Matador Network's Blog, page 376
December 15, 2022
How to visit Les Gorges du Verdon
The Gorges du Verdon is a 2,300-foot-deep river canyon in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department in southeastern France. It stretches for over 30 miles between two points: le Point sublime et le pont de Galetas. It is the biggest canyon in Europe.
Formed thousands of years ago by the Verdon River which slowly but surely cut through the limestone terrain, the Gorges du Verdon has been a huge tourist draw since the 1930s. These days, more than one million visitors come every year.
While the Gorges du Verdon is busy with tourists, especially in the summer months, the site is protected from development by French and European laws. It is located within the Verdon Natural Regional Park, home to rare and threatened species of birds, bats, and lizards (including the biggest lizard in Europe, the ocellated lizard), among many others.
No matter what activity you chose to partake in while visiting the canyon, remember that the summer months are very hot in this corner of France, so get up early when the temperatures are cooler and protect yourself from the beating sun. To keep cool in the hot weather, swim in the Verdon, rent a paddleboat or a kayak, or go canyoneering. Of course, you can also hike the famous hiking trails in the surrounding mountains, climb the canyon’s cliffs, and watch for wildlife, but bring plenty of water and sunblock.
The Gorges du Verdon are home to many picturesque villages worth visiting or staying at, including:
AnnotCastellaneColmars-les-AlpesEntrevauxLa Palud-sur-VerdonSaint-André-les-AlpesLes Gorges du Verdon is within a three-hour drive from Marseille, Nice, Aix-en-Provence, Toulon, and Gap. That said, it’s not an ideal destination for a day trip — plan to stay a few days to enjoy the area properly. 
The Best Coffee Cities in the World, According To a World Barista Championship Winner
Elika Liftee knows coffee. As the reigning U.S. Brewers Cup Champion for the last two years and the Director of Education for Onyx Coffee Lab, his experience in coffee spans years of training and research, not to mention his own career as a barista. Lifter’s schedule as Director of Education has him racking up frequent flier miles, traveling all over the world training the world’s next best baristas, and allowing him to explore the ever-evolving coffee culture not just in the United States but around the world. And while it’s possible to find a good cup of coffee pretty much everyone on Earth, Liftee has thoughts on the best coffee cities — the places with creative, stylish, thoughtful takes on coffee. And they probably aren’t what you’re expecting, either (hint: he doesn’t pick Seattle).
Amid all of his travels, Liftee has uncovered some of the country’s best coffee cities for enthusiasts, and the places that make them stand out. Here are a few of his picks for the best coffee cities, and the coffee shops to visit in each one.
The best coffee cities in the worldNorthwest ArkansasPhoto: Onyx Coffee Lab
Liftee’s home state of Arkansas has a bustling coffee culture that sources and roasts some excellent brews. “We’re spread out here in Arkansas”, says Liftee. “We’re small and somewhat rural, but the level of coffee here, I think, exceeds that of any other city.”
Where to Go:
Onyx Coffee Lab: Find Liftee training baristas at any of the four Onyx locations across Northwest Arkansas.
Arsaga’s: Onyx owners got their start at this established specialty roaster, which offers six locations, including a cute drive-through for a quick coffee fix.
Airship Coffee: “Natural trails are really big here in Northwest Arkansas”, says Liftee. “Airship happens to have an open air cafe right on a biking trail that is really cool.”
Confident Coffee Roasters: Woman-owned Confident Coffee Roasters in Fayetteville is one of Liftee’s favorite spots. “I love their ambiance.” says Liftee. “It’s a really small and neat roasting program that’s a part of the local community.”
Denver, ColoradoView this post on InstagramA post shared by Copper Door Coffee Roasters (@copperdoorcoffee)
Denver is known for much more than rock climbing and hiking. The coffee culture has ballooned in recent years, with new indie coffee shops and roasters opening up in every neighborhood.
Where to Go:
Copper Door Coffee: Denver’s only 100% female-owned coffee roaster, Copper Door boasts an excellent array of coffee classes for those looking to sharpen their skills. From latte art to cupping and espresso basics, a class is a must for those traveling to the Mile High City.
Corvus Coffee: If exotic or rare coffees are your thing, Corvus should be your first stop in Denver. Specializing in avant-garde and hard to find artisan coffees, this roastery has it all.
Huckleberry Roasters: Winners of Roast Magazine’s 2022 Macro Roaster of The Year, Huckleberry Roasters offers myriad coffees for the specialty coffee lover, including a selection of instant coffees sure to please those with the most sensitive palates and busy schedules.
Nashville, TennesseeView this post on InstagramA post shared by Stay Golden (@stay.golden.co)
Among the legendary country music culture of Nashville lives a community of dedicated coffee professionals and enthusiasts.
Where to Go:
Barista Parlor: With a focus on environmentally responsible coffee sourcing, Barista Parlor makes a great local hangout for the coffee lover. Look out for their excellent sandwiches and beautiful latte art.
Stay Golden: More than a roastery, Stay Golden has all of your breakfast and lunch needs handled. From breakfast tacos to grain bowls, the food here does not play second fiddle to the coffee. Coffee cocktails and specialty drinks pair perfectly with the food menu.
Honest Coffee Roasters: True to their name, Honest Coffee Roasters specialize in working directly with coffee farmers and making sure they get a fair price for their products. They can tell you clearly and transparently how every coffee was fermented, roasted, and sourced, and which type of coffee is best suited to specific beverages.
Melbourne, AustraliaView this post on InstagramA post shared by Seven Seeds (@7seedscoffee)
Liftee’s travels to Melbourne revolve around international competitions, like the World Brewers Cup, which have allowed him to explore the deeply rooted coffee culture of Australia’s third-largest city.
