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Friday, June 27
Biarritz Visitors
by
George and Anne
on Fri 27 Jun 2008 12:19 BST
Days 141-149 Thu 19–Fri 27 June 08
A few days before Cathy and John arrive – have spent the time in the sun round the pool, catching up on a bit of reading and doing some shopping ready for our guests. Also had a lovely meal in the local square here one evening and enjoyed some live music which was part of a Village Music Festival. We meant to go into Biarritz itself to do a bit of research before they arrived but the weather has been too nice !
As before, we are making our guests sing for their supper so here is what they had to say -
Guest Addendum by Cathy and John Alexander, Biarritz Camping.
This is your ace reporter John Alexander giving you the full and truthful account of life in Dartmoor Prison-sorry- in the fabulous warm rain-free awning that the Horsfields have (un)kindly set up for us here in la belle France. We are made to get up at 5.30 in the morning to sweep out the caravan and prepare breakfast for our oppressors-sorry-good friends before we are allowed to scrape up their leftovers as our main source of sustenance. It’s a bargain really as they are only charging us £150 a day each for their company. Words cannot express how grateful we are for their unstinting generosity!
I must warn you that this part of my account has been heavily censored by our warm and loving hosts. Every day has been fun packed. George is an excellent cook on the BBQ. The weather has been variable but warm and we have ventured on to the beach-very nice sand and the waves are quite big-a lot of surfing going on. We have decided to pass the chance of surfing to Lester.
Went on the little choo-choo up to La Rhune. It’s a great big mountain. The carriages had completely open windows We left in clear weather but by the time we had climbed the 905metres to the top it was shrouded in mist. George made the other passengers laugh by taking a photo of a large poster showing the view from the mountain on a clear day. What a cheat.
We have developed a taste for Boules- boys v girls. I have to report that the girls stuffed us at first but the boys have come back big time and the championship all hangs on the final game which we are confident of winning.
Stop-press - we didn’t beat them, jammy women. We were winning but my partner- correction- ex partner played, how shall I put it delicately - CRAP. The result was a bit easier to bear when I remember the beating George and I gave the girls at cards last night.
If I can be serious for a few milliseconds we have had a brilliant time. George and Anne have been brilliant hosts. Our only regret is that we can’t stay any longer. If we get invited again we are coming for a month. Sorry, got to go now- George has just fainted. Can’t think why.
Lots of love, Cathy & John
Brilliant – thanks for that John (ably vetted by Cathy)!
We had a great time too and really enjoyed your company and the time went all too quickly. One highlight for us was going to an International-Standard game of Pelote one evening – a very athletic and spectacular game played, essentially by throwing a ball against a wall with a curved basket-like stick sometimes from 80metres away, by two teams of three players. The fitness and skill involved had to be seen to be believed.
We had some lovely news this week – our previous guest bloggers Pam and Lester Biffin became Grandparents for the first time on 23rd June. Many congratulations to Claire and Alex who are now the proud parents of Tyler George Biffin.
We really like Biarritz – huge sweeping sandy beaches with very big waves ideal for surfers. Apparently one of the biggest beaches here – Plage de la Cote des Basques was the place where surfing first appeared in Europe. It is an exceptional beach surrounded by cliffs overlooking the Spanish coast.
Dominating the Grand Plage (adjacent to the town centre) is the Hotel du Palais which previously was the Imperial Residence of Napoleon III and the Empress Eugenia, and the Casino Municipal which is a superb building of Art Deco style. Behind are lovely leafy squares with lots of restaurants and pavement cafes.
Further on is the landmark lighthouse – Le Phare – built in 1834 and 73meters above sea level. There are 248 steps to the top which Cathy and George climbed to see the amazing views from the top. Anne and John decided to keep their feet firmly on the ground and managed to sneak in an extra coffee in the Lighthouse Café while the others were gone.
It is not surprising that over the years this has been a popular up-market seaside resort for the French. From 1825 the beaches were prepared to receive visitors and famous French and foreign families stayed in Biarritz , including Queen Victoria, Kings Edward VII and Edward VIII. Many castles and magnificent mansions still remain from these prestigious times.
We are here for another week, until July 5th, and are looking forward to exploring more.
See lots of new photographs – CLICK HERE
Thursday, June 19
Back to The UK For Anne's Mum's 90th Birthday
by
George and Anne
on Thu 19 Jun 2008 18:19 BST
Days 131-141 Mon 9 - Thu 19 June 08
Taxi to the airport, no problems with the Ryanair flight to Stansted and arrived to stay with Anne’s Mum. Had a great time – visiting one of my brothers in Galleywood and meeting their new puppy – visiting Nina and James at their flat in Pimlico - food shopping for Mum - shopping trips to Lakeside Shopping Centre – lunch and Rossi’s ice-cream in the sun at Westcliffe-on-Sea –visiting neighbours etc………
………and of course the 90th birthday celebrations. It was a lovely sunny day and lots of family and friends came to see Mum – people made a real effort to be there which was lovely for her. Caterers came and organised a buffet meal in the afternoon and we all really enjoyed ourselves. Nina, James and Jonathan were staying the night so we played silly games to finish off a lovely day. See photos for a few of the guests.
Next day was Sunday so eight of us went off to Mum’s church in the morning where she had a great deal of fuss made of her all over again – then straight out for a Father’s Day lunch.
Stayed at Jonathan’s flat in Clapham on our last night as we had to deliver Anne’s car back to him (!) – then on to Stansted by train the next morning.
We really enjoyed our time in the UK, it went very quickly and we were soon back on the plane to Biarritz. The weather is boiling hot here and forecast to stay that way –but rained last week apparently, so our visit was well timed !
Now looking forward to friends Cathy and John visiting us here soon - we have put the awning up and sorted everything out for them (ie stocked up on booze) !
Off now to have a swim in the pool here, then a snooze in the sun.
See Photos – CLICK HERE
Sunday, June 8
Noja to Biarritz
by
George and Anne
on Sun 08 Jun 2008 23:17 BST
Day 130 Sun 8 June 08
Up bright and early for the journey to Biarritz - not that far, about 160km.
No problem getting off the pitch, pushed the caravan into position with the help of people who had dragged themselves out of bed early on a Sunday morning to see us off. Hitched up easily and said our thankyous and tearful goodbyes.
Left about 9.30am, weather quite cloudy. Had torrential rain going round Bilbao and for the first half of the journey, then the clouds slowly cleared and the sun came out for the rest of the way. Easy journey, all motorway With three separate toll charges – 7.33€/1.48€/1.70€. Filled up with diesel before the border at 1.28€ per litre – good job because it’s 1.54€ in France. Also a national tanker driver strike has just started in Spain, hope it doesn’t spread to France.
Found the site quite easily, a smaller one than usual, and managed to get one of the few larger sunny pitches. Many of the sites over here have lots of trees on them as in the height of summer everyone wants shade, but not this time of year. Spent the usual long time deciding which way round the caravan should go (Anne) because of the sun, and come on lets get on with it (George).
So here we are on the Basque Coast of France, at the foot of the Pyrenees, 2k south of Biarritz, 1k from the beach and a very short walk from the village square in the centre of Bidart. Looking forward to exploring.
We are told there is free Wi-Fi in the bar here. If you are reading this it must have worked!
On Tuesday we are flying to Essex and staying with Anne’s Mum for eight days for her 90th birthday celebrations. Really looking forward to it. Back here on Wednesday 18th June.
Saturday, June 7
Rallying in Green Spain
by
George and Anne
on Sat 07 Jun 2008 20:13 BST
Days 118-129 Tue 27 May – Sat 7 June 08
CLICK HERE TO SEE PHOTOS
Have had a really enjoyable further two weeks here – more of the same activities: quizzes, boules games, coffee mornings, organised walks and group lunches out. Still meeting new people as some are leaving and others are arriving nearly every day.
The weather has been a bit mixed – torrential rain overnight a couple of times and generally cloudy days but it stabilised over the last week and we are now back to hot sun. A couple near us have been here regularly at this time of year and said it’s been the worst weather they’ve had in six years – but we think it’s been the same all over Europe. However we’ve still had days on the beach and barbeques in baking sun.
Had a great day out in Bilbao. Headed straight for the Guggenheim Museum. 12.50€ each entry fee which includes a personal audio guide for most of the exhibits. It is worth paying the entrance fee (7.50€ for aged 65+) just to go in the place, in fact we thought the best exhibit was the building itself. It is generally famous for being a magnificent example of the work of avant-garde architect Frank Gehry. Most of this extraordinary building is covered in titanium and glass – have a look at the photographs and judge for yourself. The various exhibitions were interesting if nothing else, the highlight of which was the Dahli-led Surrealist section - very enjoyable. Our enjoyment of some of the minimalist works was, well, minimal.
