Around ACCORD 26 beautiful countries by PatMeteo

Goodbye, not farewell ...

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-07-17 11:42:52 UTC

Dear ALADIN, LACE, HIRLAM, GMAP, ECMWF and ACCORD colleagues,
in short, dear Friends,

It's with great emotion that I've come to say goodbye. I'm afraid I'm not very good at this, as those of you who were in Tallinn, who shared the last video meetings or who bumped into me in the office recently will know.

It's been a real pleasure working with you since the beginning of ACCORD, during the years of ALADIN-HIRLAM-LACE convergence and, for some of you, since the early days of ALADIN ... in the last century ("it was better than (we) expected" ... old ALADINers will understand).

Thank you for all the rich exchanges and pleasant moments spent together since the 90s, and for all your kind messages on the occasion of my departure.

I'm going to miss you, I already do (I really mean it).
Thank you to Anne-Lise, who will be taking over from me. It's reassuring to know that I'm leaving ACCORD's scientific secretariat in very capable hands, as well as the GMAP coffee fund !.
Thanks to my LACE friends, who made sure I visit Central Europe again in the years to come (I'll be going more than once, that's for sure, and attending some superb concerts).
Thanks to my GMAP colleagues, who made sure I have a good reason to come back to Toulouse, on a zero-carbon trip, and enjoy a gourmet dinner.

This is goodbye, not farewell. I'll be following ACCORD's adventures on the web and I intend to travel around our 26 beautiful countries, and I've kept your addresses, so who knows ?

See you soon, somewhere, sometime, and in the meantime, take care and please, let's keep in touch

Patricia

Bordeaux region

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-07-17 12:12:41 UTC

Departing from Toulouse, the first ACCORD country to be visited is logically ... France, with long-promised family visits, starting with the Bordeaux region, with its wine-growing and medieval châteaux and cathedrals.
The Château de Roquetaillade has been in several films, and also produces famous white Graves wines and raises Bazadais cattle. It also hosts seminars and claims that its park is the ideal setting for ice-breakers. Why not organise a next ACCORD ASW there ?

Plougastel-Daoulas peninsula

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-07-17 12:53:30 UTC

On the Plougastel-Daoulas peninsula, the sea is sometimes quite far away, so it's a good time to take a walk along the coastal path, waiting for the tide to be high enough to swim or low enough to pick up some seafood.
In the photo, the oyster beds are beginning to emerge from the water and there certainly isn't enough water for a swim, so a short walk to the harbour on the horizon is a must! A cup of tea overlooking the bay and the walk can continue towards some pretty chapels or a few menhirs.

The Côte de granite rose or Pink Granite Coast

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-07-17 16:12:14 UTC

A beautiful stretch of coastline, although very busy in July (expect crowded car parks and paths), but well worth an early morning walk or a visit outside the high season.

Vitré

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-07-17 16:28:50 UTC

Vitré is a medieval town of character, with a well-preserved historic centre. The majestic Château de Vitré, a veritable medieval masterpiece perched on a schist promontory, dominates the town from the top of its majestic towers and turrets.

Burgundy

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-08-16 13:27:04 UTC

Beaune, famous for the Hospice de Beaune (Hôtel-Dieu), a hospital created in the 15th century for the poor (and owner of a prestigious Burgundy wine estate), also offers beautiful walks through the vineyards and cruises or cycle paths along the nearby canals.

Alsace

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-08-16 13:27:24 UTC

Alsace is a diverse region that welcomes many visitors: the very beautiful villages (whose names would be unpronounceable to somebody from Toulouse) along the Alsace wine route are crowded in summer and at Christmas. The Vosges region offers quieter (and cooler) spots for hikers. Just avoid visiting the cols during the Tour de France !

Ile-de-France

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-08-16 16:51:02 UTC

I lived in the Paris suburbs during my first years at Météo-France. It's not a destination I would have chosen to visit at the end of August had it not been for the fact that my daughter is moving there to enter a Grande Ecole. Early September, we left her to her studies in mathematics and computer science, and start our tour of the ACCORD countries by the south-west, in Spain and Portugal.

Ainhoa

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-09-16 08:11:52 UTC

As the closure of the house for a few weeks requires a good deal of preparation, the departure is not early in the morning and the first stop is a close by, in the French Basque region, at Ainhoa.

Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-09-16 08:13:17 UTC

We generally avoid the big cities, but Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital of the Spanish Basque country, was well worth a stop, with its many pleasant parks and gardens (European Green Capital since 2012) and an interesting historic centre.

Tordesillas, Spain

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-09-16 08:13:40 UTC

The following Tuesday takes place the well-known tournament called, in spanish, "Torneo del Toro de la Vega", which has been celebrated for centuries. It is said to be one of the oldest and unique bullfighting rituals in Spain.
The whole town will be cordoned off for the running of the bulls, very strict rules have been passed and posted around town, and views of the Duero (better known by the name it takes in Portugal, the Douro) are condemned.

Bragança, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-20 11:20:47 UTC

A pleasant tour of the (intact) city walls and a stroll through the medieval streets.
We then headed for the Montesino nature park, but the weather did not allow us to visit (yellow alert for thunderstorms and rain over much of Portugal for the next 48 hours).

Vinhais, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-20 12:20:03 UTC

A quick tour of the old streets and the ruins of the castle built by Dinis 1st. This village of the devil is also on the edge of a natural reserve with plenty of opportunities for hiking... weather permitting!

Chaves, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-20 12:47:57 UTC

A brief break in the weather allowed us to visit Chaves, its medieval streets and the Roman remains of Aquae Flaviae (the name given to it by the emperor Flávio Vespasiano, who recognised the quality of its thermal waters). The Roman bridge or ponte de Trajano was built in the 1st century AD by the Romans. It spans the river Tâmega and was once one of the main means of communication between the north and south of the country. Today, it is still in use and is mainly used by pedestrians.

Guimarães, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-21 06:54:33 UTC

Guimarães campground is situated on the Monte da Penha. We were there during the annual pilgrimage, that gathers thousands of people (getting there by foot, bike, car, or using the cable car) for the ceremony when the Archpriests of Guimarães and Vizela pay hommage to the Lady and give a symbolic blessing to the city ... and for huge family picnics.

Guimarães, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-21 09:20:39 UTC

A whole day's visit wasn't even enough to take in the historic centre: graceful verandas, granite balconies and porticoes, town houses, arches linking the narrow streets, towers and cloisters, castles, ...

Amarante, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-21 11:46:56 UTC

A pleasant little town with an old centre reflected in the river. Lively and rather complicated as far as parking is concerned ... as is often the case in Portuguese towns, or maybe our van was a bit big!

Mesão Frio, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-21 12:46:34 UTC

The Douro valley offers some very beautiful landscapes, but unfortunately the cloud cover prevented my photos from reflecting their beauty.

Lamego, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-21 13:23:41 UTC

This small episcopal city has a picturesque quarter under the remains of the fortified castle and a cathedral with a beautiful Renaissance cloister. We did not climb the steps of the Sanctuary, which still bore the illuminations from the previous day's pilgrimage.

Pinhão, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-21 15:04:46 UTC

Much of the draw of Pinhão to the visitor is the journey here. Both car and train routes follow the course of the river as it winds its way through the terrace cut hills.

Sabrosa, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-22 05:52:48 UTC

Little remains of Magellan's house (so he wasn't "born with his feet in the water" as legend has it!) but the village is pleasant and the countryside is splendid. The Magellan-Elcano circumnavigation left Seville in 1519 under the orders of Fernand de Magellan in search of a sea route between Spain and East Asia via the Pacific Ocean. Magellan was not among the 18 survivors who returned to Seville in Sept. 1522 under the command of the Spanish explorer Juan Sebastián Elcano.

