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Auvergne

The Auvergne is an extensive region of central France, belonging to the larger region of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. A large part of the Auvergne region is covered by the volcanic Massif Central mountain range, a region of vast green open spaces, dotted with lakes, forests and extinct volcanoes, plus some of the best hiking territory to be found in France. The region is home to two Regional Natural Parks - the Livradois-Forez Park and the Auvergne Volcanoes Park, more than 500 Romanesque churches, over 50 châteaux to visit along the 'Route des Châteaux d'Auvergne' and 10 spa towns (with all the charm of the 'Belle Epoque').

Cities

 * - the capital of the former Auvergne region
 * – A spa town located at the head of the Dordogne river, just beneath Puy de Sancy. An excellent location for hiking.
 * – Industrial town tipped down steep ravine; prominent manufacture is cutlery: buy your sets of knives here!
 * – a UNESCO-listed spa town and former seat of government of the Nazi puppet regime during the Second World War.
 * – Pilgrimage destination, starting point for the Le Puy route of the Way of St. James.
 * – a UNESCO-listed spa town and former seat of government of the Nazi puppet regime during the Second World War.
 * – Pilgrimage destination, starting point for the Le Puy route of the Way of St. James.

Other destinations

 * - Stunning rock pinnacle surmounted by antenna, often hidden in clouds. Look out for eagles.

By car
The Auvergne region can be reached from Paris on the A71 motorway (3 hrs), from Lyon on the A72 motorway (2 hrs) and from Beziers on the A75 Méridienne motorway (no toll).

By train
There are trains from Clermont Ferrand and Toulouse to Aurillac, which pass through the small towns and villages of the Auvergne. They are slow! For a full timetable of the two routes go to sncf Cantal

See

 * The Auvergne Historical Châteaux Route is an excellent basis to discover the Auvergne by road, taking in dozens of characteristic châteaux across six distinct colour-coded itineraries. Use the website's handy photo gallery to pick out your favourites.
 * The Upper Allier Valley is a listed 'Art and History area' with a magnificent natural environment and a musical programme in the summer.
 * Auvergne is liberally sprinkled with fascinating Romanesque churches, often dating to before 1000 AD. Visit, and you will quite likely hear some beautiful music, and definitely see a lot of gorgeous stained glass, set in stone dripping with history. Many parish churches have their pillars painted the way they were when they were built.
 * Vulcania is an interactive theme park that offers attractions along the same lines as Futuroscope, with a focus on volcanism and geology.
 * Vulcania is an interactive theme park that offers attractions along the same lines as Futuroscope, with a focus on volcanism and geology.

Do
Music Valley - France's "hidden music festival" in the Upper Allier valley offers an annual programme of classical and folk music from June to September. Most concerts are in small venues, and the performers of international quality, though tickets are not quite the 'bargains' the organisers would have you believe.

Eat

 * Lots of possibilities, in the whole price range, in St-Nectaire, known throughout France for its cheese.
 * Same goes for the sprawling village of Champeix, down the valley from St-Nectaire. Look out for the tasty, filling dish of truffade, a local speciality made from sliced potatoes and melted local cheese, served with ham. Similar to this is aligot, which uses mashed potato and thus is closer to a purée, and can act as an accompaniment to local sausages or charcuteries - French bangers and mash!

Drink

 * The local wine comes from Roanne, in the east of the region, and is called Roannaise. Red is fruity and light; rosé lighter still and tasty; white also available. NB: Volume of production seems limited.

title: Auvergne


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Auxerre

Auxerre is an historical city in the French region of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté. It has an attractive medieval core, and a picturesque location on the Yonne River. It sits at the heart of one of the country's largest wine-producing areas

Understand
In 2020, it was home to 34,000 people.

It might interest mathematicians and engineers that this beautiful old city with historic churches was also the birthplace of Joseph Fourier, who is considered the founder of modern engineering.

By car
Auxerre is located half way between Paris (170 km) and Dijon (150 km) on the A6 autoroute, at the junction of the proposed A26 Troyes-Bourges autoroute. The city is a good base for discovering northern Burgundy.

Auxerre is 15 km from Chablis, famous for its white wines, 20 km from Pontigny Abbey, 45 km from St Fargeau Castle, 60 km from Vézelay and 78 km from Troyes.

By train
Trains to are a wonderfully cheap option if you are coming from Paris or Dijon. Trains usually run every hour. You might have to make a connection at Larroche-Migennes. You can easily walk from the station to the old part of town in 10-15 minutes.

By bus
Cheaper than the train, several buses run each day between Paris and Auxerre. Flixbus departs from "Gare de bercy" in Paris and drop you 2 hours later near the city center of Auxerre.

On foot
Auxerre is small, so walking is strongly recommended for most purposes and is a pleasant thing to do in the old city.

By bus
There are free mini-buses that circle the periphery of the old town and a bus system that serves suburbs (for the suburb bus, tickets are €1.75).

See

Do

 * Walk across the pedestrian bridge that spans the river as it gives a nice postcard view of the city.
 * If you visit for the whole day, or more, you can plan to rent a bike at "la maison du vélo" and bike south along the Yonne river for a marvelous ride. The bicycle path goes almost 200 km south and passes by beautiful villages and sceneries. Bikes cost €3 for 1 hour, €5 for 2 hours and €10 for half a day (2017 prices). For half a day, you can easily reach "Vincelles" village.
 * Rent a kayak and paddle around the river next to the Parc des arbres secs.
 * Football: AJ Auxerre were promoted in 2024 and now play soccer in Ligue 1, the top tier. ("AJ" stands for Association de la Jeunesse.) Their home ground Stade de l'Abbé Deschamps (capacity 18,500) is on the riverside along Route de Vaux two km southeast of town centre.

Buy
You can buy quality wines from the Yonne region for cheap. There are also antique stores and workshops both downtown and along the river.

Eat
If you want, to cook your own food or buy food for a picnic, Leclerc is the giant supermarket that has most of what you need, located on the northeast side of the river (14 Avenue Jean Jaurès). As you are in France, avoid buying baguettes, wine or cheese in a large commercial store; try buying those kinds of products in a local boulangerie, cave à vin or fromagerie: the charm of these such stores is the reason that you came to France and something that you cannot get at a chain store.

Drink
Auxerre is surprisingly quiet at night, but if you fancy some drinks and bumping music, head to the Place des Cordeliers in the centre, where you will find a couple of bars: Les Brimborions and Le Copacabana.

Sleep
There is a row of hotels, including some budget hotels, on a ring road on the outskirts of the city that is part of National Route 151. Part of the road is called Boulevard Vauban. The location is not bad as the city is small enough that a walk from that ring road to the old city and its sights is only a few minutes.

Campers will have a look at the "Camping Municipal d'Auxerre" (generally open from April 1st to October 15th), 2 km from the centre of the town.

Connect
As of June 2022, Auxerre has 5G from all French carriers.

Go next
Trains run almost every hour to Dijon and Paris.

If driving toward Dijon, Vézelay and Avallon are worth a stop.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Auxerre


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Auyuittuq National Park

Auyuittuq National Park is a national park in Nunavut. In the Inuktitut language, its name means "the land that never melts". If despite that warning, you're still interested in visiting, you'll experience many terrains of Arctic wilderness, such as fjords, glaciers, and ice fields.

Understand

Auyuittuq covers, so it's a bit smaller than Israel. It lies almost entirely within the Arctic Circle. Auyuittuq was established in 1976 as a national park reserve, and was upgraded to a national park in 2000.

The park sits partially within the Penny Highlands and includes the 6,000-km² Penny Ice Cap. The Penny Ice Cap, made of ice sitting on Precambrian granite, creates a series of glaciers, among them the Coronation Glacier. The land reflects the geological history of the area, with deep valleys between the peaks, which include Mount Asgard with an 800-m (2,600-ft) face, and Mount Thor with a 1,250-m face. Along the coast are deep, narrow fjords. In Akshayuk Pass, the winds can reach 175 km/h (109 mph).

Landscape

The park's landscape has been entirely glacier-formed. It includes scenic fjords, glaciated mountains, rushing rivers, huge glaciers, and the Penny Ice Cap. The Penny Ice Cap is believed by many to be the birthplace of the last ice age.

Flora and fauna
Little vegetation can be found in Auyuittuq Park, although the plants found there range from flowers such as mountain avens, campion, Papaver, and saxifrage to shrubs like dwarf birch, Arctic willow, and heather. Many of the plants in Auyuittuq Park grow in clumps to create their own warmer "microclimate" to survive the harsh Arctic conditions.

Because of the exceptionally low vegetation supply, wildlife is very scarce. Species that live in Auyuittuq Park include the North American brown lemming, the northern collared lemming, red foxes, snowy owls, peregrine falcons, ermines, rough-legged hawks, gyrfalcons, beluga whales, snow geese, polar bears, wolves, narwhals, Canada geese, Arctic foxes, Arctic hares, and some barren-ground caribou.

Climate
The dates below are approximate and will vary from year to year. Ice, wind, tide and weather conditions may also affect your access plans.

March-early May
The fiords are frozen, so you can to travel from Pangnirtung or Qikiqtarjuaq to the park by snow machine, dog team, or skis to start your trip. Skiers beginning in Qikiqtarjuaq should travel with an outfitter to the park boundary to reduce their risk of encountering polar bears.

June-July
Ice break-up usually occurs near the end of June in Pangnirtung, and by the middle of July in Qikiqtarjuaq, so neither oversnow nor boat travel is possible on the fiords.

Late July-September
The fiords are normally ice-free, so you can travel by boat to the head of the fiords. Wind can be very localised. The head of the fiord can be calm while high winds are blowing at Pangnirtung. Under these circumstances, outfitters will not go out in boats.

October-February
Travel to the park is not advisable: cold temperatures, near-constant darkness and access difficulties in early winter make winter travel unpleasant, dangerous and, often, impossible.

Visitor information

 * Park website

Get in
There is no intercity road network in Nunavut. The park is accessible by boat from in the south and  in the north. Canadian North flies from to these communities.

By boat
A boat ride to and from the park can be arranged with a local outfitter. Contact the park office in Pangnirtung for a list of operators who provide transportation and/or guiding services.

