Autumn Colours Palette

Autumn Colours Palette

by | Sep 22, 2020 | Uncategorized

The days are getting shorter and the sun’s rays are getting weaker. We all wish to hold on to the happy feeling a little longer and to set off looking for places where the sun is still shining and temperatures are reassuringly mild. Autumn is a perfect mid-way point between the two seasons. Nature is resplendent in the golden light; shimmering colours illuminate the city’s walls. The flux of tourists has diminished, even if this summer was a little particular. In this particular context escaping reality is even more needed. Let’s get our suitcases out again and see where the Charly team takes us next. 

A long week-end for two, the next family holidays or even with friends not seen in a while.

The Indian Summer in Corsica

The island of beauty breathes a sigh of relief after the passage of a number of summer tourists. A short flight, Corsica has enough attractions to draw you across the Mediterranean to see its beauty first-hand.

From north to south, choose your landscape: savage nooks, green hills, bays and coves with translucent waters, craggy coastal lines and inaccessible beaches or high mountains. A huge variety of landscapes, one more beautiful than the next which will vow even the hardest to please.
And for the rest? A sophisticated homestead in which to isolate yourself, a delightfully refurbished convent, a large house tastefully decorated and full of ancient souvenirs of Napoléon III, or the gorgeous Relais Châteaux to completely enjoy your stay and which offer gourmet cuisine.
And speaking of cuisine? There are seasons when our bodies need nurture and the table should be full of fresh cuts, of veal cooked with olives and polenta, and cheeses with honey and fig jam. To finish sweets flavoured with clementine or chestnuts. As a background noise, the Corse song, coming straight from the heart of the local people, will fill you with serenity and emotion. Listening to these traditional songs will give you goosebumps. Follow the Route des Sens which brings you across many different regions of this territory to see the natural treasures and learn the ancient history.

Grèce, sur la route d’Olympie

An odyssey through the past, full of archaeological sites, byzantine architecture, daydreams above the shades of the Aegean Sea, the reasons to visit Greece are many.
The home of the Greek gods is a fabulous place to visit in the autumn as its still warm and sunny which allows you to enjoy the small creeks and the small fishing ports, busy all year round.
Sail from island to island – not yet all victims to mass tourism – which includes the iconic Santorini, the romantic, Paxos, the welcoming and Mykonos; the party one.
We will show you the hidden spots and whatever your selection, they are all magnificent at any time of day.
And have you thought of mainland Greece? This often-overlooked place seduces with its world class Unesco treasures, and is also a favourite with climbing and walking fans. It’s true a destination completely different with names which you will recognize immediately, the Peloponnese, the Meteora, the Delphos.
Let’s be honest, steady sunshine, cultural and natural richness, delicious and colourful cuisine, the birth of the western world, Greece is a destination full of choice, a short trip from the continent.

Turkey, a perfect detour between continents

A perfect destination for the idyll, this peninsula region between the Black sea in the North and the Mediterranean in the south, benefits of the Middle Eastern climate In Istanbul the heat of the summer turns into a comfy warmth and makes the city more agreeable to explore in autumn.
Of all of the activities available on the coast, diving is not the most known but a great place to immerge yourself and explore the marine world. Set out from Kas, between mountain and sea, a site which isn’t overly popular but rich in local culture.
Golfers can delight in the numerous high-level courses, especially in Antalya, Mugla and Istanbul.
In the centre of the country, Cappadocia, with its beautiful canyons with the chimneys straight out of fairy tales, give you a wonderful opportunity to view the surrounding landscapes from the heights. Flying above the valleys from a hot air balloon, admire the troglodyte’s houses, today classed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
And perhaps quite unexpected, surfing and kitesurfing is popular and amateurs from all over the world find an international place to learn this sport.
The turquoise coast offers a sweet climate up until November. The beaches with transparent waters, white sand and pebbles a great place for a beach holiday right up until November. Turkey offers some wonderful sites full of rich culture and history.

Consultez-nous pour d’autres suggestions plus que jamais à l’envers des foules

et comme toujours accompagnés de guides locaux passionnés.

As happy as Ulysses…

As happy as Ulysses…

by | Aug 17, 2020 | Uncategorized

“It is simply a lovely voyage” ….

Looking for Charly continues its voyage to the very South of Europe. Come with us, cross the Messina strait and find yourself in a place suspended between myth and reality.
Here you will find a land of mixed heritage, enriched from the culture of its different occupiers, each of which have left their own mark…

Discover its treasures, its natural landscapes where mysterious blooms mix with earthly minerals. Here where the stones of each buildings tell tales, from an unfinished temple; from a preserved city following an earthquake, from a timeless mosque, from a castle built on the cliffs overlooking the sea. And the water which is all around us, also brings you into a state of pure contemplation ….

