfect for anyone looking for a comfortable and affordable place to stay during their trip to Albuquerque.
Enjoy all of the sights and sounds of Albuquerque with the convenience of staying close to Albuquerque International Sunport when booking your stay at the Hilton Albuquerque Airport. Whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, you will be sure to have an enjoyable time.
Price: From $99 per night
More like thisOutdoorA Trip To Iceland’s Vestrahorn Is an Otherworldly ExperienceDecember 16, 2022
This Climbing Wall Is the Tallest in the World – and You Can Sleep on It
Climbing is not a sport for the faint-hearted, but climbing this particular wall is for the daredevils only. Excalibur, as the wall is known, is a freestanding outdoor climbing wall located in the city of Groningen in the Netherlands — and it’s the tallest of its kind in the world.
At just over 121 feet high, including 36 feet of overhang, this freestanding outdoor climbing wall is meant for experienced, independent climbers who are accompanied by someone of similar skills. Excalibur is part of Bjoeks, a climbing gym that caters to all levels, so you can practise your skills inside on the easier walls and then upgrade to Excalibur when you’re ready (give it a few months, or years.) Bjoeks offers courses, including a basic course in belaying and climbing for the novice climbers who wish to climb on their own in the future.
Bjoeks is open every day from 9 AM to 11 PM, giving climbers ample time to enjoy the record-breaking climbing wall, but it is also very accommodating for those who come from far away and want to test their abilities on the tallest freestanding outdoor climbing wall for more than one day. It lets climbers pitch their tent under Excalibur for the night for free. Even better, climbers can hang from Excalibur in their portaledge for one of the strangest vertical camping experience out there.
While Excalibur is the tallest freestanding climbing wall in the world, it has some rivals. The CopenHill power plant, in Copenhagen, Denmark, has fitted one of its exterior walls with a freakish, 279-foot-tall outdoor climbing wall, the tallest of its kind (not freestanding).
The Shanghai New World City Shopping mall in China has the world record for the tallest indoor artificial climbing wall at 168 feet high. It took the record away from Abu Dhabi’s The Summyt which measures 138 feet in height.
How To Experience Tana Glacier, One of Alaska’s Most Spectacular Natural Wonders
Alaska is one of the few places left in the United States where the wilderness has been mostly left unsoiled by a human footprint. However, that means in these rugged landscapes, hiking and camping are best left to the experts. If you’re on of those experienced hikers, a trip to Tana Glacier in Alaska’s Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, where you walk directly on the glacier is a difficult but worthwhile excursion.
The closest town to Tana Glacier is McCarthy, Alaska, about 50 miles away. The best time to visit Alaska’s Tana Glacier is from July to early September.
Hiking to Tana Glacier, and exploring the surrounding wilderness, might necessitate at least a 5 day trip. Only outdoors people who are experienced in hiking and camping in the backcountry should attempt the trip. Any potential visitors might also need experience in glacier camping, and should at least familiarize themselves with the appropriate gear, including an insulated sleeping pad, waterproof pants, and a down jacket.
When it comes time to actually hike on the glacier, crampons, which attach hiking boots for better traction, are a necessity. A trekking pole might also come in handy. One of the most challenging aspects of glacier hiking is navigating moraine – soil and rock left in the wake of a moving glacier. This unsteady ground makes for arduous hiking.
A hike to Tana Glacier might take you past Thompson Ridge and Juniper Island, the latter of which is situated between the point where Tana Glacier and Jeffries Glacier meet. There are all kinds of geological formations to be explored on the glacier, including canyons, valleys, and Iceberg Lake.
The terrain of Tana Glacier is a mixture of ice and snow, rock, and even patches of grass where wildflowers and other vegetation grow. Sometimes, streams of water flow over the crystal blue, almost transparent, ice of the glacier.
A hike across Tana Glacier is definitely not a day trip, and not a trip inexperienced hikers should try. However, if you are prepared to spend a week in the backcountry, camping and hiking in sometimes inhospitable conditions, this adventure is one that will stay with you forever.