Fees and permits
Fees for 2024:

An annual pass is available for less than the cost of 7 day passes. Fishing permit:
 * Day excursion permit: $16 per person over 17 per day. 17 and under free.
 * Northern Park Backcountry Excursion/Camping Permit valid at Auyuittuq, Aulavik, Ivvavik, Nahanni, Quttinirpaaq, Sirmilik, Tuktut Nogait and Vuntut National Parks  (per person, 2024):
 * Daily	$33.25
 * Daily $20
 * Annual	$69

(The Parks Canada passes do not cover backcountry camping/excursions to the park.)

See

 * (the largest uninterrupted cliff face in the world, and a popular destination for rock climbers: the world's highest vertical drop 1,250 m (4,100 ft), 105° face).
 * (shown in the James Bond film The Spy Who Loved Me) with an 800 m (2,600 ft) face.
 * Glaciers and tundra
 * The Arctic Circle passes through the park and is marked by an inukshuk that has been in many tourists' photographs.
 * (Qulitasaniakvik)
 * (Qulitasaniakvik)

Do

The most common backpacking route in the park is known as, and follows the Weasel and Owl rivers via Summit Lake. In 2008, heavy rain and warm weather caused to burst through its banks, flooding the Weasel River and washing away the Windy Lake bridge (see photo below). As a result, the hiking routes in the pass were limited to either side of the Weasel River.

Buy
Inuit carvings and prints in Pangnirtung.

Eat
No eateries at the park; you must bring your own food.

Drink
Some of the cleanest water in the world fresh from the glaciers. However, the north side of the pass is a bird nesting area and as such, water must be purified no matter how clean it looks.

Camping
There are emergency shelters every 15 km or so, but they're not for sleeping; a tent is required.

Stay safe
There are many river crossings which can be quite dangerous towards the evenings. The best time to cross is between 4AM and 8AM when rivers are at their lowest levels. Some rivers including Turner River and Halfhour Creek are particularly dangerous in the late afternoon. Hikers have died in the past trying to cross rivers too late in the day. There is a risk of polar bears on the north side of the park near Qikiqtarjuaq. Always carry deterrents as rifles are not allowed in the park. And never leave food near your campsite. The north side of the Pass (Thor side) is prone to rock falls and is not a recommended route for this reason.

title: Auyuittuq National Park


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Avallon

Avallon is a city in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté. Many buildings here recall the city's rich past: the fortress wall, with its turrets and bastions, still surrounds parts of the Old Town, where the St. Lazarus Church, the bell tower, and old half-timbered houses have all stood the test of time in admirable condition.

Understand
The town of Avallon is located in the heart of Burgundy on a granite rock at an altitude between 163 and 369 m. It is the northern entrance to the Morvan. It has just over 7,200 inhabitants within the city limits and 16,000 in the urban area. The Gallo-Romans built a temple, a court and a theater, but even before Roman times, the site of the town was home to a fortified stronghold of the Aedui, a Celtic tribe. Later, in the Middle Ages, Avallon had an important strategic position. Today, many buildings here recall the city's rich past: the fortress wall, with its turrets and bastions, still surrounds parts of the Old Town, where the St. Lazarus Church, the bell tower, and old half-timbered houses have all stood the test of time in admirable condition.

By train
Avallon has a SNCF train station and is connected to the TER (Transport Express Régional) railway network.

By bus
There are two bus lines with connection to Avallon (please inform at the SNCF station):
 * Transdev Rapides de Bourgogne (local bus transport within the Yonne department)
 * St Marc Transport (connects Auxerre with Dijon through Avallon)

By car
The fastest way to reach Avallon by car is by exits 21 and 22 of national highway A6 that runs from Paris to Beaune

By bus
A free shuttle bus service is available on Wednesday (14:00-19:00) and Saturday (09:00-12:45).
 * CITEO (Avallon shuttle bus). Starting point centre (Place des Odebert).
 * Line1 : Center – SNCF Station - La Morlande - Centre (25 minutes)
 * Line2 : Center – Les Chaumes – Cousin - Centre (25 minutes)

By foot
A large part of the historical centre is a pedestrian zone.

See

 * Saint-Lazare Church (Église Saint-Lazare) - The church was founded in the twelfth century and became a place of pilgrimage as a relic (a part of the skull) of St. Lazarus is preserved here. Only the crypt under the choir is left from the original structure from the fourth century. The two portals on the front are constructed in the 12th century. The church was destroyed several times by fire and the bell tower, that collapsed in 1633, is rebuilt in 1670.
 * Saint-Martin Church (Église Saint-Martin) - The church was built around 1650 and restored and expanded in 1848. Note the glass-glass above the portal at the entrance. It depicts the wonderful scene with St. Martin, dressed as a Roman horseman, sharing his red robe with the poor.
 * The Capuchin Monastery (Les Capucins) - In 1653 the monastery was built thanks to the contributions of Pierre Odebert. Some remains of the buildings have been preserved.
 * Les Ursulines -  The monastery was built in 1629 (next to Clock Tower). The courtyard is surrounded by a vaulted gallery that recalls to the medieval monastery.
 * The gates and ramparts - Little is known about the initial construction. In the 11th, 14th and 16th century fortifications were made. In the 18th century a part was lost by the expansion of the city. From 1926 the building is protected and has become a major tourist attraction.
 * The bell tower - The tower was built in 1456 and is 49 meters high.
 * The statue of Vauban - This statue was created by Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, who is famous for building the Statue of Liberty in New York City. The statue can be found on Place de Vauban. In Neuvy, about 32 km southwest of Avallon, the castle of Sebastien Le Prestre de Vauban can be visited.

Do

 * Stroll around and see or visit the monuments. Maps are available at the tourist office including for hiking in the area.

Buy

 * Glass blowing art
 * Regional products (wine, cheese, jams)

Go next

 * Morvan Regional Natural Park - Avallon is the biggest town in this regional park that spreads out further south
 * Vezelay - This famous pilgrimage is located 17 km east of Avallon
 * Arcy-sur-Cure - In this village, 21 km north of Avallon (direction Auxerre), are beautiful prehistoric caves

title: Avallon


text:
Avalon

Avalon is a resort city on Catalina Island, just off the coast of Southern California. Avalon is the main settlement on Catalina, and home to the majority of the island's permanent population. Avalon serves as the center of activity for most visitors as well as the jumping off point for exploration elsewhere on Catalina.

By boat
Most visitors reach Avalon on the ferry from either Long Beach, San Pedro, Dana Point or Newport Beach; note that the ferry from Marina del Rey is no longer in operation. The trip takes about an hour via high-speed ferry. Perhaps the best way to reach the island is by private sailboat or powerboat, about a half-day from the Los Angeles harbors. The seas in the channel are generally calm, though there are swells; dolphins, flying fish, and other sea life are often sighted.

Get around
Around Avalon, the primary mode of transportation is by golf cart. The streets are very narrow and the town is crowded and small so this works out very well. Upon arrival to Avalon by sea you will see signs for golf cart rentals.

You may also rent bicycles (or bring your own from the mainland for an extra fee).

Do

 * Hiking - Catalina Island has miles of backroads and trails but a permit is required. A permit can be obtained the day of your hike at the following locations:
 * Conservancy House in Avalon, at 125 Claressa Ave.
 * Airport-in-the-Sky
 * Two Harbors Visitor Information Center
 * Fishing - The ocean waters around Catalina are teeming with fish. Rent a boat or join an organized fishing trip on a commercial boat.
 * Fishing - The ocean waters around Catalina are teeming with fish. Rent a boat or join an organized fishing trip on a commercial boat.

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
Multiple locations. With warm temperatures and clear waters with visibility from 40-100 feet (12 to 30 m), Catalina is a prime location for snorkeling and scuba diving. Several vendors rent equipment or provide guided trips.

Kayaking
One way to explore the island is to kayak around it, finding coves inaccessible from land and peering up at massive cliffs. Several vendors on the island rent kayaks or provide guided tours.

Eat
There is a variety of places to eat on the pier, serving things like hot dogs and fish and chips. There is also a small Vons supermarket at 123 Metropole Avenue which may be helpful if you need a candy bar, soft drink or such.

Santa Catalina Island has no chain restaurants except for Vons, and is full of local, unique, independent, and well-acclaimed restaurants.

Vacation rentals
In addition to hotels and campsites, visitors to Avalon can rent private homes, townhouses and condominiums on a short-term basis.

Go next
If you are coming from the mainland you probably want to see a bit more of Catalina Island, such as Two Harbors or the interior of the island (home of the buffalo). Unfortunately, golf carts are not allowed outside of Avalon; all roads leading away from the town hold "no golf cart" signs. So, if you are interested in visiting other parts of the island, another mode of transportation (such as bicycle, small motorscooter, or guided tour) must be found. Note that the island is hilly so you might find yourself pushing your bike up the roads in the island's interior.

title: Avalon


text:
Avalon (disambiguation)

There's more than one place called Avalon:

Australia

 * Avalon - a beachside suburb on Sydney's Northern Beaches
 * Avalon - is an airport in suburban Geelong also servicing Melbourne
 * Avalon - is a small beachside town near suburban Geelong containing the airport

United States of America

 * Avalon is the largest city on Catalina Island off the coast of California

title: Avalon (disambiguation)


text:
Avalon (New Jersey)

Avalon is a resort town of 1,200 people (2021) in Cape May County, New Jersey. It is on a Seven Mile Island and shares this area with a neighboring town Stone Harbor.

Get in
By car

Avalon's very easy to reach by car. Either take the Garden State Parkway or use Route 55 and 47 to avoid traffic coming into Ocean City and Sea Isle City.

By bus

Greyhound buses from Atlantic City, Philadelphia, and New York City have stops in Avalon.

By train

NJ Transit has a train station in Atlantic City. Trains from Philadelphia, New York, and Trenton arrive several times a day. From the train station, go to the Greyhound bus hub and take a bus that heads toward Cape May. Avalon is one of the stops.

Get around
Avalon's a small town and most beaches are within walking distance. Cars, cabs, bikes, and shuttles are other methods that can be used to get around the town.