Picote, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-22 06:11:24 UTC

The national electricity company has built a lovely Miradouro (viewpoint) next to Picote: a glass platform above the canyon, from which you can enjoy a lovely view... if you're brave enough to stand on it after dealing with a few stray dogs.

Miranda do Douro, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-22 07:07:33 UTC

Miranda do Douro, on the Spanish border, is a pleasant place to visit, with the remains of its castle, its cathedral with its ruined cloister and its narrow streets of whitewashed houses. It is very popular with the Spaniards, who come here to shop for textiles, shoes and jewellery.
They speak 3 languages: Portuguese, Spanish and Mirandês (one of Portugal's official languages spoken in this region).

Torre de Moncorvo, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-22 08:50:59 UTC

Vila Nova de Foz Côa, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-22 12:06:31 UTC

We didn't have time to visit the museum before it closed or get to the outdoor rock engravings in the valley, but the viewpoint at the top of the museum over the Côa valley was magnificent.

Viseu, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-22 15:13:09 UTC

Viseu, considered the best in Portugal in the quality of life rankings, has a well-preserved historic centre, but the modern city is huge and parking facilities are limited. Nevertheless, after a very interesting visit, we still found our van (thanks to the GPS!).

Aveiro, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-22 16:15:07 UTC

The canals with their colourful "barcos moliceiros" are very pretty, and the city also has some pleasant old streets and squares. But why have huge works been carried out on all the banks of the central canal at the same time, leaving only a small photogenic section?

Praia de Mira, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-23 08:08:56 UTC

A short walk along the wooden path at the top of the dune in the beautiful late afternoon colours (night falls early, which solves the problem of the lack of shade in the campsites).

Praia de Mira, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-23 08:41:21 UTC

This traditional practice of fishing without a port still exists in Denmark although the catch is different. We'll have a look when visiting Denmark.

Ruínas de Conímbriga, Condeixa-a-Velha, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-23 08:46:09 UTC

The major excavations during the 20th century revealed a rich group of buildings, including baths, an aqueduct - running for more than 3,400 metres from the spring - and the remains of a Christian basilica that probably dates back to the 6th century.
The noble houses still retain their magnificent multicoloured mosaic floors. The House of Cantaber, a typical 3rd-century residence, is one of the largest in the whole of the western Roman world, and the Casa dos Repuxos (House of Fountains) is unique with its 569 m2 of illustrated mosaic floor and a central peristyle with ornamental flower beds and water jets.

Coimbra, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-23 10:34:53 UTC

Mythical spaces of university life, the Coimbra republics originated in the 14th century, when King D. Dinis built houses in the Almedina area to house university students, who paid a certain fee.
Over the centuries, these republics have acquired fame and their own traditions, and in 1957 the first code of practice came along to give them legal status and regulate their activities. Their values are community life and the defence of democracy.

Coimbra, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-23 11:07:49 UTC

We visited Coimbra's religious buildings between good showers: Sta-Clara-Nova (17th century, built to replace the old convent which was often flooded), the old convent Sta-Clara-Velha (13th century), convent for nuns built by the Holy Queen Isabelle, who was angry with the monks of the Sta Cruz monastery, our 3rd monastery/church/cloister visited today.

Idanha-a-Velha, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-23 11:35:14 UTC

The village is an open-air museum, with remains from many times, beautiful stone houses and lovely olive trees. In addition to the many explanatory panels, a dog 'guided' us throughout the visit. There are also some beautiful cork oaks in the area, their trunks very red when they have just been stripped of their bark.

Monsanto, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-24 07:50:22 UTC

The village offers a very interesting landscape: granite houses, red roofs and large granite blocks intermingle. Dominated by the huge fortress, it is built into the hillside with granite blocks forming the walls of the houses; in some cases, a single block of stone forms the roof and it is popularly said that the houses have "only one tile".

Tomar fortress and Convent, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-24 07:54:39 UTC

Enlarged and modified over the centuries, the Convent of Christ is an impressive, vast and splendid monument. Arriving at the opening, we were able to visit the magnificent cloisters, the Manueline window, the Templar rotunda, the dormitories and refectories... before (or between) the busloads of tourists of all nationalities.

Tomar city, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-24 13:18:13 UTC

Watered by the Nabao, Tomar's old town is a pleasant place to explore, with its medieval alleyways and majestic Republic Square.

Constância, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-24 13:30:52 UTC

With its white and ochre houses, illustrations of the works of a famous Portuguese poet, and pleasant riverbanks at the confluence of the Tagus and Zêzère rivers, Constância would be almost bucolic... if there wasn't a paper mill nearby, bathing Constância in an unpleasant odour, depending on the direction of the wind.

Almourol Castle, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-24 15:03:14 UTC

The castle really looks great on its rock! We didn't visit it (you need a boat to get there and there were none at the pier). However, a large Miradouro (viewpoint) has been built on the opposite bank, with a restaurant in high season.

Batalha Monastery, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-25 08:26:31 UTC

A huge monastery, with an ... uncertain tour plan, especially as no documentation is provided at the entrance. Numerous cloisters, very pretty, impressive church (tombs of King John I and his wife Philippa), chapter house with a vault of exceptional boldness (the architect had to take 3 attempts to launch a vault 20m square, without intermediate supports (15th century), unfinished chapels (vast pantheon dreamed of by Edward I but where he alone rests).

Alcobaça Monastery, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-25 09:06:26 UTC

A great visit to this vast monastery, which we managed to explore by navigating between the groups. The church is impressive.

This is also the city of cakes, with its annual "Mostra Internacional de Doces Conventuais" festival, heir to the gastronomic traditions of the Cistercian monks and nuns who have lived in the region for over eight centuries.

Nazaré, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-25 09:36:52 UTC

The big waves weren't there when we got there. As the weather was not very inviting either, the famous Nazaré beach, a large stretch of sand in the shape of a crescent moon, did not attract the usual crowd of surfers and their spectators lying on the colourful sunbeds.

Óbidos, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-26 14:35:26 UTC

Óbidos takes its name from the Latin Oppidum ("fortified town" or "citadel") and offers a lovely walk along the ramparts (6km of crenellated ramparts 15m high 🥶... also stressful for those with vertigo or simply unsteady feet or when you have to pass a queue of visitors !) but with lovely views over the medieval lanes and surrounding countryside.

Ericeira, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-27 08:36:18 UTC

A traditional fishing village, Ericeira has developed enormously during the 20th century due to the growing interest in it as a summer resort. It has, however, maintained a nice historical center with its narrow streets.

Its beaches are very crowded during the summer and are considered among the best in Europe for surfing.

Lisbon, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-27 12:14:07 UTC

As we had already visited Lisbon, Sintra and Cascais on a previous trip in 2018, and it was EWGLAM week so IPMA friends were either in Reykjavik or busy following the meeting online, we simply crossed Lisbon and reached the south bank of the Tagus via the pretty 25 April Bridge, reminiscent of San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge and offering a beautiful view of the Jerominos Monastery, the Tower of Belém, the Monument to the Discoveries, etc.

Sesimbra, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-28 09:46:06 UTC

The "Regata de Aiolas" The "Regata de Aiolas", a race of traditional coloured wooden fishing boats (called aiolas) with two rowers, has been held every year at the end of September in Sesimbra Bay for over 75 years. The teams were actively training when we visited.

Montemor-o-Novo, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-28 10:03:03 UTC

Montemor-o-Novo, the birthplace of Saint-Jean-de-Dieu (15th century), the founder of the Hospitaller Brothers, boasts a vast 12th-century fortified castle that the municipality is clearly trying to promote (work, signs, excavations). It is also a popular place for walks (and picnics) for the locals.