“The cafe culture is very different in Melbourne—it’s more sit-down style,” says Liftee. “It’s slower service, not grab your cup and go. Even my Uber drivers have excellent specialty coffee recommendations in Melbourne. It’s really ingrained into the overall culture of the city.”
Where to Go:
Seven Seeds: “They have an amazing food program, as well as probably the best Kenya coffee I’ve ever had”, says Liftee. Established in 2007, Seven Seeds is at the forefront of the growing coffee scene in Melbourne.
Code Black: With six locations in Melbourne, you’re likely to stumble upon this shop throughout your travels. They offer barista training and resources for those looking to brew a better cup, along with coffee subscriptions and quality brewing equipment.
Proud Mary Coffee: You’ll love the eclectic and multicolored design of Proud Mary’s brand, and the enormous variety of their coffee offerings. Don’t shy away from their well-sourced tea selection, from raw Puer to Thai silver tip.
4 Michelin-Starred Seoul Hotel Restaurants That Offer a Taste of Luxury
South Korea is known for top-tier entertainment thanks to K-Pop bands like global sensations BTS, internationally acclaimed hit Netflix shows like Squid Game, and the first foreign-language film Best Picture Oscar-winning movie Parasite. But for travelers, Seoul is also well regarded as one of the leading culinary destinations in the world.
Korean cuisine is characterized largely by nourishing and healthy vegetables, fresh seafood, and savory meat dishes. The list of signature dishes you can find is long: mouth-watering Korean barbecue like marbled hanwoo galbi (beef short-ribs using meat similar to Kobe beef) grilled over a wood fire, spicy maeutang (a hearty Korean fish stew simmered in anchovy flavored broth), and traditional Kimchi made with fermented and salted Napa cabbage and radish, to name a few.
Seoul has become one of the hotspots for fine dining that highlights both traditional cooking methods and innovative techniques. There are more than 30 Michelin-starred restaurants in Seoul — that’s more than Madrid, Chicago, Bangkok, and San Francisco.
In the last decade, some of Seoul’s most celebrated fine-dining restaurants are also distinguishing themselves with unique modern twists to traditional Korean (Han-sik) cuisine. Take, for example, French-Korean dishes such as large morel stuffed with an ogol chicken mousseline, shredded cabbage made with Goseong scallops, and lotus root topped with fragrant citron foam.
These four world-class Michelin star restaurants are worth keeping on your radar for when you want to eat your way through the city in style.
La Yeon at The Shilla Seoul
Photo: Lotte Hotel Seoul
Offering stunning views over Namsan Park and the Seoul skyline, La Yeon is an elegant Korean restaurant located on the 23rd floor of the iconic The Shilla Seoul. The spacious dining area, which seats up to 40 people including one private room, is embellished with traditional Korean patterns and wood furniture, making for the perfect ambience for a fine meal.
Celebrated executive chef Kim Sung Il’s contemporary interpretations of classic Korean cuisine earned La Yeon two Michelin stars this year, and it was the first hotel restaurant in Korea to be awarded three stars in previous years.
Using only top-notch seasonal local ingredients exclusive to only a few in the market and directly sourced from The Shilla’s own exclusive food network, La Yeon uses the fundamentals of traditional Korean cooking and brings it into the modern age using flavorful ingredients.
Must-try seasonal dishes on their latest November and December menu include a comforting sweet pumpkin porridge made with milk and glutinous rice flour, Goseong scallops tossed in a nut sauce and lotus root, pan-fried red mullet cooked in gochujang, and yul-lan (chestnut cookies) made from the traditional Korean refreshment Yanggaeng (sweet red bean jelly).
The nine-course, prix-fixe dinner runs 270,000 Won, or roughly $250.00, and the seven-course lunch menu begins at 175,000 Won (about $130.00). Vegetarian menus are available for both lunch and dinner.
La Yeon: 249 Dongho-ro, Jangchung-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Bicena at Signiel Seoul
Photo: Signiel Seoul
Signiel Seoul hotel is located on the 76th through 101st floors of Lotte World Tower in the greater Gangnam area in the quiet residential Songpa-Gu district along the Han River. One-Michelin-star restaurant Bicena is located on the hotel’s 81st floor. Signiel Seoul is the country’s tallest tower (and sixth tallest in the world) at an impressive height of 1,823 feet. That makes Bicena the highest restaurant in the world.
At Bicena, Korean executive chef Kwangsik Jun serves up contemporary Korean cuisine in a lavishly appointed dining room. Its design was inspired by three Korean verbs that translates to “emptying, filling, and then sharing.” The warm wooden interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows allow for abundant natural light to fill the space, creating a welcoming ambience for fine dining.
Jun previously worked as the sous chef at GAON, the first three-Michelin-star Korean restaurant. His expertise lies in creating modern Korean dishes from the fundamentals of traditional Korean foods while using fresh seasonal ingredients and fermented sauces. The names of the dishes at Bicena are inspired by the 10 traditional symbols of longevity, including for the sun, clouds, mountains, and water.
Dinner is five-courses, with an elaborate menu featuring options like fig sikhye (rice punch) and fermented prawn followed by stuffed abalone (caviar optional) and dried persimmon sujeonggwa (sweet punch) for dessert. A typical full-course dinner at Bicena runs from 185,000 Won ($140.00) to 220,000 Won ($170.00).
Bicena: South Korea, Seoul, Songpa-gu, Sincheon-dong, Olympic-ro, 300
Pierre Gagnaire à Séoul at Lotte Hotel Seoul
Photo: Lotte Hotel Seoul
The picturesque views of Bukhan Mountain and downtown Seoul from the Executive Tower of the Lotte Hotel Seoul in fashionable Myeongdong are reason enough to visit. But anyone who loves fine food will appreciate that Pierre Gagnaire à Séoul, on the hotel’s 35th floor, is also regarded as the city’s finest French restaurant, earning one Michelin star since 2019. The black and gold Parisian interior is designed to replicate the Palace of Versailles’ secret garden.
