We took one day and decide to go to the city of Lleida located in Catalonia. Like many places in Spain, it has a long and interesting history.
One of the highlights for us was exploring the historic centre and making our way up to the impressive “La Seu Vella” known as The Castle of the King. The castle is located on the highest point and is referred to as the Sovereign Rock.
One of the arched entrances into the castle
The castle was large and impressive with views of the entire region. Built between the 12th and 14th century it was home to the visiting King and used as his fortress and palace when in Lleida.
View from inside the castle walls of Lleida
There was also a Gothic 12th century Cathedral located inside the castle walls.
Cathedral inside the castle walls
It dominated the centre of the castle along with the large bell tower. The inner courtyard of the Cathedral was impressive and open.
We explored the castle enjoying the views and just experiencing this historic site. We made our way to the bell tower and it did not disappoint.
The tower was so high that we had to angle of picture. (LOL)
Ray and Shelley at the Bell tower in Lleida
There’s something we love about visiting places that aren’t always on the tourist travel itinerary. You get to explore the pure Spanish culture and enjoy a city without feeling as though you’re following a crowd. We had a great day, enjoyed exploring the city and had a tasty authentic Spanish meal. Overall a great day in this unique city.
“Dondequiera que vayas, de alguna manera se convierte en parte de ti.” – Anita Desai
We decided to spend a day in Peñíscola, a beautiful coastal town on the Mediterranean coast.
It was easy to see why this place has become such a popular destination. Sitting on a rocky peninsula and surrounded by the sea, the Castle and old town seems to rise right out of the water.
View of the Peñíscola Castle and old town
We walked along the beach towards the old town. Along the way we came across a large dragoon made out of small tiles. At first it seemed odd but then we learned that parts of the Game of Thrones series was filmed right here in Peñíscola, including parts of the castle and the old town. So, the dragoon makes perfect sense.
Shelley with the dragoon that repsresents part of the Game of Thrones series.
Our first stop was the castle, It is perched high above the town and dates back to the Middle Ages. It was built by the Knights Templar in the 13th century. The castle has had quite a history and is famous for being the home of Pope Benedict XIII.
Statue of Pope Benedict XIII at the walls of the castle.
Walking through the old stone walls, courtyards, and passageways of the castle, it was easy to imagine the centuries of history that took place here.
Bronze statues and canons helped to imagine life at the castle.
One of the best parts of visiting the castle were the amazing views.
From the top, we had spectacular views across the Mediterranean.
Looking down over the town, we could see the long sandy beach, the promenade, and the modern part of Peñíscola spreading along the coast.
View from the castle looking towards Peñíscola
After exploring the castle we walked along the narrow streets of the old town. There were shops and artisan stores on every street.
After walking for quite a while we decided to take a break and enjoy the view from the castle wall with a refreshment.
Afterwards we made our way down toward the waterfront. We took a relaxing walk along the promenade. We spent some time simply walking, taking a few pictures, and enjoying the day. We then stopped at a shoreside restaurant and enjoyed a meal along with a great view.
For us the Peñíscola was a great spot to stop and explore. The history of the castle, the connection to The Game of Thrones and the beautiful Mediterranean views made it a memorable day.
“La vida es un viaje. Aprovéchalo al máximo” – Anónimo
Some travel experiences are about the places, some are about the food you eat, and others are about the people you share them with. Our trip to Valencia to watch the solar eclipse was all of the above.
Our daughter Janice and our son-in-law Scott came for a visit from Canada. We were thrilled to have them here, and it coincide with the full solar eclipse, so we knew we had to make an event of it.
Janice and Scott on the balcony of City Hall in Valencia Spain
So, off we went to Valencia for a few days to visit that great city and then to see the full eclipse. The day of the eclipse we went to an event at the Albufera Natural Park which is just outside the city. We had booked tickets to an eclipse party there which had been organized.
Our shaded area and seats for the eclipse
The weather was perfect, the skies were clear, the sun was shining, and there wasn’t a cloud in sight.
The event was fantastic. There was live music, food, drinks and plenty of tables and shade for everyone. It felt less like we were waiting for a scientific phenomenon and more like we were attending a big outdoor BBQ celebration.
Giant Paella being made on a Gas BBQ
We found our spot and settled in and of course, we weren’t going to sit around waiting on an empty stomach.
The four of us enjoying Paellla and drinks before the EclipseSpending quality time together having laughs and fun
We enjoyed some drinks, food, and listened to the live music and, more importantly, we spent time together. Having Janice and Scott with us made the whole experience more special.
As the time of the eclipse approached, the atmosphere changed. Everyone became a little more focused on the sky. Glasses and eclipse viewing equipment came out, cameras were ready, and people started looking upward.
Trying on our Eclipse glasses
Watching the moon slowly move across the face of the sun was absolutely incredible. As more of the sun disappeared, the light around us changed and dimmed and the whole atmosphere became almost surreal.
We were standing there in Albufera, surrounded by other people enjoying the same incredible sight. It felt very personal for us, especially having Janice and Scott there to share in this experience.
