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Route verte à vélo dans les Vosges English translation pending
by Clemich · 2010-05-27 · 4 replies
Bonjour, Est ce que quelqu'un à déjà effectué cette randonnée? http://www.gruene-strasse.de/html/seiten/startseite.phtml?nav=1&lang=de J'aimerais partir de Strasbourg et la rejoindre à partir de Colmar. Je me demandes ce que donne le passage des Vosges par le col? Y a t il une piste cyclable ou voie verte ou est ce de la nationale avec camion et compagnie? Merci à vous Salut A Plus
Avion annulé: prendre le bus pour rentrer d'Istanbul? English translation pending
by Cloti · 2010-04-20 · 14 replies
Bonjour,

2 amis auraient dû rentrer d'Istanbul par Easy Jet ce matin. Vol annulé à 3h du matin...

Ils aimeraient choisir l'option "route", pour rentrer absolument pour dimanche prochain, mais je ne trouve pas d'info concernant les bus qui partent vers la France, et notamment vers l'Alsace, plus précisément Mulhouse ou Colmar (mais ils ne seront pas difficiles à mon avis!)

Qui aurait une idée, une info? Merci d'avance!
Visiter la Haute-Normandie (Rouen) English translation pending
by Bonheurdunes · 2009-12-30 · 4 replies
j'ai voyagé à Belfort novembre dernier, je suis rentré au désert, tout just avant les vastes orages de nège! j'ai visité Colmar, Mulhouse Montbilard...mais mon rève était depuis toujours de vister la Haute Normandie, surtout Rouen où ma chère Madame Bovay était enterrée...🙁ça sera pour l'année prochaine, l'été 2010! vous avez des conseils à me donner?😇 au plaisir de vous lire
Idées d'endroits de week-end en camping-car au mois de décembre? (Europe) English translation pending
by Christineee · 2009-12-07 · 5 replies
Bonjour,

Auriez-vous des idées d'endroits sympas, de coins à visiter, de marchés de Noël pour un week-end en camping car? Pour les régions suivantes: Belgique-Luxembourg-Allemagne-Nord de la France. Avec des endroits prévus pour garer notre camping-car...

Merci!!

Christine
Hébergement dans un petit village alsacien? English translation pending
by Louka · 2009-11-23 · 3 replies
Bonjour,

Je cherche un hôtel, hostellerie ou auberge dans un coquet petit village Alsacien. Le problème c'est que je les trouve tous beaux (les villages) sur internet bien sûr. J'aimerais entre Strasbourg et Colmar mais pas en montagne, je ne raffole pas des hauteurs, malheureusement.

Ça peut être en demi-pension ou non, l'important c'est que ce soit tranquille et qu'on puisse y stationner. Avez-vous des suggestions.... pour le mois de juin.

Merci et bonne fin de journée
Marchés de Noël en Allemagne English translation pending
by Freddyboy · 2009-10-05 · 15 replies
Hello, je compte me rendre en Allemagne courant décembre afin de faire les marchés de Noël. Quelle(s) ville(s) me conseillez-vous ? Ai déjà fait Strasbourg & Colmar. Merci
Marchés de Noël et fêtes de Noël en Alsace English translation pending
by Marie50 · 2009-09-12 · 14 replies
Bonjour, l'envie nous tente de passer Noel avec nos 3 enfants en ALSACE, et de visiter ses marchés de Noel ; nous pensons loger à Obernai et de là sillonner vers Strasbourg, Ricquewihr, Colmar... Avez vous des idées sur le sujet ? De plus, je me dis que ce serait aussi sympa de passer 1 ou 2 jours au bord de l'Allemagne ; Est ce envisageable au niveau de la distance si nous partons de Obernai ? Fait il vraiment si froid à cette période ? Ya t il quand même de quoi visiter en journée, tout en étant au chaud ... Nous sommes partis en Alsace il y a quelques années mais en été, et c'était superbe!!! En espérant avoir vos avis et peut être quelques idées sur le sujet Merci MARIE
Visite pour huit jours dans la région de Metz? English translation pending
by Grandlemurie · 2009-08-04 · 3 replies
Bonjour,

Fin aout je vais du coté de Metz pour ~8 jours. J'aimerais visiter au maximum cette région, voir les endroits les plus beaux.Je peux me déplacer facilement et je ne pense pas rester au même endroit durant mon séjour.

J'ai pensé à visiter Metz, Nancy, Strasbourg, Colmar, Luxembourg et peut être faire un saut en Allemagne.

Que me conseillez vous à voir en priorité dans cette région?

Merci 🙂
Cherche photos de villas au Cameroun English translation pending
by PtitCaramel · 2009-01-18 · 6 replies
Bonjour

Je cherche des photos de jolies et grandes villas au Cameroun, ça serait gentil de me donner un petit coup de main, car sur google, c'est tres limité malheureusement.