French chef Pierre Gagnaire is known for his artistic take on French cuisine, especially southern French dishes, which have earned him the nickname “Picasso of Gastronomy.” He is also the head chef and owner of twelve Michelin-star restaurants worldwide, including the iconic three-Michelin-starred Pierre Gagnaire restaurant in Paris.
There are five set menus available. On the seasonal dinner menu are elaborate French-Korean creations such as sole stuffed with snails, spinach fondue, and Korean beef flank steak — all plated so beautifully you aren’t sure whether they’re food or art.
The Déjeuner Pierre Gagnaire seasonal menu is divided into plates that are from the sea (such as filet of John Dory cooked à la plaque spiced with tandoori), and earth (such as Korean beef filet or prime rib), and all menus offer coffee and a selection of dessert.
Dinners run from 200,000 to 340,000 Won ($150.00 to $250.00), not counting a pairing from Pierre Gagnaire à Séoul’s selection of more than 250 fine wines.
Pierre Gagnaire à Séoul: South Korea, Seoul, Jung-gu, Eulji-ro, 30
Eatanic Garden at the Josun Palace Hotel
Photo: Josun Palace Hotel
Eatanic Garden is in an airy garden space that opens up onto a spectacular city view in the heart of Gangnam, one of Seoul’s most vibrant and upscale neighborhoods. This one-Michelin-star restaurant focused on contemporary Korean cuisine is one of the most sought after places to dine in Seoul.
Located at the newly opened ultra-lux Josun Palace hotel on the 36th floor, it can seat up to 48 people. The glamorous gold and white stylish designs make you feel like you’re stepping onto a Great Gatsby movie set.
Chef Son Jong-won’s combination of culinary artistry and wit has made him one of Korea’s most celebrated restaurateurs. When Eatanic won its first star in 2022, Son became the first Korean chef to run two Michelin-starred restaurants.
Nine-course meals are available in Eatanic Garden for both lunch and dinner. Instead of a traditional menu, diners are offered an illustrated guide to the ingredients in each dish.
The dinner menu, for example, begins with blossom jujeonburi (traditional Korean snacks such as dried jujube dates and pine nuts), hydroponic herb beans, burdock, and autumn mushrooms and ends with sweet pumpkin and mother of pearl box.
Meals cost anywhere between 160,000 and 300,000 Won ($145.00 to $270.00).
Eatanic Garden: 231, Teheran-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Spotted Lake BC, Canada
For years, I’d passed by Spotted Lake along British Columbia’s Highway 3 (aka the Crowsnest Highway), driving between Vancouver and the interior. I always glimpsed it out the window, but it wasn’t until after many trips that I finally pulled over to have a better look. The small lake is rich with minerals and when the weather is hot and much of the water has evaporated, these minerals are concentrated into small pools which give the lake its spotted and colorful appearance.
Summer is the best time to check out the lake. The small pools change color and size throughout the hot season, ranging from blues to greens and yellows. In the winter and in the spring, however, the spots are not as visible.
Besides being an area of ecological importance, Spotted Lake is also a culturally sensitive area for the Okanagan Syilx First Nations people. Spotted Lake is known as Kłlilx’w to the Syilx First Nations people who have traditionally used it for therapeutic purposes. The Syilx First Nations people hold healing ceremonies at Spotted Lake twice a year. It is customary for First Nations people to make an offering upon coming to the lake to pay respect to their ancestors who have used the lake for healing purposes before them.
Spotted Lake, and the 22 hectares of land around it, belong to the Okanagan Nation Alliance Chiefs Executive Council since 2001. It was purchased to preserve this sacred area for future generations and protect it from development.
The lake is about a 10-minute drive west of Osoyoos (about 4.5 hours east of Vancouver) and can easily be seen from the road. There’s a small pullout with room for a few cars to park. Once parked you’ll be confronted with a closed gate because it’s prohibited to get any closer, but the lake’s elevated position gives a good perspective. Respect the signs and do not trespass to get closer to the lake.
If you want to learn more about the Syilx First Nations people and the land where Spotted Lake sits, visit the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre in Osoyoos.
This Spot in Chile Has Some of the Best Sandboarding in the World
Sandboarding in Chile is an experience like no other. From the breathtaking desert landscapes of Atacama to Iquique and the rolling hills of Elqui Valley, sandboarding in this vibrant country provides a unique way to explore its diverse terrain and culture. Not only does it offer a thrilling adrenaline rush, but also provides an opportunity to take in some of the most beautiful sand dunes in the world. The sand is soft and perfect for sandboarding, making it an ideal spot for beginners, as well as those with more experience.
Professional sandboarding instructors are available to guide you through the process, ensuring that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience. So if you’re looking for an adventure unlike any other, sandboarding in Chile is the perfect place to start! With its stunning sand dunes and vibrant culture, sandboarding in Chile will surely be an unforgettable experience. So grab your board and prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime journey!
Whether you’re a sandboarding pro or just beginning to learn, there is something for everyone! Start planning your sandboarding adventure today and discover the beautiful sand dunes of Chile. Discover why sandboarding in Chile is becoming one of the must-do activities on everyone’s travel list.
This video offers a quick preview of what you can find on the sand in Iquique.
