Ten Places to Visit in Taipei (Taiwan)

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guest post by Flight Centre

If you are thinking of taking a vacation in the near future and the call of cultural alarms are ringing in your head, you may want to start checking flights to Taipei. Located on the Tamsui River, Taipei is the economic, cultural and political center of Taiwan. There are many diverse attractions to be found for tourists in Taipei, and certainly something for everyone to enjoy. Here are ten popular attractions that are worth exploration.

For museum buffs, the National Palace Museum is a must-see place to be. With over 680,000 artifacts from the ancient Chinese period, this collection is one of the largest in the world. Pieces include bronzes, ceramics, paintings, jades, documents in Manchu, Mongolian and Tibetan, as well as calligraphic works, tapestries, coins, and carvings. Some of these relics can be traced back to the 10th century. For historians that may be interested in a more specialized type of art, the Museum of Jade Art may be of interest. It is the first museum in the world devoted specifically to jade art.
Outdoor adventurers may want to consider Yehliu, a cape located on the north coast of Taiwan that canopies 1700 meters into the ocean. Its distinguishing features referred to as hoodoo stones, are tall pinnacles that extend from a dry terrain, where rocks and soil have been abraded by water and wind.

For those not faint of heart, the Taipei 101, at 509 meters high, or 1670 feet tall may just what the fearless ordered. Until the Burj Khalifa was built in Dubai, the Taipei 101 was the world’s tallest building with 101 floors above ground, five floors below, multi-level shopping with a deluge of restaurants, stores and clubs. Elephant Mountain is also an easily accessible hiking trail with great views of Taipei 101 and downtown Taipei. Maokong Mountain is great for viewing the entire city of Taipei and is also well known for its tea plantations and tea houses.

The National Revolutionary Martyrs Shrine is a great testament built in the memory of 330,000 men who died during the revolutionary years. It is located on the slope of the Chingshan Mountain overlooking the Keelung River. It is guarded by military officers trained to remain unflappable in the presence of visitors. The ceremonial changing of the guard is very popular at this site. The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall was built to memorialize the former Taiwan President Chiang Kai-shek. It is covered in blue, white and red, the colors of the Taiwanese flag, and it embodies equality, independence and universal love.

Religious connoisseurs may be enticed by the Longshan Temple. It is often called the meeting place of the gods due to the affluence of the gods that worshiped there. Those who loved to be entertained should certainly investigate the Taipei Eye. This attraction is the home of the Traditional Chinese Performing Arts and the show includes folk music, folklore, aboriginal dance, opera and much more.

As you plan your next trip for business or pleasure and continue to consider flights to Taipei, just remember, your perfect pastime artistic pleasure awaits your arrival.

Photo Credits: night, Yehliu, guards, Longshan Temple

Top Five Historic Amusement Parks

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guest post by Nick Sim

The early 20th century was a boom time for amusement parks in North America, Europe and beyond. Magnificent, towering wooden rollercoasters, beautifully handcrafted carousels and a range of innovative new contraptions drew in droves of excited visitors to these bustling new leisure areas. These early attractions helped to lay the foundations for what today is a multi-billion dollar industry.

Sadly, the timber that was used to construct many of the rides during this golden era ultimately proved to be their downfall. It offered a tempting target for arsonists, resulting in the loss of a number of historically significant parks. Fortunately for history fans, there are still some fascinating early amusement parks in operation today. Here are five of the very best:

1. Blackpool Pleasure Beach (UK)

The construction of the first rail link to Blackpool in 1846 led to a boom period for the coastal town that lasted right through to the 1960s. Opened in 1896, Blackpool Pleasure Beach is a survivor from that era and still one of the UK’s most popular amusement parks. History fans will be attracted to its line-up of vintage attractions. The River Caves was the inspiration for Disneyland’s Pirates of the Caribbean, while the 1904 Flying Machines (photo) is both a surprisingly thrilling ride and a stunning kinetic sculpture.

2. The Coney Island Cyclone (USA)

Arguably the most famous historic roller coaster in the world, the Coney Island Cyclone in New York first opened in 1927. A “hybrid” coaster made of wood and steel, it has survived numerous threats of demolition and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1991. Riding it today can be a mixed experience: it’s very rough, but the views from the top are stunning.

