Exploring the Côa Valley in Northern Portugal
A Walk Through Enchantment
The Côa Valley, situated in a remote upland region of northern Portugal near the Spanish border, has been described as “an enchanted, parallel world” by Ben Buckland in The New York Times. To truly experience this beautiful area, one could embark on the Côa Valley Grand Route (GR45), covering an impressive 124 miles along the Côa River from its source to its meeting point with the Douro River.
Highlights Along the Trail
With medieval castles and charming old villages featuring inviting B&Bs, the route offers glimpses into a rural lifestyle that persists despite years of population decline.
Wildlife and History
The region is alive with wildlife, including eagles, wolves, and the renowned grey Sorraia horses, reintroduced by Rewilding Portugal. Near the northern end of the trail, adventurers can marvel at UNESCO-protected rock engravings of animals that date back up to 24,000 years.
Britain’s New Marine Marvels
As climate change shifts Britain’s coastal ecosystems, a plethora of new species are making their way to British waters. Mark Stratton describes in The Telegraph his wildlife-watching boat trip from Brixham Harbour in Devon, where he encountered extraordinary marine life, from a massive sunfish to pods of common dolphins and even a minke whale.
Wildlife Sightings
- Sunfish: A massive creature with a round body and no tail.
- Common Dolphins: Increasingly spotted in the region, showcasing their playful nature.
- Risso Dolphins: Notable for their impressive “arching backflips.”
- Minke Whale: Spotted during the trip, measuring around 30 feet in length.
The trip costs around £135 per person through Naturetrek.
A Glimpse into a 1970s Time Warp
In La Grande-Motte, France, Mark C. O’Flaherty highlights a unique seaside town that embodies 1970s urban planning. Conceived by architect Jean Balladur, this resort town blends retro futurism with modern charm. Once viewed as an eyesore, it is experiencing a renaissance, attracting interest for its distinctive architecture, characterized by gleaming white buildings reminiscent of Mesoamerican structures.
Accommodations and Attractions
For a nostalgic experience, visitors can stay at the refurbished Hôtel Le Quetzal while exploring nearby salt marshes and other sights.