Arraiolos, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-28 11:58:44 UTC

The landscape has changed radically as we enter the Alentejo, much drier, with vast fields of olive trees or cork oaks (widely spaced), and even cactus crops. The weather is also more pleasant, with very mild evenings, beautiful light at sunset and sunrise... and very hot afternoons on the castels ramparts.

Castelo de Vide, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-29 16:12:54 UTC

Castelo de Vide is a pretty white (and ochre or blue) village enclosed within its walls and dominated by a castle. It is one of countless fortified villages along the border with Spain, many of which face ... a Spanish fortified village.

Many cats have taken up residence in these narrow streets.

Marvão, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-29 16:13:24 UTC

As well as its castle, magnificent walls, narrow streets, churches, museum, etc. Marvão offers magnificent views over the region. A visit at the end of the afternoon and a second visit early the next morning allowed us to enjoy this charming village in different lights, to admire the landscapes, the vultures soaring above the castle... away from the daytime crowds.

Elvas, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-30 14:33:47 UTC

Close to the border, Elvas fought repeatedly to preserve Portugal's independence, but you'd need wings to appreciate the size and star shape of its 10km of fortifications.

Estremoz, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-30 14:33:57 UTC

The gigantic white central square (Rossio) is still being renovated, but it is possible to climb the Citadel Watchtower (now part of the Pousada), which offers a circular view of the city and the Alentejo countryside.

Évora, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-10-30 14:34:28 UTC

Évora is a very pleasant place to stroll around on foot, with its narrow streets, sunny squares, gardens and numerous monuments: the pretty Roman temple, of course, the cathedral, whose tower offers lovely views over the city and the cloister, the church of San Francisco and its "Capela dos Ossos".

Marvão, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-01 15:37:34 UTC

Road lined with cork oaks on leaving Marvão

Évora, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-03 10:49:18 UTC

The church of San Francisco and its "Capela dos Ossos".

In the 16th century, the 42 monastic cemeteries in the city of Évora took up too much space and were overflowing with bones due to the numerous plague epidemics. The Franciscan monks decided to exhume the bones of the dead and use them to create a chapel of bones bearing the inscription "Nós ossos que aqui estamos pelos vossos esperamos" ("We, the bones here present, are waiting for yours to join us").

Monsaraz, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-03 13:12:13 UTC

You'll need to arrive early to enjoy the peace and quiet of this small medieval town with its white streets, and visit the castle with its beautiful views over the olive groves, the vast vineyards and the left bank of the Guadiana.

Mourão, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-03 14:38:03 UTC

Much less frequented by tourists than its neighbour Monsaraz, Mourão is a pleasant town (perhaps a little less so when climbing the ramparts at 35°C), set in a landscape of lakes created by dams on the Guadiana.

Menhir dos Almendres, Nossa Senhora de Guadalupe, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-03 15:55:40 UTC

The Evora region is rich in menhirs and dolmens... the megalithic trail was supposed to take us to the Cromeleque dos Almendres. Unfortunately, only the large menhir was accessible in September 2023. A short path (already very hot at 9am) led us to this large menhir in a landscape of olive trees, very different from that of the Breton menhirs !

Viana do Alentejo, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-03 15:56:24 UTC

For the first time in Portugal, we parked right in front of the castle we wanted to visit (we always leave the van before entering the historic center). There was no signposted parking in the village, and rough directions led us down narrow streets where it was difficult to squeeze in, without even thinking about parking... so we found ourselves in front of the castle just as we were about to abandon the visit! This would have been a shame, as the tour was very interesting.

Beja, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-03 17:36:08 UTC

Now a museum, but closed for renovation at the time of our visit, the Convent of Notre Dame de la Conception is famous for the "letters of the Portuguese nun": published anonymously in Paris in 1669, the letters are now considered to be a work of fiction by Gabriel de Guilleragues, rather than a translation of letters in which a Franciscan nun from Beja declared her forbidden love for a French knight.

Villa romana de São Cucufate, Vila de Frades, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-03 17:36:57 UTC

This lovely Roman site, built in a beautiful setting, has been the subject of exhaustive modern excavations, which have made it possible to reconstruct the evolution of this vast residence, its floors, its temple transformed into a Christian chapel, its terms, ... Olive trees, vineyards and water supply concerns were already part of daily life in Cucufate in Roman times.

Vila Ruiva, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-03 17:37:25 UTC

Vineyards and fields are crushed under the sun, and villages dazzle with the whiteness of their narrow streets and churches.

Markádia, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-05 14:15:14 UTC

Many Portuguese people set up permanent caravans on campsites, where they gather at weekends to share large barbeques, from grandparents to great-grandchildren.

Zambujeira do Mar, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-05 14:17:21 UTC

With its attractive seafront, Zambujeira do Mar is a popular stopover for the many hikers and bikers who follow the Fishermen's Trail, a 226 km-long trek along Portugal's south-west coast, linking the towns of São Torpes and Lagos via Cape St. Vincent (Cabo de São Vicente), the extreme south-western point of Europe.

Markádia, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-08 12:41:23 UTC

In October, the days are already quite short, but the lights of the setting sun are truly beautiful!

Farol Cabo Sardão, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-08 13:27:20 UTC

A short walk along the magnificent fishermen's path around the Cabo Sardão lighthouse.

Praia de Monte Clérigo, Aljezur, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-08 13:49:45 UTC

Monte Clérigo, another magnificent beach on the Vicentine coast

Bordeira's beach, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-08 14:04:17 UTC

Peu de baigneurs mais de très nombreux surfeurs sur la longue plage de sable de Bordeiras, protégée par des dunes. De nombreux promeneurs aussi. Des pontons ont été aménagés pour empêcher le piétinement d'une flore très fragile.

Cabo de São Vicente, Sagres, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-08 14:13:00 UTC

Despite a hazy sun, an early start was essential (there were lots of people afterwards, especially as we were there during the week of the annual seabird-watching festival). Beautiful scenery, but few birds (apart from seagulls) and a difficult route along the cape (2.5 hours for 5 km!).

Sagres Fortress, Sagres, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-08 14:13:12 UTC

The vast fortress of Sagres occupies the entire headland. The perimeter of the promontory, the fort and its museums attract huge numbers of visitors and ... many fishermen-acrobats who take up position on the impressive escarpments.

Praia da Marinha, Seven hanging valleys trail

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-09 09:43:50 UTC

The Seven Hanging Valleys trail offers REALLY magnificent panoramas along the way. We walked it early before the crowds (it's reputed to be the most beautiful walk in Portugal) at a very slow pace, due to the stony path, which was not very passable despite the facilities (steps, ramps, ropes) and the many turns and photo stops.

Praia da Marinha, Nossa Senhora da Rocha

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-09 13:09:48 UTC

There were a few people on the way back along the path (though not as many as on the 7 valleys path). Still quite a few very efficient acrobatic fishermen (good catches).

Ponta da Piedade, Lagos, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-09 14:55:25 UTC

Ponta da Piedade is a very well-developed area (miles of pontoons around the cape, staircases leading to sumptuous coves) and very busy, just a few kilometres from Lagos, a seaside resort that is very well built up and developing.

Lagos, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-09 17:12:54 UTC

The slave market was closed, but the pedestrianised centre is pleasant and the "Caravel boa esperança" (caravel of good hope) was docked: a replica of the ship used by Bartolomé Díaz when he rounded the Cape of Good Hope in 1488. She can be seen sailing along the Algarve coast.

Alvor, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-09 17:14:54 UTC

More pontoons for strolling around the lagoon. A Mecca for birdwatchers, they say. That Sunday afternoon, the only things flying around were kite-surfs, parachutes, pétanque balls (a big tournament is under way)... and a few skylarks and seagulls.