3. Luna Park, Melbourne (Australia)


A number of identically-named Luna Parks were opened across the US and Australia during the initial rush of amusement park construction, and those in Melbourne and Sydney are still operating. Like Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Melbourne’s version mixes classic original attractions with enough modern additions to keep the public interested. The stand-out ride at the park is the Scenic Railway, which is the oldest continuously-operating rollercoaster in the world.

4. Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach (UK)

Great Yarmouth’s Pleasure Beach is on a smaller scale to its unrelated namesake in Blackpool, but is still well worth a look. While its selection of modern attractions is a little underwhelming, the park retains the essential feel of a boom-era British seaside destination. As with Luna Park, Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach is dominated by its Scenic Railway. Look out for the brakeman who rides with you: there are no brakes built into the circuit.

5. Lakemont Park, Pennsylvania (USA)

Only one amusement park can lay claim to having the oldest operational roller coaster in the world, and it’s Lakemont Park. Its record-holder, Leap-The-Dips (top photo), stands at just 41 feet tall and is unlikely to set your pulse racing in the same way as a modern equivalent. Nevertheless, having opened in 1902 it is a throwback to the very beginnings of the amusement park industry.

Looking for historical thrills closer to home? Many living history museums contain selections of vintage fairground attractions that offer a glimpse into a bygone era.

Nick Sim combines his love of travel and amusement parks on his own site, where covers the latest news and reviews from UK theme parks.

Photo Credits: Lakemont, Coney Island, Luna Park,

Aloha Hawaii (USA)

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guest post by Leslie To, Aqua Resorts

Hawaii has long been the getaway for those seeking to witness the superbly sublime--a type of natural beauty that startles the mind with its breathtaking profundity and serenity. With the soothing tumble of the Pacific's rolling waves providing a marvelous score, Hawaii provides an outlet for experiences unlike anywhere else on the planet. Whether you're looking to take in the warmth of the sun on one of the many picturesque beaches, challenge yourself to reach the peak of Oahu's famous crater, or acquaint yourself with the dynamic and unique island culture by night, Hawaii boasts a little something for everyone--all of which will be remembered for a lifetime.

Nestled in the heart of city, seconds away from the ocean, and combining island tranquility with contemporary splendor, The Modern Hotel is surrounded with unmissable attractions. Kick up your feet in an unparalleled state of relaxation after seeing the best of what Oahu has to offer.

Take a Surfing Lesson

From the North Shore to Waikiki, the beaches of Hawaii offer varying degrees of surfing difficulty. From beginners to professionals, people travel from far and wide to experience the glistening blue of the island's surf. If you've ever had a longing to give your inhibitions up to the majesty of a wave, there is no better place to try. You'll never forget the feeling of standing up on your board for the first time as you coast back to the beach.

Our Neighbors under the Sea

The clarity of Hawaii's water allows you to see some of the creatures that call the island sea home when simply wading in the surf. However, if you'd like a closer look at the visually-arresting coral reefs, peppered with sea turtles and fish of all different colors and sizes, you'd be hard pressed to find an activity better suited to you than a snorkeling adventure. Strap on your mask, and dive in to a world of mystical beauty.

Hike through a Tropical Paradise

Immerse yourself in the luscious expanse of Oahu's tropical rainforests on a hike you'll remember forever. Enjoy the blissful silence of the jungle, broken only by the distant rumble of a hidden waterfall or the call of a bird as you work up a nice sweat. You never know what you may come across. You may just stumble upon an area you recognize from the hit show LOST.

A Nightlife Worth Exploring

Filled with restaurants, shops, nightclubs, bars, and other Oahu hotels worth exploring, you've got options when the sun goes down. Choose from a number of world class restaurants before dancing the night away or taking in a show. When it's time to wind down, take a relaxing nighttime stroll along the sand with a refreshing cup of coconut ice cream.

See the Island from Above

Oahu is home to Diamond Head Crater, part of a larger series of Hawaii's famous volcanoes. If you'd like to see the entirety of the crater, including the National Guard facility within, as well as the rest of the island with an unrestricted 360 degree view, you should consider taking a helicopter tour. You'll be able to see for miles as you gaze out across the Pacific, and the views of Oahu are truly spectacular when seen from the air.