What to do in Iquique, Chile
@visit Iquique in Chile has some of the highest sand dunes in the world@munay_sandboard #sandboarding #Iquique #chiletravel #summervibes #desertlife ♬ original sound – Visit
Iquique in Chile is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. With sand dunes that stretch for miles and some of the best sandboarding conditions around, Iquique is the perfect place to experience sandboarding at its finest. The sand dunes offer a variety of terrain, from steep drops and large bumps to smooth sand slopes great for sandboarding. You can also explore the city and its nearby villages, enjoy delicious seafood, watch stunning sunsets over the sand dunes, and take in the rich history of this vibrant Chilean port city. With so much to do in Iquique, sandboarding is just one of many reasons why it’s a great destination for an adventurous holiday. So grab your sandboard and head to Iquique for an unforgettable sandboarding experience!
Dining in Ibquique, Chile is also something to look forward to. With its lively seafood restaurants, beachfront bars and cafes, and some of the best ceviche in South America, there’s something for everyone. After sandboarding all day, relax with an alfresco dinner or a romantic rooftop cocktail with views of the sand dunes. And don’t forget to try the local delicacies such as cazuela and caliente. With its unique sandboarding experiences and delicious cuisine, Iquique is the perfect place to explore sand dune sand boarding in Chile!
Tips for sandboarding in ChileSandboarding may look easy, but it can be tricky if you’re new to the sport. Here are some tips to help make sure you have a safe and enjoyable sandboarding experience in Chile:
Wear protective clothing. The sand can be hot and abrasive, so it’s important to wear long pants and shirt, a helmet and gloves for protection.Bring plenty of water. Make sure you stay hydrated while sandboarding as the sun can be intense during peak hours.Warm up with some sand runs. Start off by sandboarding on easy terrain and get used to the feeling before tackling steeper slopes.Be aware of sandstorms. Be sure to check weather forecasts before sandboarding as sandstorms can be common during certain times of the year.Stay within your limits.More like thisOutdoorA Trip To Iceland’s Vestrahorn Is an Otherworldly Experience
December 14, 2022
This Magnificent Airbnb Mansion in Bali Is More Affordable Than You Think
In Bali, the town of Ubud is known as the island’s cultural center, and the word I’d use to describe it is mystical. Here you’ll find the iconic views of terraced rice paddies in shades of green almost too vivid to believe. Rivers stream through Ubud on their way to the sea, flowing through ancient temples and over sacred falls.
Tourists and locals alike come to Ubud for its promise of healing. Beyond your typical health food cafes or yoga studios, this town offers classes on breathwork, chakra alignment, sound healing, ecstatic dance, and more. When all else fails, simply letting the sounds of the surrounding jungle calm your senses feels restorative. It’s the perfect place to hide away with a few friends…or as many as 16 if you book the eight-bedroom, seven-bathroom Ubud Airbnb.
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
We hope you love the Airbnb in Ubud 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.
I was lucky enough to snag this luxurious, open-air villa — complete with two pools and a formal dining room — for a weekend getaway with friends to celebrate my partner and I’s anniversary. It was a truly unforgettable weekend.
Upon arrival, Manipura’s congenial house manager, Putu, greeted me and each of our guests with a refreshing watermelon smoothie and adorned us with leis made of real Balinese flowers. Putu looked after us all weekend — coordinating meals with the in-house chef, arranging massages for all of our guests, even organizing a cooking class during which we all learned to prepare traditional Balinese dishes like fish steamed in banana leaf and sweet kue putu for dessert.
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
The villa was full of unique but tastefully selected design details. A vibrant mural in the kitchen and several artworks throughout the property depict scenes of Indonesian culture. We enjoyed meals in the contemporary dining room where a colorful, glass-blown chandelier hung from its dramatically high ceiling over a custom slab dining table. A similar chandelier hung from the upstairs terrace, complemented by a (faux) zebra-skin rug and sculptural silver chaise.
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Photo: Airbnb
Each guest room comes with its own bathroom, so everyone can enjoy their privacy. The master suite, while extravagantly spacious, is the only room with two queen beds and thus better for families than, say, two couples. If the group is feeling extra cozy, another wall can open to include a third-bedroom suite, located just off the front of the villa.
Manipura is within easy driving distance of Ubud’s city center, so we spent the first evening going into town for a uniquely Ubudian experience at the appropriately mystical Merlin’s Magic restaurant and speakeasy. The rest of the weekend was spent, let’s say, recovering at the villa. When we weren’t partaking in meals and massages, we whiled away the day lounging poolside and enjoying delicious seclusion amidst the treetops. We drank cocktails, played card games, and caught up with each other. A few guests even opted for a leisurely bath.
According to Putu, it was a decidedly more muted group than his previous guests, a group of elderly ladies from Texas who called themselves “Adventure Grandmas” and spent their days hiking around Ubud — even river rafting.
I live for opportunities to spoil my friends, and while there are plenty of lovely villas around Bali to do so, the Manipura Estate Villa offered an otherwise hard-to-come-by combination of equitable rooms, unique design, warm hospitality, and ample in-house experiences. It is truly in a class all its own.
Italy’s Famous Blue Grotto Is One of the Most Incredible Boating Spots in the World
The Blue Grotto is one of Italy’s most famous attractions, and it’s easy to understand why. Located on the island of Capri, just off the Amalfi Coast, the grotto dazzles visitors with its magical blue light, and can be accessed by taking a boat from either Naples or Sorrento, which will take you to the nearby Marina Piccola. From there, you will have to take a smaller rowboat into the grotto itself, as its entrance is too small for larger vessels. Although it can be tricky getting into due crowds during peak season and strict safety measures must be observed while inside, the grotto has been enchanting visitors since the days of Ancient Rome, and its light continues to draw in thousands of people from all over the world each year.
@visitFound the World of Avatar: The Way of Water.
The Blue Grotto is a popular sea cave on the coast of the island of Capri, southern Italy. It's famous for its enchanting bright blue waters, which is caused by sunlight passing through an underwater cavity and creating a blue reflection that illuminates the cavern.
Who would you visit with?