Stay safe
Avalon's police force is extremely strict and traffic laws are enforced rigorously. Do not speed above the limit. The town's main roads are all equipped with cameras and speed limit trackers to catch careless drivers. It is very unwise to drink and drive, especially after the bars close. Cops are always outside when the bars let out and have no problem pulling over cars and breathalyzing the passengers. Follow the rules and you will be fine.

Avalon is a very safe town. Violent crime is extraordinarily rare and even women can walk around at night with nothing to fear.

title: Avalon (New Jersey)


text:
Avebury

Avebury is a village in Wiltshire, famous for its neolithic stone circle, a. The henge and stone circles are thought to date from about 2500 BC to 2000 BC and are roughly contemporary with the more famous Stonehenge to the south. The circular bank and ditch, which is almost a mile in circumference, encloses a much later mediaeval village, with a Saxon church and Elizabethan country manor. Many of the stones are missing or buried, having been considered evil by the local farmers during mediaeval times, they were toppled or broken up, many of which to be revealed and restored in the 1930s by the famous archaeologist Alexander Keiller. The village and henge lie at the centre of one of the most exciting megalithic landscapes in the world, with the remains of two prehistoric processional avenues of stones leading from the circle, leading to other nearby prehistoric points of interest such as West Kennett Long Barrow and Silbury Hill.

Get in
The site is managed by the National Trust, who provide good directions, opening times and other details on their website.

By car
Avebury lies at the heart of the Wiltshire Downs, accessible easily from the M4 motorway, and is about 6 miles west of Marlborough, along the A4 (Bath Road) at the junction of the A4361 and the B4003. Local signposting directs visitors to the official tourist car park which is situated just south of the circle itself off the A4361. There is a local village car park located in the centre of the village, but this has restricted parking for non-residents during daylight hours.

By train
The nearest train stations are 10 miles away in Pewsey or 11 miles in Swindon.

By bus
The Trans-Wiltshire Express (service 49) offers an hourly service between Swindon, Avebury, Devizes and Trowbridge. Swindon is on the main line to London. Other buses running nearby connect to Marlborough and Chippenham.

Get around
The village of Avebury can be best explored on foot, though access to the henge requires some climbing and walking over rough grassland and may not be suitable for all. Apart from the driest seasons of the year, it is advisable to have waterproof shoes or walking boots, since the grass can be wet and muddy, and the exposed chalk on the slopes of the henge can become slippery when wet. Two roads bisect Avebury, splitting the massive circle into 4 'quadrants' and each quadrant is fenced separately with sprung gated access.

In some seasons, parts of the henge may be roped off to prevent erosion, so please observe the signs and help keep this monument for future generations. At certain times of the year, one or more quadrants may have sheep grazing the grass and care should be taken to avoid letting any out, and dogs should be kept on a leash. The east–west road is the village High Street to the west and Green Lane to the east and is generally much quieter to cross than the main north–south road which is unfortunately the main road to Swindon and thus carries a fair amount of fast moving and heavy goods traffic. This main road takes a double hairpin bend at the centre of the circle, where it joins the High Street, and much care should be taken in this area. It is possible to walk to the other related local sights which make up the Avebury landscape, but in less favourable weather, car transport is advisable.

See
The henge itself is the main attraction of Avebury and each of the four quadrants can be visited one after the other in a single circuit of the circle. Many people prefer to go around twice, once close to the stones, and once right up on top of the henge bank, where there is a good path.

South West Quadrant
From just west of the Henge Shop on the High Street, you can enter the south west quadrant through the sprung gate and are immediately presented with an impressive arc of re-erected stones, starting with the misshapen 'blacksmiths' stone - this one was located by Keiller in the cellar of a blacksmiths where a 17th-century antiquarian had noted it being toppled and used as building material. The 6th stone in from the road is the famous Barber Stone - when Keiller lifted this stone in the 1930s, the skeleton of a mediaeval Barber-Surgeon, with an intact pair of scissors, was revealed underneath, crushed by the falling stone.

South East Quadrant
After crossing the busy main road which goes south out of the village, the path leads you directly to one of the largest stones in the complex (about 60 tonnes) - the Devil's Chair - which has a small ledge on the outside edge where you can sit and make a wish. This quadrant also contains the remains of the inner stone circle and a central marker stone erected by Keiller to take the place of a much larger obelisk which stood there until the 17th century. At the exit of this quadrant, there is a huge sprawling beech tree on the henge, which reputedly JRR Tolkien used to sit under, and the exposed root system is certainly very Middle Earth.

North East Quadrant
Crossing Green Lane into the north east quadrant, there are very few stones revealed in this sector, mostly because Keiller ran out of money and this area was never excavated - you can be sure that many stones lie undiscovered under the grass. This sector does, however, contain the Cove stones, which are two huge flat stones perpendicular to each other - a third long lost stone once formed a three-sided 'cove'. It is interesting to note that while one of the stones is smooth, the other is very rough.

North West Quadrant
Crossing the busy main road into the north west quadrant, this sector is again heavily reconstructed and another impressive arc of re-erected stones, contains the single largest stone of the site - the Swindon Stone, which marks the way to Swindon. The exit from this quadrant leads you out to the courtyard where the Barn Museum, Tea Room, WC facilities, the Keiller Museum, St. James Church, and Avebury Manor gardens are all situated.

Other Avebury sights

 * West Kennett Avenue is the prehistoric processional avenue of stones which leads from the south east quadrant towards the Sanctuary on Overton Hill some 1¼ miles distant. Keiller re-erected all of the stones in this section of avenue in the 1930s and it gives a vivid impression of what it must have been like for prehistoric people to walk between the pairs of alternating stones (some theorists say representing male and female) to the ancient site of the Sanctuary. Unfortunately, Keiller only managed to re-erect 3/4 mile of Avenue and it cuts off abruptly at a fence.  The National Trust have purchased the farm land beyond this boundary, but no plans for further excavation have been set.  There is a small layby at the bottom end of the avenue if people wish to drive to it instead of walking from Avebury village.
 * The Sanctuary is the final prehistoric destination of West Kennett Avenue and is situated on Overton Hill on the A4, just where the Ridgeway Path bisects the A4. This was the site of a prehistoric temple, far older than the Avebury complex itself.  All that remains is a series of concentric circular post holes, and stone holes (the stones having been removed in the 17th century) the positions of which are now marked by concrete markers to give you some impression of the scale of the building.  Standing at the centre of the circle, you can glance back towards Avebury Village and see the hole markers for the first pair of Avenue stones which eventually join up with the rest of West Kennett Avenue.  Acrss the A4 from here are several later Bronze Age burial mounds.
 * West Kennett Long Barrow is a neolithic passage tomb with a row of impressive sarsen stones guarding the entrance. Access to the long barrow is by a 1/4 mile footpath from a layby on the A4 just to the east of Silbury Hill.  The barrow is on the brow of a chalk ridge, and is one of the longest chambered barrows of its kind in Europe.  Access to the inside of the tomb is open, and well worth exploring.  At the end of the neolithic, the tomb was filled with rubble and was left that way until archaeologists in the 1960s excavated the inside, revealing dozens of skeletons of all ages in the various compartments.
 * Other local areas of interest include Windmill Hill neolithic enclosure, Hackpen Hill White Horse, East Kennett Long Barrow and the Ridgeway Path.
 * Other local areas of interest include Windmill Hill neolithic enclosure, Hackpen Hill White Horse, East Kennett Long Barrow and the Ridgeway Path.
 * Other local areas of interest include Windmill Hill neolithic enclosure, Hackpen Hill White Horse, East Kennett Long Barrow and the Ridgeway Path.
 * Other local areas of interest include Windmill Hill neolithic enclosure, Hackpen Hill White Horse, East Kennett Long Barrow and the Ridgeway Path.

Buy
There are several shops in the village, and souvenir shops in the museums.
 * The Avebury Community Shop offers groceries, household goods and confectionery. Our range of products includes freshly baked bread, fresh fruit, vegetables, eggs and milk, as well as allowing you to post your postcards from the village post box.

Eat
The Red Lion pub, the only pub in the world inside a stone circle, serves a wide menu of meals and snacks in its two indoor restaurants, and is open all day. The pub has bench tables out in front which can be pleasant to drink at in summer, but are too close to the busy road to make eating pleasant.

The National Trust Circle Cafe located in the courtyard beside the Great Barn Museum is open all year and serves hot lunches with seasonal ingredients, sandwiches, cakes and teas, and has a pleasant, walking-boot-friendly indoor and outdoor seating area.

Drink

 * Right at the centre of the circle is the famous
 * About a mile away in the nearby village of Beckhampton is the equally famous Waggon & Horses public house, made famous in the 1980s and 90s as being the central hub of the Crop Circle phenomenon. Today it is a friendly Real Ale pub which serves food.

Sleep
Many of the houses in Avebury village offer B&B accommodation.
 * Red Lion Pub [see drink]
 * Red Lion Pub [see drink]
 * Red Lion Pub [see drink]
 * Red Lion Pub [see drink]

Go next
Devizes - The Wiltshire Museum in has many finds from the Avebury area, including those from West Kennet Long Barrow and from important Bronze Age barrows in the area. New displays feature gold from the time of Stonehenge. Devizes also features the Kennet and Avon Canal, the Wadworth Brewery Visitor Centre, and places to eat, drink and sleep. From Devizes, you can visit Stonehenge before visiting Salisbury Museum to see more prehistoric finds.

title: Avebury


text:
Aveiro

Aveiro is the provincial capital city of Beira Litoral province, nestled next to a ria, (a salt water lagoon) and the Vouga River delta on the Atlantic coast of Central Portugal. Its origins go back to pre-Roman times. From the 8th until the 11th century, the region was under Muslim control. The charter elevating the town to city status was conferred in 1759 by King João I.

Understand

Aveiro (ah-VAY-roo, /ɐ.ˈvɐj.ɾu/) was already a major salt producer in Roman times and continued to be so until the 1970s, mainly due to the age-old salt cod industry. It also played a major role in ceramics, ship building, metal working and machinery manufacture, as well as being a natural shipping port for centuries. Next door to Aveiro, the city of Ílhavo still has remnants of the cod fishing and salt cod industry. A famous porcelain and cut glassware factory was established there in the early 1800s and is still in operation today (guided tours are available).