Caldas de Monchique, Monchique, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-10 09:22:19 UTC

A century before Christ, the waters of Monchique were already being used by the Romans to cure fatigue of body and soul, who called them "sacred waters", as evidenced by numerous important archaeological finds from the areas adjacent to the spring. Nowadays, tourists and hikers come to fill large jerry cans at the Lovers' Fountain.

Silves, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-10 09:23:17 UTC

From the "Roman" bridge (dating back to the 14th century!) over the Arave to the castle that dominates the old town and its well-preserved manorial buildings, Silves is a pleasant and lively town, particularly during the Silves Medieval Fair, which brings to life the Moors and Christians of the time of the Christian Reconquest.

Milreu, Estoi, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-10 09:24:22 UTC

The area around Milreu has always been suitable for agricultural "villas", and in the 15th century another villa was built on part of the Roman structures and mosaics, which can still be seen in the white house.

Querença, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-11 13:20:07 UTC

The small village of Querença has developed agri-tourism, promoting the traditional characteristics of the rural area. It stands out as a privileged tourist area, offering an attractive alternative to the coastal areas of the Algarve.

Laguna Praia de Faro

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-12 11:53:06 UTC

For our first contact with the Ria Formosa, we walked around the lagoon at the Praia de Faro, a protected area "bucolicly" situated at the end of the runways at Faro airport. Neither herons, egrets, storks, flamingos and other seabirds nor the shellfish fishermen seem to care.

Olhão, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-12 12:35:17 UTC

Olhão is a busy fishing port (tuna, sardines, canneries), with a beautiful historic market where you could find, unsurprisingly, some wonderful fresh fish (it's a shame that seafood isn't as plentiful - it's much easier to prepare it on a campsite!)

Marim Environmental Education Centre, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-12 13:00:26 UTC

Interesting and beautiful visit. Iberian magpies (blue), ospreys, egrets, stilts, redhorses, ... an old tide mill, an old Arab well.

The park's interpretation centre also serves as headquarters and museum. IPMA colleagues enjoyed a magnificent view from its roof terrace, which they shared with us.

Fuseta, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-12 13:29:23 UTC

With a large beach on the lagoon side and another on the island opposite, miles of shoreline, beautifully coloured water, pleasure boats and fish restaurants, Fuzeta attracts a huge number of tourists.

Reserva Natural do Sapal, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-12 14:53:46 UTC

The reserve was well signposted at the entrance but not the trails. We wandered around the salt marshes, saw lots of birds (an osprey, pink flamingos, egrets, cormorants, herons, stilts, avocets, etc.) and managed to find our way back along the banks of the canals and retention basins without being caught by the rising tide.

Castro Marim, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-12 14:54:16 UTC

A very quiet village at this time of year and in the middle of the day. Apart from a hoopoe, we didn't see many people on the castle hill (good views of the salt marshes in operation, the reserve and the castro).

Tavira, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-12 14:56:39 UTC

Tavira is a very pleasant town, with walks along the river, old white streets, churches and a colourful market. It attracts many Spanish visitors at weekends.

Mértola, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-12 14:57:20 UTC

The many remains from Roman, Moorish and medieval times have been brought to life thanks to the work of archaeologists who created an innovative open museum concept. The narrow flower-lined streets with their beautiful traditional houses, the pretty views from the bridge and the castle complete this interesting visit.

Serpa, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-12 14:58:05 UTC

A pretty castle, miles of ramparts from which you can enjoy beautiful views despite the rather grey skies, which come to life in beautiful colours at sunset.

Amêndoeira da Serra, Mértola, Portugal

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-12 14:59:04 UTC

We didn't see any lynx, just the "beware of Iberian lynx" signs... it was in this park that the first lynx release took place in 2015.

Olivenza, Spain

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-14 07:02:12 UTC

Olivenza has been described as a Spanish town with a Portuguese soul. In fact, its white streets and city walls resemble those of its Portuguese neighbours, such as Serpa. A visit under a bright blue sky after the morning's heavy rain.

Mérida, Spain

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-14 07:03:03 UTC

Of the exceptional Roman heritage announced by the green guide, we only had time to visit the amphitheatre and its gladiators (14,000 spectators after all), the Roman road with its speed bumps (already!), and the magnificent theatre built by Agrippa in 24 BC.

An exceptional heritage indeed !

Nuévalos, Spain

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-14 07:43:46 UTC

A pretty little village, a low-lying reservoir, cliffs populated by vultures, giving the impression of uncontrolled landings!

This part of Aragon is really pretty. It's a shame that a succession of storms meant we had to cross quickly to get home.

Back home, Nov. 2023

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-16 11:08:07 UTC

Back home, it was time to update this travel blog. I wasn't able to do it in real time (which leaves room for improvement on the next trip).

Mid-November: the blog is up to date and the Volume 1 of "Patricia around ACCORD 26 beautiful countries" is ready: it's the slideshow version of this blog (in chronological order, whereas the blog is in reverse order). See: Patricia-ACCORD_countries_Vol1.pdf

Preparing for 2024 spring trip

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-11-16 12:51:12 UTC

I'm working on an itinerary ...

ECMWF, Shinfield Road, Reading, UK

pottierpatmeteo — 2023-12-07 09:31:01 UTC

Well, UK is not an ACCORD country but Daniel and Piet invited me to join them at the ACCORD Assembly dinner in Reading on 4 December. I was so delighted to see the Assembly Members again.

Thank you so much.

Toulouse

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-05-29 16:10:50 UTC

The winter months of 2024 were devoted to replacing our tiny house-on-wheels and preparing our spring trip to Slovenia, Croatia, Austria ... The 3-month itinerary was ready, but ... due to family problems, I initially considered postponing the trip for a shorter period, but at the beginning of May, the only solution was to cancel the spring trip. On the positive side, everything is ready for a 3-month spring trip... in 2025!

Between doctors and hospitals, the family visits provided the opportunity for some nice sightseeing in Brittany and Aquitaine.

Jonzac

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-06-03 11:35:25 UTC

Jonzac in Haute-Saintonge boasts a majestic château rising above the Seugne, medieval streets and a spa (Jonzac's water is almost as famous as the surrounding Cognac vineyards).

Camaret-sur-Mer

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-06-03 11:48:26 UTC

Brittany also means refreshing swimming and delicious crêpes and galettes !

Domaine de Trévarez, Saint-Goazec

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-06-03 12:14:35 UTC

The late-winter camellias had given way to rhododendrons during our visit at the end of April (a collection of 600 varieties), which will be followed in summer by hydrangeas, the emblematic plant of Brittany.

Réserve du Cap Sizun, Kerisit, Goulien

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-06-03 13:04:47 UTC

We didn't see all the species that are used to this area, but we did see a few whinchat, gulls, drake thrushes, melodious linnets, kestrels, skylarks and red-billed choughs, ...

Meschers, on the Gironde estuary

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-06-03 13:18:45 UTC

Most of the permanent carrelets in the Royan area date back to the 1950s, when they became small holiday homes where wealthy customers fished for pleasure. However, many of these pontoons failed to withstand the storm of 1999 and had to be rebuilt.

Blaye impressive citadel

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-06-03 13:19:08 UTC

The citadel of Blaye is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It preserves intact the defense system put in place by Vauban with its 1,5 km of ramparts, its gates and its underground passages as well as the buildings necessary for the proper functioning of a garrison: former convent, prison, barracks, powder magazine, etc. 1 500 soldiers at the time of Vauban, more than 30 hectares of fortification.

Lauzerte: pretty village crossed by one of the many Compostelle trails

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-06-03 13:19:47 UTC

indeed, many pilgrims on the currently (beginning of May) very muddy GR / sentier de Saint-Jacques de Compostelle which links some beautiful bastides in the region

Activities during periods of immobility

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-06-03 13:21:07 UTC

Agurimini or a manual activity to occupy the long waits at the hospital to visit my parents after their car accident. Having had to postpone our big spring trip, I consoled myself with the thought that I would have the opportunity to say hello to the ACCORD colleagues who were taking part in the Strategic Workshop in Toulouse, but ... as nothing is going according to plan this year, I fractured my foot just before the Workshop. So I wasn't able to go and meet my colleagues, and the trip has definitely been postponed until spring 2025.