Blue Grotto, Capri, Italy ig: @auditors.and.adventures
Getting to the Italian island isn’t exactly difficult, but it does take some planning ahead. You can get to Capri island by taking a ferry from Naples of Sorrento. Once you’re on the island, take a boat tour around the island to admire its stunning coastline before arriving at the grotto. Most tours also provide commentary about Capri and its history, so you can learn more about this fascinating region of Italy.
When you arrive at the Blue Grotto, be prepared for an unforgettable experience. As soon as your boat enters the cave’s entrance, it will be filled with an eerie blue light that gives off an almost magical glow—making it easy to see why this place has been popular for centuries. The cavernous walls also are filled with stalactites and stalagmites that glisten under the sun’s bright rays that peek through an opening near the ceiling. The best way to make sure you get a good view is by taking photos from both inside and outside of the grotto so that you can capture every angle of its unique aesthetic.
As with any location of immense and delicate beauty, it’s important to take note of the rules. No swimming or diving is allowed due to strong currents and sharp rocks around certain areas. Boats are also required to turn off their engines before entering so as not to disturb any wildlife living inside (yes, there is wildlife!).
In Newfoundland, Canada, You Can Kayak Around Giant Icebergs
If you thought that the only way you’d get to kayak around towering icebergs is by getting on an eye-wateringly expensive cruise to Antarctica or a complicated trip to Greenland, think again! There’s a much easier and cheaper way to get up close to icebergs: visiting Iceberg Alley in Newfoundland, Canada.
@visit Newfoundland in Canada is the place to go to see gigantic icebergs like this@Callum Snape #iceberg #newfoundlandandlabrador #atlanticcanada ♬ original sound – Visit
Newfoundland and Labrador is the most easterly province of Canada and the easternmost point in the whole of North America. The province consists of two huge and separate pieces of land; Labrador is northeast of Quebec while Newfoundland is an island off the coast of that same area.
Photo: Google Maps
Photo: Elena Elisseeva/Shutterstock
The capital of the province is St. John’s, known to be the oldest city in North America and likely one of the most colorful, with brightly painted houses cheering up downtown. But beyond the humongous size of the territory (about 155,000 square miles) and the beauty of its capital, Newfoundland and Labrador is mostly famous to be home to Iceberg Alley.
Iceberg Alley is an area that covers the coast of Labrador, including the stretch between Labrador and Newfoundland, and the northern coast of Newfounland all the way to St John’s. The nickname Iceberg Alley says it all: You can see an awful lot of icebergs in this corner of the world if you time your visit well. May and early June are the best months to get an eyeful, but note that the further north you get, the later in the summer you can see the giant floating ice chunks.
In Iceberg Alley in Newfoundland and Labrador, you can see icebergs from land, from a boat, or from a kayak. Boat and kayak tours operate from the best viewing points in the province. These are listed by the official tourism website of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador as being “St. Lewis, Battle Harbour, Red Bay, Point Amour, St. Anthony, La Scie, Twillingate, Fogo Island, Change Islands, Bonavista, St. John’s / Cape Spear, and Bay Bulls / Witless Bay.”
While you’re safe on land, know that getting close to icebergs on the water can be dangerous. If you’re exploring the area independently on a boat or a kayak, stay well away from the icebergs — ice might fall off on or near you, and the icebergs might flip over, creating large waves capable of knocking you off your boat or kayak into the frigid waters of the Atlantic.
A Complete Guide To Visiting Germany’s Bavarian Forest
The Bavarian Forest is one of Germany’s most beautiful natural gems. Spanning an area of more than 1,300 square miles, this lush forest is full of towering trees and breathtaking views of rolling mountains, hidden waterfalls, and densely forested trails where you’ll feel like you’re visiting the Germany of hundreds of years ago. The Bavarian Forest is only about three hours from Munich by train, making it an ideal add-on to a Munich trip for travelers looking to add a few active days to their vacation.
Here’s everything you need to know about planning a trip to the Bavarian Forest, from how to get there to what to do and where to stay.
What is the Bavarian Forest?How to get thereBavarian Forest National Park vs. other area parksSummer in the Bavarian Forest Winter in the Bavarian Forest Bavarian Forest vs. the Black Forest Other things to do in the Bavarian Forest Where to stay What is the Bavarian Forest?
Photo: Bodenmais TourismMarco Felgenhauer/Woidlife Photography
The Bavarian Forest is an impressive natural region along the border of Germany and the Czech Republic. It is home to some of Europe’s most extensive ancient forests, classified as low-mountain range forests due to the altitude of roughly 1600 feet above sea level. The region boasts a landscape characterized by rolling hills, deep valleys, babbling streams, and an array of wildlife, including deer, boar, wolves, lynx, and birds.
The Bavarian Forest also has long been associated with traditional handicrafts such as woodworking and pottery, thanks to its abundance of timber from spruce trees. Most of the tourist towns in the area are relatively small and walkable villages, rather than cities, making it a popular summer destination for Munich residents. People visit here for outdoor recreation like hiking and wildlife viewing in the summer and skiing and snowshoeing in the winter, though the low elevation means hiking is available in some parts of the Bavarian Forest year-round.
How to reach the Bavarian Forest
Fortunately for visitors already in Germany, the Bavarian forest is extremely accessible thanks to several train stations near the popular towns. From Munich’s Central Station, visitors will take a Deutsch Bahn (Germany’ national rail system) toward Plattling and, from there, jump on a Bavarian regional train toward whatever city you’re staying in. The German train system is extremely easy to use, even if you don’t speak German.
You can book mobile tickets on the DB Navigator App (which has both English or German versions), and it’ll send you one ticket for your complete route, regardless of whether you’re switching between regional or national lines. It’ll generate a QR code in the app that you’ll show as your ticket when you get on board. Some train stations do not have ticket machines, and you can’t buy tickets on board, so be sure to download the app in advance while you have Wi-Fi.