Merci
Avis sur circuit en Corse en mai-juin en camping-car English translation pending
by Jeanlucvb · 2008-12-20 · 18 replies
Bonjour, Merci de vos conseils pour notre projet de vacances en 2009 sur l’ile de beauté. Pour les nuits, nous envisageons les campings ( merci de nous donnez des références et adresses si vous avez ) Circuit envisagé Départ le vendredi 22 mai 09 à 17h 1136 km ALLER Liévin-Luxembourg-Colmar-Luzern-Lugano-Genova pour prendre leFerry le 24/05/09 à Gênes à 9h pour Bastia Arrivée à 12h30 1 Cap corse : BASTIA Faire le tour du cap Arret à Barcaggio pour nuit et circuit à pied ou vélo du chemin Douanier puis Centuri Pino ( PLAGE) Marine Giottani Arrêt pour nuit face mer, Nonza Saint Florent 2 ile rousse Lozari Ile de La Piétra Plage Ostriconi 4 nuits Les agriates voir pour faire de l'ile roussse puis prendre le train Ile rousse-ajaccio- Ile rousse et ile rousse -calvi-ile rousse 3 Calvi-Porto Notre dame de la serra lumio Galeria Col de la croix Plage de Bussaglia : 4 nuits chez nos amis de retour cette année en corse aprés 30 ans dans le Nord 4 Piana Les calanches Capo Rosso: 12 km AR pied ou vélo Visite Bateau: "La venus des iles" au départ de Sagone 3 nuits 5 Ajaccio, Iles Sanguinaires, Marinella, La borne sacrée 3 nuits 6 Coti Chiavari Plage mare e sole plage verghia baie de cupabia Capu rosu Pointe Campomoro Cap de rocapina 3 nuits 7 Bonifaccio Iles Lavezzari 3 nuits 8 Portovecchio Santa Giulia Palombaggia Pointe de Chappia 2 nuits 9 Retour vers Bastia col de Teghime nuit Bastia Ferry Bastia Gênes à 16h le 19 juin 09

D'avance merci de toutes vos réponses, conseils et expériences en Corse

Cordialement jlvb
Ville sympathique en Alsace? English translation pending
by Bossanova · 2008-10-10 · 23 replies
Bonjour 🙂

Pour 2 jours fin octobre, quelle ville me recommanderiez-vous ?

Une ville à l'architecture jolie, par exemple, et où il fasse bon se promener ?

Et accessible en train, puisque nous viendrons en train depuis Genève.

Merci !
Hôtel sympathique et pas cher à Strasbourg? English translation pending
by Irmeline · 2008-10-02 · 6 replies
Je souhaite aller à Strasbourg (ou ses environs) du 12 au 14 décembre. Connaissez-vous un hôtel sympa et pas cher (jusqu'à 30 euros la nuit mais plutôt moins!!!!). Merci pour vos réponses. Irmeline
Marchés de Noël en Alsace: transports en commun ou voiture? English translation pending
by Walitila · 2008-08-30 · 12 replies
Bonjour,

Je souhaite partir en week end prolongé au mois de décembre, un vend/sam/dim ou sam/dim/lundi afin de voir les marché de noël de la région: strasbourg, colmar, riquewihr, ribeauvillé, keysersberg, eguisheim, obernai.... Je suis surtout intéressée par les marchés de noël autres que strasbourg et colmar que j'ai déjà vu l'année dernière.

Voilà mon gros dilemme : j'habite en région parisienne et j'hésite entre y aller en train (tgv) ou en voiture. Comme je n'ai jamais fait d'aussi long trajets en voiture, je serais à priori plus pour le tgv. Mais du coup, je me demande si tous les petits villages cités sont facilement accessibles en transports en commun et si c'est pratique ? J'ai vu qu'il y avait une liaison ter entre strasbourg / colmar mais pour le reste... ?

Que me conseillez-vous ? la voiture ou le tgv + transports en commun (train, bus) ?

Merci d'avance pour vos réponses !!!
Marché de Noël en Alsace English translation pending
by Sollasido · 2008-08-02 · 15 replies
nous aimerions faire le marche de noel cette annee, est-ce la 1ere semaine de décembre la plus interessante et quels sont les plus beaux villages autour de Strasbourg, y a t-il des chambres d'hotes dans cette région ? merci pour vos renseignements
Hôtel C Roque Resort à Goa? English translation pending
by Damidago · 2008-05-17 · 4 replies
Bonjour,

Quelqu'un connait il le C roque Resort sur la plage de colva? Nous y sommes deja allés il y a deux ans et nous avions passé un bon moment.... Existe t il toujours? Est il ouvert debut Septembre ? A t il changé ? Merci d'avance. Damien
Visites en remontant du sud au nord de la France? English translation pending
by Angeljo · 2008-02-26 · 3 replies
Hello tout le monde. Courant juillet je pars près de Marseille, mais en remontant dans ma région du Nord, je voudrais découvrir pas mal de choses en une semaine. J'ai déjà pensé à m'arrêter en Alsace, notamment Colmar qui a l'air très joli. Mais après, c'est très vaste... Avez vous des idées ? Ce serait donc plutot dans le centre de la France et l'Est en remontant vers l'Alsace, et ensuite de l'Alsace vers le Nord, si vous avez compris... 😄

Mes centres d'intêrets sont les très beaux paysages, les villes et les villages typiques, les zoos, et monuments qui valent la peine d'être vus !

D'avance merci.