So the agurimini are multiplying ...

Gastronomic experience in Toulouse

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-06-09 16:59:44 UTC

To celebrate almost 1 year of retirement with the gift from my GMAP colleagues, we had a wonderful gastronomic experience with the ‘Spectacle en 8 services’ menu at the Py-R restaurant in Toulouse. Everything, from the appetisers, starters, main courses, pre-dessert, dessert and post-dessert, was a feast for the eyes and the palate, very well arranged, very tasty and original.

Immortal orchid !

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-06-18 08:40:13 UTC

The orchid that my colleagues at GMAP gave me when I left didn't survive, even though I bathed it and talked to it (I really don't have a green thumb)! I took advantage of my prolonged immobility to replace it with a crocheted version, which should survive!

Regular garden visitors (1)

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-08-14 08:58:40 UTC

While we were stuck at home, these acrobats paid us a visit !

Garden visitors (bon appetit)

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-08-14 09:27:31 UTC

picnics and feeding the little ones in our garden

Shy, discreet visitors

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-08-14 09:52:38 UTC

Cuckoos are often heard, but rarely seen. Woodpeckers are also noisy and often harder to spot than this green woodpecker ! Squirrels and jays are common, but reluctant to wait for the photographer's click.

Garden regular visitors (2)

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-08-14 10:05:56 UTC

Thanks for visiting, guys !

Birds of prey

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-08-14 11:28:05 UTC

OK, so we may have lured this kite into our garden with a few treats while he was flying over the neighbourhood in search of his lunch !

Bourbon-l'Archambault

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-08-27 11:34:41 UTC

A pleasant stopover between Toulouse and Strasbourg, with light shows on the ruins in summer

Langres

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-08-27 11:53:38 UTC

Traenheim

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-08-28 12:54:41 UTC

Alsace's vineyards are great for walking and cycling, and the countryside is also popular with birds of prey and storks (Alsace's emblematic bird).

Rhine Falls, Neuhausen am Rheinfall, Switzerland

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-05 13:36:11 UTC

Despite the clouds and the fact that the falls are not at their peak at this time of year, the area is packed with tourists from midday onwards, attracted by this impressive water spectacle.

Stein am Rhein, Switzerland

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-05 13:51:40 UTC

On Sunday afternoon, the well preserved old streets were so crowded with pedestrians and cyclists that it was impossible to take photos! Early the next morning, we had them almost to ourselves.

Lindau (Bodensee), Germany

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-05 14:17:51 UTC

Hall in Tirol, Austria

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-05 14:37:33 UTC

At the top of the 185 steps of the tower, you can enjoy a splendid view of the town, the long Inntal valley and the Karwendel Massif.

Salzburg, Austria

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-13 14:22:56 UTC

Many thanks to my LACE friends for this splendid first concert in the Royal Hall of the Salzburg Fortress.

Salzburg, Austria

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-13 14:54:56 UTC

What better way to round off a second day in Salzburg than with a beautiful concert given by a virtuoso pianist?

Mauthausen, Austria

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-14 13:29:55 UTC

Melk, Austria

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-14 13:46:25 UTC

Not many photos, given the weather, the large number of visitors... and the fact that it was forbidden to film the most beautiful interiors, such as the library!

Častá-Červený Kameň

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-14 13:48:32 UTC

We leave Austria for Slovakia (Bratislava Castle glimpsed from the ring road) to the very interesting Cerveny Castle (fortunately a paper translation is provided for those who don't understand the guided tour in Slovak only!)

Bojnice Castle, Zámok a okolie, Bojnice

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-14 14:20:15 UTC

Banská Štiavnica

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-15 15:23:06 UTC

Articular wooden church in Hronsek (UNESCO), Augusta Horislava Krčméryho, Hronsek

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-15 15:35:31 UTC

Cyclone Boris is approaching and the weather is not looking good ...

Tatranská Štrba

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-15 15:50:29 UTC

Bears seem to be an integral part of the landscape, present everywhere in the form of wooden statues, paintings, .... There are organised hikes to try and see them, but the weather was definitely discouraging.

Vlkolínec (UNESCO), Dolina Šepková, Ružomberok-Vlkolínec

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-16 07:02:06 UTC

one of the region's most interesting open-air museums

Svätý Kríž, Drevený artikulárny kostol

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-16 16:05:49 UTC

These Protestant churches obeyed strict building regulations (no doubt intended to discourage their construction), such as the requirement that they be completed in less than a year

Orava Castle, Oravský Podzámok

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-16 16:07:12 UTC

A pretty castle where you can meet Dracula !

Kysucké múzeum Čadca - Múzeum kysuckej dediny, Nová Bystrica, Slovakia

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-18 15:05:57 UTC

a bucolic visit to a vast open-air museum, made all the more enjoyable by the return of the sun !

Terchová-Štefanová, Slovakia

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-18 15:07:43 UTC

As well as a visit to the statue of Slovakia's Robin Hood, this mountainous region is a popular destination for hikers and cyclists.

Lednicei kastély, Zámek, Lednice na Moravě

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-22 13:58:11 UTC

The region around the villages of Letnice-Vlatice and Lake Sledec is a pleasant stopover on the way to the Czech Republic from Slovakia, with a mix of cultural visits, birdwatching and numerous cycling excursions.

Sedlec: bike, bird and wine !

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-22 14:01:38 UTC

the quote ‘don't drink and drive’ doesn't seem to apply to bikes on the wine cycle paths around here ...

Telč Chateau, náměstí Zachariáše z Hradce, Telč

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-24 14:51:47 UTC

A very pretty town indeed, even if the castle park (and campsite) was closed following the recent bad weather.

Slavonice

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-24 14:52:50 UTC

A road through ‘Czech Canada’ (a protected natural site named for its deep forests and numerous bodies of water) leads to this former relay station on the Prague-Vienna road and its decorated house pediments, unchanged since they were built by Renaissance architects.

Jindřichův Hradec, Czechia

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-25 15:19:59 UTC

More lively than Slavonice, Jindřichův Hradec also has an old town centre with decorated house pediments (a little crowded with parked cars, though) and a vast pond.

Třeboň, Czechia

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-25 15:33:24 UTC

Třeboň's main square, the castle and its park certainly deserved more sunshine (and fewer cars!).

Český Krumlov, Český Krumlov 1, Czechia

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-28 14:53:39 UTC

a magnificent old town, very well preserved, to be visited early in the morning or in the evening, before or after the arrival of groups of tourists ... although given the extent of the medieval streets, it's great to spend a whole day wandering around.

Rožmberk nad Vltavou, Czechia

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-28 14:54:33 UTC

A narrow road along the Vtava (currently very high in its bed) leads from Český Krumlov to Rožmberk, a small town nestled in a meander of the Vtava.

Kutná Hora 1, Czechia

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-09-29 14:14:51 UTC

On the outskirts of Kutná Hora, the Sedlec ossuary, one of the most visited monuments in the Czech Republic, contains the skeletons of over 50,000 people, many of whom have been artistically arranged to form decorations and furniture for the chapel. Photography is strictly forbidden... so no photos!

Prachovske Skaly, Zámostí-Blata-Jičín 1, Czechia

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-10-04 15:11:56 UTC

Lost in Bohemian paradise ...

Hrubá Skála, Czechia

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-10-04 15:27:56 UTC

Back to paradise ... paradise for hikers, climbers and mushroom pickers in this season

Praha, Czechia

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-10-04 15:28:33 UTC

Prague will always be Prague ... indeed, a so beautiful town !