Trains in Germany are easy to book, on-time, and have station announcements in both Germany and English. It’s very hard to get lost. Photo: Peeradontax/Shutterstock
Once on board, there are multiple screens in every train that alternate between two screens: screen one is the station coming up next, and screen two is the full list of upcoming stations, along with arrival times. On-board announcements are in English and German, and your ticket will tell you which platform to switch to when making connections. And the trains are almost always on time. It couldn’t be easier.
From Munich, it’s about three hours on the train to reach towns like Zweisel or Bodenmais, which makes a few days in the Bavarian forest an extremely easy add-on to a longer Munich or Germany trip.
Bavarian Forest National Park vs. nature park vs. other designations
Photo: Thilo Wagner/Shutterstock
Bavaria is one of 16 German states, and the entire Bavarian forest is within it.
The Bavarian Forest is huge, covering a large section of the state of Bavaria. Bavarian Forest National Park covers a smaller 60,000 acres within that and backs to the Czech Republic’s Šumava National Park. In Germany, national parks are mostly left in a natural state and have the highest level of conservation protection.
Also within the Bavarian forest are “nature parks,” which are protected but may have more facilities shaped by and for humans, like campgrounds, museums, and hiking trailsThere are 103 nature parks in Germany, 16 of which are in Bavaria. The closest nature parks to Bavarian Forest National Park are Bavarian Forest Nature Park (Bayerischer Wald), Northern Upper Palatinate Forest Nature Park (Oberpfalzen Wald), and Upper Bavarian Forest Nature Park (Oberer Bayerischer Wald).
Hiking in the deer park is an option year-round on some of the forest’s lower-elevation trails. Photo: Suzie Dundas
To make it even more confusing, there may be smaller parks within the nature parks. For example, within Bavarian Forest Nature Park is The Buchet Deer Park. Because it’s a nature park, it has some development, so you’ll find hotels like WildbergHof steps away from these places.
Finally, the Bavarian forest also has two wildlife parks. There’s no real US equivalent for these. They’re areas within the national park with huge, fenced-in areas for native fauna where you may see native wildlife. They are very unlike zoos as there’s no artificial habitat or cages, and the outdoor spaces are really, really big. The smallest of the nature parks is in Ludwigsthal and the shortest walk is 1.6 miles. It still only covers a small section of the animal areas, so you may not see any animals at all. For reference, I stood on the wolf-viewing platform for 30 minutes and saw no more than a squirrel.
Photo: Bodenmais TourismMarco Felgenhauer / Woidlife Photography
The second wildlife park is near Neuschönau at the Lusen Vistor Center, and the shortest route through the animal area is 4.5 miles. These aren’t zoos, and you may or may not see any animals. But admission is free, and they’re open year-round. As you may expect, they’re less busy in the winter and shoulder seasons.
The best way to think about it is that Germany national parks are akin to US national parks (albeit with a bit less development), whereas nature parks are a bit more like our national forests. They’re protected, but development is still allowed, and there are some towns within them. However, it doesn’t really matter, as you won’t notice when you’re moving between national parks or national reserves. Any forest within Bavaria that isn’t protected is what we would just consider the woods, rather than officially part of the “Bavarian Forest.”
Summer recreation in the Bavarian Forest
Photo: Bodemais Tourism/Marco Felgenhauer – Woidlife Photography
Hiking in Germany’s Bavarian Forest is the main draw come summer. Bavarian Forest National Park has 217 miles of hiking trails, including routes where you can cross the border into the Czech Republic. Within the Bavarian Forest are hundreds of miles of hiking trails (the “Seven Summits” is especially well-known) and 124 miles of mountain biking trails in the national park alone.
Rock climbing is big, with dozens of crags with dozens of routes, as are whitewater rafting and paddling. It’s an ideal summer outdoor destination and offers basically any outdoor activity you’d expect from a rural mountain area, so it’s an ideal add-on to a Munich trip if you want to squeeze in a few days of physical activity.
The outdoorsy village of Bodenmais. Photo: Bodenmais TourismWoidlife Photography
Note that using hiking guides or going on ranger-guided hikes is very common in Germany; hiking without a guide is the exception, not the rule. That said, you certainly can hike solo, and most areas of the Bavarian Forest are extremely well-signed and easy to follow (and also listed on AllTrails). But if you do want to find a guide, they’re usually inexpensive or sometimes free. Towns like Bodenmais offer guided group tours year-round, and if you stop by any of the national or nature park visitor centers, you’ll probably find a schedule of daily guided hikes anyone can join. If you want to do an overnight backpacking trip, guides are required. But otherwise, you do you.
Winter recreation in the Bavarian Forest
Photo: Bodenmais TourismWoidlife Photography
There are two primary ski resorts around the Bavarian Forest, and both are extremely affordable compared to US ski resorts; ticket are no more than 40 Euro. There’s a ski bus that runs between Silberburg Ski Area and Großer Arber (Big Arbor), on the highest mountain in the Bavarian Forest.
But the real draw in the winter are non-alpine winter adventures. That includes not just winter hiking, but also snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and more. The Bavarian Forest is home to the Bretterschachten cross-country ski center, with has 70 miles of trails, and all of the area’s hiking trails covered in snow become popular snowshoeing trails. Backcountry skiing (i.e., ski touring) is popular, though you’ll almost certainly want to use a guide for that. You can also just relax in the adorable towns to enjoy some good food and scenery for a few days.
Photo: Bodemais Tourism/Woidlife Photography
In addition to its stunning landscapes, the Bavarian Forest also boasts a rich cultural history. The region has been inhabited since ancient times and still retains much of its traditional architecture and customs. You can visit quaint villages with centuries-old churches and buildings or learn about local customs such as wood carving or beer brewing.