Regardless of your choice of activity, on Oahu, one thing is for certain--you'll never feel at a loss for things to do. And when calling The Modern Honolulu home for the duration of your stay, you're never far from the action. Come enjoy the Aloha spirit in Hawaii!

Photo Credits: sunset, surfing, turtle, waterfall, crater

Ten Best Railway Journeys of the World

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guest post by Paul of Look Trains

Trains are one of the most romantic ways to travel, because they offer not only comfort and, some of them, even luxury, but also the opportunity to enjoy amazing landscapes as no other means of transportation. Thus, the beauty of the sights, the charm of the restless, diverse train stations and comfort combined make these railways the best in the world.

1. Glacier Express

One of the most appreciated railways in the world and one of the most celebrated trains of all time, is the one connecting the train stations of Zermatt and St. Moritz resorts,. This unforgettable journey through the Swiss Alps ranks first in many people’s preferences. The panoramic windows, which are placed even in the roof and the multitude of modern conveniences, make the trip worth its price.

2. Centovalli

The 105 minutes journey from Domossola, in Italy to Locarno, Switzerland, is justly named Centovalli as the travelers pass through 100 side valleys of a natural splendor. The charm of the little carriages, the spectacular views as well as the picturesque train stations are worth the price of the ticket!

3. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

This historical line was once used for gold-ore mining and the steam locomotives that were built in the 1920s give an extra charm to this trip. The main attraction of the line is nevertheless the majestic mountain landscape which becomes particularly beautiful in the Animas River gorge area.

4. Indian Pacific

This is the train (top photo) that makes the connection between the western and eastern Australia and is famous for being the railway with the longest straight section of track in the entire world, 478 km across the infertile plain of Bullarbor.

5. Trans-Siberian

The longest railway in the world links Moscow to the Far East Russia and the Sea of Japan. A branch line also takes travelers to China and Mongolia. Today, the new railway called “Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian” is privately owned and offers great comfort to the passengers, which is quite necessary if you think that the entire journey could last for more than a week! Not to worry though, the modern trains include showers with floor heating and many other facilities and there are also long stops in the train stations to make use of ATMs, for example.

6. Eurostar

This is a delightful journey which will benefit travelers with time to spare and a taste for luxury. One of the most amazing train stations in the world, St Pancras, in London, is especially designed to host the high-speed Eurostar. Traveling from London to Paris and Brussels was never more appealing than with this world famous railway.

7. Venice-Simplon Orient Express

Famous all over the world is the historical Orient Express which stopped running in 2009. However, the private Venice Simplon Orient Express took over the original routs – including the famous Paris-Istanbul line, but also acquired the vintage trains, with carriages dating from the 20s. Thus, a journey with the Orient Express remains as enjoyable as it was for decades.

8. The Canadian

The most beautiful way to travel between Toronto and Vancouver is by means of the VIA (Via Rail Canada) railway which allows you to discover the wonderful sights of endlessly green forests, of the colossal snowy mountains and of the comfortable silver carriages that come right from the 50s.

9. New Jalpaiguri-Darjeeling

One of the World Heritage sites, the toy train to Darjeeling offers its travelers amazing views of the Himalayas and of the Kanchenjunga. The beauty of this journey is incontestable, though it is more for the adventurous souls, as India, with its colors, scents and wilderness is not for everybody. Connecting the plain train stations to hill ones, the 88 km long journey will offer you 8 hours of enchantment.

10. Settle and Carlisle

This is most amazing railway in the entire England, especially for those who appreciate the overwhelming beauty of mountain landscapes. At north of Settle there is the Yorkshire Dales National Park; the entire line bursts with life and color, as the trains “attack” Yorkshire’s three peaks: Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. Leaving from one of the most picturesque train stations in the world, the Victorian Settle Station, this railway will offer travelers the journey of their lives.


Look Travel Network is the practical guide that will inform you on trains and train stations, parks, bridges, airports, fun guide and landmarks . Go and enjoy your trips and journeys.