We also walked along the Ria de Bilbao to the old town – the usual mixture of market places, narrow streets, beautiful old buildings and churches. The only downside of the day was having a puncture in a back tyre as we were leaving the car park – sound familiar ? We are now old hands at changing tyres and had to buy two new ones the next day at a Spanish Kwik Fit. This is the second puncture in two weeks and we feel very unlucky, however we now have four new tyres so should be ok from now on.
Spent a full day visiting the Parque de la Naturaleza de Cabarceno which is about forty minutes away just inland from Santander. It is an animal/safari park similar to Longleat, but it is vast – the biggest in Europe we believe - covering 750 hectares and containing 112 different species of animals and 10 miles of roadways. The scenic setting was amazing, changing from flat open areas to spectacular craggy hillsides creating a brilliant natural home for the animals. Definitely recommend it to anyone visiting the area.
Also visited the town of Santona – 15 minutes away – lovely seafront area and fishing harbour. Walked past a shop front thinking it was a bar, went in and found huge stainless steel vats of wine with people coming in and out with their own containers and having them filled for 1.20€ per litre. Four of us came back to the Bodega a few days later armed with empty containers, tasted two reds, one white and a rose and came back loaded up – complete with a free earthenware jug each for decanting.
Boiling hot day today (Saturday 7th). Had a lunchtime Rally Barbeque with tables joined together all down one of the roadways here. Bid a sad farewell to Hillary and Peter (our Bodega buddies) and their enormous vehicle (more like a coach with two slide-out sections – see photographs) on their way home to Hampshire – our turn tomorrow.
Thankfully the only disaster over the last fortnight (apart from the punctures) was running out of PG Tipps, but some neighbours came to the rescue - they had bought nearly 2,000 over here with them and gave us a big handful - marvellous !
Off in the morning, leaving Spain, destination Biarritz. We’ve had a great time here – thank you Shirley and Tom, our lovely Rally Stewards, for making our first Caravan Rally so memorable and enjoyable. We'll never forget their impersonations - Shirley's Ann Robinson and Tom's Evil Kineval !
We’ll be sorry to leave but are looking forward to our next stop.
The plan is for the caravan to be in Biarritz for about a month. On Tuesday we are flying to Essex and staying with Anne’s Mum for eight days for her 90th birthday celebrations. Back home to Biarritz on Wednesday 18th June.
CLICK HERE TO SEE PHOTOS
Monday, May 26
First Week at Noja, Santander
by
George and Anne
on Mon 26 May 2008 23:37 BST
Days 110- 117 Mon 19 May – Mon 26 May 08
This site is huge – about 850 large pitches – but is only about a quarter full at the moment. This means lots of facilities and not that many people to use them which is great and the shower blocks are very modern and clean.
The site is right alongside a beautiful sandy beach, Playa de Ris, with a gate directly on to the beach about forty yards from our caravan so we are hoping for some good weather while we’re here. Playa de Ris is four kilometres of fine golden sand set round two curving bays of the Cantabric Sea. The beach, caravan site and town of Noja are surrounded by the Noja Wetlands Reserve which is home to many wild animal and bird species.
The Camping and Caravan Club have been allocated nearly fifty pitches, all in the same area of the site. The Rally actually started on Monday so we were entertained by lots of other caravans and motorhomes arriving and setting up around us.
After enjoying each others’ company and doing our own thing for nearly four months George and I weren’t sure how we would take to being organised in a big group but we are really enjoying the social interaction so far. None of the activities are compulsory but we find we are attending most of them – already been to quiz nights, boules competitions, coffee mornings and organised walks. Our fellow Rallyers are a mixed bag – from all parts of the UK, all walks of life, all very friendly and great fun.
We also had a lunchtime walk into town for a typically Spanish meal – 26 of us in all – three courses including wine for 11€ each. George found himself next to a fellow Rotarian from Queensferry Club in Edinburgh. Grainger and his wife Norma were great company – over the next few days we ended up consuming lots of alcohol together – finishing off their best malt whiskey along the way. Sadly they were only here for a week but we hope our paths will cross again in future travels.
Also on the site is a group of musicians - all men – who are on a tour with their bicycles, mandolins and penny whistles. They did a couple of impromptu sing-along performances in the bar here which were great fun (Anne and Norma practised their maracas playing – see photos) – it seemed the more we drank the better they were !
There is a 9-hole golf course 1km away – three par fours and six par threes. To play round twice cost 7€ per person so we thought we’d give it a go. The course was a bit rough round the edges, short but quite challenging and we really enjoyed it.
The weather this week has been mixed. Have had some heavy rain at night mixed with roasting sun and cloud during the day. One evening we were still on the beach in hot sun at 6.30pm.
As this is being typed we can hear the calling of peacocks. There is a children’s animal park at one end of the site and two days a week at 6.00pm they open the gates and we can all go in and feed the animals with the old bread collected from the camp shop. There are peacocks, peahens, llamas, cows, goats, sheep, chickens, ducks, beautiful tiny black piglets and two sorts of deer - all very tame and taking food from our hands.
This has been quite an accident-prone week for the Rallyers – the local ambulance has been needed twice for bicycle accidents – and also poor Tom, the Rally Steward, went over his handlebars whilst leading an ambulance through the site to the latest casualty. The ambulance crew didn’t know who to stop for first but Tom heroically waved them past himself as he sat bleeding on the tarmac. Thankfully he was not seriously hurt and when the ambulance had left with the injured lady we made him and Shirley a cup of tea to help them calm down - after a medicinal scotch or two they eventually stopped shaking!
This is a lovely site in a great position and we look forward to the next two weeks – more of the same (minus the accidents!) plus some trips out.
Sunday, May 18
Salamanca to Noja, Santander
by
George and Anne
on Sun 18 May 2008 23:34 BST
Day 109 Sun 18 May 08
Got away early, soon after 8.00am, ready for one of our longest legs – 460km.
Quite a cloudy and chilly morning, we were quickly passing through very flat open terrain, definitely cruise control country. Lots of bright yellow gorse and wild poppies.
Filled up with diesel en route – 1.26€ per litre.
Headed up to Burgos – passed the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Tour Lorry on the ring road! After passing Burgos we had some rain for a couple of hours and the terrain became more hilly. Eventually joined the motorway up to Bilbao, then on west along the coast to Noja, just before Santander, where we are booked on a Camping and Caravanning Club Rally for three weeks.
Found Playa Joyel caravan site with no problems and met the Rally Stewards Shirley and Tom who are lovely and made us feel very welcome.
Set up quite quickly and got the kettle on!
Saturday, May 17
Salamanca
by
George and Anne
on Sat 17 May 2008 17:09 BST
Days 105-108 Wed 14 – Sat 17 May 08
Well, what can we say – Salamanca is a super place. It is a very old city, not very big, situated on the banks of the Tormes River, and is famous for its beautiful buildings and thriving university. The older, cultural centre is very compact and the outer, newer area has wide, elegant, tree-lined roads – it reminded us of a mini Barcelona. There are several bridges across the river – one dates back to Roman times with nine of the original arches still remaining.
In the city centre is the beautiful main square, Plaza Mayor built in the lovely honey coloured Villa Mayor stone. The city is dominated by two beautiful cathedrals - one old, one “new” – the newer one is built partially over/on top of the older one making things very confusing for the visitor ! The Medieval Cathedral towers, 100 metres tall, are two of Salamanca’s most important emblems with a history dating back over 900 years.
We had a great day of non-stop walking, coffee in various squares and listening to the brass band in Plaza Mayor, which had a book festival set up in it which rather spoilt the view of the buildings.
There is a bus from right outside the caravan site entrance into the centre – 20 mins €1.05. Have found free wi-fi at our local library – brilliant.
Our next visit to the centre turned out to be very eventful – decided to drive in as it’s only 3k. No problem, straight into the multi storey car park – but on the way out hit the kerb by the pay machine and burst a front tyre. Changed the wheel with the help of a lovely car park attendant and had to go to the Spanish equivalent of Kwik Fit the next day to sort it out. They couldn’t match the other front one so we ended up forking out for two new tyres, better safe than sorry – see photos!
Weather now much better so have decided to stay here until moving to Noja, near Bilbao where the rally is, on Sunday. This is a small, very nice site and we’ll be sorry to leave. Would definitely recommend Salamanca for a short city break.
Tuesday, May 13
Porto to Salamanca
by
George and Anne
on Tue 13 May 2008 23:26 BST
Day 104 Tue 13 May
Set off at about 9.30am for Salamanca (middle of Spain NW of Madrid). This is a change from the original plan. We were going to go to La Coruna next, right up in the top left hand corner of Spain, but having looked at the map we realised that the road from there heading east was not too good. We have got to be in the Bilbao area by Monday 19th May as we are booked into a Camping and Caravanning Club International Rally so have now decided to cut the corner off and head northeast via Salamanca.
