Title: A Journey of Enchanting Delights: France, Spain and Andorra, temperature 28C - 32C
Distances travelled in total 3043 miles by car
Peterborough (UK) - Paris (France) 374 miles
Paris (France) - Santa Pola (Spain) 980 miles
Santa Pola (Spain) - Barcelona (Spain) 326 miles
Barcelona (Spain) - Andorra (Andorra) 126 milles
Andorra (Andorra) - Dunkirk (France) 716 miles
Dunkirk (France) - Peterborough (UK) 116 miles
We have also travelled across all cities in total of around 405 miles.
Introduction:
Welcome, fellow travelers, to an unforgettable journey through the captivating destinations of France (Paris), Spain (Santa Pola), Andorra, and Spain again (Barcelona). Join us as we explore the rich cultural heritage, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, and immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of these extraordinary cities. Let's embark on an adventure of a lifetime!
Road trip took 7 days, 4870 kilometres / 3043 miles, journey started in Peterborough (UK), we were using DFDS Ferry, each passage took 2hrs and was seamless. We were driving through paid tolls (€101 to Spain and €58 return to UK, our car use diesel.
Paris (France)- The City of Love and Elegance:
Our journey begins in the City of Love, Paris, where romance fills the air and architectural wonders grace every corner. Strolling along the Seine River, I was enchanted by the stunning views of iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Parisian boulevards lined with charming cafes and boutiques invited me to savor delicious pastries and sip aromatic coffee. Exploring the artistic haven of Montmartre, I was captivated by the bohemian atmosphere and discovered the ethereal beauty of Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Paris truly exudes an undeniable charm that lingers in your heart long after you bid it farewell.
We have dine out once, visited Eiffel Tower (probably 7th time), most important, try to plan your trip to fill up your tank outside of motorways, fuel in France is very expensive, prices for diesel between €1.80 - €2.30!
Santa Pola (Spain) - A Fiesta for the Senses:
From the romantic ambiance of Paris, we venture into the vibrant land of Spain, where every moment is a celebration of life. Madrid, the capital city, welcomed me with open arms, enticing me to explore the Prado Museum, home to masterpieces by renowned artists such as Goya and Velázquez. The enchanting streets of Barcelona led me to architectural wonders like Antoni GaudÃ's masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia, and the colorful Park Güell. The fiery spirit of flamenco in Seville and the exhilarating bullfights in Pamplona added a touch of tradition and excitement to my Spanish sojourn. And of course, indulging in authentic tapas and paella was an absolute gastronomic delight!
We have rented a villa - contact us for our recommendations, also check next blog entry for recommendations. We were dining out 4 times at local restaurants, each time we have spent around €68 - €70 for five guests. We have also shopped at local supermarkets, our villa had fully equipped kitchen and access to swimming pool. We have also visited local beaches in Alicante, around 20minutes drive from Santa Pola.
Tank to the max in Spain, fuel cost roughly €1.30per litre!
Andorra - Nature's Alpine Gem:
Nestled in the Pyrenees Mountains, the small principality of Andorra welcomed me with its pristine beauty and alpine charm. The breathtaking landscapes offered an abundance of outdoor adventures, from hiking and skiing to mountain biking and canyoning. Exploring the capital, Andorra la Vella, I discovered the historic charm of Casa de la Vall and indulged in duty-free shopping. The picturesque villages of Ordino and Canillo allowed me to immerse myself in the tranquil beauty of nature, while the Caldea Spa offered relaxation and rejuvenation. Andorra truly captured my heart with its intimate connection to the mountains and its warm hospitality.
We have stayed at the city centre hotel, price for one room €58, we have hired two rooms, car park €18per day with €20 parking card deposit. We opted out from breakfast at the hotel, as plenty of cheap and tasteful restaurants are located across Andorra. Get ready for picturesque views, beautiful mountains, rivers and plenty of shops with clothes. Do not forget to visit perfumeries and shops with alcohol, remember Andorra has not sales tax.
1l whiskey €9
Pack of cigarettes €3
All well known perfume brands at least 40% cheaper!
Beer plenty choices and pint will cost you roughly €2.50
Champagne are same prices or sometimes more expensive than in the UK
Diesel €1.21per litre!
Barcelona (Spain) - Where Culture and Beaches Converge:
Our final stop brings us to the vibrant coastal city of Barcelona, a place where art, culture, and beachside bliss intertwine seamlessly. The architectural marvels of Antoni GaudÃ, including Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, left me in awe of their whimsical and distinctive designs. Strolling down Las Ramblas, I soaked in the lively atmosphere and explored the bustling markets, sampling delectable local treats. The Gothic Quarter, with its narrow medieval streets, revealed a glimpse of Barcelona's fascinating history. Lastly, I couldn't resist basking in the Mediterranean sunshine on the golden sands of Barceloneta Beach, savoring the perfect blend of urban delights and coastal relaxation.
Conclusion:
As our journey comes to an end, We find reminiscing about the magical moments and unforgettable experiences I had in France, Spain, and Andorra. Each destination exuded its own unique charm, leaving an indelible mark on my traveler's soul. From the romantic allure of Paris to the vibrant fiestas of Santa Pola, the alpine beauty of Andorra to the cultural tapestry of Barcelona, this adventure was a kaleidoscope of enchanting delights. I hope this travel blog inspires you to embark on your own journey and create cherished memories in these remarkable destinations. Bon voyage and happy travels!
DISCLAIMER
We were not paid by any operator, hotel or brand. All trips are fully paid from our own savings, we mainly book hotels at the location and we do not use price comparison websites.
We have plenty of trips planned ahead, please subscribe to our blog and travel with us! If you have any questions, or are you interested to work with us please do get in touch gce@chefconsultant.co.uk
Keep travelling, keep discovering, you only live once!
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