Photo Credits: Indian Pacific, Glacier Express, Centovalli, Durango, Trans-Siberian, Eurostar, Orient Express, Canadian, Darjeeling, Settle

Top Five Sights in Cape Town (South Africa)

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guest post by Amy Baker

Located on the very tip of the African continent, at the point where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans collide, is the beautiful city of Cape Town. Tourists and locals are treated to breathtaking views of land and sea at every turn and beaches so perfect they will spoil other countries offerings in a heartbeat. Expect to dine upon the freshest seafood served as standard at the best Cape Town restaurants washed down with a bottle of the regions finest. Here is a list of the Top Five activities during your time in town.

1. Table Mountain

No matter where you are staying, there is no doubt that you will be able to see this imposing mountain from your Cape Town hotels. Table Mountain is part of the beautiful Table Mountain National Park and if you are into hiking, caving or rock climbing – there are an abundance of great sites to visit. The unusual flat plateau stretches for 3km from side to side with Devil’s Peak to the east and Lion’s Head to the west. Expect to be rewarded with views that you will never forget. If the idea of hiking brings you out in a cold sweat before the walking has even begun we suggest hopping in a cable car that will have you at the top in only 6 minutes.

2. Diving with Great White Sharks

It may sound like something from your worst nightmares but cage diving with Great White Sharks is fast becoming Cape Town’s most popular tourist activity. Once aboard your boat of choice you will be whisked off to nearby Dyer Island which, due to various geographical reasons and the 40,000 strong seal colony, is a popular spot for these beasts of the sea. Once you have braved the cold to hop in to the cage, it will only be minutes before coming face to face with this terrifying ocean predator.

3. Tour the beaches

Whether you prefer secluded coves or long, sandy beaches, Cape Town has it all. Top up your tan, enjoy a lazy afternoon picnic or rub shoulders with the who’s who of Cape Town at trendy hangout, Clifton Beach. Some of the best accommodation in Cape Town offers spectacular ocean views and means you will only be a hop, skip and a jump from the water. If you don’t fancy tackling the surf then you can always swing by False Bay where you can take a dip in the tidal pool.

4. Robben Island

For nearly 400 years, Robben Island was where political opponents, social outcasts and undesirables were exiled. Nelson Mandela spent over two decades incarcerated on Robben Island as the island's most famous prisoner (photo of his cell). You can take a fascinating tour, conducted by ex-political prisoners and learn all about the prison’s history. This spot is a chilling reminder of the price that newly democratic South Africa has paid for their freedom.

5. Take a wine tour

Just a 45-minute drive out of Cape Town is the Stellenbosch wine region, home of much loved tipples Saxenburg and Delheim. This historical university town is home to the countries first wine route which was founded in 1971. You can easily spend a lazy day navigating between wineries and purchasing souvenirs along the way.

With the incomparable Table Mountain at the heart of the city, wonderful surrounding vistas, relaxing beaches, fascinating wildlife and scenic drives, Cape Town deserves its billing as one of the world's premier cities to visit.

Photo Credits: shark, vineyard, cell

Top Five Rivers for a Cruise Holiday

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guest post by David Collins of travelsupermarket.com

Go on a river cruise and you'll be able to take in a whole range of sights from majestic wildlife to fascinating cultural attractions from the comfort of a luxury boat. To find out more about five of the best river cruises in the world, read on.

Nile

As the longest river in the world, cruising up the Nile can offer you a fascinating insight into ancient Africa. While the waterway crosses through a number of countries, it is perhaps most closely associated with Egypt and as you travel from Aswan up to Luxor you'll be able to learn more about the ancient civilisation.

One place that you should definitely stop by on your cruise is Thebes. Here you'll get the chance to explore the Karnak temple complex (photo), which is more than 2,000 years old. A wide range of monuments and tombs can be seen here; however, it is perhaps the precinct built in dedication to chief Egyptian god Amun-Re that will be most captivating.

Continue your journey up the Nile and you'll come across the Luxor Temple. Built to host the Festival of Opet, an ancient event which saw a statue of Amun-Re paraded down the Nile, here you'll also find an array of historic statues and attractions, including an effigy of Ramesses II and the Abu el-Haggag mosque.