How To Experience Türkiye’s Otherworldly Pamukkale Hot Springs
In Türkiye, the town of Pamukkale is known as the Cotton Castle, thanks to the area’s natural travertine (a type of limestone) rock formations that decorate the mountains. Natural hot springs have formed within these travertine terraces, where tourists flock to bathe in the mineral rich waters.
Located just below the ancient Greek city of Hierapolis, where temple ruins still stand today at a UNESCO World Heritage protected archaeological site. Hierapolis and Pamukkale have been well known for thermal pools since at least the 2nd century B.C., and people looking for healing and relaxation have been gathering here for thousands of years.
Today, the cloudy aquamarine waters of the hot springs, which take their unusual hue from the calcium that dissolves into the water as it bubbles up from the ground, are still attracting tourists. The government of Türkiye has limited where tourists are allowed to venture to protect the integrity of terraces, but there are still a series of shallow pools where visitors can bath and take photos.
The water in the pools is shallow enough that they are safe for kids, and most bathers simply soak rather than swim. The bottom of the hot springs are covered in a chalky mud that some people like to spread on their skin, as a kind of mineral rich skin treatment.
Shoes are strictly forbidden on the terraces, so be prepared to carry them with you if you decide to explore the pools.
How to get to Pamukkale hot springsThere are two entrances into the Pamukkale terraces: One at the top of the mountain, near Hierapolis. This is the most commonly used entrance for tourists, where you can buy tickets to enter the hot springs and the Hierapolis ruins. There are also cafes where you can stop for refreshments at the top of the mountain.
There’s also another entrance at the bottom. If you’re starting from the bottom of the mountain in Pamukkale, you can hike up to the ruins of Hierapolis and pass the hot springs along the way.. The hike up the mountain is long and hot, according to people who have visited before, so be sure to pack water and sunscreen.
Pamukkale is a 25 minutes bus ride from the town of Denizli, and there are small, budget-friendly hotels in Pamukkale if you wish to stay overnight. Cleopatra’s Pool, another iconic hot spring is located in Pamukkale, so it might be worth taking a day trip to experience both.
Visit Cleopatra's Pool at Pamukkale
Located inside the Pamukkale hot springs (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) in Pamukkale, Türkiye, Cleopatra’s Pool a geothermal hot spring with one feature that makes it standout from every other hot spring on earth: It’s located within the ruins of an ancient temple that once might have belonged to Cleopatra.
Turkey’s travertine terraces located near Cleopatra’s Pool are already famous – the white limestone rock formations form multiple small pools where throngs of tourists like to gather. The Cleopatra Pool (officially referred to as the Antique Pool) isn’t located among these terraces. Instead, if you want to visit, head to the nearby town of Denizli or Pamukkale – buses run directly to the Antique Pool complex.
Photo: John Wreford/Shutterstock
According to legend, the man made pool was a gift from Marc Anthony to Cleopatra. There’s no direct evidence she actually ever visited the pools. A temple to Apollo once housed the pool, but an earthquake toppled the Doric columns, which now decorate the bottom of the pool. History buffs can bring snorkel gear if they want to get a better look at the underwater ruins.
The geothermal pools are sometimes nicknamed “champagne waters,” thanks to the effervescent bubbles released from the ground. The water hovers around 95 degrees fahrenheit – comfortably warm without being too hot to swim in the summer.
Far from an isolated hot spring situated in the middle of a natural landscape, the Antique Pool is outfitted with modern facilities, including changing rooms, lockers, and showers. There’s even a restaurant within the pool complex. However, you will need to bring your own towel as there are none available at the pool.
If you want to sit and lounge in the outdoor seating area near the pool, there’s no fee to enter. However if you plan to swim, be prepared to be charged around 10 US dollars.
The best time to visit the pool is probably in the early morning (the complex opens at 9 am and stays open until 7 pm) before groups and big families start to arrive from nearby towns, if you want to enjoy the ruins in peace. The pool quickly becomes crowded with tourists.