Very scenic route with some quite big climbs – passed by/over the Serra Gralheira on one side and the Serra de Caramulo on the other. Small toll motorway south out of Porto - €7.05 then free motorway all the way to the border which we reached after just over three hours. Quite strange, the Portuguese motorway ended at a small roundabout in the small border village of Vilar Formosa (the passport booths had obviously not been used for years) then the road leading away from the roundabout (in Spain) was a single lane road for about ten miles! It then turned into dual carriageway lined with bright yellow gorse bushes for the rest of the journey to Salamanca. Approx 330km total.
Lots of lorries about today – we don’t usually get any when we travel on Sundays.
Found the caravan site easily (despite TomTom directing us wrongly again at the end). It is tiny, only about fifty pitches and we were led to one which we could drive straight into – brilliant.
Weather not great at the moment but we are looking forward to visiting the centre of Salamanca as we know nothing about this area at all.
Monday, May 12
Picturesque Porto
by
George and Anne
on Mon 12 May 2008 16:20 BST
Days 97-103 Tue 6 May - Mon 12 May 08
First day - caught the bus into Porto centre – situated on the north bank of the Douro River. It’s only about 4k away but the bus (as always) went all round the houses and back streets so the journey took about 45mins. We are time rich so this doesn’t matter at all and it’s really interesting to see the small streets and gatherings of locals in their favourite cafes etc as we go past.
Eventually came out to the river and could see picturesque Porto across on the other side. The bus then crossed the river and we got off in one of the main squares. The weather was a bit cloudy but we had a great day walking round the town – we always head straight for the tourist information centre to pick up maps and info, then have a coffee and plan what we want to do. Porto is a beautiful old town – full of grand old buildings and monuments – with waterside cafes and restaurants - and is linked to Vila Nova de Gaia by six bridges. The Ponte Luis I is the famous iron bridge designed by Gustaph Eiffel. See photos (probably too many !)
We have been to Sherry Country – we are now in Port Country. Porto is the ancient town, situated at the mouth of the Douro River, which gave its name to Portugal and Port Wine. Vila Nova de Gaia on the south bank is the home of the cellars of the famous Port exporters – Sandemans, Grahams, Crofts, Offleys etc.
We went to Sandemans Cellars (called caves here) and had a tour and tasting (see photos) – similar to our sherry visit. The guides were all clothed in the Sandeman Don’s black cloak (as worn traditionally by Portuguese students), and the black hat (representing Spanish tradition). – see photos.
Have spent days at the caravan in the sun. No wi-fi here so have made trips to a local internet café to catch up.
There are various organised boat trips up the Douro River so we thought we would treat ourselves to a full day version. (This was actually recommended to us by the lady who we bought our meat from in Quarteira in the Algarve ! – we got chatting to her about our trip, told her we were going to Porto after Lisbon and she said we should do it !) -
Had a fabulous day – boarded the Vale do Douro at 10.00am, set sail and were served breakfast at our reserved table inside - we were seated with a lovely young American couple from Boston.
The weather was quite cloudy to begin with but very comfortable sitting up on deck with a fleece jacket on. The scenery was fabulous and we had a wonderfully relaxing journey as the river headed inland towards some of the oldest wine producing vineyards in Europe – all set on sloping terraces - where the grapes for the Port wine are grown.
We passed through two locks. The first after 20k (Barragem de Crestuma-Lever) had a water level difference of 14m and we were served an aperitif of white port out on deck as the water level rose. We were then served a fabulous three course lunch complete with wine and coffee which we enjoyed with our new American friends, Katy and Jay.
The sun began to break through and we sailed on - at about 3.00pm, after about 70k, we passed through the second lock (Barragem de Carrapatelo) – water level difference of 35m, it was absolutely massive - the biggest on this river.
Eventually we reached our destination – Regua – transferred to a coach for the 5 min journey to the Castelinho Wine Caves for a quick trip round and more tasting !!
Then to the station for the two hour train ride back to Porto.
What a great day out – all for €65 each.
Had a look at a couple of nearby golf courses – one was a 9-hole links course (€35 for 9, €50 for 18) the other was a quirky 6-hole course (€20 for 6, €30 for 12, €40 for 18). We were planning to play tomorrow but have decided to move on to Salamanca in the morning.
We really like Porto. There is much more here to see and will definitely come here again.
SEE PHOTOS - CLICK HERE
Tuesday, May 6
Lisbon to Porto
by
George and Anne
on Tue 06 May 2008 23:14 BST
Day 98 Tue 6 May 08
Left at about 10.00am and set off in cloudy weather – very busy roads, eventually got out of the Lisbon area at about 10.30am !
Lovely journey to Porto – 320 km - passing the 4,000 mile mark on the way.
Pretty green rolling countryside, passing by small farms and villages. Took under four hours actual driving – we stopped a couple of times for coffee and cakes. Toll motorway nearly the whole way - €43.25.
Arrived at the caravan site with no great difficulty, although the directions given were not brilliant. Parts of the site are very crowded, lots of motor homes, but we have found ourselves another good spot in a partly wooded bit, plenty of room. Another Orbitur site, (shower block not brilliant, but usable) – with our ACSI Card is €10 per night, and we get 7 for 6 nights, so only €60 for the week – bargain.
Walked down to the beach and had a beer in the beach bar in the sun. Huge sandy beaches along this part of the coast – the site is in Vila Nova de Gaia, right by Madelena Beach, which is south of the Douro River. Looking forward to exploring the town of Porto.
Monday, May 5
Lisbon
by
George and Anne
on Mon 05 May 2008 20:11 BST
Days 89-96 Mon 28 Apr - Mon 5 May 08
This municipal site is somewhat different to others we have stayed on – there are very few caravans here, quite a few motor homes and lots of tents. Our pitch is away from everybody. We have seen no Brits here at all (which is usually a benefit). There are eight wash blocks on the site, all spread out in the woods – between us we tried most of them but found them all to be very basic and probably some of the worst we’ve had. The great benefit of the site is that it is so close to the city centre.
Finding an internet café was a priority at first as there is no wi fi on this site so set off on our first morning to central Lisbon on the bus – 25 mins, €1.35. Eventually found free wi fi facility on the top floor of a shopping centre so managed to get up to date. Too far to trek with the laptop again so will have to make do with the computers in reception at €0.30 for 15 minutes. Blog will have to wait.
G‘s tooth still very bad so had to find another English dentist – no such thing in Lisbon apparently so went to one quite nearby who spoke no english at all. One of the reception staff at the caravan site was spectacularly helpful with translations – the dentist even telephoned the site three times while we were with him to speak to the staff here to make sure G understood what was going on! Anyway, the tooth came out, no more problems.
Sorted out the awning for Pam and Lester who arrive on Thursday for a few days. Blew up the air beds, hung a curtain across the middle to give them some privacy, stocked up on alcohol, got out the red carpet etc. We thought we’d make them earn their keep by writing a guest blog entry …read on…………..
Guest Addendum by Pam and Lester Biffin
We have been invited to contribute to the blog by our generous hosts. Whether this is a genuine attempt to inject an alternative style or merely because they can’t be bothered to do this bit, we will have to let you decide.
Had a trouble free flight – only marred by spending well over an hour waiting for our bag, so that we could get out of the airport. A and G were waiting to greet us and we made straight for the site – an oasis of green within the city, just 4 miles from the centre – and had a beer (or two!), a barbie and a planning meeting.
Friday was a whirl of bus rides and walking interspersed with seeing the sights of Lisbon. It soon became apparent that it is a very hilly place and the vast majority are heading up. Pavement cafes, great architecture and sunshine – great combination for a grand day out – the bonus was finding a replacement glass for the coffee pot, which was mysteriously broken at some point during the previous evening. After a fine meal back at camp, we re- inflated the punctured airbed again (Cath – I will explain when I see you) and so to bed.
The other must place to see close to Lisbon is the riverfront at Belem, which is where Portugal’s naval history is clear for all to see. Lots of walking between monuments, museums and galleries plenty of sun and we had our first ice cream of the trip. In the evening we had a meal out and went to Hot Clube de Portugal, Lisbon’s premier jazz venue. Got a fast taxi back at 2am and crashed. (into bed)
Not too much enthusiasm to get going this morning – after a light breakfast we headed off to Sintra and Estoril – both worth an hour or so to have a wander about and watch the police cart off an errant biker from the prom.