Je suis assez vague dans mes recherches mais bon 🤪
Alsace à vélo? English translation pending
by Michèle101 · 2008-01-28 · 15 replies
Début juillet, nous arriverons à Strasbourg afin d'y passer quelques jours. Quelqu'un aurait une suggestion d'itinéraire pour environ 6 jours de vélo-camping? Le long du Rhin ou plutôt Saverne, Obernai, Riquewhir ? Par la suite nous voulons traverser à Donaueschingen par train et ainsi faire la route du Danube jusqu'à Budapest! Est-ce possible à partir de Colmar jusqu'à Donaueschingen par train? Aussi, si nous manquons de temps pour reprendre l'avion à Budapest (retour prévu début août), quelle étape du Danube devrions-nous faire par train (donc celle qui serait la moins intéressante)? P.s. pour l'Alsace, nous avons aussi la possibilité d'arriver à Mulhouse plutôt que Strasbourg! J'attends impatiemment vos infos afin de mieux réserver mes vols. Un gros merci à l'avance! Michèle
De l'Alsace à l'Asie Centrale (Ouzbékistan, Tadjikistan et Kirghizistan) en été 2007 English translation pending
by Opai · 2008-01-20 · 64 replies
De l'Alsace aux Tien-Shan (Monts célestes) en passant par Minsk, Moscou, l'Ouzbékistan, le Tajikistan, les Pamirs...

Je vous propose de suivre mon voyage par voie terrestre depuis Colmar jusque Bishkek. J'ai d'abord rejoint Samarcande en train en traversant rapidement l'Europe de l'est, la Russie et le Kazakhstan. Une fois arrivé en Asie centrale, j'y ai passé presque deux mois. Un peu de temps en Ouzbékistan puis, le Tadjikistan et le Kirghizistan.

J'ai l'habitude de tenir un carnet lors de mes voyages. Cette année, rien! Dès mon entré au Tadjikistan, je ne me suis plus tenu à cette discipline, préférant peut-être regarder les paysages qu'une feuille blanche.

Suite à la remarque d'un ami plus âgé, j'ai décidé de reprendre tout le fil de mon voyage car "la mémoire me fera des infidélités" m'a-t-il prédit. De peur de perdre petit à petit la beauté de ce voyage, je me suis mis à écrire. Chaque jour, je prends donc le temps de me replonger dans une journée de voyage. Je revis en temps réel tout ce qui a fait la richesse de mon périple. Cela me demande quelques efforts de concentration mais les souvenirs me reviennent facilement. A partir du réveil, je déroule les expériences d'une journée comme les perles d'un collier!

Je vous propose ce carnet de note différé, accompagné d'images.

Jour après jour...
Visite de l'Alsace durant deux semaines en mai English translation pending
by Lauz · 2008-01-07 · 5 replies
bonjour je voulais avoir des informations ( activite, transport, herbergement, etc) sur les choses a voir et a faire dans les villes suivantes! ribeauvillee colmar strasbourg et les environs ce sont des villes que je vais visiter durant mon voyage sac a dos en mai 2008 soit du 27 avril au 12 mai 2008! avez vous des conseils, des trucs des commentaires! merci a lavance lauz
Arlberg Pass (Autriche), Forêt Noire: état et aménagement des routes pour les vélos? English translation pending
by Volver · 2007-07-01 · 2 replies
Salut cyclopassionnés! Pour passer le col d'Arlberg entre Feldkirch et Landeck(passage obligé pour relier Rhin et Inn), quel est l'état et les aménagements de la route pour les 2 roues bien chargés? Je pense que le tunnel est interdit aux vélos, et sans doute très toxique si il est autorisé! Pour relier Donaueschingen à Colmar, quelle est la route la plus tranquille même si elle est pentue par endroits? Mille mercis pour le partage de vos expériences et que vos roues vous portent loin!
Alsace entre Noël et Saint Sylvestre? English translation pending
by Aimetrem · 2006-11-01 · 4 replies
Nous avons que cette période pour découvrir la région nous avons lu les forums à ce sujet mais personne ne cite cette période qui devrait etre plus calme?Notre base sera COLMAR
Baden-Baden en Allemagne English translation pending
by Hubert13111 · 2006-09-11 · 15 replies
🙂 ayant prévu de séjourner quelques jours à Baden Baden début novembre, merci de me donnez des conseils de visites, de resto dans la ville et dans les alentours ainsi qu'à Strasbourg
Itinéraire pour un voyage Toulouse-Strasbourg à vélo en fin août? English translation pending
by Kitouetremi · 2006-06-22 · 5 replies
Bonjour,

Je prepare un voyage Toulouse-Strasbourg sur 3 semaines fin aout. Le trajet, grossierement, serait : Toulouse - Albi - Rodez - Brioude - St Flour - Dole - Vesoul - Colmar - Strasbourg. Auriez-vous des conseils, des suggestions d'itineraires ou de sites a ne pas manquer ?

Merci
Premier voyage en Europe (France-Italie-Grèce) English translation pending
by LouisPierrre · 2006-01-26 · 3 replies
Salut, moi et ma copine venont du québec. Nous prévoyons faire un premier voyage cet été. Nous avons choisis les billets d'avion, et nous serons en voyage du 5 juillet au 7 août 2006. Voici l'itinéraire que nous avons prévu: Arrivé à Paris (on ne sait pas si on devrait visiter paris en arrivant ou en partant. Paris-Colmar en train (ma copine a de la famille la bas) Colmar - Venise en train, avec transfert a dijon-ville. Venise - florence - train Florence - rome - train Rome - pompeï - je n'ai pas trouvé de train qui se dirige a pompeï, quelqu'un peut me dire comment s'y rendre? apres cela, pompeï jusqu'a brindsini pour prendre un traversier jusqu'a athenes. Athenes - santorini - mykonos, et pour revenir, un avion de athenes à Nice ( parenté dans ce coin) et finalement train de nice-paris. J'aimerais avoir toutes l'information possible sur ces villes, le coût de la vie, les auberges de jeunesse, les choses à ne pas manquer, les trucs et astuces de voyages que vous posséder. J'aimerais aussi savoir comment les traversiers fonctionnent pour aller en grèce et pour aller sur les îles. Combien de temps dans chaque ville devrions-nous rester. Est-ce qu'il y a des places de camping vraiment moins cher que des auberges de jeunesse... Je vous remercie pour toutes vos informations, elles nous seront très utiles...
Bons plans pour petite incursion en Suisse? English translation pending
by Ziza · 2005-08-23 · 7 replies
Bonjour à tous 😉

