Travel
Copy My Journey: Festivals and epic sunsets in Western Australia
Lonely Planet Vacation spot Editor Jessica Lockhart went to Western Australia for the wildflowers, however was received over by Perth’s immersive Indigenous experiences, gorgeous surroundings and revolutionary culinary scene. Right here, she shares how she spent her week — and why Perth is ideal at any time of 12 months.
Since shifting to Australia from Canada in 2015, I’ve devoted the higher a part of the final decade to exploring a number of the nation’s most distant corners – from the rugged peaks of Flinders Island to the Torres Strait Islands. But, by some means, I’d by no means been to Perth/Boorloo. So when Tourism Western Australia invited me for a go to, I jumped on the alternative.
My go to coincided with Perth’s inaugural EverNow Competition, which celebrates the arrival of Kambarang—one of many six seasons in Indigenous Noongar tradition. Usually lasting from October to November, Kambarang is when Perth’s coastlines, wetlands, and forests begin to erupt in riotous shade. One of many largest shows of blooming wildflowers on Earth, Western Australia has some 12,000 native flower species, 60% of that are endemic.
Whereas I used to be lucky to see this unbelievable show of biodiversity, I additionally found that the thriving coastal metropolis is value visiting any time of 12 months. It might need been my first journey to Perth, however it definitely received’t be my final.
The place did you keep? What was the vibe?
I checked into Warders Hotel, a boutique resort immediately beside the historic Fremantle Markets. Initially inbuilt 1851 as lodging for the Fremantle Prison’s Warders (jail guards), the fastidiously preserved limestone cottages have plush beds, marble bogs, up to date paintings and an aperitivo bar for good measure. Soundproofing makes the rooms an oasis of calm regardless of being inside strolling distance from the South Terrace’s eating places and the ferry to Wadjemup/Rottnest Island. But when I’m being trustworthy, it was the in-room glowing water on faucet that received me over. (It’s actually the easy issues, of us.)
Favourite exercise from the journey?
“Ethereal,” “immersive” and “memorable” would possibly sound like advertising jargon, however they’re the phrases I maintain coming again to when I attempt to describe the brand-new EverNow Competition.
Held yearly in October, it’s a possibility to interact with First Nations tradition in a wholly new method. Relatively than overwhelming its attendees with an enormous program, EverNow curated its content material to function three hero occasions: SongCircle (a recent Indigenous dance efficiency with music by Maatakitj), Hearth Gardens (a fiery kinetic show of seven,000 big candles) and Boorna Waanginy: The Bushes Communicate (a journey by means of Kings Park, the place the bushes have been used as a canvas for digital mild projections).
What was essentially the most under-the-radar exercise you loved?
Even when you don’t handle to make it to Perth in time for EverNow Competition, there are numerous methods to study from and interact with the Conventional Custodians of the land. For instance, each Saturday at 11am, you may watch Noongar performers exterior the WA Museum Boola Bardip free of charge.
Certainly one of my favourite experiences, although, was an artwork workshop in Kings Park led by Wadjuk man Justin Martin of Djurandi Dreaming. After a brief tour of the park, he busted out the paint and canvases. Then, we sat within the grass and received all the way down to enterprise, utilizing linework historically present in Aboriginal paintings to color animals of significance to us. As I sketched out a fish, Martin shared tales of his folks, explaining that “moieties” (spirit animals) like those we have been drawing are given to people by Elders based mostly on their traits.
What was essentially the most scenic expertise of the journey?
The Pinnacles, positioned inside Nambung Nationwide Park, is a strong 2.5-hour drive north of Perth, however when you’re going to make a one-day journey from town, make it this one. Nearly alien in nature, these towering limestone constructions—believed to be round 30,000 years previous—appear to stretch past the place your sight ends. Add some emus and kangaroos to the scene, and it’s a quintessentially Western Australia second.
The perfect time to go to is at sundown when “magic hour” transforms the desert right into a panorama of golden hues and lengthy darkish shadows earlier than unveiling an unfiltered evening sky. Pair it with an astrophotography session (like that supplied by Lumineer Adventure Tours), and also you’ll stroll away with a number of the greatest images out of your journey.
It’s an extended day, however seeing wildflowers and sandboarding on the Lancelin Sand Dunes en route helped maintain the vitality ranges excessive.
Neatest thing you ate?
Do I’ve to select only one factor? As a result of each single factor that Dale Tilbrook handed me delighted and challenged my tastebuds. The Wardandi Bibbulmun girl is extensively thought of the “bush tucker queen,” with unparalleled information of Australia’s native meals. She’s even collaborated with different makers within the area, together with with close by Old Young’s Distillery to develop its Six Seasons Gin.
Throughout approachable two-hour tastings in her Swan Valley artwork gallery, guests get an opportunity to pattern all the things from quandongs (a bitter desert fruit with notes of peach) to Geraldton wax (a zesty evergreen and one in every of WA’s famed wildflowers).
Tasting the uncooked components additionally gave me a greater appreciation for my six-course degustation at Wildflower. The Perth restaurant modifications its tasting menus based mostly on the six Noongar seasons, with foraged native components like warrigal greens, desert lime and line-caught fish taking middle stage.
What was essentially the most touristy factor you probably did?
Bridge climbs may be all the fad (we’re you, Sydney Harbour Bridge), however Perth has its personal adrenaline providing: Climbing atop the 60,000-seat Optus Stadium, which was named “essentially the most stunning stadium on this planet” by the celebrated Prix Versailles for Sports activities.
It’s laborious to admire all that magnificence, although, while you’re peeing your pants as you dangle on a gangway 140 toes (42 meters) above the bottom. I’m instructed this terrifying ordeal is meant to be the promoting level of the Ozone’s Vertigo expertise. Uh, yeah, no thanks.
It seems this wasn’t my jam (a lot to the amusement of everybody else on the tour) – however I’ll concede that the unbelievable views of town and over the Swan River are unmatched. It additionally wins bonus factors for being totally accessible to wheelchair customers and people with restricted mobility.
Subsequent time, although? I’ll be packing an additional set of lingerie.
Jessica Lockhart visited Perth on the invitation of Tourism Western Australia. Lonely Planet doesn’t settle for freebies in change for constructive protection.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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