Aveiro is to the south of Porto and  north of Coimbra, straddling the Ria of Aveiro and the River Vouga a few kilometers from the Atlantic Ocean, where you can easily reach by car (5 minutes) or by bus (every hour). The city of Aveiro has a population of approximately 80,880 inhabitants (2021 preliminary), of which 12,500 are students at University of Aveiro, one of the most important Portuguese universities. Aveiro is at the center of the Comunidade Intermunicipal da Região de Aveiro (Aveiro Regional Intermunicipal Community), encompassing over 370,000 inhabitants.

The late poet, musician and teacher Zeca Afonso and the late physicist Dr. Mário Sacramento are both famous anti-fascist activists from the city. Overall the atmosphere is rather laid back and relaxed while some students are foreigners, lending it a somewhat cosmopolitan feel.

Architecturally, the CBD and "centro histórico" are characterized by some excellent examples of 15/16th century, Belle Epoque, Art Nouveau, Art Deco and Estado Novo buildings, while parts of the city are intersected by canals with picturesque bridges and navigated by brightly painted boats called moliceiros, similar in profile to the gondolas of Venice. Originally the moliceiro was a working boat and the name derives from moliço, a type of sea weed abundant in the lagoon and formerly harvested to be used as fertilizer in the agricultural fields of the region. Although an exaggeration, the city is called the "Portuguese Venice". The real charm of Aveiro's lifestyle lies in its coast, with its fantastic sandy beaches of São Jacinto, Torreira, Barra and Costa Nova. This local coast is branded as Costa da Prata or the Silver Coast.

Historically, the importance and prestige of Aveiro grew with the arrival in the 15th century, of princess Dna. Joana, daughter of King Afonso V, to join the sisterhood of the Monastery of Jesus. Upon her death, she bequeathed her vast wealth to the benefit of the town. Her intricately carved and decorated tomb in the monastery constitutes a singular example of fine arts of the period. In the 17th century she was canonised, thus becoming Santa Joana. By the 19th century, local parliamentarian José Estevão propelled Aveiro to the fore of industrialization by spearheading the redevelopment of the harbour facilities and city canals and the arrival of the railways, sowing the seeds for an economic boom.

Today however, the best-kept secret of its attraction apart from the extensive soft sand beaches that reach from Mira in the south to Espinho in the north is the relative authenticity and less costly accommodation and food when compared to Alentejo and the Algarve. The summer months of June to August are the busiest with holiday makers. Also, easy access to major road networks and railways make it easy to take day trips to popular destinations such as Porto, Espinho, Figueira da Foz, Coimbra, Viseu and Serra da Estrela. The Beirão people are well known for being hospitable and helpful towards anyone who is polite.

Aveiro has a humid, temperate climate in summer and a not-so-cold but wet weather in winter. November, December and January make up the rainy season, while July and August are the driest months. Autumn and Winter tend to have strong coastal winds, excellent for kite or wind-surfing, as well as for sailing.

Of later times, the primeiro banho do ano or the first sea dip of the year, has become an annual local tradition in the early hours of every New Year's Day with hundreds of participants vying for the T-shirt given to confirm the feat.

By car
The city is connected to highway A1 which is the main north–south axis road of the country, but also a toll road.

You can easily reach Aveiro through highway A17, which is linked to highway A8 from Lisbon and the west–east axis highway A25, linking central Portugal via Vilar Formoso to rest of Europe through Spain.

By bus
And also by the main canal in Rua do Clube dos Galitos near the moliceiro embarking jetty by the Rotunda das Pontes. If confused, just go inside any business near the railway station and ask, Onde é a estação dos autocarros regionais? ("Where's the regional bus station?")

By plane
The "Aeródromo Municipal de Aveiro" is actually the former military airbase of São Jacinto, and is planned revert to civilian use, pending certification. As of May 2018, this has not happened yet, because of bureaucratic minutiae. Its 1,372-metre runway and buildings serve private pilots and house small aircraft and the Aveiro Aeroclube.

On foot
Aveiro is easily navigable on foot. The local bus terminal can be found about 15 minutes walk from the canal zone.

By bicycle
Aveiro is a cyclist friendly city. There are many exclusive cyclist dedicated paths throughout the city and connecting all the way from the city to the beach areas.

A very convenient way to see Aveiro if you like to go cycling but don't have a bicycle, is to use the BUGA (Free-use Bicycles of Aveiro) service. There are 2 BUGA shops (lojas) spread about the city. If there are bicycles available, you simply have to give to the BUGA shop employee your ID and you'll have a bike to take a free ride.

Bikes can be used within a certain BUGA area of the city, delimited by signs. When you are finished with the bike, just return it to the shop (loja) and take your ID back. You have until 19:00 to return your bike to the BUGA shop you took it from, nice, free and easy!

By bus
The city of Aveiro has thirteen bus lines operated by Aveiro Bus, who have no English website. That said, the buses are of little use to tourists as most points of interest are easily within walking distance in Aveiro. However, if you plan to spend your summer holidays in the area and only find accommodation in Aveiro city, it may be worthwhile getting a multi-trip or seasonal bus pass to get to the beaches at a low cost. Transdev Portugal operates longer-distance services. Of note are especially the lines that go from Aveiro to the beaches, including Barra and Costa Nova.

By car
Road traffic in the Aveiro area is relatively easy to negotiate, though you may experience slight delays at rush hours. Street parking spaces are at a premium and metered, but there are some well positioned underground parkades at the Forum and ''Av. Lourenço Peixinho'' near the Great War Combatants Monument. Generally, access to major national roads is well signposted, but outside the city limits, driving on municipal/local roads may require a map. In the summer, beach traffic can grind things to a near standstill.

Aveiro has several car rental agencies. The best policy is to prearrange everything via internet before arrival, including insurance, as this will save you a lot of money.

Do

 * Surf at Costa Nova and Barra Beach - You can rent a wetsuit and a board on local surf shops.
 * Windsurf and Kytesurf on the river and on the sea - You can rent this material on local windsurf shops.
 * Moliceiro tours - leaving from the central canal.
 * Salt pans and bird watching tours at the Special Protection Zone of Ria de Aveiro, for a chance to meet the salt worker Marnoto in person and spot the many bird species that inhabit the lagoon. geral@salinasaveiro.com@undefined
 * Sailing at Costa Nova Beach - There's a local Sailing club - CVCN - where you can find sailing lessons.
 * Kayak at Ria de Aveiro or Rio Vouga - It is quite easy to find local guides that takes you for a different afternoon experience.
 * Walking tours - There is a local walking tour shop that has 3 way-outs every day.
 * Take some sun at Costa Nova and Barra Beach
 * Take some sun at Costa Nova and Barra Beach

Regional products

 * Ovos moles and Pão de ló - These two sweet tooth musts are widely sold at most pastelarias and cafés in the city.
 * Salt from Aveiro is sold at the EcoMuseu Marinha da Troncalhada by the salt pans and some regional products shops.
 * Souvenirs - A variety of local themed miniatures like boats, dolls, and other objects are available throughout shops in the old city center.
 * Vista Alegre - Famous tableware ceramics and cut glass factory. Prices range from affordable to high end and items can be purchased at the factory shop, while tours inside are possible upon request. The Vista Alegre factory and workers village is in the neighboring municipality of Ilhavo, 10 km away.

Shopping venues

 * Rua dos Combatentes da Guerra and Avenida Dr. Lourenço Peixinho are the main shopping streets in downtown CBD.
 * Rua dos Combatentes da Guerra and Avenida Dr. Lourenço Peixinho are the main shopping streets in downtown CBD.
 * Rua dos Combatentes da Guerra and Avenida Dr. Lourenço Peixinho are the main shopping streets in downtown CBD.
 * Rua dos Combatentes da Guerra and Avenida Dr. Lourenço Peixinho are the main shopping streets in downtown CBD.
 * Rua dos Combatentes da Guerra and Avenida Dr. Lourenço Peixinho are the main shopping streets in downtown CBD.

Eat

 * Ovos moles - A traditional sweet speciality made from egg yolk. Sold at most of the local bakeries.
 *  Pão de Ló - A traditional baked cake available in several "pastelaria" establishments throughout the city.

The city is doted with many eating places ranging from local inexpensive "snack-bars", "pastelarias" and small neighbourhood restaurants to fancy and upmarket eateries. The Forum and Glicīnias shopping centres have food courts serviced by various cheap to reasonable priced fast food outlets specialising in different types of cuisine. Some global fast food brands are also available. The area with the most restaurants is found between the Old Neighborhood (Bairro Antigo) and the fish market plaza (Mercado do Peixe). There are also some decent restaurants and seafood places at Barra, Costa Nova and Vagueira.

Drink
The most famous area for night bars is Praça do Peixe (fish plaza).Here you will find a good variety of bars typically open til 03:00 in winter, and 04:00 in summer. Note that all the bars in Praça do Peixe have free entrance. Clubs are best on Friday and Saturday nights from 01:00 to 05:00. Women usually pay no admission fees, but for men it is usually around €5. Drinks are fairly cheap, around €4 or €5. Try a caipirinha with strawberries (morangos).

Nightlife
As a result of Aveiro University founding in the 1970s, Aveiro's nightlife has developed an eclectic and colourful mix of establishments to rival the best nationwide. Centered around areas like, Praça do Peixe, Alboi, Rossio and the Zona dos Armazéns de Sal (the salt warehouses zone) alongside the Canal de São Roque, with affordable night-clubs, bars, snack-bars, restaurants, discothèques, pubs and the red light district not far away. DJs, bands and solo acts provide all types of good live music from a wide range of establishments. Praia da Barra has plenty to choose throughout the area with some establishments on the beach itself. If summer is hot, the night-clubs are hotter. Be prepared to burn the midnight oil and dig the graveyard shift all rolled into one. Turn your ear to the wind and follow the sounds. The club partying usually starts around 23:00 and lasts 'til 06:00 or 07:00.

Budget
If you are a camping or caravanning holiday maker, the Barra and Costa Nova camping grounds are a short walking distance to the beach, offer well serviced secure plots with controlled access. Summer season rates are costlier and may require advance booking.