Our last evening has come around all too quickly, but a superb barbie and a couple of drinks made it memorable. We will be seeking another opportunity to visit again, if we are lucky enough to be invited. (please).
Thank you for one of our favourite city visits ever. End of. Pam & Lester xxx.
Thanks for that both - we had a great time too. As you well know you are more than welcome any time. Simply as.
Loads of new photographs to view – CLICK HERE.
Off up north to Porto tomorrow (Tuesday).
Sunday, April 27
Algarve To Lisbon
by
George and Anne
on Sun 27 Apr 2008 23:46 BST
Day 88 Sun 27 Apr 08
SEE NEW PHOTOS - CLICK HERE
Set off about 10.30am amidst much hugging and waving from our neighbours, a lovely send-off. Drove away very sad to leave but it’s nice to think we’ll definitely come back again.
Headed off to Lisbon – motorway all the way and all passing through inland countryside – should take three and a half hours tops. The further north we got the greener it all became, very similar to English views. Saw a lot more cars than we usually do when travelling on Sundays, maybe because it’s the last day of the bank holiday weekend, but only saw one other caravan the whole way. Toll motorways – had to pay €45 (we were a class 3 vehicle, so probably had to pay extra for the caravan).
Over the bridge into Lisbon looking for camping signs (the book said “well signposted from all major routes” – absolute rubbish). The site was very difficult to find – we knew it was in a big park so we followed signs for that. We saw one sign for camping, then no more ! Ended up down in amongst blocks of very tatty flats with loads of locals out on the streets – very helpful locals – it seemed that every time we were dithering about where to go, one of them would point in the direction and wave us on with a thumbs up ! This happened at least three times and we eventually arrived at the site. The locals must be very used to pathetically lost caravanners in their backstreets.
Anyway, have found another brilliant pitch – up in the woods away from the main hub of caravans with loads of room and our own water tap and picnic bench. Put the awning up straight away, even though we are only here for a week, as we are looking forward to having guests to stay on Thursday for a few days.
George has got bad tooth ache at the moment so we are hoping it will get better before we have to seek out another dentist !
This site is in a lovely setting – in a large natural wooded park – but only a few kilometres from the centre of Lisbon so we will have to get used to big city driving.
Saturday, April 26
Last Week In The Algarve
by
George and Anne
on Sat 26 Apr 2008 23:44 BST
Days 82-87 Mon 21 Apr–Sat 26 Apr 08
SEE NEW PHOTOS - CLICK HERE
Played golf on Monday atPine Cliffs – on the Sheraton Algarve Hotel complex. Lovely course along the cliff-tops, only nine holes, so we went round twice for €47 each pre-booked at a discount golf shop in Almancil. While we were there we saw an advert for the Vacation Club/Timeshare company based there – go and listen to the blurb for 90 minutes and get a free round of golf. As we own three weeks at the Marriot Golf Resort in Majorca we were quite interested in how it all works out here so we had our “chat” with one of the reps. It turned out to be a practically identical set-up to ours but very expensive - one mid season week cost €28,000 ! Anyway, needless to say George wouldn’t let Anne sign anything but we did get a voucher for a free nine holes.
Weather is now very hot and sunny and should be for a while apparently. Spent an afternoon (plus picnic) on our local beach – practically had the place to ourselves.
Had another visit to Vale do Lobo. Anne went into the Beauty Spa for an eye lash tint (brilliant when you’re away – who wants to wear mascara all the time ?) and George took some photos of the “Arty Things” which have appeared all over the place. Went back via our favourite beach bar and sat overlooking the beach with another bottle of wine.
Played our free nine holes at Pine Cliffs then spent a few hours round one of the swimming pools there – brill.
Had a lovely day on Thursday visiting our friends Annette and Gordon who have a house in a small village near Tavira (back towards the Spanish border). They are both also members of Mendip Spring Golf club so we caught up on all the news/gossip. Got there mid morning, went into Tavira for a walk round the town and coffee, then came back to their house and had a wonderful boozy lunch up on the roof terrace in the blazing sun. Lunch lasted for quite a while ! Ended up with tea and cakes – what a lovely day – thank you both. See photos…………
Moving on to Lisbon on Sunday so we took the awning down on Friday, which was a bank holiday out here. We prefer to do this as it gives us a totally free final day and gives us a bit of leeway if it rains on the last day. It’s no fun taking down and packing away a sodden awning (apparently) – it’s heavy enough when it’s dry ! Sat outside in the sun afterward feeling pleased with ourselves.
We have really enjoyed our stay on this site and will definitely come back here in the future. We have had really lovely neighbours for the whole time – John and Marjorie with dog Dexter on one side and a Dutch couple, Jose and Andre and their
three-legged dog on the other. We invited them round for drinks at 6.00pm on our last night and had a lovely couple of hours sitting in the (still hot) sun chatting – we did talk about things other than caravans, honest ! Then went on to Vilamoura on our own for a great steak in Rui’s Carvery for our last meal here.
Off to Lisbon tomorrow – filled up with diesel at €1.29 per litre, a lot more than in Spain.
Tuesday, April 22
Algarve Continued
by
George and Anne
on Tue 22 Apr 2008 12:28 BST
Days 75-81 Mon 14 Apr–Sun 20 Apr 08
Lovely days this week – long walk right along Quarteira promenade and then on to Vilamoura harbour – lots of sitting in the sun outside the caravan.
Went to the local market here which is huge – bought a beautiful little jacket for our grandson-to-be.
Have made a few visits to the Equestrian Show Jumping Arena in Vilamoura, we had heard about it from our neighbours in the next caravan to us – their son owns some horses who are competing in some of the classes being staged and they were going to watch. The climax was the Grand Prix on the Sunday with some top horses and riders competing. As it was only up the road from here we popped in a few times and really enjoyed it.
Had a trip to Albufeira which was the first place we ever stayed in the Algarve when the children were little – saw the balcony of the apartment we had, in the town centre right near the beach.
Lots of changes since those days – the fisherman’s beach where all the fishing boats were drawn up on the sand is in the middle of a re-vamp. The street leading down to it where we used to park our hired mini all those years ago is now mainly pedestrianised, the boats have all gone from the beach, the car park has been made into a large tiled area and there are lots of new modern cafes and restaurants. Ruina’s fish restaurant just by the beach is still there though.
They seem to be knocking down buildings on whole sides of streets and starting again. Oh yes – the loads of steps that led down from the cliff top on the far side of the beach have now gone – replaced by two (very long) escalators - that’s progress for you ! It might be interesting to visit again when they have finished it all.
Anyway, it was great fun going back – ably finished off with a few hours on the beach in the afternoon, where George went in for a swim (he insists on you all knowing that !)
Had a bit of a do with the camera – went to take a photograph and it wouldn’t work – it made all the right noises and all the right lights went on but the lens bit refused to budge. Found a camera shop and they kindly tried a new battery in it but to no avail – it is a late camera – only had it for three years but it has taken approximately 3,500 photographs. Anyway, went back to the shopping mall in Guia and bought another one for €110 – not in the plan but needs must.
Sunday, April 13
Enjoying the Algarve
by
George and Anne
on Sun 13 Apr 2008 23:15 BST
Days 68–74 Mon 7 Apr–Sun 13 Apr 08
You can see our latest photographs – CLICK HERE
On the way back from the beach bar yesterday George had a lovely telephone call from Grace – Lady President of the Rotary Club of Weston-super-Mare thanking us for our “guest appearance” the night before - let us explain ……………
Saturday evening was Grace’s big night – the annual President’s Dinner and Dance, being held this year at the newly re-jigged Cadbury Hotel and Country Club. We were really sorry not to be able to go as it was George who invited Grace into the Rotary Club – she was the first Lady Member and has been a massive asset. She and husband David had no idea that other members had arranged a telephone link over the PA system so we could talk to her. We called during the evening pretending to try and book our caravan in for the night whilst photographs of us on our trip were shown on a big screen – you can imagine the confusion – anyway, we were thrilled to be able to give them both our good wishes from afar.
Weather not too good for the first few days – on Tuesday it absolutely hammered down all day – so we postponed puting the awning up until it got better. We spent the time doing a bit of shopping and driving round to see what had changed since we were last here in 2002. A huge mall has appeared in Guia (just inland from Albufeira) and new roads are confusing us !
Bought some Swordfish and Dorada down in the indoor fish market – the man was so nice he even told George how to make a great sauce to go with it ! Nearly next door is the indoor veg market so we stocked up – including some tiny chillies that the lady assured us were lethal. Will let you know……..
Had more heavy rain overnight one night and it’s been very windy so we didn’t put the awning up until Saturday (bearing in mind the last time we put it up it blew away) – the spare part Anne had brought back from her UK visit worked well and we were able to unpack the car and give it good brush out.
