France – VacayHack

Europe’s Grand Canyon

September 14, 2015September 14, 2015Posted in Europe, FranceTagged Europe, France, HoneymoonLeave a comment

The Verdon River runs through this striking canyon in southeastern France giving it the name Gorges du Verdon. It’s a 2 to 3 hour drive from Nice – depending on how fast you want to drive along the edge of a cliff. A little harrowing but definitely worth it. There is a another approach to the canyon that is a bit longer but the road is far less dangerous. Once you get there, park the car near the boat rental and explore the canyon by kayak or paddleboat. Technically, swimming is not allowed but that didn’t seem to stop anyone.

Mirror Mirror on the Wall…

June 30, 2015August 22, 2015Posted in Europe, FranceTagged Europe, France, Historic SitesLeave a comment

The jaw dropping Hall of Mirrors is the central gallery of the equally jaw dropping Palace of Versailles. The Palace of Versailles is located an hour outside of Paris and should not be missed by travelers. The Hall of Mirrors has seventeen mirrored arches to reflect the seventeen windows that overlook the gardens. During its heyday the Hall was actually dimly lit so that smoke would not damage the architecture. The clever arrangement of mirrors allowed enhancement of a small amount of candlelight. The Treaty of Versailles, which marked the end of World War I, was signed in the Hall of Mirrors. A visit to the Palace should not be done without a visit to the gardens, which are equally magnificent.