Travel
Do you have to go to Martha’s Winery or Nantucket?
We subject this query lots right here at Lonely Planet’s New York Metropolis headquarters: Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard?
When you might go to each (each are beloved getaways, each are accessible by ferry, each have airports), summer season trip time (particularly for those from the USA) is criminally restricted. And this query deserves a solution.
Affiliate Editor Ann Douglas Lott swears by the hilly landscapes and charming cities on Martha’s Winery. Senior Director of Content material Brekke Fletcher’s most up-to-date journey to Nantucket was chilly and rain-soaked, but she’d choose Nantucket many times.
Though these two LP-ers work aspect by aspect, be they writing and enhancing one another’s work or laughing over lunch, that is the row all of us knew was coming. Now it’s as much as you to resolve which author makes the higher case for his or her most popular summer season isle. Let the battle start.
Why Martha’s Winery is summertime bliss
Rugged, hilly landscapes, jaw-dropping oceanside cliffs, over 120 miles of shoreline and 6 distinctive seaside cities – Martha’s Vineyard is summertime bliss. On each Nantucket and Martha’s Winery, you’ll discover beautiful beaches, lighthouses, contemporary seafood and charming, walkable (or cyclable) cities. However so far as New England summer season holidays go, Martha’s Winery’s (or, because the locals and regulars name it, the Winery) pure magnificence and sheer number of experiences are unmatched. About twice the dimensions of Nantucket, there’s a lot extra to uncover in its number of landscapes – Nantucket, then again, is nearly fully flat. The Winery’s wide-open areas make for an alluring getaway for each the Obamas and us New Yorkers particularly.
Initially, getting right here is approach simpler, with more high-season ferry services out there from New Bedford and Cape Cod in Massachusetts, in addition to from Rhode Island, New York and New Jersey. There’s additionally an airport on the island, and direct flights right here from New York City could be very reasonably priced should you e-book early sufficient (I simply booked one for July for simply $88). However should you’re bringing your personal automotive, you’ll have to take the ferry. As quickly as you step off the ferry in Oak Bluffs, you may stroll instantly into its colourful, full of life city, admiring the well-known “gingerbread homes,” hopping on the carousel earlier than grabbing an ice cream, or you may hire a automotive – or take a dependable and reasonably priced public bus – and hold exploring.
And with a lot floor to cowl, you’ll need a number of days right here to maintain exploring. Whereas Nantucket has an admittedly charming major city, Martha’s Winery has that occasions six: Aquinnah, Chilmark, Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, Winery Haven and West Tisbury. You’ll have a totally completely different journey relying on the place you base your self. Go to Aquinnah for the low-key vibe and stunning cliffs, or keep in Edgartown and stroll by way of its charming brick lanes lined with shingle-style properties, stopping into ice cream retailers and boutiques. Extra locations to remain additionally means extra accommodation options for all budgets, so that you don’t truly have to have a CEO’s wage (or know somebody who has a CEO’s wage) to remain right here.
You even have a humiliation of seashores to select from. There’s Aquinnah Beach, which is right for big, crashing waves, dramatic cliff views and probably the most beautiful, peaceable sunsets. There’s additionally Lighthouse Beach, proper in Edgartown, which is an effective selection for calmer waters, a fantastic tanning spot and, in fact, a lighthouse visit with a view of the harbor. Or, if you’d like the enjoyable crowds and thrilling waves, go to South Seaside, the place the opening scene of Jaws was filmed. Backside line: you received’t run out of choices.
And but, amidst all that “extra,” there’s one thing magically rugged and unspoiled about Martha’s Winery. It’s simple to interrupt away from the extra crowded areas and expertise the island’s pure magnificence, whether or not you’re watching a sundown on a secluded seaside, driving by way of stunning farmland or mountaineering on wooded trails and alongside seaside cliffs. Sluggish dwelling is the norm right here. Virtually a 3rd of the island is protected, which means you received’t discover huge chain lodges taking up its seashores. The identical goes for native retailers and eating places. You additionally received’t discover strict gown codes right here as a result of all the pieces is so laid-back – no have to pack your best, preppiest ‘suits or Nantucket reds.