One of the best parts of visiting the Bavarian Forest in the winter is the guest card. Depending on what hotel you book, you’ll get a Bodenmais-area visitor card, which includes free admission to many winter recreation destinations, ski resorts included. And even the most luxurious hotels are no more than 200 Euro on peak winter weekends. It’s an exceptionally affordable place for a winter trip, especially if you’re already near Munich.
Bavarian Forest vs. The Black Forest
Germany’s Black Forest: also dark and dense. Photo: Arthur Palmer/Shutterstock
The Bavarian Forest is not the same as the Black Forest. The Black Forest is in the southwest of Germany around the towns of Baden-Baden and Freiburg im Breisgau. It’s more touristy and tends to get more crowded and is much closer to Zurich, Switzerland, than it is to Munich or Berlin. It takes about 10 hours on the train to move between the two regions.
Note that online, you’ll find a lot of confusion and misinformation about the Black Forest and the Bavarian Forest. I’ve found a lot of recreation information and photos online credited to the Black Forest when they’re actually in the Bavarian Forest. That’s probably because the Black Forest is more well-known, but it also means the Bavarian Forest doesn’t get as much credit as it should, especially if you’re looking for multi-day cross-country (as in “crossing the borders of multiple countries”) hiking routes.
Other things to do in the Bavarian Forest
Photo: Bodenmais TourismMarco Felgenhauer / Woidlife Photography
Outdoor adventures aside, other places to check out in the region include:
Glass-blowing classes at the famous JOSKA Bodenmais (a massive complex with everything from a Christmas market to restaurants to Go Karts).A walk along the Treetop Walkway, one of the longest in Europe.Visiting the Shnapps Museum and tasting room in BöbrachPretend you’re a beer at Adam Braü in Bodenmais. The brewery and hotel has a five-step, beer-inspired spa system you can avail yourself of, starting with the brewhouse (a Finnish sauna) and ending with icing (an ice room).Learning about beer and tavern culture at the open-air Bavarian Forest Museum (Museumsdorf Bayerischer Wald)Where to stay
The outdoorsy village of Bodenmais. Photo: Bodenmais TourismMarco Felgenhauer / Woidlife Photography
Bodenmais is probably the most popular town to stay in. It’s near roughly 450 miles of hiking trails and has a walkable downtown with plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, beer gardens, and outdoor gear shops and guides/outfitters. From Bodenmais, visitors can take the ski or hiking shuttles and walk to the train station to connect to anywhere they need to go.
As with most towns in the Bavarian Forest, you won’t find too many chain hotels. Good options include the Hotel Kurpark (home to one of the town’s best restaurants), or more wellness-focused hotels like the affordable Natura Bodenmais (close to the popular waterfall trails) or the more upscale Mooshof Resort. Of these, Hotel Kurpark is the closest to the train station (and has incredibly fast Wi-Fi, if you’re doing any remote work while you’re there).
Further south, the most popular town in the Bavarian Forest is Grafnau. Good hotel options include The Reiners, a boutique hotel with on-site bike rentals, or the more upscale Biohotel Pausnhof, on a working organic farm.
Photo: Bodenmais TourismMarco Felgenhauer / Woidlife Photography
If you’d like to stay a little more off the tourist track, consider booking a tinyhouse rental at the cute WildbergHof, near the Bavarian Forest Deer Park and hiking trails around Deggendorf.
You’ll probably want to stay near a train station if you’re traveling without a car. If you’re going to the national park, you’ll want to map how long it’ll take you to reach the Zweisel Train station. From there, you can take a short connecter to reach whatever part of the park you want to visit, or take advantage of the park’s free transportation (which includes a bus connecting the various entry points and trailheads around the national park). You can buy train tickets on the DB Navigator App or buy one ticket to cover all your transportation in the region.
Testing Go City: Is This the Most Affordable and Fastest Way To See Major Attractions?
If it’s your first time in Paris, you’ll want to visit the Louvre. Never been to New York City before? You gotta go up the Empire State Building. The same can be said about the major sites in any major city. Going to the big attractions doesn’t make you an unimaginative traveler, it makes you a curious one. Those landmarks are synonymous with the city they’re in for a good reason. And, like for just about everything in this life, there’s an app for that. Go City helps travelers book the most famous attractions in 30 destinations around the world with just a few taps on your phone.
After testing Go City in Barcelona, here’s everything you need to know before you buy a Go City sightseeing pass.
What is the Go City app?What cities are covered by the Go City app?How does Go City work?I tested Go City in Barcelona. Was it worth it?So, is Go City worth it?What is the Go City app?
Photo: Morgane Croissant
Go City helps travelers book access to more than 1,500 attractions, experiences, and tours in 30 cities, including the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, Gardens by the Bay in Singapore, etc. You get the gist: Everything a first-time traveler would want to see, all neatly bundled up in one app. All you need to do is choose what kind of Go City sightseeing pass works best for your bandwidth and your wallet and pick your attractions, then you’ll be sent a QR code that works as your ticket.
What cities are covered by the Go City app?Go City currently covers 30 destinations, and will continue to expand worldwide in 2023.