Nous quittons bientôt ! Nous serons en France du 17 septembre au 8 octobre. Nous aurons une voiture.

Nous arrivons à CDG et passerons la 1ère nuit en Champagne puis Strasbourg-Route des vins-Colmar. Ensuite dans les environs de Besançon nous pensons passer par Pontarlier pour entrer en Suisse pour une petite incursion pour revenir en France à Chamonix.

Comme nous aurons peu de temps, que me suggérez-vous pour la Suisse ? J'ai fouillé un peu et découvert le village ou la ville de Gruyères... Cela vaut-il le détour ?

Nous terminerons avec Chamonix, Annecy, etc puis un peu de Provence (Orange, Arles, Aix, etc.)

Nous remontons en TGV à Paris de Avignon le 3 octobre pour finir par une visite de quelques jours à Paris.

Vos commentaires sont les bienvenus ! Isabelle 😏
Entre l'Alsace et la Provence English translation pending
by Ziza · 2004-10-18 · 15 replies
Bonjour à tous,

Que me suggérez-vous pour passer de l'Alsace à la Provence ? Je cherche un itinéraire intéressant et suis hésitante.

De Paris (quelques jours) - Champagne (Reims et environs, Epernay) - Alsace (de Strasbourg à Colmar, route des vins) - ?? Suisse (Lauzanne, Genève), Franche-Comté pour Besançon ou retour sur Bourgogne pour Dijon et les vins ?? - Annecy (semble très intéressant), Mont-Blanc - Rhones-Alpes (pour Grenoble) - Alpes et Provence (pour presque tout !!)

Votre avis s.v.p.

Je suis attirée surtout par les beaux paysages et les villages typiques. Les villes m'intéressent lorsque les attraits touristiques ne devraient pas être manqués.

Aussi, le Mont Blanc (montés en téléphériques, Aiguille du Midi et Mer de Glace) est-il le meilleur endroit pour savourer une vision époustouflante des Alpes ? Est-ce trop touristique ?

Merci infiniement, Isabelle
Vignoble d'alsace en vélo (France) English translation pending
by Eliane75 · 2004-06-16 · 9 replies
Je souhaite effectuer un circuit de 10 jours en aôut dans le vignoble alsacien en suivant le parcours ci dessous : Strasbourg-Sand-Colmar-Ottmarsheim-Guebwiller-Riquewihr-Obernai-Saverne-Ingwiller-Strasbourg.

L'idée est d'effectuer des parcours de 40-50 km/jours en empruntant autant que possible les canaux du Rhin et voies cyclables Je suis preneur de tout avis de personnes connaissant ce parcours
Besoin d'aide pour mon itinéraire en France English translation pending
by Danyetcri · 2003-08-19 · 12 replies
Bonjour,

Notre famille prévoyons aller en Europe (17 jours)à l'été prochain. Nous sommes en attente de propositions d'échange de maison mais sinon nous avions prévu l'itinéraire suivant: France(côte d'azur, Annecy) - Suisse (Lausanne, Bâle) - France (Colmar, Strasbourg) - Allemagne (Heidelberg, Cologne, Duisburg) puis Bruxelle. Avec ce trajet nous voulions répondre aux goûts de tous les membres de la famille: Mer pour notre fils, Château pour notre fille, vignobles pour M et architecture pour Mme... et toute notre famille voulons aller rendre visite à des amis à Duisburg en Allemagne. OUf!!! 😕

Est-ce réaliste? Que proposeriez-vous à une famille un peu anxieuse de tout voir???!!!!.... Est-ce mieux (distance, temps et $$$$) de faire les trajets en voitures ou en train. Si vous connaissez des endroits Super à visiter dans ces régions svp nous les indiquer.

Merci pour vos précieux conseils.
Eastern Crete in September 2024
by Jacou0109 · 2024-11-15 · 3 replies
Travel journal in Eastern Crete from September 8th to 29th, 2024

Our 21-day itinerary

Sunday, 08/09: Once again—and this is the eighth time—we’re setting off, the four of us: Patrick, Michelle, Jacques, and Monique, for the Greek islands. This time, we’ve chosen Crete. No need to wake up at 3 or 4 a.m. to reach Basel-Mulhouse Airport at dawn to catch the first flight to Greece at 6 a.m.! Given the prohibitive prices charged by EasyJet, we found flights that were half the price from Zurich Airport, which is accessible in 3 hours by train from Colmar. Pierre-Paul drives all four of us to Colmar train station, where we take the train to Basel and then, 20 minutes later, the direct train to Zurich Airport. After wandering around the airport, we go for a coffee at 6 € each! We’re in Switzerland, after all. The other dining areas all have vending machines for selecting and paying for meals—soon, there won’t be anyone left to serve you! After a short wait, we take off at 7:45 p.m. (20 minutes late) in an Aegean Airbus A321. Free in-flight meal service isn’t bad either! We land in Heraklion around 11:15 p.m. We pick up our rental car (a red Seat Ibiza) at the airport and head straight to our apartment, located 2 km from the city center. Thanks to the GPS, we find it quickly. It’s a beautiful, fully renovated apartment with all the comforts and well-equipped. On the table, there’s wine, bottles of water, jam, coffee, etc. Given the late hour, we won’t stay up long.