Travel a little further north and you'll come to the Valley of the Kings, which contains more than 60 royal tombs, including that of Tutankhamen. From the comfort of your boat, you'll be able to see a wide range of wildlife, including small fishes and Nile crocodiles which grow up to 16 feet long.

Danube

You may also want to go on a cruise of the Danube. As one of the longest rivers in Europe, this is a great way to see several of the continent's most charming countries.

Starting in Germany, you'll have the chance to explore the beautiful riverside town of Passau before continuing your journey to Salzburg, Austria. Visit the city's old town district and you'll be able to take in some beautiful Baroque architecture and learn more about composer Wolfgang Mozart who was born in the city.

Continue your cruise and you'll pass through Vienna and Bratislava before arriving at your final destination of Budapest, the Hungarian capital (photo). The city is set across both sides of the waterway and you'll find a range of captivating attractions in each.

These include the neo-gothic parliament building and the world's largest thermal water cave system, while the dozens of geothermal springs located here mean you'll find a range of spas where you can go for a soak.

The fact that the Danube crosses through so many countries means that you'll be able to see a wide range of wildlife, with white pelicans, beavers and tawny owls among the creatures you may have the chance to see.

More than 100 species of fish can be founded in the waterway, so look over the side of your boat for a chance to spot the Danube salmon, the Balkan loach and the Black Sea salmon.

Amazon

Take cheap cruises along the Amazon and you'll be able to explore South America, getting a glimpse of some fascinating wildlife.

As one of the world's largest waterways, there's a range of countries you can take in on a tour of the river, including Ecuador, Bolivia and Peru. Your cruise is likely to pass through Brazil, where upon your cruise ship mooring up you'll be able to interact with local tribes and learn more about how they survive in the rainforest.

Among the many creatures you might get to see during your Amazon cruise are monkeys, tropical frogs and freshwater dolphins, some of which are an unusual pink colour, and you can also go on nature hikes and fishing excursions during your trip.

Mississippi

Opt for a river cruise along the Mississippi and not only will you get the chance to travel on a traditional steamboat but you will also be able to explore some of the USA's most exciting cities.

Among the many interesting destinations that you'll be able to take in during your trip are St Louis, Memphis and Nashville, a city that is synonymous with country music.

However, it may be New Orleans that really catches your interest. A melting pot of different cultures, here you'll be able to sample Cajun and Creole cuisine before exploring the French Quarter and watching jazz bands.

Yangtze

Booking a river cruise along the Yangtze gives you the opportunity to see some of China's breathtaking natural scenery, not least of all several spectacular gorges.

Perhaps one of the most popular stop-off points on a voyage of the waterway is the Chongqing Zoo. The largest zoo in south-west China, here you'll be able to see hundreds of different kinds of animals including pandas, giraffes and tigers.

Other sights to be seen include the Fengdu Ghost City and parts of the Great Wall of China, while you may also be able to explore the bustling cities of Shanghai or Beijing.

With so many fantastic places to explore, a river cruise can be a fantastic way of seeing the world!

Photo Credits: Karnak, paddleboat, panda

My Seven Links

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I was pleased to receive an invite from one of the finest travel bloggers, Barbara of Hole in the Donut Cultural Travel to participate in a fun initiative. The brainchild of TripBase and titled "My Seven Links", it offers a method to unearth and dust off old blog articles based on a series of questions. Barbara's can be found here while mine appear below. To finish off, I'll tag a further five bloggers to keep the chain going. It is a great way to learn about a few new travel blog.

1. My Most Beautiful Post

One of the most striking and naturally beautiful countries I've ever visited is the Iceland and its natural wonders. Littered with waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, weird rock formations and geysers all explained in Icelandic sagas and all left in their wild natural state, I can heartily recommend Iceland to any traveller.

2. My Most Popular Post

With help from lots of Google hits, I am surprised that my most popular article is on the artistic optical illusion art of M. C. Escher and his museum in The Hague. As you stare at Escher's art, you notice waterfalls that constantly travels down-hill or connecting staircases that forever lead upwards.

