The Miradouro São Leonardo de Galafura offers breathtaking views of the Douro River and terraced vineyards. This viewpoint, celebrated for its natural beauty, also holds cultural significance, featuring a tile panel with a quote by writer Miguel Torga, who praised the Douro as “a geological poem” and “an excess of nature.”
Tag Archives: nature
Birthday girl
On a sunny birthday in the Douro Valley, we celebrate with a boat trip, enjoying the stunning views and Port tastings along the river. The region is famous for iconic Port brands and picturesque estates like Quinta das Carvalhas, known for its spectacular vineyards and beautiful estate house.
Playa de Famara
Famara beach features over five kilometres of pale golden sand and is renowned for water sports such as surfing, body boarding, windsurfing, and kite surfing, thanks to its wave swells and consistent winds. The winds also contribute to the iconic sand dunes visible alongside the road.
Rock formations
Los Roferos, or Stratified city, is an abandoned quarry with uniquely eroded volcanic rock formations. Over thousands of years, natural elements have sculpted intriguing holes, tunnels, and caves, resulting in a surreal landscape. The continually changing site offers a captivating exploration opportunity, ideal for a brief half-hour visit.
Jardín de Cactus
The Jardín de Cactus in Guatiza features around 4,500 specimens from 450 species, representing 13 cactus families worldwide. Designed by César Manrique, this unique garden integrates vibrant architecture with its diverse cacti. Recognized internationally, it stands out as one of the most significant cactus gardens globally.
Island of extremes
Lanzarote is an island characterized by striking contrasts, featuring black lava landscapes that surprisingly support fertility. It offers stunning views, such as from the Mirador del Río, which overlooks the nearly uninhabited volcanic island of La Graciosa, situated just two kilometers north of Lanzarote across the Strait of El Río.
Cueva de les Verdes
La Cueva de los Verdes, located in the north of the island, is a remarkable cave system formed by an ancient lava tube approximately 3,000 years ago during the Monte Corona eruption. It spans nearly 8 kilometers and historically served as a refuge from Berber pirates, named after a local family.
The Sahara
We have reached the Sahara desert, embarking on a camel ride into its depths for a night of stargazing. Despite feeling awkward around camels, the stunning scenery captivates most people, allowing me to enjoy the experience while not worrying about my own discomfort….
Tinghir Valley
After a full day exploring we’re glad to stop in the relaxing little oasis of our Dades Valley hotel. After a relaxing night we’re heading out on our Dades and Tinghir valley exploration. Yet more stunning scenery speeds past us. We stop off in the town of Tinghir, a city in the region of Drâa-Tafilalet, southContinue reading “Tinghir Valley”
Todra Gorge
The Todra Gorge, or Toudgha Gorge, located in the Atlas Mountains near Marrakech, features stunning landscapes shaped by the River Todra over centuries. With canyon walls soaring over 400 meters high, the area resembles a prehistoric setting. A now-closed hotel at the gorge’s base once offered picturesque views but ceased operations due to rock fall hazards.