Go next
The best kept secrets are the extensive soft sand beaches that reach from Mira in the south to Espinho in the north, coupled with the less costly accommodation and food when compared with further south Portugal and the Algarve, this unique environment tucked between the Ria and the Atlantic has well kept amenities to do water sports, sunbathe, swim, enjoy fresh fish, and seafood meals, bicycle or stroll along and watch wonderful summer sunsets from Costa Nova and Praia da Barra with its imposing lighthouse dominating the horizon or take the ferry boat across the Ria to explore the São Jacinto dunes and Torreira beach town.

Further inland, one can also enjoy a short trips to local towns and villages that have quite a bit to offer in terms of authentic local gastronomy and sightseeing outside the usual "tourist trap" offerings in major centers. Go to Angeja, to savour their special enguias (eel dishes) or rojões (tender and lean pork chunky cutlets), or Anadia among others and Bairrada, with their wines and leitāo assado (roasted piglet). These trips can also be done by using several regional bus services based not too far from Aveiro railway station.

 * Coimbra — home to Portugal's oldest and most prestigious university
 * Fátima — Catholic pilgrimage sight known for its 1917 Virgin Mary apparitions
 * Figueira da Foz — popular oceanside beaches
 * Luso — spa town in Mealhada municipality
 * Porto — Portugal's second metropolis
 * Serra do Buçaco – a mountain range in Mealhada, Mortágua, Penacova municipalities
 * Viseu — charming hilltop city in Beira Alta province

title: Aveiro


text:
Avellino

Avellino is a city in the Campania region of Italy.

Get in
By bus from Capodichino international airport (Naples) costs €4.70. You can go also by taxi for "special price only for you" - €100 +. There are some car rentals directly on the airport.

Get around
The city is small enough to get around by foot. There are some buses but plans may be difficult to find online and maps on stops are burnt by the sun. You must buy a ticket at a stand and it's valid for a certain time span. Google maps route finder gives good approximates for walking distances and walking times around the city.

Go next
Irpinia (the "wolf land") is the green mountainous district around Avellino, with a number of medieval towns and picturesque sights. Ariano Irpino upon Tricolle (the "three hills") is the largest town, known for its ancient majolica and typical cuisine; here King Roger II the Norman held in 1140 the Assizes of Ariano, and nowadays there are several historical monuments, museums and parks.

title: Avellino


text:
Averøy

Averøya is an island on the mid-western coast of Norway, located in Møre og Romsdal county. The municipality Averøy is mainly formed by a relatively large main island, partly split up by a fjord, but there is also several small islands and islets in the north-west.

Many people describe Averøy as a "miniature of Norway" as all the landscape typical to Norway is represented here. The island is also famous for being one of the two municipalities connected by The Atlantic Road (Atlanterhavsveien)

Understand
Averøy has deep roots to the ocean. In the earlier times land was seen upon more as a barrier than a route of transportation. The boat has always been the preferred way of transport and this has clearly effected the settlements on the island and the surroundings. Until the 60s the island was divided into three municipalities. The island only got connected to the mainland as late as 1989.

Fishing and farming has always been the main industry here. Industry related to shipping and fish farming is also amongst the biggest industries on the island. The oil-related business in Kristiansund nearby has also become a large actor when it comes to labour.

By car
Situated on the coastline between Molde and Kristiansund, Averøy is reachable by the state road "Rv 64" running straight through it connecting the two earlier mentioned cities. In the west, towards Molde, the Rv 64 connects Averøy to the mainland as The Atlantic Road (Atlanterhavsveien). In the northeast the Rv 64 dives into the ocean, as The Atlantic Ocean Tunnel, connecting the island to Kristiansund.

By bus
The two bus companies Nettbuss Møre and Eide Auto is cooperating and have routes passing through Averøy from both Kristiansund and Molde every one or two hours in the weekdays. In the weekends you can expect about three departures a day.

Get around
Your own car or motorcycle is the best way to get around and travel at your own speed.

For bus options, look in the "Get in" section.

For additional information regarding public transportation in Møre og Romsdal, contact the public transport information "Trafikanten Møre og Romsdal" on the phone number 177.

Cycling is a good option for exploring Averøy as main roads on the island have no steep hills worthy of mentioning and the traffic is rather low. With all that said, the long distances make it hard to explore the entire island in, e.g., one day.

See

Do

 * Fishing from the fishing bridges on The Atlantic Road or rent a boat
 * Hiking across the mountains in the centre of the island or along the seafront at one of the many islands
 * Boat trips to one of the many islands. Orøya would be an excellent choice on a nice summer day.
 * Marine safari to look for whales and seals
 * Diving
 * Diving

Drink

 * Averøy Restaurant

Sleep

In Norway it is also allowed to camp everywhere temporarily (max two days) at a "fair" distance from cultivated areas. This makes camping in a tent a cheap and popular option. Much of Averøya is uncultivated, so there are many places where this is possible.

Contact
Averøy Turist Information
 * Address: Sentrumsbygget, Bruhagen, 6530 Averøy
 * Phone: (+47) 71 51 44 77
 * Fax: (+47) 71 51 44 78
 * Mobile: (+47) 92 22 51 58
 * E-mail: post@bedriftnordvest.no

Go next

 * Kristiansund
 * Bud
 * Molde

title: Averøy


text:
Avery Island

Avery Island is in Louisiana.

A few miles southwest of New Iberia is Avery Island, home of the McIlhenny Tabasco factory and a wildlife sanctuary. The island is actually an eight-mile deep salt dome. It was ransacked like General Sherman himself couldn't have done a better job during the Civil War, but thankfully the premises were set aright afterwards and now visitors can drive and walk through 250 acres of subtropical jungle flora with an amazing array of wildlife.

Get in
Despite the name, Avery Island is on the mainland, drive in via State Route 329 from New Iberia.

Eat
Any Cajun dish is better with a splash of Tabasco sauce on it!

Go next

 * Acadiana

title: Avery Island


text:
Avesta

Avesta is an industrial town in southern Dalarna in middle Sweden.

Get in
Avesta is about 2 hours from Stockholm and Arlanda Airport. The easiest way to get into Avesta is either by car or train.

By train
Although Avesta municipality has three train stations, only one is frequently used. The most popular station is Avesta Krylbo, where the train to and from Stockholm stops. All train stations are served by the main train company SJ for connections to Stockholm. The local/regional connections are served by Tåg i Bergslagen/Tågkompaniet. Railway tickets can be bought at the SJ website  or Tågkompaniet (only in Swedish). All tickets are available on both sites.

Avesta Krylbo is 15 minutes' walk from the city center. But you don't need to walk, since all the buses within Avesta municipality are free to use.

title: Avesta


text:
Aveyron

Aveyron is a department in Occitanie, in southwestern France. It has a very low population density. Its economy is dominated by agriculture - mostly animal husbandry. Sheep are raised for milk to make cheese (see Roquefort) and cattle for dairy and meat. There is a significant amount of forestry and tourism.

Cities
The main cities in Aveyron are:

Other destinations

 * — known for its abbey on the ways of Saint James
 * — known for its abbey on the ways of Saint James
 * — known for its abbey on the ways of Saint James

Get in
Aveyron is in South West France. Rail travel is the best option to reach the region, however you will need a car to explore it. Rodez station is served by Avis and Sixt car hire.

By plane

 * through Rodez airport. Flights to/from Paris, Lyon, London Stansted, Dublin, Brussels
 * through Toulouse-Blagnac airport, approximately 1 hour 45 minutes drive from Rodez
 * through Montpellier-Méditerranée airport, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes drive from Rodez

By train

 * direct overnight Intercités trains daily from Paris-Austerlitz to Rodez
 * frequent Intercités train from Paris to Brive-la-Gaillarde, then change for Rodez
 * TER trains from Toulouse and Albi to Rodez
 * for the Aubrac region, you can use the very scenic Clermont-Ferrand to Béziers line which crosses the famous Viaduc de Garabit. Intercités link Paris and Clermont Ferrand, TGVs stop in Béziers.

By car

 * from the north (about 3 hours from Clermont-Ferrand) via autoroute A75
 * from the south (about 1 hour from Montpellier) via autoroute A75
 * from the southwest (about 2 hours from Toulouse) via A68 and N88

Get around
Public transport in the Aveyron is fairly limited outside of the main centres (Rodez, Villefranche de Rouergue, Millau) where there are local bus services. You really need to have your own car (or to rent one) to explore the region. There is a regular train service between Rodez and Toulouse, via Albi.

Motorcycling is very exhilarating with quiet roads and many opportunities for trail-riding.

See

 * Rodez and its cathedral
 * The Viaduc of Millau is an engineering masterpiece and one of the most impressive road bridges in the world
 * Roquefort-sur-Soulzon, home of Roquefort cheese
 * The "Bastides" in Rouergue
 * Templar and Hospitalier sites
 * The lake of Pareloup
 * 10 of France's 'Most Beautiful Villages' including Conques, Belcastel and Sauveterre de Rouergue
 * The mountains of the Aubrac and the village of Lagioule, home of the famous knife
 * The Thursday morning market at Villefranche de Rouergue

Do

 * Enjoy nice landscapes. The area has a variety of types, from arid mountain moorland to dense deciduous forest. Wild flowers are at their most profuse in May and June. In season, wild fruit are everywhere - strawberries, plums, blackberries, sloes, nuts of many varieties.
 * Watch wildlife. Birds range from small songbirds right through to vultures. Mammals include wild boar, pine martens, water voles, red squirrels and deer. There are snakes and lizards. The lakes and rivers support both game and coarse fish. Insects such as moths and butterflies are super-abundant.
 * Eat local specialities (roquefort cheese)
 * Outdoor activities (hiking, rafting...) Most of the rivers offer canoeing. The lakes of The Lévézou have guarded bathing beaches and welcome sailing, water-skiing and jet-skiing. They are equipped with free-to-use launching ramps with trailer parking facilities.
 * Respect the peace and quiet of the villages.