Taking A 1,500-Mile, 31-Day Road Trip Through Northern Greece
Waiting at a border crossing in 95°F temperatures is excruciating, especially on a motorcycle. The Turkish-Greek border was not the easiest crossing I’ve ever passed, and it’s especially challenging since it’s also the border into and out of the European Union. But it’s all part of the journey. This was day one of a 31-day trip through northern Greece my wife, Kathleen, and I took after completing 47 days on two wheels on our BMW 310GS from Antalya, Türkiye, to get to here. We left unbearable temperatures on July 4 and were hoping for cooler temps as we went further north.
We arrived at the Kipoi border station to find a line of cars that looked manageable, but it seemed like the immigration officers were checking everything they could. Even after passing our first of three checkpoints at the end of almost two hours, we still had to go back and supply more information. But it was nice being back in Greece and being back in Europe.
It took just a few minutes for Kathleen and I to notice, but we both commented that there was a difference in the quality of the roads between the two countries, and a palatable change of energy that could not be explained.
My wife and I have been homeless, both by definition and by intent, since leaving the United States in February 2019. We’ve been permanent nomads ever since, traveling to 26 countries during that almost four year period, and both of us have a preference for Europe proper, as well as the Balkans. My ancestry is Hungarian and Romanian, so I guess those roots run deep, and being a travel writer since we left has allowed us to share our stories and inspire others, especially the older generation, since we are ages 68 and 69.
Photo: Kathleen Plumley
This was our second time in Greece. Our previous visit took us to Athens and the islands of Santorini and Naxos. Northern Greece, which is rich in history, often doesn’t get the love it deserves from travelers, and we were out to fix that. The itinerary was set up with Sofia Bournatzi, who has been in the travel industry for decades, and she arranged 15 hotel rooms in 15 regions over 31 days. During that time, we would drive over 1,500 miles and visit 17 different ruins and museums.
We would also be changed forever, as we were able to experience the history of not just Greece, but of the world of civilizations, since so much of it started where we would be traveling. Much of our journey was on highway A1, also known as the Via Egnatia. It was the first interstate and international highway, built by the Romans 2000 years ago. It originally started in what is now Albania and terminated in Istanbul (then Byzantium, later Constantinople), but now stays within the Greek border for 420 miles, and covers 1,650 bridges, and 76 tunnels — many of which we rode through.
Photo: Kathleen Plumley
After crossing the border it was time for a meal break, and the first stop was a city not on the itinerary, but one with a historical footnote. Alexandroupoli is a beautiful coastal town on the Thracian Sea, which was a term I had never heard before. I considered the Mediterranean and the Aegean as large bodies of water that included every piece of land it touched, but there are many isolated sections, like the Thracian Sea, that are specific to different parts of the coast. Alexandroupoli is the largest city in the region and a major shipping and commercial port, along with being the very first city where Alexander III, ie, Alexander the Great, won his first battle at age 16. This was the first of dozens of cities he founded and named after himself.
Photo: Nicolas Economou/Shutterstock
One of the fascinating aspects of northern Greece is the overwhelming presence of specific historical characters with impact in that area, including Alexander, his father, King Phillip II, the great philosopher Aristotle, and the Apostles Paul and John.
After having our first of many Greek salads in Alexandroupoli, we headed onward to the city of Kavala to the west. Even though our tour did not officially “begin” for two more days, we were threatened by something no motorcycle riders like: rain. The forecast showed that the next eight days predicted rain, but, to cut to the chase and give away the ending, we encountered 20 minutes of it while riding over the next 30 plus days.
Photo: Kathleen Plumley
The city of Kavala wowed us as we rode into town and under the most well preserved aqueduct I have ever seen. The Kamares is a well-known landmark, and along with the Fortress of Kavala overlooking the harbor, is a great incentive to visit. We stayed for just two days at the beautiful Lucy Hotel, and had a full view of the coastline and the water. This was the first Greek town we noted as a place to return to for much longer, but it was not the last. As nomads, we ideally seek out cities to live in for six weeks at a time, and by the end of our month in northern Greece, we had a decent list to choose from.
