Cloudberries – a name that conjures up an ephemeral, sweet and delicate flavour. Grown only in the wild, cloudberries crave acidic soil and moist conditions, and thrive in the cooler climes of Norway’s hills and fjords. They are a hardy delicacy that can withstand temperatures plummeting to -40°C. Such a seasonal and sought after speciality only comes free if you … More Cloudberry Hospitality
Our bickerthon ends the second we see our son’s sunny, smiling face soaring out of school. He opens the car door just as our faces remember to match his. We turn to his bright words: “Dad – we’re going to OSLO!” The tired Friday afternoon traffic doesn’t slow him at all. His mind is zipping with thoughts of seafaring Vikings – … More Oslo – Utepils, Vikings and Monty Python
Parking – a walking approach to the beach is generally stunning, but if you are driving, an 11am arrival time seems to secure a decent parking space. Facilities – Unless you prefer to seek out idyllic seclusion, a beach café or restaurant offers food and drink at many beaches (and toilets of varying cleanliness), although … More Perfect Playas Postscript
Sidra (cider) is a big deal in Northern Spain, and Asturias lays claim to 80% of all Spanish cider production – it has the climate to suit it. And its people have the appetite to match it – the average Asturian consumes roughly 50 litres per annum. Cider-making is an age-old tradition here – it’s part of … More Sidra Rules
Porrúa proved to be perfect for us. There is plenty to see in Bar la Bolera alone, but in the village maze of lanes you can also find a well-regarded Ethnographic Museum, a good playground and football pitch, and a minimarket that serves delicious fresh bread every day. Further details on the lovely cider restaurant Sidrería La Peña ‘l Cura to come in a … More Asturian Details
The three ladies look comfortable with their drinks, cigarettes and relaxed chat at Bar la Bolera. Are they sisters? Or neighbours and friends? Perhaps both. Two tables away sits a dapper gentleman of maybe 70. He wears apple green trousers with a matching belt, and a shirt with stripes that ties in nicely. An elegantly stemmed … More Three ladies, one gentleman, and cider with dancing
Meadows sweep down to the very brink of a cliff-edged golden curve of coastline. Animals graze their fertile green. It feels Cornish or Welsh or Breton (perhaps because this ancient land is Celtic too). Not far behind us – about 7km – parallel to the sea, lies the beautiful limestone range of Sierra del Cueva. And behind that, the spectacular Picos de Europa. … More Perfect Playas (No Nudity Please – we might be Remainers but we’re still British)
I know this is a reasonably big glass of wine. It is much required. Vino’clock came knocking on my door this evening, with some urgency, after my precious Malawian luffa plant was ridden into at (what appeared to be similar to) supersonic speed by one of my cherubic children on a bike. Recently replanted after its happy … More Luffa plant needs wine
Have Paprika, Will Travel 