Praha, Czechia

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-10-06 16:23:41 UTC

An enchanted moment, Mozart himself conducting his Magic Flute !!!

Praha, Czechia

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-10-07 05:36:48 UTC

Praha, Czechia

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-10-07 06:39:54 UTC

EWGLAM dinner and traditional singing show !

Mariënbad, Mariánské Lázně 1, Czechia

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-10-08 15:29:07 UTC

Final stopover in Marienbad in the Czech Republic, before heading back to Toulouse.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-10-10 13:48:36 UTC

Saint-Valery-sur-Somme

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-10-14 11:27:15 UTC

The Baie de Somme has much to offer nature lovers and history buffs alike. We'll make up for this too-short visit on a future trip to Belgium and the Netherlands.

Toulouse

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-10-14 11:27:44 UTC

It's now time to prepare for the next trips.

Toulouse

pottierpatmeteo — 2024-11-20 09:18:26 UTC

Réserve Ornithologique Du Teich

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-05-29 09:57:23 UTC

among the birds seen in Paril: grey heron, shelduck, great cormorant drying its feathers, little egret, black-tailed godwit, white stilt, elegant avocet, ...

Parc du Marquenterre

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-05-29 09:58:13 UTC

Most of the birds were busy nesting or feeding their young in early May, undeterred by the sudden arrival of a thick fog along a strip of coastline a few kilometres long encompassing the park.

Gujan-Mestras

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-05-29 10:44:06 UTC

The coastline and its path are home to many swallows, sparrows (including one with a surprising plumage, described as aberrant by specialists) and other passerines, along with seabirds

Savonnières

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-05-29 10:45:14 UTC

The morning mists bring out the peaceful character of the riverbanks, disturbed only by the sweep of terns in full fishing mode

Cayeux-sur-Mer

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-05-29 10:45:35 UTC

The large pebbles make walking on the beach unpleasant, even difficult, and the weather discourages any potential swimmers.

Blankenberge

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-05-31 09:39:24 UTC

A very pleasant stay in Blankenberge, courtesy of Piet, Daniel and our friends from RMI. The Mercure hotel is definitely more comfortable than camping (even in our nice van), and Blankenberge has some very good restaurants (with mussels and Belgian fries, of course!)....

Damme

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-05-31 09:43:38 UTC

For centuries, Damme has battled against the water... resulting in some very pretty nature reserves.

Uitkerkse Polder, Blankenberge

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-05-31 09:44:12 UTC

We saw many animals in this reserve near Blankenberge: spoonbills, shelducks, reed warblers, herons, curlews, meadowlarks, oystercatchers, titmice, a few birds of prey, and a rabbit...

De Fonteintjes Reserve, Bruges

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-05-31 09:49:28 UTC

Birds look as much at the photographer as the photographer looks at them!

Lierre

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-06-01 06:58:06 UTC

Little Bruges is a very pleasant town indeed !

Dordrecht

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-06-01 07:21:48 UTC

Holland is the land of water, and a visit to Dordrecht illustrates this well with its labyrinth of canals, river ports and easy access to the windmills of Kinderdijk and De Biesbosch National Park, an artificial area turned nature reserve!

Nationaal Park De Biesbosch

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-06-01 07:22:24 UTC

The beaver, the symbol of the park, has taken up residence here, but we weren't lucky enough to catch a glimpse of it. On the other hand, the numerous geese, herons, storks, swans, great crested grebes and coots were much less discreet... not to mention a colony of ring-necked parakeets...

Kinderdijk

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-06-01 07:22:39 UTC

A lot of visitors in this emblematic Dutch landscape, especially at the start of the walk along the first mills, with fewer people and more birds as you move away from the entrance!

Lommel Reserve

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-06-01 07:24:39 UTC

The reserve offers some pleasant, quiet walks (at least outside weekends) and a varied landscape. The Sahara of Lommel is perhaps a bit of an exaggeration to describe the sandy part of the reserve!

De Wijers nature reserve

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-06-01 07:27:05 UTC

An abundance of birds, passerines, seabirds, birds of prey, frogs... but the ones who are really at home in the reserve are the geese. They have really invaded the reserve and the surrounding leisure areas, totally indifferent to the presence of walkers, cyclists or bathers in the authorised lakes.

Blankaart

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-06-01 07:27:53 UTC

We initially came to see the white-tailed eagles, but there's so much more to see in the Blankaart reserve.

Étretat

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-06-01 07:31:30 UTC

Etretat really does attract a lot of visitors (and it's true that it's pretty!): come off-season, outside weekends and public holidays, and stroll along the coastal path to enjoy the scenery more peacefully, or even come across some rather shy birds, such as the Eurasian Warbler or the grey warbler

Baie du Mont-Saint-Michel

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-06-01 07:32:58 UTC

The Bay of Mont Saint-Michel is a important shellfish-growing area, as the large surface area of the foreshore is ideal for the cultivation of numerous flat and hollow oysters, mussels, ... While visitors flock to the Mont and Cancale, nature lovers enjoy, out of season, the peace and quiet of nature reserves and protected areas.

Fécamp

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-06-01 07:37:12 UTC

Fécamp is a good base for visiting Etretat, offering beautiful sunsets, pleasant walks, an active port and plenty of opportunities for water sports or hiking enthusiasts.

Pointe du Grouin

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-06-01 07:38:21 UTC

At the time of our visit, in addition to the seabirds around the island, many rather uncommun passerines were giving a concert on the promontory, including white-throats, melodious linnets and speckled accentors

Back Home

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-06-01 07:42:09 UTC

This shortened spring trip included a very pleasant stay in Blankenberge, courtesy of Piet, Daniel and friends from the RMI, as well as comforting walks and sightings in bird reserves, marshes and polders which added to our bird portfolio! poster in preparation ...

Blankaart +++

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-06-03 09:00:52 UTC

Meet Betty and Paul. They are the first and currently only white-tailed eagles to nest and raise young in Belgium in decades. They deserved a big zoom, binoculars and a few attempts at digiscoping !!!

Happy New Year 2025

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-06-04 09:23:28 UTC

Toulouse

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-08-22 15:33:42 UTC

August 2025: final preparations for a trip through Slovenia and Croatia, from Lake Bohinj to the walls of Dubrovnik, from Istria to the Croatian interior, discovering landscapes, nature, history... and meeting friends from LACE.

Vaison-la-Romaine

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-08-29 14:50:03 UTC

Les Alberts, Montgenèvre

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-08-30 15:10:47 UTC

Iseo, Province of Brescia, Italy

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-01 12:53:49 UTC

Štanjel Castle, Štanjel

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-03 16:28:41 UTC

Šmartno

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-04 16:28:46 UTC

Vipava Valley

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-05 05:25:05 UTC

Tolmin Gorges, Slovenia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-06 15:21:36 UTC

Kobarid, Slovenia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-06 15:46:28 UTC

Bohinjsko jezero, Slovenia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-06 16:02:12 UTC

Bohinjska Bistrica, Slovenia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-08 15:57:47 UTC

Vintgar Gorge, Zgornje Gorje, Slovenia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-10 12:20:37 UTC

Bled, Slovenia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-10 12:39:11 UTC

Planina Zajamniki

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-10 12:51:33 UTC

Ljubljana, Slovenia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-10 12:53:40 UTC

Many thanks to my Slovenian friends for inviting me as a surprise guest to the LSC dinner!