Eat
Most restaurants are family run and tend to offer local specialities, such as veal, pork and trout in addition to more mainstream French cuisine. Food is reasonably priced, especially outside of the main towns at lunchtimes where you can often find a fixed menu with wine for around €12-€14. The Aveyron also has a number of excellent Michelin starred restaurants including Michel Bras (Aubrac), Le Vieux Pont (Belcastel) and Le Senechal (Sauveterre de Rouergue) for lovers of haute cuisine. There is usually no problem getting a table at a local restaurant, except on Sunday lunchtimes and bank holidays when it is a good idea to book. Outside of the main summer season, many restaurants in the countryside close on Sunday and/or Monday evenings.

title: Aveyron


text:
Aviemore

Aviemore (Gaelic: An Aghaidh Mhòr) is a town in the Spey Valley of Highland Scotland. It's the main base for skiing and other outdoor activities in Cairngorms National Park. It's the largest of a straggle of villages including Rothiemurcus and Coylumbridge, also described here, and in 2020 had a population of 3230.

Understand
The River Spey arises in the mountains near Fort Augustus and flows east, then its valley broadens and trends northeast. This more fertile area has been settled since prehistory, as shown by its Bronze Age stone circles. It became the main north-south route through Scotland, as you can follow the Tay / Tummel / Garry valley before crossing the moor to descend into the Spey valley, and in modern times the highway A9 and railway adopted this route. Speyside is higher and colder than the south - Aviemore itself is at 214 m (702 ft) elevation. Spring comes late, snow lingers on the summits, and the crags and birch woods feel Nordic in contrast to the douce banks of Tay. Beyond Aviemore the valley narrows again, to thread through forests towards the Moray coast.

Highland scenery became popular in the 19th century, and Queen Victoria was one of many visitors. However the big lift in tourist numbers came in the 1960s when ski lifts were built on the slopes of Ben Macdui 12 miles east, and a resort village within Aviemore. The ski area was small and unreliable and the resort was a brutalist monstrosity, but together they gave thousands of visitors their start in winter sports. Eventually more congenial buildings replaced the resort, and from 2001 a funicular railway supported the ski area. This suffered a serious breakdown in 2018, and repair was impractical during the covid years, but it re-opened (thanks to a hefty taxpayer bail-out) in 2023.

The ski area remains small, and cannot be extended without unacceptable damage to the Cairngorm mountain habitat. Its snow cover is becoming less reliable as climate change impacts, and it has long been recognised that Aviemore cannot make a living from winter sports alone. There is therefore a broader year-round offering of hill-walking, off-road biking, kayaking and rafting, orienteering, pony-trekking, wildlife-spotting and the like.

Visitor information

 * Visit Aviemore website
 * Aviemore iCentre is the tourist office, 100 yards north of the railway station, open April-Oct Tu-Sa 9:30AM-5PM. Staff are friendly and informative.

By plane
Inverness is the closest airport, with connections across Europe and the UK. Edinburgh is a longer drive but has far more flights, and that airport is west of the city so you drive straight out onto M90 then A9 north.

By train
Aviemore is on the main railway from Edinburgh and Glasgow, with trains every hour or two. These take 3 hours via Stirling, Perth, Dunkeld & Birnam, Pitlochry and Kingussie, and continue north to Carrbridge and Inverness.

Reaching Aviemore from England usually involves changing in Edinburgh, but one direct daytime train runs from London Kings Cross via York, Newcastle and Edinburgh, taking 7 hr 30 min.

Nightly F-Su the Caledonian Sleeper leaves London Euston around 9PM to reach Aviemore by 7:45AM, continuing to Inverness; return timings are similar.

See below for the heritage Strathspey Railway, which starts here. Other heritage trains sometimes run from the south through Aviemore to join the branch line to Boat of Garten.

is central in the village. It has a staffed ticket office and machines, a waiting room, cafe and toilets. There is step-free access to Platform 1 (for Inverness), and by level crossing to Platform 2 (southbound) and 3 (Strathspey Railway — buy tickets for this on the platform, not the mainline ticket office).

By bus
Buses run every hour or so from Edinburgh and Glasgow taking 3 hours via Perth, and continue north to Inverness. The main operators are Citylink, Parks of Hamilton (booked via Citylink) and Megabus. In 2023 a single adult fare is £15-20. The bus stop is outside the Cairngorm Hotel by the railway station.

Travel from England involves changing in Edinburgh, and National Express don't venture this far north.

Change in Inverness for Citylink buses to Portree and Uig on Skye, and to Ullapool, for ferries to the Outer Hebrides.

By road
Aviemore is just off the A9, which runs north to Inverness and Thurso, and south to Perth, Stirling and Edinburgh. It's mostly undivided, with long sweeping blind bends, and impatient traffic building up behind slow drivers; overtaking accidents are common, with cries for full highway dualling renewed after each fatality.

Cyclists may use A9 throughout but will prefer to follow de-trunked loops of the former highway wherever possible. Aviemore is on one such loop, badged B9152. National Cycle Route 7 passes through Aviemore, running from Sunderland in England north to Inverness. That's nice to know but doesn't help over Drumochter Pass, where you have to share A9 (sometimes in poor visibility) with fast motor traffic.

Get around
Walk: Aviemore village straggles but is walkable. Rothiemurcus and Coylumbridge are within walking range (B970 has a sidewalk) but you need wheels to go further up to Loch Morlich and the Cairngorm. See "Do" for nearby walking trails.

Buses hereabouts are run by Stagecoach Highland. Some you might use are:
 * Bus 30 from Aviemore via Coylumbridge and Glenmore to Cairngorm ski area: daily, hourly 7AM-5:30PM.
 * Bus 39 from Carrbridge via Aviemore and Kingussie to Newtonmore: every two hours M-Sa. A couple continue to Dalwhinnie.
 * Bus 37 from Aviemore via Boat of Garten and Nethy Bridge to Grantown-on-Spey: every two hours M-Sa with four on Sunday.
 * Bus X37 from Inverness via Tomatin, Carrbridge, Dulnain Bridge, Grantown, Nethy Bridge and Boat of Garten; five buses M-F and three on Saturday.

Taxi firms in town are Aviemore Taxis (+44 1479 811111), Gerry's (+44 1479 812000), Weirs (+44 1479 810141) and Doc's (+44 7971 736599).

Highland Yaks (+44 7704 987325) specialise in activity transfers, for instance to put kayaks on the river at one point and uplift them at another.

See

 * sits incongruously amidst a housing estate: it's from the Bronze Age so it's about 5000 years old. The cairn within the stone circle has been grassed over for protection. This was a Clava-type annular burial chamber: cairns of this type were used once then sealed, without later burials or re-entry for ceremonies.
 * is two miles north in the forest next to the main railway line and is best reached from the path by the Strathspey Railway. It's similar to the Aviemore circle but the ruins of its annular cairn have been left uncovered.
 * is fringed by a path, a gentle 5-mile (8-km) circuit. In the woods are remains of old lime kilns and logging operations. However the main attraction is views of the ruined 14th-century castle on an islet; it could be reached by causeway until the loch water level was raised in the 18th century. In 1690 it saw the last action in Scotland of the original Jacobites, the forces of the ousted King James II / VII. Fleeing from a double drubbing at Cromdale, they tried to seize the castle but were repulsed by the stout widow who held it. The Hanoverians were hard on their heels so they scarpered, and it would fall to James' son the "Old Pretender" and grandson the "Young Pretender" (Bonnie Prince Charlie) to continue the cause. That was finally vanquished in 1746 at Culloden, to live on only in romanticising songs. The loch is reachable by a trail from Rothiemurchus. Bring a map or download an OpenStreetMap-based app like OsmAnd or Mapy.cz to help you navigate. Turn left just before Lochan Mor (the turn is slightly hard to spot, but if you miss it the other trail will also go to Loch An Eilein). You may see deer on the way, especially if you set off early before the other walkers have scared them away. It takes about an hour to walk to Loch An Eilein from Aviemore, and the loch is also reachable by car if you prefer. The circuit around the loch is popular with dog walkers and mountain bikers.
 * Loch Gamhna is 200 yards (190 meters) south of Loch an Eilein and is somehow even more peaceful. You'll probably have it to yourself. Reach it by one of the side trails from Loch an Eilein that say "Path not maintained". In spring and summer, keep an eye out for ducks with ducklings.
 * Ord Ban is a 400-m hill on the northwest flank of Loch An Eilein, another quieter (but muddy) trail. Compared to the path around the loch, this trail is much quieter, somewhat more challenging, and less maintained. The vegetation changes dramatically near the top of the hill, and the peak has views of the nearby landscape. If desired, this walk can be done in a loop that goes back to the loch. Wear long trousers because bare legs will attract ticks and midges.

 * is a freshwater lake just before the road begins its long climb to Cairngorm. It has a sandy beach and is used for watersports, see below, and there's an easy 4 mile walking trail around it.
 * is a tower in the woods commemorating George Gordon (1770-1836), Colonel-in-Chief of the Gordon Highlanders. His children were all illegitimate so the Dukedom died out with him. The tower was erected in 1840, as was his better-known commemorative tower at Elgin.
 * four miles southwest of town is of similar date and "Clava" design to the Aviemore ring but is a bit of a mess. Farmers have used it as a dumping ground for unwanted stones from the fields, so it's difficult to tell what's original circle or ring-cairn, and what's debris. It's on private land but you see enough from the lane.
 * is in the woods at Feshiebridge eight miles southwest of Aviemore. A free trail takes you past gnarly sculptures, now in decay — it was always the intention to let them rot.
 * is in the woods at Feshiebridge eight miles southwest of Aviemore. A free trail takes you past gnarly sculptures, now in decay — it was always the intention to let them rot.