When you nonetheless can’t resolve between the 2, save the smaller island of Nantucket for a day journey. You possibly can return to the Winery very quickly to observe the pink sundown.
Nantucket’s seashores are for everybody
Um, the sunsets are pink in Nantucket, too. Good attempt. And also you say smaller prefer it’s a foul factor, however that’s one of many causes I prefer Nantucket to the Winery. (Additionally: what’s with that moniker? There are different vineyards on the earth? That is another excuse I don’t love MV as a lot. Snooty!)
Now, as a journalist, I have to disclose that I broke my foot in Martha’s Winery over a decade in the past, descending a single stair carrying a tray of martinis. It was a high traumatic expertise of my life (ambulance to island hospital, ambulance to ferry, ferry to ambulance, ambulance to Mass Basic and several other 1000’s of {dollars} I didn’t have).
However this isn’t the rationale I advocate for Nantucket. Sure, it’s smaller and flatter, however that simply makes it much easier to get around, notably on two wheels. You possibly can bike (or e-bike) virtually wherever on the island, and that reality alone makes it the higher eco-choice. And should you’re not a biker, Nantucket can also be served by a free shuttle service that covers a lot of the island. Not so on Martha’s Winery.
The rationale there are extra transportation choices to get to and from Martha’s Winery is that it’s busier. To be honest, in the summertime excessive season, some preplanning and reservations are completely needed on each islands. You can not simply roll onto a automotive ferry. And whereas Martha’s Winery boasts many superstar summer season residents, just like the Obamas, Nantucket is the island of selection for the sitting president’s household, the Bidens.
Nantucket’s Most important Road downtown space is an idyllic and bustling New England village, with shingled buildings, historic sea captain’s properties and beautiful church buildings, brick-lined streets and sidewalks. So as to add to the old-timey vibe, look out for his or her ornamental road lamps. It’s as walkable as it’s charming with many extraordinary eating places to select from (By way of Mare and Nautilus are stand-outs), distinctive, hyperlocal procuring experiences, and one-of-a-kind museums. Tootling round city, sure, you’ll see some people carrying Nantucket’s signature crimson, however it’s removed from a requirement. Actually, I’d argue that Nantucket is considerably much less fussy about trend than Martha’s Winery, however we’d want the style police to kind that one out.
Exterior of typical summer season vacation fare, Nantucket’s whaling historical past and literary bonafides – ever hear of just a little tome entitled Moby Dick – make it a better option for historical past buffs and readers of historic fiction. Don’t miss out on the Whaling Museum.
Keep in mind once I talked about that “The Winery” generally is a bit snooty? I’ve two phrases for you that ought to by no means be uttered collectively: personal seashores. All seashores on Nantucket are public, no personal safety will chase you off the shore.
And talking of seashores, Nantucket has plenty to choose from. There’s family-friendly Jetties Seaside only a stone’s throw from Most important Road. North shore seashores are typically calmer and hotter (there’s one known as The Bathtub), whereas the south shore is best for catching waves – Cisco Seaside is in style with surfers and younger adults. Siasconset (or Sconset) is all the way in which east, and since its seashores are a bit out of the way in which, they are typically much less full of crowds (don’t miss out the Sconset Bluff Stroll, although that’s steadily crowded). TLDR: There’s a seaside in Nantucket for anybody and everybody.
There are many charming lodging scattered throughout the island, from family-run B&Bs to loft flats downtown, however no large resorts or deafeningly loud golf equipment. Hire a home with buddies or put up up at one of many domestically owned luxurious lodges, like The Wauwinet or The White Elephant (I really like each and recently stayed at newly renovated Cottages on the Boat Basin). And the purveyors on the farmers markets and native provisioners present decidedly superior produce and seafood. Specifically, the oysters in Nantucket are the very best.
I might go on, however I’m out of house: belief me, Nantucket is the place it’s at, and never simply in summer season. My choice is to go to Nantucket in late September to savor the final flash of summer season warmth within the quiet, calm perfection that precedes a gorgeous autumn.
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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