Predjama Castle, Predjama, Slovenia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-17 15:47:06 UTC

Lake Cerknica (1), Slovenia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-17 16:04:58 UTC

Lake Cerknica (2), Slovenia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-17 16:16:42 UTC

Plitvice Lakes National Park (1), Croatia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-18 14:09:44 UTC

Plitvice Lakes National Park (2), Croatia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-18 14:17:08 UTC

Klis Fortress, Croatia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-19 14:59:02 UTC

Omiš, Croatia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-19 15:17:48 UTC

Korčula, Croatia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-20 05:34:13 UTC

Stonske zidine, Croatia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-21 13:50:04 UTC

Perast, Montenegro

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-23 13:45:10 UTC

Kotor, Montenegro

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-23 14:07:32 UTC

Herceg Novi, Montenegro

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-23 14:21:02 UTC

Dubrovnik, Croatia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-24 15:21:47 UTC

Trogir Old Town, Trogir, Croatia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-26 15:08:37 UTC

Krka National Park

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-29 13:02:09 UTC

Šibenik

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-09-29 13:14:04 UTC

Vransko jezero, Vrana

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-10-02 15:43:28 UTC

Vransko jezero, Vrana

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-10-02 15:44:20 UTC

Pula

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-10-03 14:53:19 UTC

Rovinj

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-10-05 13:08:40 UTC

Poreč

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-10-05 14:09:29 UTC

Savudrija

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-10-06 16:12:57 UTC

Savudrija, Croatia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-10-09 16:12:26 UTC

Piran, Slovenia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-10-09 16:27:40 UTC

What better place could we have found to end our trip to Slovenia and Croatia? Now, a long journey awaits us to get back to Toulouse via Alsace and Brittany!

Sečovlje Saltpans Natural Park, Sečovlje, Slovenia

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-10-14 12:28:04 UTC

Toulouse

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-10-24 08:59:39 UTC

The autumn colours on the long drive back to Toulouse are beautiful. It's a shame we don't have time to stop and enjoy them (even retired people have busy schedules!).

Toulouse

pottierpatmeteo — 2025-12-14 12:02:51 UTC

Vilaflor de Chasna

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-11 07:51:26 UTC

Los Cristianos Port, Arona

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-11 08:02:22 UTC

Los Gigantes

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-11 08:40:35 UTC

Cañada Blanca Visitor Center, 600 En el Edificio de el Parador de Turismo, Cañadas del Teide, Granadilla de Abona

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-11 17:35:31 UTC

Mirador de las Narices del Teide, Guía de Isora

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-11 17:45:37 UTC

Guía de Isora

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-11 17:55:48 UTC

Masca

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-11 18:06:15 UTC

Anaga, Parque Rural de Anaga

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-14 07:57:29 UTC

Anaga, Parque Rural de Anaga

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-14 08:30:00 UTC

Punta del Hidalgo

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-15 22:08:05 UTC

El Portillo Visitor Center, TF-21, Los Realejos

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-15 22:34:57 UTC

La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-18 16:57:40 UTC

Mirador de Samara, Guía de Isora

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-18 17:08:18 UTC

La Orotava

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-19 09:31:48 UTC

Mirador de San Pedro, Los Realejos

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-19 09:46:18 UTC

Icod de los Vinos

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-19 10:08:20 UTC

Icod de los Vinos

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-19 16:40:39 UTC

Garachico

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-19 19:44:33 UTC

Garachico (2)

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-19 20:18:45 UTC

Garachico (3)

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-19 20:24:20 UTC

Toulouse

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-27 08:05:42 UTC

30 March 2026: Launching a three-month odyssey. It’s all meticulously planned... Let’s see where the wind takes us!

Mandelieu-La Napoule

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-03-31 14:48:48 UTC

As early as the first stage, the weather forced us to find a Plan B: the mistral was incompatible with the open roof of our van, where we were supposed to stop. We therefore drove through moderate autan winds, a very strong tramontane and a strong mistral before finding an improvement on the Côte d'Azur. It's not the place where I would spend long holidays, but for a stopover!

Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-03 06:25:51 UTC

Spotorno, Province of Savona

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-03 07:27:36 UTC

Brisighella, Province of Ravenna, Italy

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-04 15:30:27 UTC

Port de Ancône, Ancona, Province of Ancona, Italy

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-05 14:18:19 UTC

Igoumenitsa Port, Igoumenitsa, Greece

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-05 14:18:59 UTC

Archaeological Site of Dodoni, Dodoni, Greece

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-05 14:27:54 UTC

Parga, Greece

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-06 04:20:48 UTC

Nicopolis, Greece

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-07 04:39:05 UTC

Léucade, Lefkada Municipality, Greece

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-08 05:01:48 UTC

Mesolóngi, Greece

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-08 14:49:50 UTC

Olympie, Archaia Olympia

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-12 04:54:42 UTC

Olympie, Archaia Olympia

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-12 04:56:26 UTC

Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae of Phigaleia, Figaleia

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-12 04:58:08 UTC

Messene

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-12 04:59:01 UTC

Mycenean Palace of Nestor at Pylos, Ethniki Odos Kiparissias Pilou, Nestor

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-13 04:28:39 UTC

Gialova lagoon bird hide, Pilos, Greece

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-13 05:56:07 UTC

Quick Bird ID Guide:

Greater Flamingos (bottom)
Squacco Heron (top, center-right)
Common Kestrel (right, in flight)
Crested Lark (top left)
Northern Wheatears (top, second from left & top right)
Sardinian Warbler (left, with the red eye)
European Stonechat (middle right, on the stalk)

Citadelle et musée de Pylos, Tsamadou, Pylos

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-14 05:21:44 UTC

Methoni Castle, Methoni

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-14 15:07:48 UTC

Kardamyli

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-15 13:57:02 UTC

Archaeological Site of Mystras, Lower Town

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-17 05:29:55 UTC

Gytheio

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-17 09:57:37 UTC

Monemvasia

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-17 14:42:15 UTC

Lagia

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-20 15:10:38 UTC

Vathia

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-20 15:11:33 UTC

Limeni

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-20 15:13:34 UTC

Monastery Elonas, Kosmas

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-23 07:10:59 UTC

Mycenae, Mykines

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-23 07:24:27 UTC

Mycenean Acropolis of Tiryns, Peloponnese, Greece

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-23 11:19:38 UTC

Epidaurus Theatre, Epidavros, Greece

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-23 11:30:33 UTC

Nafplio, Greece

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-24 14:46:38 UTC

Poros, Greece

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-25 05:16:45 UTC

Ancient Corinth, Argous, Archaia Korinthos, Greece

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-27 05:09:36 UTC

Acrocorinth, Corinth, Greece

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-27 05:25:31 UTC

Corinth Canal, Greece

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-27 14:45:42 UTC

Athens, Greece

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-04-28 15:41:44 UTC

Hosios Loukas

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-01 11:49:51 UTC

Delphi

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-01 11:50:28 UTC

Delphi Archaeological Museum, Delphi

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-01 11:52:25 UTC

Thermopylae

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-02 15:19:22 UTC

Météores, Kalabaka

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-02 15:20:10 UTC

Mount Olympus, Olympos

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-05 05:50:23 UTC

Archaeological Site of Dion, Epar.Od. Katerinis - Limena Litochoriou, Dion

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-05 15:23:29 UTC

Archaeological Museum of Dion, Epar.Od. Katerinis - Limena Litochoriou, Dion

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-05 15:24:20 UTC

Palace of Aigai (Aegae), Vergina

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-06 18:36:45 UTC

Museum of the Royal Tombs at Aigai (Aegae), Vergina

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-06 18:37:43 UTC

Vergina, Greece

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-06 18:39:03 UTC

Archaeological Museum of Pella, Pella

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-06 18:40:16 UTC

Archaeological Site of Olynthos, Olynthus

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-07 12:56:52 UTC

Chuchuligovo, Bulgaria

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-07 12:57:54 UTC

Rozhen Monastery

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-11 16:51:56 UTC

Melnik, Bulgaria

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-11 16:52:31 UTC

Monastère de Rila, Рилски манастир

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-13 04:54:12 UTC

Stob Earth Pyramids - Trailhead, Kocherinovo

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-13 05:11:26 UTC

Plovdiv

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-15 15:39:20 UTC

Bachkovo Monastery

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-21 12:26:39 UTC

Asen's Fortress, Asenovgrad

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-21 12:51:28 UTC

Koprivshtitsa

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-21 13:28:39 UTC

Tomb of Seuthes III

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-21 13:50:35 UTC

Shipka Memorial Church, Shipka

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-21 14:07:05 UTC

Sozopol

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-21 14:19:28 UTC

Nessebar

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-21 14:56:30 UTC

Poda Bird Sanctuary, Burgas, Bulgaria

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-22 15:23:37 UTC

Top Section (Haut)