Do

 * Strathspey Railway is a 10-mile heritage standard-gauge railway, often steam-hauled, with its south terminus at Aviemore Station Platform 3. The main collection of locomotives and rolling stock is at Boat of Garten, where you can also start your trip, but excursions from Aviemore make a long stop there. The train then chuffs on to Broomhill, where the line ends in the fields, so it reverses. Extension to Grantown is thwarted by the A85, which the council promised to re-align then baulked at the cost. Trains run Apr-Oct W-Su, with three round trips taking 1 hr 45 min. Return fares in 2023 are adult £19.50, conc £17.50, child £9.75, dog £3, meals extra.
 * Speyside Way is a hiking and cycling trail alongside the heritage railway from Aviemore to Boat of Garten and Broomhill. Thereafter it follows the old trackbed northeast via Nethy Bridge and Grantown-on-Spey to the coast at Buckie.
 * Lairig Ghru is a 19-mile (31-km) route through the Cairngorms from Coylumbridge to Linn of Dee above Braemar. You need transport set up at both ends; the first bus of the day to Coylumbridge is leaving it late to get through the pass before nightfall. It's heavy, boggy going, with snow and ice underfoot in winter. There are no bail-out options if you get cold and weary midway.
 * Spey Valley Cinema is within Macdonald Resort Hotel.
 * Alex Moran Mountaineering is an outdoor activity provider in Aviemore. They specialise in hiking, scrambling and climbing adventures across the Highlands of Scotland. Courses for all ability levels with expert instruction.
 * Golf: Spey Valley GC is on Dalfaber Drive next to Macdonald Spey Valley Resort Hotel, who run it. It's 7153 yards, par 72.
 * is a simple hike direct from Aviemore. The trail starts by Old Bridge Inn and ascends west though birch forest past a couple of lochans up the steep slope.
 * Mountain biking: lots of trails through the nearby forests.
 * Beach: last thing you'd expect, but the east shore of Loch Morlich has a sandy beach (elevation 300 m), which gets busy on warm summer days. Below the sand is broken glass and occasional military remains from wartime, when this was a training area for Norwegian commandos.
 * is the end of the road and bus route from Aviemore, and base station for the mountain railway, which is closed for engineering works as of January 2024. The car park costs £4 per day. The railway is a funicular, with the "up" car counterbalancing the "down" car. An adult return costs £22. Outside ski season, all you can do is ride up to Ptarmigan restaurant at the top station, admire the view and overpriced merchandise, then ride back down. You may not go out onto the hill — to prevent damaging footfall on the Alpine habitat — or bring dogs. Hill walkers aiming for the heights must therefore trudge up the slope from the car park, but are permitted to ride down again.
 * Skiing: the funicular is included in ski lift passes, and most skiers start by riding it up to Ptarmigan then branching for the three areas of Coire na Ciste, White Lady or Coire Cas. Day Lodge Poma is a short-cut from the base into Coire na Ciste. When conditions are good it's magic but the season is short and unreliable, with long queues for lifts at weekends or during school holidays.
 * Cairngorm summit is at 1245 m (4084 ft), a "Munro" and the sixth highest mountain in Britain. Ascend the rocky hillside to see tinkling brooks, nesting birds, and staggering views of the surrounding mountains (as long as clouds aren't blocking the view). It's only half a mile south of the funicular top station, but walkers must ascend from the base station. The simplest and shortest route is Windy Ridge, straight up alongside the funicular, but it misses the best of the scenery — you might want to come down that way. North Corries is a longer route taking in the tops of corries or cwms at the head of glaciated valleys. Skiers have the easiest ascent as you can park your kit around Ptarmigan at 1080 m then stride out. Of course that takes you off-piste in clumsy ski boots, beyond help from the ski patrol if you had a mishap. On the peak you'll find a large cairn and an automated weather station. If you get to the peak and the view is hidden by clouds, never fear: they may dissipate in a few minutes, and if not, nearby side trails lead to lower vantage points with worthwhile views of their own.
 * is the highest of the Cairngorms, at 1309 m (4295 ft). Since 1847 it's been the second highest mountain in Britain, when the Ordnance Survey showed that Ben Nevis pipped it at 1345 m (4411 ft). The trail is 11 miles (17.5 km) and takes 6-8 hours. Start from the base car park swinging west of Windy Ridge; the route is obvious and involves nothing technical, but keep a wary eye on the weather. You return via Cairngorm summit and Windy Ridge. Queen Victoria ascended in 1859 from the east, by pony from Balmoral to Loch Etchachan then hiking the rest. Hiking Ben Macdui may be tricky if you don't have a car, as it will be hard to make it back to the ski centre in time for the last bus back to Aviemore.
 * See Cairngorms National Park for other activities further out.
 * Highland Games: Aviemore doesn't host its own, see Kingussie for the Newtonmore Games in August.
 * Thunder in the Glens is a Harley-Davidson motorbike rally held on the last weekend in August, based in Aviemore but with much gunning of bikes all around Speyside. The next is probably 28-30 Aug 2024, tbc.
 * Thunder in the Glens is a Harley-Davidson motorbike rally held on the last weekend in August, based in Aviemore but with much gunning of bikes all around Speyside. The next is probably 28-30 Aug 2024, tbc.

Buy

 * Tesco opposite the railway station is open M-Sa 7AM-10PM, Su 8AM-8PM.
 * Aldi is a quarter mile north next to Winking Owl, open 8AM-10PM, Su 9AM-8PM.
 * Pharmacy: Boots is in Myrtlefield Shopping Centre north of the station, open M-Sa 9AM-6PM.
 * Sports gear and outdoor clothing shops along Grampian Rd are Blacks, Fat Face and Nevisport.
 * Waterstones bookshop is in the mall opposite the station, open M-Sa 9AM-5:30PM, Su 11AM-5PM.

Eat

 * Aviemore has lots of cheap & cheerful places to refuel cold hungry skiers and hill-walkers.

 * La Taverna is a trattoria at 1 Grampian Rd, south end of the village at the Coylumbridge Rd junction. It's open Th-M 13:00-21:00.
 * Tamanna is an Indian restaurant at 43 Grampian Rd next to Happy Haggis, open daily 4:30-11PM.
 * Cairngorm Hotel opposite the station (see Sleep) serves non-residents daily from noon.
 * Charcoal within the station block is sort-of Indian comfort food, open daily 1-9PM.
 * Mambos is a fast-food sit-in cafe just outside the station, open daily 10AM-1AM.
 * Smiffy's serves fish and chips just north of the station, open daily noon-9PM.
 * Cheese and Tomatin is a pizzeria at 111 Grampian Rd just south of Skiing Doo. It's open Th-Tu noon-9PM.
 * Aviemore Kebab and Burger at 118 Grampian Rd is open daily 1-10PM.
 * Cheese and Tomatin is a pizzeria at 111 Grampian Rd just south of Skiing Doo. It's open Th-Tu noon-9PM.
 * Aviemore Kebab and Burger at 118 Grampian Rd is open daily 1-10PM.
 * Aviemore Kebab and Burger at 118 Grampian Rd is open daily 1-10PM.
 * Aviemore Kebab and Burger at 118 Grampian Rd is open daily 1-10PM.

Drink

 * Aviemore Inn is on the caravan park south end of the village.
 * Cairngorm Brewery is on Dalfaber Drive near the Spey Valley Resort and golf course. No tours but they offer tasting sessions.
 * Kinrara Distillery makes gin in a former milking shed at Lynwilg Farm a mile south of Aviemore. Tasting session £10.
 * Whisky distilleries are further out: Speyside at Kingussie, Tomatin north of Carrbridge, and lots down the Spey valley around Grantown-on-Spey.
 * Whisky distilleries are further out: Speyside at Kingussie, Tomatin north of Carrbridge, and lots down the Spey valley around Grantown-on-Spey.

Sleep

 * Aviemore is the main accommodation centre for the west side of Cairngorms National Park. Lots of small B&Bs in and around the village.

 * Aviemore Holiday Park south end of the village has static caravans and chalets but no tourer or camping pitches.
 * Old Bridge Bunkhouse is run by Old Bridge Inn next door, see Eat. Dorm bunks are £25 ppn.
 * Macdonald Highland Hotel is effectively a slightly cheaper extension of Aviemore Resort Hotel.
 * Old Bridge Bunkhouse is run by Old Bridge Inn next door, see Eat. Dorm bunks are £25 ppn.
 * Macdonald Highland Hotel is effectively a slightly cheaper extension of Aviemore Resort Hotel.
 * Macdonald Highland Hotel is effectively a slightly cheaper extension of Aviemore Resort Hotel.
 * Macdonald Highland Hotel is effectively a slightly cheaper extension of Aviemore Resort Hotel.
 * Macdonald Highland Hotel is effectively a slightly cheaper extension of Aviemore Resort Hotel.
 * Macdonald Highland Hotel is effectively a slightly cheaper extension of Aviemore Resort Hotel.
 * Macdonald Highland Hotel is effectively a slightly cheaper extension of Aviemore Resort Hotel.

Connect
As of July 2023, Aviemore has 4G from O2 and Vodafone, and 5G from EE and Three.

Go next

 * Carrbridge is an alternative base for exploring this side of the Cairngorms.
 * Grantown-on-Spey further down the valley is classic whisky-distilling country.
 * Inverness is a pleasant Victorian town with lots of accommodation.
 * North Coast 500 is a touring itinerary of north Scotland that begins and ends in Inverness.
 * Loch Ness north end is near Inverness but is better explored from Drumnadrochit or Fort Augustus further south.
 * Kingussie is the last large settlement in Spey Valley before A9 climbs south over bleak Drumochter Pass then descends into Perthshire.
 * Ben Nevis is Britain's highest mountain at 1345 m (4413 ft). That's only 100 m higher than Cairngorm, but a tougher ascent as you start near sea level at Fort William.

title: Aviemore


text:
Avignon

Avignon is the capital of the French department of Vaucluse in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, and is on the banks of the Rhône river. Avignon was one of the European Cities of Culture in 2000 and its historical centre has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Prior to the latter's annexation by France in 1791, Avignon was the papal capital of the independent Comtat Venaissin.

Understand
Avignon is famous as the city to which the Popes fled when leaving the corruption of Rome in the 14th century. Le Palais des Papes (Palace of Popes) which was built then is the world's largest Gothic building. It was largely emptied over the centuries, and its vast stone rooms are filled with little more than old frescos, but it is still an imposing building. The Ramparts themselves were erected to keep the plague and invaders out during the turbulent Middle Ages, when Avignon belonged to the papacy and not the French crown.

Its early history is much older than the popes, however. Avignon occupies a strategic location for several reasons - it is at the confluence of two once-mighty rivers: the Rhône, still one of the biggest rivers in France, and the now largely-dammed Durance. Both were important routes of trade and communication even in prehistoric times. In addition, there is a long island in the Rhone that made it possible to ferry people and goods across, and later bridge the river, more easily than in other places.