In Europe:
Amsterdam, The NetherlandsBarcelona, SpainDublin, IrelandGothenburg, SwedenHelsinki, FinlandLondon, EnglandMadrid, SpainParis, FranceRome, ItalyStockholm, SwedenVienna, AustriaIn the United States:
Boston, MassachusettsChicago, IllinoisLas Vegas, NevadaLos Angeles, CaliforniaMiami, FloridaNew Orleans, LouisianaNew York City, New YorkOahu, HawaiiOrlando, FloridaSan Antonio, TexasSan Diego, CaliforniaSan Francisco, CaliforniaIn Asia:
Bangkok, ThailandHong KongSeoul, South KoreaIn Mexico:
CancunIn the Middle East:
Dubai, UAEIn Oceania:Sydney, AustraliaHow does Go City work?Go City offers two types of passes:
The All-Inclusive Pass: Choose as many attractions as you wish within a specific time frame of two, three, four, five, six, or seven days. The pass is not valid beyond that time frame. The Explorer Pass: Choice of two, three, four, five, six, or seven attractions. This pass is valid for 60 days after purchase.Once you’ve purchased the Go City sightseeing pass that works best for you, you’re given a QR code that will work as your admission ticket for all the attractions you choose to visit. You won’t have to line up for a ticket or have to deal with the local currency. Just present your QR code and you’re good to go.
Some attractions require advance booking, particularly ones that include a guided visit. Follow the advice from the app and book early if prompted to do so. Go City is convenient, but it’s not magic — if an attraction or guided visit group is full, you won’t get in no matter what.I tested Go City in Barcelona. Was it worth it?
Photo: Morgane Croissant
I was given a Go City Explorer Pass last November to test out in Barcelona. The price of the pass was 79 EUR ($83.10 at time of writing) and included three attractions of my choice. I went through the long list of 48 attractions currently available on Go City for Barcelona and picked a guided visit of the Sagrada Família, a guided tour of Park Güell, and a return cable car ride on the Teleferic de Montjuic all the way to Montjuic Castle. It was my first time in Barcelona, therefore I opted to see the main sights. However there are plenty of other attractions on the Go City app that would suit travelers who have already been to Barcelona and want to try out something different, like a mystery-solving tour around the Cathedral of Barcelona in the atmospheric Gothic Quarter or a boat cruise to see the city from a different perspective.
How much money did I save with my Go City sigthseeing pass in Barcelona?
Price as displayed on the Go City Website. Photo: Morgane Croissant
According to the prices displayed on the Go City app, by having this pass, I was saving 10.20 EUR ($10.75). A guided tour of the Sagrada Família was 49 EUR ($51.55), a guided visit of Park Güell was 26 EUR ($27.35), and the return ride on the cable car was 14.20 EUR ($14.95), making for a total of 89.20 EUR ($93.85). That seemed like a great deal: I was saving more than 10 bucks and got to skip all the ticket lines.
After further digging, however, the deal seemed a little less appealing. I checked the price of each attraction I had chosen on each official website and noted a significant difference. A guided tour of the Sagrada Família was 30 EUR ($31.55), a guided visit of Park Güell was 22 EUR ($23.14), and the return ride on the cable car was 12.78 EUR ($13.44), making for a total of 64.78 EUR ($68.10). That meant that I was paying 15 bucks for the advantage of skipping the ticket lines.
Price as displayed on the attraction's official website. Photo: Morgane Croissant
Price as displayed on the attraction's official website. Photo: Morgane Croissant
Price as displayed on the attraction's official website. Photo: Morgane Croissant
I contacted Go City to understand the pricing displayed on the app a little better and got a clarification on the discrepancy. The guided tours of the Sagrada Família and Park Güell are run by a third-party operator called Amigo Tours, which charges more than the official attractions. The pricing on the Go City app was in line with that of Amigo Tours. The Go City representative I talked to explained, “We source the best providers for our customers,” but I can’t comment on the fact that an experience with Amigo Tours is better than one organized with the official attractions. The price difference for the cable car, however, is due to an online promotion run by the Teleferic de Montjuic, and Go City cannot adjust their pricing every time an attraction runs a deal — that’s for you to do if you want to keep a close eye on your spendings.
Granted, it is convenient to have all your tickets in one place and not having to queue to get in some of the most famous attractions in Barcelona, but if you’re on a tight budget, you need to compare the official prices to those of the app carefully before you make your purchase. Also, if you think that time is money and paying a little more is worth it if you get to skip the lines, make sure there are actually lines at the time and places you’re planning to visit. There were no lines at Park Güell or at the Teleferic de Montjuic when I was there in early November (well off season, obviously).
How practical is the Go City sightseeing pass in Barcelona, really?Waiting is inevitable: While you will skip the ticket lines, that doesn’t mean you won’t be waiting around before entering the attraction you wish to visit. The guided visits of the Sagrada Família and Park Güell required that I arrive 10 minutes before the time indicated on my ticket and I waited for another good 15 minutes outside for guides to sort the different groups out, get the audio guides, and get us through to the entrance.
Credit card required: Because the Sagrada Família and Park Güell are two very popular attractions, I was prompted by the Go City app to book my guided visits in advance. While booking the Sagrada Família visit was a breeze, booking the Park Güell one required me to provide my credit card number. Intrigued as to why I would have to do it even though my Go City sightseeing pass was already paid for, I called the tour guide company and asked. I was told that it was because if I did not show up for the tour, I would be charged even though the Go City sightseeing pass had already been paid for. So, is Go City worth it?Go City can be a time and money-saver, but not for all cities or all attractions, and not for every day of the year. You truly need to spend some time in the app and on the attractions’ websites looking at the prices of the attractions, tours, and experiences on offer and make your decision carefully.
A Go City representative explained that the prices vary according to the destination due to the number and cost of attractions in each destination, which makes sense. “The most expensive option is Dubai, due to the cost of the attractions in the city, and the least expensive option is Philly,” she said. “Additionally, the greatest potential savings can be found in Oahu where travelers can save up to 67 percent with the three-day All-Inclusive Pass.”
The type of pass you purchase can also make a big difference in how much money you save, so weigh all your options mindfully. If money is no hindrance and you just want to save time when the crowds are at their worst, go for it. Go City’s best asset is its practicality.
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