Our view of the full eclipse view from Albufera Spain
What an amazing feeling, watching the eclipse as it transformed. The sense of something bigger and almost magical as the air cooled and darkness fell quickly on us, only to transform into an amazing sunset of sorts. As the moon passed by the sun the sunset was occurring which made the views spectacular.,
Sun setting while in final part of eclipse
This rare experience was the perfect alignment of having family beside us, perfect weather, music, food, and it all came together to make it an adventure that we won’t soon forget.
“El eclipse nos recordó que, aunque la luz se oculte por un momento, siempre vuelve a aparecer. Al igual que los momentos especiales y las personas que iluminan nuestras vidas.”
This past weekend, we escaped to the sun-soaked coastal town of Moraira, Spain. It is a true gem on the Costa Blanca.
Tucked between mountains and the sparkling Mediterranean, this charming town welcomed us with its laid-back vibe, friendly locals, and postcard-perfect views.
Fernando, Leti, Shelley and Ray
We went with our friends Leti and Fernando, which made the whole experience even more special. Traveling with good friends always adds that extra layer of laughter, shared moments, and unforgettable memories.
We stayed at a resort-style complex that was perched just above the town, complete with an infinity pool that provided the ultimate view. Mornings were spent sipping coffee with panoramic views stretching from the hills to the horizon, and in the evenings ended at the poolside, enjoying drinks, laughs and watching the sky melt into brilliant shades of pink, blues and gold.
Sunset from our resort style apartment
One of the highlights of the trip was a day at the Cala Granadella, just a short drive from Moraira. We started early in order to beat the crowds, knowing how popular this spot is, especially on a sunny weekend. Even so, we ended up driving partway up the mountain road to find a parking spot, then walking down the winding road to the cove.
Ray, Fernando, Leti and Shelley walking down to the beach
But the effort was more than worth it.
Cars parked along the roadside and heading to the beachView from our parking spot
Granadella greeted us with crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic rocky cliffs, and that tranquil Mediterranean charm.
View from our spot on the beach of Granadella
We found a nice stop on the beach, swam and let time drift by.
Ray in the water at Granadella Beach
Fernando and Ray found a bar and we enjoyed some refreshments while longing on the beach with the sound of the waves in the background. We relaxed and just took it all in. A great day!
Back in Moraira, we explored the Feria, a lively street fair full of color, music, and the irresistible scent of Spanish street food. We wandered through stalls of handmade crafts and local goods, tried some samples including horse meat, cheeses and a very large donut.
On one of the afternoons, we took a scenic drive out to Cap de la Nau, one of the easternmost points on Spain’s mainland. The winding road led us through hills and coastal landscapes until we reached the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Standing at the edge, the cliffside view was absolutely breathtaking—jagged rocks plunging into deep blue water, with nothing but sea and sky stretching endlessly ahead.
view from the top of Nau CapeView from Nau Cape
We took our time walking along the path, snapping photos and just soaking in the peacefulness of the place. It felt like we were standing on the edge of the world.
Shelley enjoying one of the beautiful views in the area of Moraira, Spain
It was great weekend crammed full of activities, laughter and fun. We returned home tired but feeling relaxed and grateful for the sunshine, the laughter, the peaceful views, and above all, the time shared with friends. Moraira is one of those towns that makes you slow down, breathe deeply, and savor every little moment and that’s exactly what we did.
We spent a few days exploring the City of Seville, time seemed to melt into golden light, orange blossom scent, and echoes of flamenco guitar drifting from hidden courtyards. We began our stay wandering through the maze-like alleys of the **Santa Cruz** neighborhood. It’s hard not to fall in love with the whitewashed buildings, wrought-iron balconies overflowing with geraniums, and the surprise of a quiet plaza tucked around every corner.
Seville Cathedral
No visit to Seville is complete without a stop at its crown jewel — the **Seville Cathedral** and the **Giralda tower**. Standing in front of the cathedral’s imposing Gothic façade, we were reminded how much history hums through this city.
Shelley and Ray in Plaza de EspañaPlaza de España in Seville
But perhaps the most magical moment came unexpectedly — when we decided to take a **horse-drawn carriage ride** through the city. The clip-clop of hooves echoed through the cobblestone streets as we passed through **María Luisa Park** and under the grand arches of **Plaza de España**. It felt like a scene from another era — slower, dreamier, and completely unforgettable.
In the evenings, we enjoyed **Spanish wines and beers** alongside delicious **tapas**, hopping from one little bar to the next and soaking up the lively atmosphere. Each place offered its own charm, its own specialties, and its own corner of Seville’s vibrant personality.
Travel has a way of awakening us — shaking off the routine and opening our eyes to wonder. Our time in Seville reminded us how fulfilling it is to step into the unknown, to experience beauty in a new culture, and to collect small moments that become lasting memories.
Whether it’s the taste of a local dish, the sound of horses on stone, or the simple joy of getting lost in a beautiful city, these are the things that make life feel rich.
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