3. My Most Controversial Post

I don't tend to write controversial articles preferring to focus on the wonderful sights and treasures, both popular and little known, that the world has to offer. So very few articles have provoked even an occasional distasteful comment or upset email. A couple upset remarks arrived by email on discussing Peru's national dish of guinea pig or cuy. While cultures and nationalities, within reason, are entitled to choose what they eat, I can't see anything distasteful about trying Peru's national dish but a few weren't happy.

4. My Most Helpful Post

I received three wonderful emails from fellow Australians who lost beloved relatives in World War One in a savage battle for a small French village in the north of France. Whether reminding or helping someone relive memories of or in one case triggering an email exchange for them to eventually visit the tiny town, my article on a day in Villers-Bretonneux helped readers out. A humble plaque in the museum says "they gave their today for our tomorrow" - a simple and wonderful tribute.

5. A Post Whose Success Surprised Me

Travels has been featuring a Drink Around the World series for around 18 months that highlights a monthly iconic or unusual drink that I've tasted in my travels. The Scottish bright orange soda Irn-Bru and their creative ads triggered memories for lots of travellers who ventured to Scotland.

6. A Post I Feel Didn’t Get The Attention It Deserved

Early on in the life of the blog, it often felt articles that had a lot of time invested received little traffic or comment. One favourite place is the rarely visited Lofoten Islands in the north of Norway in an article that I (immodestly) believe captured some of the wild natural beauty and life on these remote Norwegian wilderness islands.

7. A Post I'm Most Proud Of

To my mind, the finest one day travel experience available anywhere is to trek through rich jungle and spend an hour with the endangered Mountain Gorillas. I'd like to think that my article captured some of the effort, excitement and uplifting experience of seeing a group of gorillas in their natural habitat, the trekking fee helping preserve the last few hundred of these majestic primates.

And finally to hand the baton on to five fellow bloggers who host excellent travel blogs:

Vera at A Traveler's Library
Eunice at TravelerFolio
Ryan at Pause the Moment
Lifecruiser
Folie à Deux

Enjoy reading and please subscribe if you are keen to get regular updates.

Top Five Fairytale Castles in Europe

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guest post by Travelex

Whether you are still living the Disney dream or you have a little princess desperate to visit a castle like the one in her favourite fairytales, this guide will provide you with the best fairytale castles to be found in Europe. Pick your favourite, check currency exchange rates, pack your tiara, and visit some of the most beautiful and historic buildings on the continent.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

Steeped in history, this beautiful castle is the embodiment of 19th century romanticism and thanks to its stunning position atop the Alps, its towers and spires and magnificent landscape, Neuschwanstein has become one of the most popular destinations in Europe. The structure was also the inspiration behind Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle, it doesn’t get much more fairytale than that!

Chateau Haut Koenigsbourg, France

Built in the 12th century, the Chateau Haut Koenigsbourg in France offers spectacular views of the Alsace Valley, a sight that stretches all the way to the Rhine River. Attacked and badly damaged by fire in 1462, the castle was then rebuilt only to be left abandoned some 200 years later. Over the years it was left empty and overgrown and as such, drew similarities with Sleeping Beauty’s abandoned castle.

Alcázar of Segovia, Spain

One of the most famous castles in Spain, the Alcázar of Segovia has a beautiful exterior and lays nestled at the base of the Guadarrama Mountains. It is suggested that construction of the castle began as early as the 11th century and was then rebuilt following original sketches after a fire in 1862. Once the residence of many Spanish kings and the site of Isabel’s proclamation as Queen of Castile, you can’t help but feel like fairytale royalty at the Alcázar of Segovia.

Bardi Castle, Italy

Surrounded by legendary stories, the medieval structure dominates the small town of the same name and lies approximately 50km from the city of Parma. Step back in time and visit during the summer months, when you might be lucky enough to witness one of the many medieval festivals hosted at the castle.

Vaduz Castle, Lichtenstein

Perched on a rock terrace, this fairytale castle can be reached via a beautiful tree lined footpath. The castle remains the true residence of royalty and today houses the Prince of Lichtenstein. As such, it is not open for viewing by the public, but there are beautiful views to be had of Vaduz Castle from anywhere within the capital and August sees it host to a spectacular fireworks display that illuminates the entire city.

