There are some very scenic National Parks between Sydney and Brisbane where you can escape to secluded campsites and endless beaches – and Byron!
Continue readingAuthor: zara
Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk, Queensland, Australia (December 2022)
The rainforest and waterfalls of the Blackall Ranges provide the stunning backdrop to this Queensland Great Walk which, other than the heat, is an easy 58.8 km over 4 days.
Continue readingNorth Stradbroke Island, Queensland, Australia (December 2022)
It goes by many names: Minjerribah, Stradbroke Island or just plain ‘Straddie’ to those in the know, but whatever you choose to call it, all are agreed on one thing: that this little sand island off the coast of Brisbane is special.
Continue readingTravelling to Europe with Horses – Post Brexit! (October 2022 – Revised 2024)
I have done it before and I have now done it post Brexit – and the halcyon days of flitting gaily in and out of Europe with horses are now gone. Grit your teeth and be prepared to battle with reams of paperwork!
Continue readingThe Best Walks in Sydney, NSW, Australia: Watson’s Bay to Rose Bay.
One of my favourite harbour walks in Sydney, this section offers such delights as an early lighthouse, a nudist beach, great seafood and stunning beaches and views throughout.
Continue readingClaudius Cap de Blanc, a very singular artist. Ariège, France (September 2022)
Mad genius or mountain desecrator? The jury’s out but Claudius Cap de Blanc’s work is nothing if not original. He has certainly left his mark on the Ariège.
Continue readingWalking the GR10 in the Ariège , France (11. St Lizier d’Ustou – > Aulus les Bains)
A very long day if you do this one straight through! There is a steep climb to the Col d’Escots and then a long, rough hike around the mountain to Aulus, with some lovely waterfalls en route.
Continue readingBears in the Ariégeoise Pyrenees, France (August 2022)
If you go down to the woods today, you might just see a bear. After a successful reintroduction scheme, there are now some 70 individuals in the Pyrenean mountains. The French Ariège plays a major part in their history.
Continue readingHidden Corners of the Ariège : La Pont de Lamada, Ariège, France (August 2022)
The Etang de Llers can get very busy. On a smaller scale but equally enchanting, the nearby Pont de Lamarda offers refreshing pools in a pretty, hidden spot.
Continue readingWalking the GR10 in the Ariege, France. (10 – Conflens→St Lizier d’Ustou)
A shady walk for a hot day, with only a brief period on the open mountain, but an unrelentingly steep climb up, less so down! However, the delights of St Lizier await.
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