Monday, 09/09: To enhance our breakfast, Michelle and Monique set off to find a bakery nearby. They return with croissants and donuts—yum... Then we head to the west coast. The highway follows the coastline, but we prefer taking the old road to Malia, our first stop. We visit the major archaeological site of this Minoan city under the hot sun. The site covers a vast area, but the ruins aren’t very evocative except for a few beautiful amphorae scattered around. The explanations in a small house at the entrance are interesting and help us better understand the organization of the ancient city with its different districts. From there, we head toward the nearby mountains to see the thousand-year-old plane tree in the village of Krasi. We take the opportunity to enjoy an excellent lunch of moussaka and delicious gemista at the Krassopsychia taverna in the village center. Pleasant surprise: the prices are still reasonable, with a bill of 70 € for four, including wine and water. The friendly tradition of complimentary dessert and glasses of raki continues—great! We’ve set the bar high right away! Let’s hope the rest lives up to it! On the way back toward the Lassithi Plateau, we stop at the Kardiotisa Monastery perched high on the mountain to enjoy a magnificent view of the entire region. Just a little further, we arrive at the Lassithi Plateau: the presence of small windmills used to pump water from the ground is the typical feature of this plateau. We complete a full loop around the plateau, passing by numerous orchards and vegetable gardens that occupy the entire space. At the end of the plateau, we once again cross mountain passes via winding roads that bring us near Agios Nikolaos. Our apartment is located about ten kilometers further south in Amoudhara. The owner, who was notified, waits for us and shows us her superb apartment, whose large terrace overlooks the entire Mirabello Bay. She then gives us valuable information about the different beaches in the area. Dinner will be frugal, given our hearty lunch in Krasi!

Sunset over Mirabello Bay

Tuesday, 10/09: A bit of a gray sky when we wake up around 8 a.m., but the sun will soon triumph over the scattered clouds. For our first swim, we opt for Voulisma Beach, even though our host warned us it was a bit “crowdy.” That’s understandable given the beautiful emerald color of the sea and the lovely curve of the beach. To avoid the big crowds, we move toward the eastern part of the beach, accessible via a steep staircase. The water is very warm, and this first dip is very pleasant. Before returning to the apartment, we stop at the bakery to buy spinach pies, essential ingredients to accompany our Greek salad for lunch. Of course, everything will be washed down with ouzo, which will remain our favorite drink for the next three weeks—but in moderation!!! A nap is in order after all that effort. In the late afternoon, we drive to Agios Nikolaos, the main seaside resort in Crete. We’re not too enthusiastic about visiting this mass-tourism resort, but the center of Agios, concentrated around the small inner harbor, is pleasant to see despite the plethora of shops and restaurants. We dine a little outside the harbor in the shaded courtyard of the Avli taverna: the oven-baked lamb, squid with spinach, and cuttlefish ink orzo pasta are all highly appreciated. We still stay under a 75 € bill for four.

Mirabello Bay seen from our terrace

Wednesday, 11/09: At 8 a.m., the terrace is already bathed in sunlight, and it’s already quite hot. The small parasol barely gives us enough shade, but we’re not complaining! For our second swim, we head to a tiny beach recommended by our host, just 3 minutes by car from our place. The path leading to it is very discreet, and we don’t find it right away! It’s a small sandy cove with a few welcome tamarisk trees for shade. When we arrive, there are two swimmers, and there won’t be more than five or six in the morning. After lunch and a nap, we head to the beautiful village of Kritsa, just a few kilometers away. It’s too late to visit the beautiful church of Kera Panagia, which is already closed. We settle for the exterior, which is worth a look. The weather is clouding over, and big clouds are gathering. Upon arriving in Kritsa, a heavy shower forces us to take shelter in the Platanos taverna in the village center, and since it’s nearly 7 p.m., we decide to stay and dine there. Good choice—excellent meze: croquettes and stuffed zucchini flowers, gigantes beans, grilled tomatoes and feta, and pancetta as the main dish. The rain stops just as we decide to head back.

Village of Kritsa

Thursday, 12/09: Our terrace faces east, so we get to watch the sunrise around 7 a.m.—it’s truly a beautiful sight we never tire of. Around 9 a.m., we head to the village of Plaka, where boats depart for the island of Spinalonga, located north of Agios Nikolaos. We board the first boat, which sets sail at 10 a.m., and we’re not alone—the boat is practically full. After 10 minutes, we land on the island at the same time as several other boats from Elounda or Agios. Needless to say, there are already quite a few people walking through the streets of the leper village. The visit remains interesting and moving as we read the explanatory panels recounting the island’s history under Byzantine and then Turkish rule, followed by its transformation into a leper colony. As soon as we climb toward the top of the island via more or less maintained paths, there’s almost no one left. The 360° view from up there is stunning.