Went for a long walk along the beach from here (the very eastern edge of Quarteira) nearly to Quinta do Lago. Still very windy but sunny – found our old favourite beach bar, Mad Max’s, now called Izzy’s – and enjoyed a bottle of wine right on the edge of the beach overlooking the sea. – see photo.
Weather got better every day – boiling hot sun on Sunday so had a great day here on the site, then had another trip to the Sports Bar in Vilamoura Marina in the evening to see the end of The Masters Golf from Augusta over a few glasses of red wine.
Weather is forecast to be settled from now on so we are looking forward to some sun and beach days.
Sunday, April 6
Cadiz to The Algarve
by
George and Anne
on Sun 06 Apr 2008 23:37 BST
Day 67 Sun 6 April
Left the site at 10.00am and took the motorway, €5.65 toll.
Passed along huge flat plains towards Seville, weather became very cloudy, then round the ring motorway and headed west towards Huelva.
Went over an impressive suspension bridge crossing the Odiel River and on towards the Portuguese border.
Drove through into Portugal over the natural border of the river Guadiana between the two countries, still cloudy but looking brighter.
The motorway surface was surprisingly poor apart from Huelva to the border.
We are not used to cloud – we were in Cadiz for a week and (literally) didn’t see one cloud until our last day there !
Arrived on familiar territory – when the children were small we had a two week time-share in Vale do Lobo and came out here every year. Had some fabulous times. We sold the weeks in 2000, bought three weeks in Majorca and have only been back once since then so are really looking forward to visiting old haunts.
Arrived in sunshine - the caravan site is on the edge of Quarteira, between Vale do Lobo and Vilamoura. It is quite a large site - not that easy to find but no back alleys this time – some pitches are enclosed by low hedges with high kerbs (no !) and there are open areas where you can almost park where you like (lovely !). We found a great place against one of the boundary fences, loads of room to tow the caravan into position with the car rather than man/woman-handle it, and only one other caravan anywhere near.
Now this will make you smile – we decided that the other caravan was facing the right way for the sun etc and pulled ours facing the same way into the exact place we wanted, got out of the car to check – where was the caravan door ? – against the hedge at the back ! We hadn’t realised that the other caravan was French – continental caravans have their doors on the other side to ours ! So we had the embarrassment of pulling the caravan away, going round in a great big circle and came to rest in exactly the same position but facing completely the other way. Never mind, it’s a super spot.
Got set up then walked down to the beach and had a Super Bock beer in the beach bar in the hot sun. Beautiful golden sand stretching to Vale do Lobo in the east and Vilamoura in the west.
Here for three weeks – wonderful.
(One drawback, no internet on the site – this is coming to you from McDonalds in Vilamoura – but it is free).
Check out the latest photographs from Cadiz – click here
Saturday, April 5
Bay of Cadiz
by
George and Anne
on Sat 05 Apr 2008 19:00 BST
Days 61-66 Mon 31 Mar- Sat 5 Apr 08
Really enjoying the Cadiz area. For those who aren’t sure, the ancient walled city of Cadiz is right at the end of a long thin spit of land, historically easy to defend as most of it is surrounded by water. It is considered to be the oldest city in the western world, founded by the Phoenicians in 1100BC. The old town itself covers not much more than a square mile which makes it brilliantly compact for walking and exploring, although the city has now spread outside the original walls down the spit of land. We have been here once before when a cruise ship we were on visited for a few hours. We loved it then and have been looking forward to our return.
The caravan site is actually in El Puerto de Santa Maria, just across the bay from Cadiz, on the mainland so we took the catamaran ferry – 20 mins, €1.80 for both of us. Arrived at the port of Cadiz at about 10.00am then walked … and walked… and walked. Saw the sights we had seen before plus many others – the defence Castillos, the calm relaxing parks, fabulous beaches, (one of which is almost the whole length of one side of the spit), the Roman ruins, lovely churches and the beautiful cathedral in one of the main squares. George went up one of the cathedral towers to see the breathtaking views over the whole town.
Too many things to mention them all but we would recommend anyone to visit here.
Had an afternoon walking round the old town of El Puerto de Santa Maria. Met a local gentleman who chatted to us over a beer in the cathedral square and told us a bit about the history of the place –it is named El Puerto because it used to be the port for trade with the Indies. There are other Puertos - but not El Puertos. Found the bullring – third in importance in Spain, behind Madrid and Valencia. Lovely old own with a lot of history.
Had a day out in the car, visited Chiclana, Puerto Real, San Fernando and Rota, but did not manage Jerez – didn’t think we could do it justice in a couple of hours, can’t do everything. There are absolutely fabulous beaches in this area – from 5-mile stretches of golden sand edged with dunes to more traditional beaches of golden sand with long promenades, cafes and restaurants – all with the gently shelving bright green Atlantic sea. The bay of Cadiz is also a haven for wild life watchers. It has large nature reserves, including marshlands, on the migratory route of many birds between Europe and Africa
Oh yes, we are now in sherry country! Didn’t have much idea about sherry until we went to a history and tasting evening at the Bogeda (wine cellar) Gutierrez-Colosia, established 1838, up the road from the caravan site - €5 each. Really interesting talk by the wife of the owner, Juan Carlos, about the history of sherry and this particular bodega which has been in the same family for 4 generations. All sherry comes from a geographical triangular area made by Jerez, El Puerto de Santa Maria and Sanlouca. All the grapes must be grown inside this triangle (or just outside it) but the sherry must be made inside the area – or it cannot be called sherry ! It’s made by a process called ‘criaderas y soleras’ which basically means that over a period of a few years the wine is moved down from upper rows of barrels and added to lower barrels and eventually into the floor level row, the soleras. Some wine is removed from the bottom barrels every year to be sold. Sherry therefore cannot have a date, as it is made up of wine from several years but the dry Fino takes at least 3 years to produce and Amontillado another 5 years after that. Also learned that sherry should be eaten with the meal – not as an aperitif – over here they have a beer or two before the meal to quench thirsts, and then they drink different types of sherry with their meals. Tasted five different sorts and had a really good evening – ended up buying straight from the barrels, a litre each of Fino and Oloroso. 2 litres for €6.10 - bargain. Apparently it is not a good time at the moment for Sherry producers. Doesn’t every business always say that? Anyway you can help this particular family out by buying some of their sherry in the uk, look out for the Gutierrez-Colosia name on the menu, I’m sure they’d appreciate it!
The weather has been fantastic all week with clear blue sky and temperatures around 28 degrees. We had literally not seen one cloud until Saturday afternoon when it hazed over a bit.
Off on Sunday, heading for Portugal.
Sunday, March 30
Fuengirola to Cadiz
by
George and Anne
on Sun 30 Mar 2008 23:35 BST
Day 60 - Sun 30 Mar 08
CLICK HERE TO SEE LATEST PHOTOS
Well – it had to happen sometime, and now it has…………. but we’ll begin at the beginning:
Beautiful sunny morning, (Anne’s birthday too), managed to remember to put the clocks forward and left at 10.30 for the drive to Cadiz – should be under three hours. Had a dilemma about which route to take when we’d passed the Gibraltar turn– the red road continues round the coast but there was a brown road shown as a more direct route across country – was the road ok ? did it go straight up mountains ? (not good) or straight down them ? (even worse). Decided to give it a go and it turned out to be a brilliant dual-carriageway all the way to Jerez. We turned off before reaching Jerez, and passed the 3,000 mile mark as we were heading for Puerto de Santa Maria – Camping Las Dunas, right on the beach.
Lovely journey, stopped for coffee on the way, the road took us through an area of nature parkland, very lush, more like English countryside than Spanish at times.
Arrived at Santa Maria, following TomTom, and here our troubles started. Saw lots of activity along the road and thought it was market day – the road we wanted was blocked off by a barrier guarded by a policeman. Stopped by him and asked for a diversion to the camp site – “go back to the roundabout and turn left” he said – so we did. The left turn was quite a narrow back street but we bravely (foolishly ?) followed the policeman’s directions and took it. Big mistake – there were cars parked all down one side and eventually, one of them was parked away from the kerb so we couldn’t go any further ! Got out amidst the usually honking of horns from the cars behind – we just shrugged our shoulders. Passers-by were very sympathetic and a group of particularly fit young men helped us “bump” the sticking out car and get it against the kerb – brilliant. We got a bit further down the road, past a side alley, and it got even narrower. Now nowhere to go – stuck between a parked car and the kerb. After about half an hour of wondering what to do four policemen arrived, all very pleasant (they probably found it very amusing), and looked at all out paperwork, insurance, driving license etc. We eventually unhitched the car, pulled/pushed the caravan back to the side turning, got the car up there, hitched up the caravan again – hooray. The policemen told us to go up this back alley and turn right at the top – “then what ?” we said shrugging our shoulders, still mindful of the market barriers everywhere. They very kindly took pity on us, told us to follow them, so we became (possibly) the only people to arrive at the camp site with a police escort - how marvellous !!