From the oceans to the mountains we rode, to the ski resort city of Volakas that’s quiet in the summer season. Along the way, we visited Aggitis, the first cave I had ever been in. It’s a river cave with a waterway running throughout the several-hundred-meters depth we toured. Two days later we stopped into a second cave, Alistrati, and though it was a more typical dry cave, it was even more impressive with the many hundreds of stalactites and stalagmites within.
Photo: Kathleen Plumley
Water was a big part of our trip to the north country, and the (next) city of Drama exemplified that since it was founded atop what is called the Agia Varvara — a riparian stream bed that’s always in motion, which created a series of lakes within the city. Our stay at the Hydrama Hotel was immediately across the street from it and was totally renovated a decade ago from a tobacco processing plant. Over the next week we visited the cities of Serres, one of the oldest and most historic cities in Greece, followed by Lake Kerkini, a protected reservoir that holds the largest and most diverse population of birds in Greece.
The city of Edessa is called the City of Waterfalls, and is home to a huge one called Karanos. The travertine in the water makes the ground grow rather than the pounding waterfall eroding the land it hits. The 20 minutes of rain caught us as we entered the city, but we voluntarily got soaked by exploring the underside of Karanos regardless.
Photo: Adriana Iacob/Shutterstock
Aside from water, the two aspects of northern Greece that really hit home were based in history. Not just ancient history, but also from a century ago: World War I. I had little knowledge of the “War to End all Wars,” but Greece had a huge impact on the war. The cities of Goumenissa, Veria, and Skra were all significant battle sites. As was the “Cultural Capital” city of Thessaloniki, and Ioannina, the silver hub of Greece for centuries, and the farthest west we went towards the Aegean Sea.
But it was the ancient history that captivated me as we visited the town of Pella, where Alexander the Great was born, as well as Stagira, birthplace of Aristotle. To actually ride into Mount Olympus was almost surreal, and I imagined the mythology that sprung from that mountain. A series of six monasteries built on top of quarter-mile-high spire in the Meteora area, in the city of Kalabaka, went to the very top of both mine and Kathleen’s list of most impressive places we’ve seen. Our lodge, the Katraki Hotel, was one of the most charming during our journey.
Photo: Kathleen Plumley
The trip into northern Greece was officially called the “Urban Centers of Northern Greece Campaign,” and the intent was to highlight the part of the country that is not based on tourism, but deserves to be visited. This is the real Greece, where people in cars stop in the street to talk with their friends walking along the side and no one gets upset.
This is where everyone eats “Greek Family Style,” which means lots of food dishes shared by all. This is where wine is grown, and where buffalo roam — both available for our enjoyment. This is a place to go, to see the real Greece.
Vacation Like Royalty at These Converted Castles in the UK
The secret weapon of the United Kingdom lies in the abundance of country manors and castles which have been given a new life under the creative minds of some of the commonwealth’s top hoteliers. As maintenance costs increased for the aristocracy, many wealthy families were begrudgingly keeping their ancestors’ houses in a state of disrepair, waiting for a way to utilize the estate in a new way. With lavish grounds and roomy interiors, these houses were ready-made to be turned into castle hotels at the hands of an entrepreneur.
The hospitality industry throughout the UK has blossomed lately and what’s en vogue in other markets are built into the DNA of Britain. From dedication to farm-to-table dining to eschewing commercialization, boutique hotels have been paving the way for British tourism and now it’s their time to shine.
In speaking with Gavin Landry, executive vice president for the Americas and Australia, of VisitBritain, he summarized it best.
“Britain is blessed with many castles and estate homes, often in beautiful locations across England, Scotland and Wales. Many of these national treasures have been reimagined as stunning hotels and bed and breakfasts that combine elements of Britain’s iconic history with modern amenities including fine dining, cooking schools, country clubs, spas, gardens, and natural estates to be enjoyed for generations to come.”
So now is your chance to see — and stay — up close and personal with some of the most beautiful houses built across the UK which have been given a second life to make a vacation fit for royalty. Here are seven castle hotels we recommend to make the most of your time on the British Isles and live out your ultimate Downton Abbey fantasy.