Spinalonga Island

The heat is now unbearable, and we can’t wait to get back home to have lunch on our terrace and rest. In the late afternoon, we go grocery shopping at the AB supermarket at the entrance of Agios. We had spotted another nice restaurant in our guide, but unfortunately, there’s a different one at the indicated location that doesn’t inspire us. So, we return to the Avli taverna for another dinner just as good as the first.

Friday, 13/09: We repeat yesterday’s successful program: a swim in our little cove, lunch on the terrace, a nap, and then, in the late afternoon, we discover another nearby village, Kroustas, nestled in the olive groves near Kritsa. Much less touristy than Kritsa, it’s mostly inhabited by locals, especially the elderly who are enjoying the cool air on their chairs—if you can call it cool given the still-high temperatures in the late afternoon! We then return to visit Kritsa, which we hadn’t been able to explore due to the rain. Dinner at a taverna in the village center at a very reasonable price.

Saturday, 14/09: Today, we move to our new base further east. We start with a high viewpoint at the Faneromeni Monastery, which overlooks Mirabello Bay. The monastery itself is of little interest as it’s under renovation with excessive concrete work. We continue to the village of Kavoussi to see another exceptional tree after a few kilometers on a dusty, bumpy track. It’s an olive tree said to be about 3,200 years old—impressive, and the countryside is very beautiful. It’s time to find a place for lunch. We find one in the charming little port of Mohlos, where a few tavernas surround a very nice small beach. Our choice falls on the Bogazzi taverna, where we enjoy fried fish. To reach our new base in Zakros, we still have to drive through the mountains before reaching Sitia, Paleokastro, and finally Zakros. The region is beautiful, with olive groves and rows of wind turbines taking advantage of the strong wind near the northern tip of the island. In Zakros, we’re greeted by our very friendly host. Here too, we have all the comforts and a beautiful terrace overlooking the village. The apartment has reversible air conditioners, but the overly simple instructions leave us puzzled. Thinking we’ve set it correctly, we realize a little too late that it’s blowing hot air over 30°C! After numerous attempts and testing several confusing programs, we finally succeed! Dinner on our new terrace.

Sunday, 15/09: This morning, we get up early to hike in the “Gorge of the Dead” while it’s still cool. The sky is blue as usual! We park in the nearest parking lot and start our descent via a beautiful path winding through the olive groves. A little further on, the landscape opens up, and the path, now a stony trail, begins the descent to the dry riverbed. On either side of the riverbed rise beautiful reddish cliffs.





Gorge of the Dead

The trail winds its way through this narrow gorge with difficulty. It was in the many caves visible halfway up the slope that the Minoans buried their dead, hence the name “Gorge of the Dead.” The gorge opens onto a beautiful small pebble beach. A swim is welcome after this hike that made us sweat. The hike took us 1 hour and 25 minutes, and a little less on the way back. Meanwhile, Monique did some shopping and prepared an excellent lunch. In the late afternoon, we go down to dine at Platanakis, a taverna in the small village of Kato Zakros.

Monday, 16/09: This morning, we explore the northern part of the east coast near Palekastro. We start with a dip at the beautiful Hionia Beach near Palekastro. The water is still just as nice, but a light breeze is blowing—not enough to spoil our fun! Seeing all the wind turbines lining the ridges, it’s no surprise.

Grocery shopping in Palekastro and return to Zakros. A little rain in the late afternoon and an excellent dinner at Iannis Mitsakakis’ Taverna in Adravastis. These are the kind of small tavernas we love—unpretentious, a few tables on a terrace, a warm welcome, a short menu guaranteeing freshness, tasty dishes prepared by the server’s mom, and a light bill. What more could you ask for!

Tuesday, 17/09: We head back toward Palekastro to do some shopping, but it’s also the road to the Toplou Monastery. There, we see a collection of magnificent icons dating from the 15th to the 20th century. We can also admire drawings of Orthodox religious architecture. We continue toward the Mavros Akrotiri headland to enjoy the view of the sea and rocky capes. On the way back to our place, we make a small detour to see the famous Vai palm grove. Meh... As for Vai Beach, it’s filled with paid umbrellas and sunbeds, and there are so many people that we flee. Plus, having to pay for parking is another reason to snub this trendy beach. We prefer our Hionia Beach, which we already appreciated the other day. In the late afternoon, Pat and I start the trail that begins at Kato Zakros Beach heading south. The poorly marked path crosses a plateau of sharp limestone. The paint and cairn markings are no longer very visible, and with dusk approaching, we turn back toward Kato Zakros. Dinner at the Platanakis taverna—less good than last time.

Wednesday, 18/09: To avoid the scorching sun, Pat, Mimi, and I get up earlier than usual to hike the Hohlakies Gorge. At this early hour, the sky is quite cloudy, and it’s drizzling. When we arrive in the village of Hohlakies, we park in front of a small chapel, the start of the hike. The sky is now completely clear. The trail starts among the olive groves, then after passing through a gate, we descend into the gorge filled with large rocks. We’re alone in the world, and the landscape is magnificent. A few wild goats clinging to the cliff watch us from above. After 1 hour and 15 minutes, we emerge onto the wonderful Karoumès Beach. A pleasant swim, then back to civilization! A walk in the late afternoon in Zakros to discover the beautiful springs route. Dinner in Adravastis.