Checked in to the site and were told that there is a world motorbike racing event –Gran Premio Jerez – in progress over the weekend. Nearly finished now but might be noisy with bikers everywhere. At this point we didn’t care ! Booked in, got set up and headed for the bar where we sat outside in the sun, great atmosphere – loud music and bikers.
Here until next Sunday, lots to explore.
Saturday, March 29
Alhambra to Alhanbra
by
George and Anne
on Sat 29 Mar 2008 11:50 GMT
Days 55-59 Tues 25–Sat 29 Mar
To have a look at the new photos click here – PHOTOS
I’m back ! Had a wonderful time staying at brother Roger and Sister-in-law Lee’s house for Easter. They live in Galleywood, Essex, and my Mum was staying there too. 13-strong family get-together at niece Sue and husband John’s house on Saturday evening BUT before I could have one sip of my red wine my mobile rang – (George) “I’ve got a bit of a problem I need to tell you about” – the awning disaster story. Tried to sound as sympathetic as possible whilst sipping my wine thinking “I leave him alone for five minutes and look what happens!” Made appropriate “there there” noises and as he had obviously coped brilliantly, with the wonderful help from surrounding caravanners, I enjoyed the rest of the evening (despite the family comments such as “did the wind strike without awning” etc)!
Woke up to a beautiful Christmas card scene on Easter Sunday - everything white with snow - Nina and James, and Jonathan, joined us for the day and we had a lovely cosy time round a blazing log fire. Very strange to think I’ll be sitting out in the sun in a couple of day’s time. Arrived back at Malaga Tuesday evening and enjoyed a welcome-back bottle of bubbly – lovely.
Wednesday morning we played 9 holes at Santa Clara – this is the remainder of the round we abandoned in the storm last week. We played with an Irish guy who was on his own, great character and playing off 8, or used to as he put it. Hit the ball a mile, usually in the right direction. He said ‘mention old TC Hayes to anyone in the electrical business in Ireland and they’ll know me’. Great fun and a lovely course.
Only a few days left here now. Had a great day trip to Granada (took our Alhambra to the Alhambra – get it ? – the car to the palace) . It was under two hour’s journey, the temperature dropped from 22 degrees when we left here to 8 degrees as we got higher up, then settled at 12 degrees on arrival. Luckily George had put some long trousers in the car or he would have been stuck with cold legs ! Tickets for inside the Palace were sold out for the day so, as we could only see a small part in the time we had, we concentrated on the old area of the city around the Palace. (The Alhambra Palace complex is actually an old walled city made up of lots of different areas). Many narrow little streets surrounding it, really enjoyable day, called in at Mijas on the way back as it was getting dark and enjoyed the view of the lights of Fuengirola from the high terraces.
Planning a lovely day on the beach, another trip to the market and a last-evening meal at the Chinese restaurant down at the marina. Off to Cadiz tomorrow, staying there for a week before moving on to the Algarve.
To have a look at the new photos click here – PHOTOS
Monday, March 24
Awning Warning
by
George and Anne
on Mon 24 Mar 2008 07:50 GMT
Days 52-54 Sat 22 – Mon 24 Mar 08
Easter Saturday woke alone, with Anne safely in the UK enjoying the snow.
Looking forward to golf in bright sun but a bit windy and the local radio was mentioning gusts expected up to 30mph which didn’t sound too excessive. The awning was flapping about but nothing really warned me of what was to happen later!
Nick picked me up at 12 and drove me for about 20 minutes to Calanova Golf, a new course above Mijas Costa and below La Cala. Met up with the Wheathill lot, 8 of us today, and teed off at 1pm. Most of the course is elevated and the wind was horrendous, nobody could score well but it was fun. Great course I thought with all holes different, some spectacular driving tees, drop holes etc and reasonably open although it didn’t feel like it with the ball being blown all over the place.
It got quite chilly by the time we finished at 6pm; yes, 5 hour rounds are normal out here and that’s with buggies. Coffee and cognac in the clubhouse warmed us up nicely.
Nick dropped me off about 7pm, not a breath of wind now, and I happily walked up through the site towards our ‘home’.
Something immediately struck me as looking a bit different!
The awning (it’s quite big 6.5 x 2.5 metres) was completely missing; the carpet with all our stuff on it was still there although no longer neat and tidy as I’d left it.
One of our neighbours quickly filled me in. At about 4pm a massive gust had hit the site causing people all sorts of problems including lifting our awning straight out of the ground and still attached to the caravan swinging it upside down on top of the caravan with the wind trying to tear it apart. Caravanners we’ve already discovered always help each other out, and apparently about 5 of them had rushed across to rescue it. They managed to get some of the poles out to collapse it and get it back down off the roof and then decided it was safest to take it down completely. It was folded up at the side surrounded by all the poles and pegs etc.
What a nightmare – it looked like rain so I was then panicking to get everything in the car or the caravan and one of our Brit neighbours helped me with that. I was so grateful to everybody; I went and found them all to thank them, Brits, Danes and Dutch.
Easter Sunday, no eggs for me this year, but bright sun, not a cloud in the sky and no wind – typical!
Spent the morning sorting out the mess, got everything out and repacked. Unfolded the awning, unzipped all the panels and checked everything out. Some damage to the poles but nothing too serious. Biggest annoyance is a missing thingy about the size of a matchbox. Five of them support the cross poles on to the caravan. Hopefully Anne can get a replacement whilst she’s in the UK.
Lovely long and relaxing walk along the beach in the afternoon.
A bit quieter on the site again now, most of the Spanish Easter visitors moved out today.
Another gorgeous day on Monday. When we shopped at the Fuengirola mall on Thursday with Nina we bought a couple of those beach chairs with the short legs so it seemed rude not to try one of them out. Spent most of the day roasting on ‘Andy’s Beach’, a five minute walk away. Marvellous.
So we’ve learnt a few things. 1) Get a solid groundsheet to go under the carpeting to stop water coming up during any torrential downpours. 2) Always attach the storm rigging kit that came with the awning but seemed unnecessary before! 3) Use the bigger longer pegs supplied instead of the shorter ones also supplied. 4) Probably wise not to go and play golf in adverse conditions.
Looking forward to Anne arriving back tomorrow, Malaga airport 8.30pm.
Friday, March 21
Nina comes to visit
by
George and Anne
on Fri 21 Mar 2008 18:48 GMT
Days 48-51 Tue 18 – Fri 21 Mar 08
Have had a lovely time with Nina – picked her up from Malaga Tuesday morning, came back here and sat in the sun with some lunch and a cup of tea. Walked down to the beach and sat outside at the beach bar on the sand drinking red wine mixed with sprite – much better than it sounds – in really hot sun, lot of people about. Then back to the caravan for a meal. We have decided to do the decent thing and let Nina sleep in the caravan, with us out in the awning on the blow up beds. No problem – really comfortable out there, plenty of bedding, we slept really well.
Next day was market day – off we went in bright sunshine but a cooler breeze today.
Quite a few purchases, then back to the caravan for a rest - and found the site to be a hive of activity – the Spanish Easter holiday had just begun and there were caravans, motorhomes and tents pouring in. Very busy (and noisy – the Spanish don’t talk quietly) not many spare pitches left now. Meeting some friends for a meal this evening at a lovely restaurant, La Lunas near Mijas, about twenty minutes away from here. Eight of us in all (see photos) had a great time with a super meal from the menu of the day – all for €14 each. Back to the caravan, raining a bit now and all was well until…… tremendous thunderstorm in the early hours of the morning – torrential rain (absolutely deafening in a caravan and awning) and crashing thunder.
We were absolutely fine in the awning although we have not got a waterproof groundsheet, just a mesh-type matting. Got a bit wet on the ground from underneath eventually as the heavy downpour continued, we came into the caravan at about 8am, for a cuppa and watched all the occupants of the tents struggling – they were absolutely drenched. This site is on a slope and there were rivers of water running downhill. Lots of the tenters gave up in the morning, packed up and disappeared. Can’t blame them.
We were due to play golf with a big group at 12.00 so set off about 11.am, the rain had just about stopped by now, and managed to play 7 holes (rather well !) before the thunder and lightening started again. Finished 9 holes then bailed out, came back, picked Nina up and spent the rest of the afternoon in the massive new shopping mall in Fuengirola. Bought a couple of beach chairs then came back for a lovely meal in the caravan. Nick managed to get us a foc voucher to play the other 9 holes on Wednesday which we are really looking forward to. The course is Santa Clara, very nice, much more open and forgiving than El Chaparral but hard enough to score well. George has played it before with PIGS, didn’t help him that much!