Cliveden House
Photo: Cliveden House
Cliveden House is a luxurious five-star hotel located in the rolling hills of Berkshire, England. The property dates back to the 1700s and was a gift from the Duke of Buckingham for his mistress. National Trust grounds stretch over 376 acres, which guests are free to roam, or you can enjoy a bit of relaxation in the world-class spa. The five-star hotel has a verity of world-class dining options, including an afternoon tea fit for a queen.
Where: Cliveden Rd, Taplow, Maidenhead SL6 0JF, United Kingdom
Heckfield Place
Photo: David-S/Shutterstock
Looking at this Georgian manor house, one could easily see it being the background setting for a Nancy Mitford novel. With its grand facade and homey feel, it’s the perfect balance between luxury and comfort. Heckfield sits on 400 acres and part of the surrounding estate includes a farm, which supports the overall approach to environmental consciousness and sustainability, which goes into many facets of the operating practices of this estate.
Where: Heckfield Pl, Heckfield, Hook RG27 0LD, United Kingdom
Fonab Castle
Photo: martinthomson/Shutterstock
Castles come in all shapes and sizes, and Fonab Castle is little but full of charm. With its dusky pink exterior and boutique-style 18 room interior, it balances luxury and British hospitality perfectly. While the castle itself has been consciously restored to keep its traditional appeal alive for guests, the amenities are very modern. There are self-contained pods to keep warm while sipping a cocktail and overlooking the nearby loch or a 15-meter swimming pool to burn off calories from the brasserie.
Where: Foss Rd, Pitlochry PH16 5ND, United Kingdom
Grantley Hall
Photo: Grantly Hall
Originally built as a large house for Grantley family members in 1804, Grantley Hall was transformed into one of Britain’s greatest hotels when the family decided to open their doors to visitors in 2016. With 47 rooms, a Michelin-starred chef on property, a spa, and five restaurants to choose from, Grantley Hall ticks the boxes for anyone looking to really indulge while on holiday. Guests can enjoy a range of activities such as horse riding, shooting and falconry while relaxing in one of England’s most comfortable retreats.
Where: Grantley Hall, Ripon HG4 3ET, United Kingdom
Roch Castle
Photo: Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock
Roch Castle, located in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire in South Wales, is a historical landmark steeped in centuries of history. The castle was built by Walter de Roch during the Norman conquest more than 900 years ago and has been occupied ever since. It is one of the few truly intact medieval castles that remain in Britain today. The hotel sits on a volcanic, rocky outcrop and offers a 360-degree view of Pembrokeshire, making it a great option for those looking to marvel at the natural beauty of Wales.
Where: Church Rd, Roch, Haverfordwest SA62 6AQ, United Kingdom
Palé HallPhoto: Palé Hall
When you arrive at Palé Estate, you’ll be welcomed by the beautiful country house hotel that homes luxurious suites, restaurants serving delicious local produce, and plenty of activities to enjoy.
Palé Estate in Llandderfel was built in the 17th century. It was originally owned by William Glynne and then passed down to his son, Sir Stephen Glynne. The estate remained with the family for over 200 years, until it was bought by William Parry-Powell in 1914. He improved and expanded Palé’s grounds, transforming them into a beautiful country park.
Where: Palé Estate, Llandderfel, Bala LL23 7PS, United Kingdom
Dalhousie Castle
Photo: Jamie___T/Shutterstock
With over 800 years of history, quite a few notable figures have stayed at Dalhousie: Oliver Cromwell, King Edward I, and Mary Queen of Scots, to name a few. And now you can, too. Dalhousie is as classic as it comes in terms of architecture and the interior has been meticulously designed to keep all the charm of the castle while still making it feel like a luxury hotel. Most surprising, perhaps, is the proximity to a large city. Dalhousie is only eight miles from Edinburgh, making it the perfect getaway while still having access to some urban adventures during your stay.
Where: Bonnyrigg EH19 3JB, United Kingdom
Matador Network's Blog
- Matador Network's profile
- 6 followers