Thursday, 19/09: Another move: Before heading to our next stop, we make a detour to see the beautiful Keratokampos Beach and can’t resist a swim in the still-warm, clear water. We continue our journey via Ziros, then reach the south coast and have lunch at the Stephi taverna in Ferma—excellent meal! The south coast is quite urbanized and has much less charm than the east coast we’ve just left! The numerous plastic greenhouses are partly to blame. We stop for groceries in Ierapetra. Around 3 p.m., we arrive at our destination in the small perched village of Anatoli. Our lodging is at the top of the village, and from the path leading to it, we have a magnificent view of the coastal plain, unfortunately overloaded with plastic greenhouses. It reminds us of the landscapes of El Ejido in Andalusia.

View of the Ierapetra coast from Anatoli

Friday, 20/09: A walk and discovery of the hamlet of Anatoli. There are few services—a tiny grocery store, a taverna, and that’s it. Fortunately, the traveling baker arrives and honks. We take the opportunity to buy fresh bread. Leaving the village, we take a path that should lead us to the hamlet of Drygies. The landscape is beautiful. We walk through a lovely pine forest before arriving at the hamlet. The path continues to a taverna that’s closed today, with a superb terrace overlooking the coast. Luckily, the owner arrives and informs us that the taverna will be open next Sunday and that we can enjoy barbecued meat. Noted! We head back to Anatoli via the small paved road with, fortunately, very limited traffic. Lunch on our terrace, then a dip in our private pool! The water is noticeably cooler than at the beach. Dinner at the village taverna: there’s only one menu—meze starters, souvlaki, water, wine, and bread—all for 35 €! We think we’re dreaming—was there a mistake? No.

Saturday, 21/09: We discover the beach of the village of Myrtos, a small seaside resort that’s quite touristy but on a human scale. We swim in the western part of the beach, and once again, we’re alone in the water. The best part: warm water and tamarisk trees for welcome shade. There’s even a shower to rinse off! In the late afternoon, Pat and I decide to go for a hike in the Selakano pine forest. To get there, we take a narrow, winding, and poorly paved road after the village of Christos. Plus, at this altitude, we encounter clouds clinging to the mountain, so it’s drizzling, and visibility is reduced. We decide to turn back and return to Anatoli. As compensation, we take the path that passes in front of the lodging and leads us to the Timios Stavros chapel, which crowns the summit of the nearby mountain. We arrive at the summit just in time for the sunset at 7 p.m. Breathtaking 360° panorama and magnificent colors!

Sunset from Anatoli

Sunday, 22/09: This morning, Pat, Mimi, and I go for a hike in the Sarakina Gorge, located about 12 km from Anatoli via a beautiful road winding through irrigated olive groves. We park in the small parking lot before the trail. At the start, the path follows a levada (small irrigation canal) and quickly enters a very narrow gorge flanked by high cliffs. The riverbed is cluttered with huge rocks blocking the passage. No matter—in the technical sections, ropes or ladders allow us to overcome these obstacles with a bit of skill. You can imagine how quickly the riverbed must rise during a storm, given the narrowness of the gorge!

We progress slowly through this magnificent and impressive rocky chaos. At the exit of the gorge, we take another return path that partly follows the paved road. Back in Anatoli, we go to lunch at the Drygies taverna. We sit at the edge of the terrace under a huge tree that covers almost the entire terrace and order grilled lamb dishes prepared according to the ancient “antikristo” method.

Monday, 23/09: Departure for our last stop before Heraklion. We thought about swimming at Tertsa Beach, but it turns out to be less pleasant than expected, with pebbles and an uneven rocky plateau. So, we return to Myrtos Beach, which we know well and suits us perfectly. We head west, leaving the coast a bit. Around 3:30 p.m., we arrive at our destination in the village of Kamilari, near the famous Matala spot. We’ve rented a beautiful, modern, well-equipped apartment with a lovely shaded terrace. The owner is very friendly and explains everything necessary for a good stay. We explore the quite touristy village with its few tavernas, all full of tourists, mostly Germans.

Tuesday, 24/09: Visit to the village of Sivas, well restored thanks to the Germans, who have invested a lot here. We take the opportunity to scout out “friendly” tavernas, then go for a swim at Kalamaki Beach. Apart from a small sandy access, you have to enter the water via a chaotic limestone plateau—proof of this is that Monique trips slightly when entering the water. A group of very unfriendly German women blocks the sandy passage and doesn’t hesitate to push swimmers they deem too close. Back home, lunch, and a nap. In the late afternoon, we drive to visit the nearby Phaistos site. We benefit from very beautiful lighting. From the elevated site, we overlook the Messara Plain with a beautiful view of the olive grove checkerboards highlighted by the late afternoon sun. The site itself is quite vast, but to appreciate it, it’s better to read the explanatory panels placed throughout the different quarters. At this hour, the site is almost empty, and the beautiful light adds charm to the visit.