We are all sleeping in the caravan tonight, in case of a repeat performance by the weather ! Nina and Anne fly back to the UK tomorrow morning. Anne will be back here on Tuesday.
Uneventful trip to the airport for George to drop off the girls, roads very quiet on Good Friday. Heard on Radio Costa del Sol or something like that, that diesel prices in Spain have just reached an all time high. Oh goodie, mind you, that’s still only about €1.2. A lot of doom and gloom down here locally about the lack of tourists and lack of golf playing tourists but they still don’t reduce their prices. Something like 3,000 unsold properties along here as well and the Marbella planning corruption scandal doesn’t help.
Weather is absolutely gorgeous, typical now Nina has just gone, so I’m drying out all the golf gear and giving the awning a good airing. Nipping up behind the site soon to meet the Wheathill crowd who will be just finishing playing Cabopino. Might have a beer or two and listen to stories of great adventures and lipped putts. I’m playing with them tomorrow so hoping they are getting tired now to give me a chance.
Monday, March 17
Golf at last!
by
George and Anne
on Mon 17 Mar 2008 23:40 GMT
Days 45-47 Sat 15 – Mon 17 Mar 08
Went to the market on Saturday up the road at Cala de Mijas – as seasoned market goers now we didn’t think it was a particularly brilliant one, but we did buy some really good olives. Came back and sat outside the awning. George had a marathon internet session at the bar (!) while I read my book in the sun.
Had a day in Fuengirola on Sunday. Lots of locals out and about along the promenade very smartly dressed for Sunday – a stark contrast to the white/pink/bright red holidaymakers in their sleeveless t-shirts and shorts. The road along the front is very Southendish with lots of holiday gift shops selling everything from postcards to blow up crocodiles, but just one road back away from the sea is a maze of lovely little narrow streets with much smarter looking bars, cafes, shops and a much calmer atmosphere. Drove further along the front, past the marina, to Los Boliches beach which we think is nicer than the main Fuengirola beach – quieter and more spacious. Spent a few hours on the beach in the sun with a picnic. Had a swim (just the one each!) the water quite cold but it had to be done.
Monday was golf day – most of Nick’s group had arrived at the weekend so there were ten of us in all – played just up the road at El Chaparral . It’s a lovely course, quite hilly with some stunning views. We both played quite well considering we’ve hardly played since before Christmas. The greens were brilliant, really fast and true, and were recently voted the best greens on the Costa del Sol (beating Valderama by one point apparently). Finished off with lunch on the terrace.
Really looking forward to the arrival of daughter Nina tomorrow who is coming out to stay with us for a few days. She is making us grandparents in August and we can’t wait to see her.
Friday, March 14
Early days in Cabopino
by
George and Anne
on Fri 14 Mar 2008 23:50 GMT
Days 40-44 Mon 10 – Fri 14 Mar 08
Settled in well here, our pitch is conveniently placed quite near a wash block - lovely showers and plenty of hot water. Our first day was quite cloudy, we put up the awning (in record time), and then unloaded a lot of the stuff out of the car into it. The car heaved an audible sigh of relief as the back end rose.
It’s quite a large site, very commercial with three restaurants, indoor pool, outdoor pool, bar, café, mini-market etc. We are less than five minutes stroll from a lovely big sandy beach (Andy’s beach, if anyone is familiar with the area) but you have to cross a bridge over the very busy main road to get to it. We have never liked this stretch of the coast because of the busy dual carriageway (we call it the Costa del Sol M25) – never mind, we can use camping cheques here (£10.30 per night) – but not for the Easter week, when the price more than doubles (€31 per night).
We are back to paying for the internet but it is wi-fi so we can use it in the caravan – quite expensive, €19 for eight hours. That is eight hours cumulative, ie you log on and log off every time you use it. It’s not always a good enough signal in the caravan, so every so often George takes the laptop down to the bar where (funnily enough !) the signal always seems to be fine.
Whilst chatting with our English neighbours we have found out that a German couple come and stay on the pitch we are on every year for about four months at a time. Because of this they have planted a very pretty flower border along the front edge, so we have been asked to keep it watered – see photos.
Weather now boiling. Met up with friend Nick who is over staying at his house near Mijas at the moment. He came to the caravan for a meal – our very first visitor abroad – and, predictably, we had a very boozy do finished off with coffee and cognac down at the marina.
Have had a couple of very lazy days, walking, sitting in the sun, supermarket hunts etc. A group of players from Nick’s golf club are coming out here next week for a few games – we have been invited to join them - so we met Nick at El Chaparral Golf Club for coffee, a bucket of balls each on the driving range, then lunch on the terrace in preparation. (more photos) We were hitting the ball very well – which obviously means we’ll be absolutely rubbish in the games proper !
See new photos - click PHOTOS
Sunday, March 9
Cabo de Gata to Fuengirola
by
George and Anne
on Sun 09 Mar 2008 23:54 GMT
Day 39 Sun 9 Mar 08
Left Cabo de Gata at 10.00am, lovely warm sun.
Had a good journey, on a red road as there’s no motorway round here, and the massive tomato farms ran out after about two hours. There was then an amazing section between La Rabita and Motril – spectacular sea views, high climbs, viaducts and hairy bends right on the sea edge, lots of curvas peligrosas. Soon after we found ourselves on motorway – not marked in our atlas! – brilliant and only €2.30 toll. Full steam ahead for the rest of the way, very busy and hectic on the Malaga ring road and and arrived here at 2.00pm in bright sun and 21 degrees
We are now at Cabopino, which is about 8k south of Fuengirola, for three weeks. We wanted to be on the site actually in Fuengirola, up behind Los Boliches beach but it was full up due to the Easter week so we are now here.
The arrivals procedure was a bit chaotic, nowhere really to leave the car and caravan while we checked in, but we were given a site plan and a list of free pitches so we walked round and picked a lovely one. George nearly managed to back the caravan into the right position (he’s getting much better) but, as always, help was on hand - two big Danish men appeared and took charge. The pitch had only been vacated a few hours before apparently and these men knew exactly where the caravan should positioned – and proceeded to help us man(and woman)handle it there with millimetre precision!
Got settled in. Went off and had a beer on the beach as the sun went down, then had a lovely Chinese meal round the little marina next to the beach - not a tomato in sight !
Saturday, March 8
Laid back in Cabo de Gata
by
George and Anne
on Sat 08 Mar 2008 19:45 GMT
Days 34-38 Tues 4-8 Mar 08
Settled in well here. Cabo de Gata, near Almeria where we are now, is a huge nature reserve, very good for bird watching apparently, not that that interests us particularly, but the wild and rugged scenery is lovely and we have had long walks along beautiful beaches. The caravan site is down a long lane off the main road and has a very laid back atmosphere and the staff are really helpful and friendly. There is plenty of room and lovely wash blocks, spotlessly clean. We park our car on the pitch next to the caravan and we can also hang washing there – not particularly attractive I know, but necessary at times. (Sites like La Manga did not allow washing to be hung in front of the caravans).
Drove to our local town – Cabo de Gata – and had beer and Tapas along the seafront in the sun. Weather warm in the sun but cool wind.
Had a great day touring the nature reserve in the car and found San Jose (yes, we now know the way) which was a picturesque village with a lovely beach-front, marina and small restaurants overlooking the sea. Had a beer here and promised to come back for lunch on our last day as we liked it so much. Carried on to Las Negras, similar but tattier, and home by a diverse route through salt flats, hilly passes and scenic sea views.
Visited a local golf course on Thursday but thought €55 each was too much to pay, would have been only €38 including a snack and a drink if we’d gone on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday! Went to the lighthouse three miles along the coast – a very scenic (and scary) spot – see photos.
Our last day was really warm - went to the local market, had an hour on the beach and then made the 20 min journey to San Jose for a lovely paella lunch in the sun overlooking the beach – see photos. Came back and snoozed in the sun, then packed up ready for leaving in the morning.
Off to Fuengirola tomorrow, about four hours driving. We will be sorry to leave here.
PHOTO INFORMATION
I’m sure most of you have figured out that we are putting a few photos on this blog but most of them are going up onto another site called Picasa which is run by Google. This is because uploading photos here on the blog has to be done one at a time and can be slow and painful whilst we can upload batches to Picasa more easily. So to see most of our photos you click on the link below. That brings up a group of albums, one for each area we’ve been to. Click on the want you want to look at hey presto, there they are. Click on slideshow is the easiest way to view them.