Top left (flying): Short-toed Snake Eagle / Circaète Jean-le-Blanc
Top left (perched): Yellow-legged Gull / Goéland leucophée
Top center (shore): Common Shelduck & Black-winged Stilt / Tadorne de Belon et Échasse blanche
Top right (flying with fish): Caspian Tern / Sterne caspienne
Top far right (perched): Red-backed Shrike / Pie-grièche écorcheur

Middle Section (Milieu)

Middle left (on posts): Pygmy Cormorant & Great Cormorant / Cormoran pygmée et Grand Cormoran
Middle left (flying): Western Marsh Harrier / Busard des roseaux
Center (perched on reed): Barn Swallow / Hirondelle de fenêtre
Middle right (flying): Great White Pelican / Pélican blanc
Middle right (reflection in water): Curlew Sandpiper / Bécasseau cocorli

Bottom Section (Bas)

Bottom left (shoreline): Grey Heron, Mallard, Black-winged Stilt & Mute Swan / Héron cendré, Canard colvert, Échasse blanche et Cygne tuberculé
Bottom left (ground): European Pond Turtle / Cistude d'Europe (Reptile)

Aquae Calidae, Burgas, Bulgaria

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-23 12:40:23 UTC

Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-23 12:41:05 UTC

https://bnrnews.bg/en/post/474239/state-of-emergency-in-veliko-tarnovo-after-yantra-river-overflows
Top right: Common Nightingale (Rossignol philomèle). Famous for its incredibly powerful and beautiful song, often seen singing proudly on a branch right after the rain.
Bottom left: Barn Swallow (Hirondelle rustique). Easily recognizable with its rufous throat and long, elegant tail streamers.rs.
Middle (small grey bird): Spotted Flycatcher (Gobe-mouche gris). A discreet little insectivore, patiently waiting on dead branches to catch bugs mid-air.
Bottom center: White Wagtail (Bergeronnette grise). A lively little bird always running around, constantly wagging its tail up and down.
Bottom right (the two yellow birds): Eurasian Golden Oriole (Loriot d'Europe). The real superstar of the campsite! This stunning, bright yellow bird is usually very shy and hard to photograph hidden deep in the canopy—you got two amazing shots!

Arbanasi

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-26 15:19:44 UTC

Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo, няма, Ivanovo

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-26 15:39:11 UTC

Fortress „Cherven“, Cherven

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-27 04:30:33 UTC

Rusenski Lom, Bulgaria

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-30 18:37:56 UTC

Bucarest, Romania

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-05-31 15:18:34 UTC

Sinaia, Romania

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-01 15:46:00 UTC

Brașov, Romania

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-01 16:04:07 UTC

Bran Castle, Romania

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-02 14:16:09 UTC

Forest, Brasov

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-02 16:05:30 UTC

Măieruș

Sibiu, Romania

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-05 16:35:57 UTC

ASTRA Museum

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-05 16:54:40 UTC

Pécs, Hungary

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-08 19:11:09 UTC

Tihany, Hungary

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-08 19:12:18 UTC

Balaton, Hungary

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-08 19:27:09 UTC

Kis-Balaton, Hungary

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-08 19:45:48 UTC

Keszthely, Festetics-kastély, Kastély Street, Hungary

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-08 20:03:38 UTC

Sümeg, Sümeg Castle, Vársétány, Hungary

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-12 15:59:05 UTC

Fertőd, Esterházy Castle, Joseph Haydn Street, Hungary

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-12 16:18:16 UTC

Sopron, Hungary

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-12 16:33:51 UTC

Sarród, Fertő-Hanság-Nationalpark, Rév-Kócsagvár, Hungary

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-20 08:49:03 UTC

1. Birds in Flight (Upper Section)

Eastern Imperial Eagle : Aigle impérial
Western Marsh Harrier : Busard des roseaux
Black Stork : Cigogne noire
Greylag Goose : Oie cendrée
Northern Lapwing : Vanneau huppé

2. Perched Birds (Middle and Bushes)

Common Cuckoo : Coucou gris
Great Egret : Grande Aigrette
European Bee-eater : Guêpier d'Europe
Lesser Whitethroat : Fauvette babillarde
European Stonechat : Tarier pâtre

3. Wetlands Area (Lower Section and Waterbodies)

Water buffalo : Buffle d'eau
Mute Swan : Cygne tuberculé
Squacco Heron : Crabier chevelu
Black-winged Stilt : Échasse blanche
Grey Heron : Héron cendré
Western Yellow Wagtail : Bergeronnette printanière
Sedge Warbler : Phragmite des joncs

Hirschauer Bucht, Grabenstätt-Hirschau, Germany

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-22 14:20:37 UTC

Wildlife of Hirschauer Bucht / Faune de la Hirschauer Bucht

Top Left (Main Image) / En haut à gauche
- ⭐ Special Feature: White-tailed Eagle / Pygargue à queue blanche (Haliaeetus albicilla) – The majestic raptor, king of the reserve, captured in full flight.
Top Right / En haut à droite :
- Greylag Goose / Oie cendrée
Middle Left / Au milieu à gauche :
- Mute Swan / Cygne tuberculé (Cygnus olor) and a group of Greylag Geese
Bottom Left / En bas à gauche :
- Great Egret / Grande Aigrette
Bottom Center / Au centre en bas :
- Roe Deer / Chevreuil (Capreolus capreolus)
Bottom Middle-Right / En bas (au milieu à droite) :
- Chaffinch / Pinson des arbres (Fringilla coelebs) – Perched on a water lily leaf.
Bottom Right / En bas à droite :
- Great Crested Grebe / Grèbe huppé (Podiceps cristatus)

Note: The Hirschauer Bucht (Chiemsee) shelters over 300 bird species throughout the seasons, also including the Caspian Tern (Sterne caspienne), Osprey (Balbuzard pêcheur), Black Stork (Cigogne noire), and Pintail (Canard pilet).

Leipheimer Moos, Schwarzfelder Weg, Leipheim, Germany

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-22 15:35:57 UTC

Wildlife of Leipheimer Moos / Faune du Leipheimer Moos

⭐ Special Guest: Chilean Flamingo / Flamant du Chili, escaped from captivity, living there for 3 years
Top Center-Right / En haut (au centre-droit) :
- Common Kestrel / Faucon crécerelle
Top Right / En haut à droite :
- Northern Lapwing / Vanneau huppé
Middle Right / Au milieu à droite :
- Red-backed Shrike / Pie-grièche écorcheur
Bottom Left / En bas à gauche :
- Ruddy Shelduck / Tadorne casarca
Bottom Center-Left / En bas (au centre-gauche) :
- Grey Heron / Héron cendré (and a small group of Greylag Geese / Oies cendrées
Bottom Center / En bas au centre :
- European Hare / Lièvre d'Europe
Bottom Right / En bas à droite
- Common Pheasant (Female & chicks) / Faisan de Colchide (Femelle et poussins)

Toulouse

pottierpatmeteo — 2026-06-28 09:48:43 UTC