Wednesday, 25/09: Departure for the village of Matala, which doesn’t interest us in itself, having been there during the “hippie” era in 1976. However, going to Red Beach, only accessible by taking a path overlooking this area, appeals to us much more. We park in the large parking lot just outside the village and start our climb, which brings us to a pass from where we can admire this beautiful red-sand beach framed by beautiful cliffs plunging into the sea. The weather is magnificent, and at this early hour, there aren’t many people yet. We swim in the free part located near the cliff on the right when arriving at the beach. The sea is like glass, warm, and without a single ripple—a real treat! After half an hour, we turn back, and now there are many people rushing on this path, not at all made for feet in sandals or flip-flops, yet many vacationers venture out like this! Matala lives up to its image—a trendy place, full of shops, bars, and restaurants. You could be in any seaside resort with a standard global urbanism, lacking particular charm. Back home. In the late afternoon, a walk through the olive groves surrounding Kamilari, then dinner at Evangelina’s, who runs the Minoan Parassies taverna in the middle of the olive groves. Evangelina is quite a character: we came to reserve a table for 8 p.m. when it was only 7 p.m., but since we lingered near her restaurant, she prepares a table for us and urges us to sit down! And there she takes our order, and a little later, the meze arrive, followed by the main dishes. We finish this good dinner with several generous glasses of raki, accompanied by Evangelina’s encouragements, repeating “poya poya bravo bravo” in a loop. We’re in great shape too, by the way! We return in the middle of the night, on foot, fortunately, with the path vaguely lit by our phones...

Thursday, 26/09: This morning, we discover a new beach, Kommos Beach, not far from Kamilari either. It’s a long sandy beach, a small part of which is dedicated to paid umbrellas and sunbeds, and the rest is free. We spot a tamarisk tree to take shelter from the still-hot sun, and once again, we enjoy clear, warm water. The few swimmers spread out easily over nearly 500 meters of beach. In the late afternoon, Pat and I go to admire the sunset from the hill near our lodging. The hill, covered with olive trees, is threatened by a planned housing development of large cubic villas—trends dictate. Concrete never stops...

Friday, 27/09: We thought about leaving the car at the Odiyitria Monastery, the end of the paved road, but since the track descending to the cave remains drivable, we park 3 km further at the junction of the track leading to Kali Limenes Beach. We still have to walk for half an hour on a less drivable track, and then we’re at the entrance of the Farango Gorge. It’s a beautiful, easy hike since we follow the dry pebble riverbed. Before arriving at the beach, there’s a very beautiful small chapel sheltered under a large cliff, beautifully lit at this early hour.



Agio Farango Chapel

A few climbers are scaling the cliff, and about ten swimmers are enjoying the sea. Return to the car under the hot sun. In the late afternoon, we all return to visit the interesting Odiyitria Monastery. Last swim at Kommos Beach and an excellent dinner at the Sigelakis taverna in Sivas.

Saturday, 28/09: There’s an end-of-vacation atmosphere... We pack our bags and head north. A short stop to see the village of Vorri, and a little over an hour later, we arrive in the big city of Heraklion. Since it’s too early to check into the apartment, we park in the city center to visit the famous archaeological museum. It’s indeed a must-see highlight of our stay in Crete. All four of us are amazed by the quantity and quality of the objects presented from the Minoan civilization. After more than 2 hours, we come out without having seen everything, but we’re a bit overwhelmed by all these wonders. Lunch at a nice little taverna very close to the Titus Church. We go to take possession of our apartment—the same as on the way there, still just as satisfying. In the late afternoon, I go alone for a walk in the historic district of the city, passing by the Morosini Fountain, which is bustling with people—some seated at café terraces, others standing and chatting. There’s a lively atmosphere here. A little further on are the Venetian loggia and the Agios Titos Church. I walk down to the old Venetian port to stroll along the jetty and admire the fortifications under beautiful late-afternoon lighting, then return to the apartment. Dinner near our place at Kiriakis, a “chic” restaurant but with very reasonable prices and excellent cuisine.

Sunday, 29/09: Wake-up at 3:30 a.m., quick coffee, and drive to the nearby airport. We leave the car in the parking lot. Already a lot of people at this early hour. Since we don’t have checked luggage, we go straight to security, which goes fairly quickly, then it’s waiting time and takeoff on time in an Airbus A321 for a 45-minute flight to Athens. We take off again in another Airbus A321 with a 50-minute delay to arrive in Zurich at 11:10 a.m. local time. Then we have to take the train to Basel and then the one to Colmar. With fewer Sunday services, we won’t arrive in Colmar until around 4 p.m.

Conclusion All four of us returned very satisfied with this stay in Crete for several reasons: - We found superb beaches with clear, warm water and often very few vacationers. - The few hikes we did were magnificent, especially those where the trails went through gorges leading to deserted beaches. - We greatly appreciated Cretan gastronomy—there were so few disappointments that we can count them on one hand. - All the accommodations we booked turned out to be superb, with the icing on the cake being the very friendly welcome from our hosts. - Generally, contacts with Cretans were always very warm despite the language barrier—we speak a little Greek. - We also appreciated the diversity of landscapes in this eastern part of Crete, with plateaus and mountains with splendid rugged reliefs.

Note: The photo album is available by clicking on this link:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/hfdjQndA5eXkL5k7 Captions are only visible per photo by clicking on the circled “i” in the top right. Budget: approximately 3,300 € per couple for 21 days, including train and flights Budget details per couple: - Flight Zurich-Heraklion: 440 € - Trains Colmar-Basel-Zurich round trip for 4: 442.40 € (221 € per couple) - Accommodation: 2,431 € / 21 = 115.80 € per night for 4 (1,216 € per couple) - Car rental for 21 days: 684 € + 145 € fuel (1,150 km) (414 € per couple) - Restaurants, food, etc.: 1,009 €

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