To have a look at the new photos click here – PHOTOS
Tuesday, March 4
Almeria vicinity
by
George and Anne
on Tue 04 Mar 2008 17:16 GMT
Day 33 Mon 3 March 08
What I haven’t mentioned before is that “we” lost some keys whilst in La Manga. Before we left the UK we separated the keys so that we each had a complete set – car, caravan door, alarm, wheel clamp, hitch lock, safe key etc. After we had packed everything up at La Manga we realised we only had Anne’s set ! Instant panic (by George) because if we can lose one set we can lose another one, then we’re really stuffed ! Looked everywhere we could think of – in every cupboard, drawer, box, back of the car etc – nothing ! Couldn’t think where “we” might have lost them – did they fall out of Georges pocket when he was climbing all over the big guns ? Were they in one of the big awning bags which are now buried in the back of the car ? Anyway, we left the site thinking that if they were in the car or caravan somewhere they still would be when we got to Almeria. And if not – oh dear !
First morning in Almeria - lovely and warm and sunny. George still in panic mode, (I only panic about silly little things now, not big ones) was going to telephone the insurance company and start the hassle phase of trying to get replacements. I suggested that we should empty the whole car out and make sure they weren’t there – so we did (see the photos). George eventually found them wedged between boxes between the back seats where Anne (apparently) had dropped them – hooray, panic over. We are now going to look for two key rings with the elastic coil things to attach the key rings to our bodies permanently !
Set off (very relieved) to visit the town of Almeria. Hadn’t heard of the place before George sat next to a lady on an aeroplane last year who lived here. It turned out to be nothing like we expected – it’s a really big, busy, commercial, working town – plus a big university. However, there is also a lovely sandy beach and promenade stretching for miles which is what we’d seen on Google Earth. Had a lovely afternoon walking by the sea, coffee in one of the beach-side cafes in the sun. Found the massive Carrefour supermarket on the way home and bought some supplies for the barbie – big prawns, sardines, tuna etc.
To have a look at photos click here – PHOTOS
Sunday, March 2
To Almeria
by
George and Anne
on Sun 02 Mar 2008 21:21 GMT
Day 32 Sun 2 Mar 08
Set off about 10.00am, straight onto the motorway towards Almeria – about a three hour trip. The first half is all toll motorway – a fabulous new road along the mountains and then the valley, past thousands and thousands of acres of tomato plants – all enclosed in white or see-through plastic sheeting or netting. Passed through tunnels straight through the mountains where no other route was possible. Then the motorway ended (toll – €11.20) and we transferred to a red road for the rest of the journey. Stopped for coffee and chocolate croissants along the way.
Reached our turn off at about 1.00pm and reached the site about twenty minutes later. Camping Cabo de Gata is about 10k east of Almeria in the heart of the Cabo de Gata Nature Park. Total mileage to date is just short of 2000. Went to reception and checked in – were told we could pick our own pitch so we walked round and chose a lovely sunny one. About four men arrived as if by magic to help us push the caravan into position. Brilliant.
Weather now very warm and sunny – 24 degrees on the way here. Got set up, sat outside with a mug of tea then went to the bar where you got a free small plate of tapas with each drink ordered. Lots of locals in the bar dancing to Spanish music. We kept ordering halves of beer and the tapas kept coming !
Internet here is good, through a chance conversation George was told not to bother to pay for Wi-Fi in your caravan, just take the laptop to the Internet Room and you can log on for free. Also it’s a much better signal. So George has now managed to upload the La Manga photos from last week.
To have a look click here - PHOTOS
Saturday, March 1
Enjoying La Manga
by
George and Anne
on Sat 01 Mar 2008 18:31 GMT
Days 27- 31 Tues 26 Feb - Sat 1 Mar 08
Have had some lovely warm sunny weather most of the time, hottest 24 degrees, one day was a bit more cloudy but still quite warm. Anne’s been out running in the mornings to the sea and back – lovely. The site is a huge rectangle with the long side measuring just over half a mile. One short edge is where the entrance and reception is by the road and the opposite short edge is along the beach looking across Mar Menor to the La Manga Strip. Running down to the beach and back on a round trip is about 1.5 miles – quite far enough thank you.
Went to the La Manga Club Resort (only 10 min drive) where George has been on Jolly Boys Golf Outings before – hence his memory of the area is a bit hazy ! Lovely Hyatt hotel on the site, also rubbed shoulders with Ian Wright in the Golf Clubhouse bar. Playing golf there as part of a package can be reasonable but if we had played it would have been €198 a round, each! So guess what, we didn’t.
Had a lovely day in Cartagena, about 25 mins drive away. A previous visit was when our cruise ship stopped here for a day in 2000. Walked around familiar streets, beer on the harbour front, lovely weather. Spanish cities all seem to be so clean and inviting with pavement cafes, narrow streets, interesting buildings and friendly locals.
On Saturday we had a brilliant walk in the hills above the La Manga resort. The track wound its way up the mountain through forests until, 45 mins later, we emerged at the top. Here there is a massive old gun emplacement built in 1930 with two huge guns (Navarone size) trained out to sea originally to protect the approaches to the big navel harbour at Cartagena. The views were nearly stunning – nearly because there was a lot of cloud swirling around below us obscuring the views some of the time. We took some photos which you can look at. We could see, during breaks in the clouds, the La Manga Spit in the distance on one side and the coastline and mountains towards Cartagena on the other. A truly beautiful spot and almost deserted apart from a few locals and mountain-bikers. We would highly recommend this walk to anyone who is in the area – we only found out about it by chance from a man George got talking to in the supermarket on the campsite.
The awning proved easier to take down than put up – no problem – and we rewarded ourselves with a great Indian meal in the restaurant here which is down by the beach.
This site is very self contained – beach, supermarket, bar, restaurant, swimming pool etc but for a long stay we think we’d prefer a site - like Javea – where the town itself was within easy walking distance.
Off on the short hop to Almeria in the morning for a week.
Monday, February 25
Awning Morning
by
George and Anne
on Mon 25 Feb 2008 23:00 GMT
Day 26 – Mon 25 Feb 08
Awning morning !
Lovely weather, bright sun, no wind.
Got out the massive black hold-all type bag that has been in the car since we left. Also found the big bag full of poles – oh my god – they all look the same ! Actually, what we must confess here is that, because we are awning honeymooners as well as caravan honeymooners, we did actually have a bit of a trial run with the awning poles in our hallway before we left so we knew which was which !
Followed the instructions (numbered 1 to 8) but got stuck on number one – pull the awning through the rail ! For the uninitiated there is a rail/groove along the sides and top of the caravan – the awning has a thick piping along its edge – this has to be pulled through the channel of the rail. All went well until it got to a join in the rail – turned out that this was full of big lumps of sealant which had to be gouged out with a screwdriver bit by bit. There are two such joints so it took the best part of an hour to clear them both. Anyway, all went pretty well after this and after a couple of hours the awning was up and looking pretty good for a first attempt.
What can I say, it is enormous – the full length of the caravan, that’s 19ft and 2.5m deep. Part of this will be the bedroom for our visitors. Spent the rest of the day emptying the car, moving stuff into the awning and giving the car a good brush out.
George’s back not so good after the exertions of the awning erection so will need to take things a bit easy for the next day or so. Went to the excellent supermarket on site here for some provisions. Weather forecast good again for tomorrow, 20 degrees. Yippee.
Sunday, February 24
Javea to La Manga
by
George and Anne
on Sun 24 Feb 2008 23:00 GMT
Day 25 – Sun 24 Feb 08
Woke up to light rain this morning. Paid the bill which was €14 per night courtesy of the ACSI discount card. (Villanova Park was paid for by Gold Card Camping Cheques – 11 cheques at £10.30p each paid for 14 nights.)
Packed everything up, said our goodbyes and left the site at 9.45am. Easy journey today - only about three hours driving to Camping La Manga, all motorway - the tolls amounted to €10.30. No problems except it was raining all the way until about the last five miles.
We had tried to book in by email last week but were told they were fully booked so thought we’d just turn up with innocent faces – worth a try, and it worked - we were given a choice of two pitches straight away ! Pitch J51 clearly shown on Google Earth, should be an attachment you can click if it works?
This site is right on the beach at Cala Honda and is huge but doesn’t seem it as all the pitches are separated by hedges. Ours is a brilliant one, quite large, with its own water tap and waste water drainage - and perfect position for the sun (important as we are planning to bite the bullet and get the awning out this time !!) We also have 10amp electricity which is a bonus, we had 8amps at Javea and 6amps at Sitges. It’s not so much of a big deal now as we do not need the fire on so much, or on a very high setting.
Had a walk round and drove off up The Strip for a meal.
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