The city has a population of 92,000 people (2017), 16,000 of which live 'intra-muros,' or within the ramparts built in the 14th century.

The city is now sprinkled with buildings and monuments ranging from the new to the old, the very old, and the ageless.

History
Avignon has been continuously inhabited since the stone age, when habitations were built in caves in the “Rocher des Doms”, a massive outcropping of rock rising over the banks of the Rhône. Today, a public park with benches, views over the surrounding countryside, a café and playground is on top of the Rocher.

The Romans had a presence in Avignon, though the walls they built lie buried somewhere under the modern streets. Vestiges of the forum can still be seen, lying unassumingly near the Rue Racine and the Rue Saint-Étienne, to the west of the city.

Then, in medieval times, the town grew to an important center of communication and trade. The stone bridge spanning the Rhone was one of only three between the Mediterranean and Lyon. It was undoubtedly for its strategic location and ease of travel that it was chosen by the papacy as home within the then kingdom of Provence. The presence of the papacy made Avignon into a city of great political and economic activity. The old city wall, now visible only as a street that circles the centre of the town (changing names 5 times in the process!) was much too small and a larger wall, still visible today, was necessary to protect its bulging population. Wealthy Cardinals built extravagant palaces known as livrées both within Avignon and across the river, in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon.

The city teemed with activity and building as architects, builders, artists flocked to the town. At that time, within the city walls there were over 100 churches and chapels - many of which have been transformed since then into everything from shops to a movie theatre! The wealth and activity generated by the presence of the papacy spilled out into the region, so that even small villages nearby boast a rich architectural past.

By bus
Avignon is connected to most other European cities with Flixbus. For regional travelers, following your common source, you can take: the Vaucluse département buses of the "TransVaucluse Network"; departmental buses of Bouches-du-Rhône, whose schedules are available on Lepilote; or departmental "cars du Gard", working under the name of "Edgar". All lines to the terminal bus station Avignon, which is near the train station and the walls surrounding the city center.

By boat
While there is no regular boat line in Avignon, you can arrive by boat in Avignon via river cruises.

By car
From Paris or Lyon, you can reach Avignon by the Autoroute du Soleil and take the Avignon-Nord exit and follow the N107 then the D225 towards AVIGNON Centre. This urban road leads straight to the famous Avignon bridge just before where you have a large pay car park (car park the Palais des Papes), which leads directly onto the Place du Palais des Papes in the heart of the city.

Other parking solutions, the municipality has set up 2 "relay parking + free shuttle" lots, with one bus every 10 minutes from 10:00 to 22:00. The first "Parking Italians", accessible the D225 road which runs. Circuit the shuttle drops users in the intramural centre, near the Town Hall Square; the second is located on the Ile de la Barthelasse (head Villeneuve lès Avignon and follow the signs). The shuttle drops users at Gate Oulle, about 200 m from the bridge of Avignon (Saint Bénézet bridge).

From Montpellier or Nîmes, exit on the A9 (exit Roquemaure, the first after the junction with the A7), then follow the direction Avignon.

Get around
The old city centre is not very big and can be easily explored on foot. An automatic bike sharing scheme called Vélopop' allows you to ride along. Smartcard needed.

See

Other popular tourist destinations include: the, just next to the , though someone may find these places shockingly expensive, and overcrowded in season. Within a short distance in just about any direction are some smaller squares frequented by the locals, and much lower prices. Like, with its covered market (open 06:00 to 13:00 everyday) which sells fresh produce, cheeses, wines, and produits du pays.

Museums
Avignon has its share of museums, ranging from modern art museums to museums housing artefacts from the Roman and pre-Roman days.

Do

 * If you are confident about biking, there are a lot of places to bike to.
 * Rugby league: SO Avignon play in Elite 1, the top French tier for 13-a-side rugby. Their home ground is Parc des Sports (capacity 10,000) 3 km southeast of town centre. The playing season is Sept-April.

Drink
The Rhone valley around Avignon is a major wine-growing region. The most famous wine is Châteauneuf du Pape, which translates as "the Pope's new house"; in medieval times there were some Popes based in Avignon. The reds are better known but there are also some fine whites.

Mid-range

 * Mas du Clos de l'Escarrat Route de Carpentras chemin de l'Escarrat. €80 Bed & Breakfast
 * Mas du Clos de l'Escarrat Route de Carpentras chemin de l'Escarrat. €80 Bed & Breakfast

Go next
The surrounding region is full of interesting sites, There are three sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List
 * Arles is full of Roman and Romanesque monuments and worthy of a full days exploration. 17 min from Avignon by TER.
 * Orange just a short train ride to the north is home to one of the finest Roman theatres in Europe
 * Le Pont du Gard is about 30 km to the west it is probably the finest Roman aqueduct still in existence, and a great place for hiking and canoeing.
 * Tarascon a medieval town, just a short train ride to the south

Other notable sites nearby are:
 * Nimes which has a huge Roman amphitheatre and a famous Greek temple
 * Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a short train ride north and is home to some of France's most famous vineyards
 * Aix-en-Provence, town of water - town of art, founded by the Romans.

title: Avignon


text:
Avila Beach

Avila Beach is a town in San Luis Obispo County in the Central Coast region of California. Port San Luis is a working fishing port two miles west of downtown Avila Beach.

Get in
Avila Beach is about 10 miles (16 km) south of San Luis Obispo off Highway 101. You can get off the freeway at either San Luis Bay Drive or Avila Beach Drive.

Get around
The downtown portion is easily walkable. Driving can take you to some more far flung destinations, but travelling by bike is also a good way, with a bike path from 101 to the town.

Do

Outdoor activities include swimming in the gorgeous but often frigid Pacific Ocean and basking in the sun. Golf and tennis are readily available at the Inn at Avila Beach.

Buy

Go next

 * San Luis Obispo - 10 miles north of Avila Beach and almost exactly half way between Los Angeles and San Francisco, this small college town and its neighboring communities boast extraordinary resources for hiking, mountain biking, sea kayaking, swimming and surfing, outstanding natural beauty, a carefully preserved and thriving 19th-century downtown centered around a meticulously restored 18th century mission, a small but thriving art gallery scene, and a large and growing collection of top-quality wineries.
 * Pismo Beach - Avila Beach's neighbor to the southeast is a tourism-focused coastal town that has more than 65 restaurants and 30 lodging options, and draws visitors with its beautiful coastline, annual clam festival, and the thousands of monarch butterflies that gather to spend the winter in a grove at the edge of town.
 * Morro Bay

title: Avila Beach


text:
Aviles

Aviles (Spanish: Avilés, pronounced AHH-b-ee-l-EH-s) is a port and industrial city of 79,000 people (2018) in the province of Asturias in northwest Spain. It is close to popular beaches such as Salinas. It is home to the Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre, and has important churches like St. Thomas of Canterbury.

Climate
The area experiences warm summers with both overcast and sunny days. In winter the weather is moderate, with significant rains and wind, although sometimes the cold climate of Asturias results in snowfall at sea level. The temperature is rarely below zero or over 30 °C (86 °F). Summer highs are exceptionally low by Spanish standards due its heavy maritime features and northerly position in the country.

By bus
The main bus company, Alsa, connects the city to all the provinces and most important cities in the country. There are buses every 30 minutes from downtown to Oviedo and Gijón.

By train
There are two railway systems. RENFE is the standard gauge mainline to Oviedo, with trains south to Leon, Valladolid, Segovia and Madrid. FEVE is the narrow gauge railway (now managed by Renfe) that winds along the coast, west to Ribadeo and Ferrol, east to Oviedo, Gijón, Santander, Bilbao, San Sebastian, and the French border at Irun / Hendaye. Disruptions and replacement buses are common along this line.

Architecture

 * St. Thomas of Canterbury church (dating from the 13th century)
 * Church of Saint Nicholas of Bari (12th-13th century), in Romanesque style
 * Palacio de Valdecarzana, the sole example of civil medieval architecture in the town
 * Palacio de Llano Ponte (1700–1706)
 * Baroque Palacio de Camposagrado, fortified in its north façade against the English pirates
 * Capilla de los Alas, a 14th-century funerary monument in Romanesque-Gothic transition style
 * Old church of Sabugo (13th century)
 * Palacio de Balsera, in Modernist style
 * Palacio Valdés Theatre, in Neobaroque style.

Museums and arts centres

 * Museum of Avilés Urban History
 * Black Pottery Museum
 * Alfercam Museum, where visitors can find a combination of world musical instrumentas and vintage cars.
 * "Casa de Cultura", including the Bances Candamo public library, art gallery, reading and study areas.
 * CMAE - Centro municipal de arte y exposiciones - arts and exhibition centre in El Arbolón area, not far from the town centre.

Sculptures
Throughout the town there are sculptures in various styles: the set of sculptures in El Muelle park, especially the Pedro Menendez sculpture and La foca (the seal); the Ruta del acero set of sculptures along the Avilés estuary; Avilés sculpture, and different ones such as: Marta y María, El hombre que escucha la piedra (the man who listens to the stone), El eslabón, and Entre bambalines.

Feasts and traditions

 * Feast of the Amagüestu (autumn).
 * The Antroxu (Carnival in Asturian language) which includes the Galiana's Street Internarional and Fluvial Descent (Descenso Internacional y Fluvial de la calle de Galiana) (winter).
 * The Feast of the Bollo (Fiesta del bollo) (the bollo is a traditional cake) (Bollo de Pascua de Avilés) (spring).
 * The LGBTIQ+ Asturian Cinema Festival (Festival de Cine LGBTIQ+ de Asturias) (spring).
 * The Interceltic Festival of Avilés, which takes place in summer, with people coming from all Celtic nations (Brittany, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Galicia, Asturias) (summer).
 * Feast of Saint Augustine (Avilés' patron saint) (summer).
 * "La Mar de Ruido" rock festival (summer).
 * Avilés International Cinema and Architecture Festival.

Go next

 * Oviedo is another old town with various UNESCO-listed monuments.
 * Gijón is a lively coastal town with a Roman archeological site.

title: Aviles


text:
Avoca (New York)

Avoca is in Steuben County, New York.

title: Avoca (New York)