Photo Credits: Neuschwanstein Castle, Haut Koenigsbourg Castle, Alcazar of Segovia, Bardi Castle, Vaduz Castle

Discover the Most Beautiful Villages in France: Part 3

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Escaping the rush of Paris and the insane summers of the French beaches, rural France is best experienced in its small villages that sprinkle the country. The best are associated under the banner of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. Part One explored villages in the south and Alps regions of France while Part Two explored the French villages of Normandy and the Dordogne. A further four villages scattered across France completes this tour of an often ignored aspect of French travel.

St-Cirq Lapopie


Perched majestically above the the Lot River, St-Cirq Lapopie seems lost in time. Small half-timbered and stone houses guarded by town gates front onto narrow alleys named for their crafts practised centuries ago. Today the small village with a population of less than 100 is popular with artists offering pottery, paintings, metalwork and wooden carvings.

Noyers-sur-Serein


In the heart of the world famous wine district of Burgundy, Noyers has a surprisingly untouristy and quiet feel to it. While angled historic half-timbered houses litter the small town, the highlight is the peaceful verdant stroll along the gentle bend of the Surein River and 700 year old village walls.

Gordes


Like a terraced Asian farm, the houses of the Provence village of Gordes sits upon a hill in layers, crested by a grey-stone chateau and imposing monastery. Some escape from the rampant summer visitors packed into the narrow lanes to visit the nearby Village des Bories, where around 20 ancient pyramid-shaped stone huts exist in an area continuously inhabited since the Bronze Age.

Collonges-la-Rouge


With a tiny population, the aptly named central French village exists entirely of houses, rounded towers, churches, castles and town walls constructed from blood red sandstone. Near the pilgrimage town of Rocamadour and contrasted with the verdant green shrubbery, the streets of the village can be explored in a handful of minutes but warrant the extra time to soak in the history of a small town overflowing with historic and listed buildings.

While France is the most visited country on Earth, too many people fail to escape Paris for part of their break missing the walking delights, rich history and gastronomic pleasures of some of the most beautiful villages of France. Make sure your vacation in France includes at least one small village and vive la difference.

Discover the Most Beautiful Villages in France: Part 2

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France is sprinkled with beguiling villages, many frozen in time that encapsulate much of what people love about this European cultural giant. Associated under the banner of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, these villages share the historic, gastronomic and enchanting nature of rural France. Part One explored villages in the south and Alps regions of France while today we explore Normandy and the Dordogne.

Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei


It is difficult to imagine anything more relaxing than sitting by the peaceful Sarthe River near a rustic old stone bridge chewing on a pate-laden crusty baguette and sipping a refreshing glass of red. This quiet Norman village of ivy-covered stone houses and narrow lanes has developed a pilgrimage following the creation of a church-side miracle spring associated with the cure of eye diseases.

Le Bec-Hellouin


In rural Normandy, sits the photogenic half-timbered houses of the village of Le Bec Hellouin. Painted in vibrant colours surrounded by verdant green footpaths and parks and bedecked with blooming flower boxes, the village charm is complemented by the wondrous ceramics of the 1000 year old abbey and its resident monks.

Beynac-et-Cazenac



Overlooked by its imposing castle standngn guard over the Dordogne River in central France, the cobbled laneways of the tiny village of Beynac (around 500 people) is one of several Perigord villages that sit at the gateway to the extraordinary caves (including the world famous Lascaux) with their 20,000 year old Paleolithic paintings. Their rich gastronomic culture is highlighted with the squawking geese and ducks or the stalls that sell and sample the fine patés of the region. Hiking (randonnées) is popular on well-marked paths that link the villages and take in the famous limestone caves.

Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère


Guarded by a remarkable three castles, the picturesque Perigord village is near the historic caves and rock shelters of La Roque St Christophe occupied by Paleolithic or Stone Age people around 55,000 years ago. While there is a rudimentary understanding of life back then, much still remains unexplained. It is a remarkable feeling to stroll along the rock ledges trying to imagine people huddled over fires eking out their lives so long ago.

Join us for a final roundup of most beautiful villages in France.