Welcome to Sicily !

You are all familiar with its name – this island of UNESCO World Heritage sites – of baroque palaces, oriental gardens and byzantine cathedrals. On your journey, our guide will introduce you to these lands and all of the unmissable pleasures of this island. As one of our specialists, in true Sicilian style, chatty and a fast talker, they will enchant you with their singing voices. Charm you with their and accent who only the Italians of the South know how to do

Ready to sail? 

Taking to the sea for a few days, will allow you to discover the unique archipelago, the Eoliennes, spread out between sea and land..
Time is a luxury so spend it sailing from island to island, exploring secret coves and discovering all of the secrets of the Tyrrehenian sea..

The best way to admire these amazing landscapes is from the sea. Looking out to the small fishing villages and ports buzzing with life day and night, just you out there, with the waves and the stars above. On board a traditional sailing wooden boat, you will sail around these islands of which only 7 are inhabited. A real floating hotel, light, narrow and with its shallow draught, these boats were originally used for fishing. Today with modern motors, these boots are still equipped with sails and continue to delight with their charm.

 

 

With all of the comfort of a yacht, you will be seduced by the familiar and convivial atmosphere onboard. To be shared with family or friends, whilst still having your own private spaces in the interior to hide away in. With between 2 and 12 cabins, all cabins have air conditioning and have a complete and private bathroom..

Of course, the itinerary can be adapted according to your desires and you can make the most of your time by sailing at night. Sit back and take it all in, all of the beautiful sites along the way, water, land, wind and fire! Sail past Stromboli, and this makes for an iconic moment. Symbol of an explosive marriage between fire and stone, the lady may offer you –if you wait patiently– a spray of fiery lava.

Another spot not to miss, Panarea with its picturesque streets and small white houses surrounded by hibiscus and bougainvillaea, the turquoise waters shining in the background, whilst the sound of cicadas brightens the night. By evening step into the best restaurant perhaps on the bridge with a view of Stromboli, the ideal place to watch its night-time eruptions. là.

 

For the sporty amongst us, walks are possible along the crater of the Volcano to better feel the emotions and trembles or on Salina the highest point of the archipelago. Relax and switch off! The crew will take care of everything for you from navigation to the visits and of course will entice you with some delicious meals on board with ingredients fresh from the sea and inspired from Sicilian specialities.

We would suggest a few days in Trapani, an excellent starting point to discover this region by privatising a charming villa. This journey of discovery ends with Etna,
to brave the fierceness of this volcano.

Since the XIX century, this house in an Art Nouveau style was the residence of the noble family Adragna, today looked after by Agostino, the grandson. A passionate of art and culture, he decided to transform this family house into a harem of tranquillity. Four rooms and two suites make this is the ideal place to relax and find yourself again. All of the rooms have been carefully restored whilst conserving the traditional style and historical elements of the house whilst still adopting a modern twist.

Here you are in your own home, closeted in a fabulous garden which gives the feel of nature in the heart of the city. Under your own steam, set off to discover the surrounding areas or relax by the swimming pool with a delicious cocktail mixed for you by Alessandro. By evening, enjoy the menu prepared by your chef for a romantic dinner in the garden.

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Feel like going out ? Staying loyal to the culinary traditions of this region in the XVI C, start with an aperitif on a terrace, followed by a dinner in a garden with a view on Monte Cofano and the bay of Bonagia. Of the many possible activities, enjoy a cooking class to learn to cook the curious street food dishes of Sicily, the celebrated « Arancine ». You can also learn to cook « Busiate » and the famous pesto of Trapani, a local speciality with a unique flavour.

On the cultural side, enjoy a private visit to the Pepoli Museum housed in a private XIV palace, in the past occupied by the convent of Carmes. Tour the museum with the director or a resident historian to talk about the collection of comte from which it takes its name – around an aperitif in the cloisters at the end of the tour.

Agostino will take you for an excursion on board an exclusive yacht or a sail boat, set sail around the Egades Islands or the Réserve du Zingaro like Favignana and Levanzo. Once there, swim, snorkel in the crystalline water, visit the marine caves, the museum Florio or the ancient caves or better still reach the top of Mont Santa Saterina on the back of a donkey.

Trapani is renowned for its red roofed windmills built on the salt pans. A millennial history see the pools utilized by the Phoenicians before developing commercial salt. Meet one of the families who have continued this tradition from many generations and who will tell you the secrets passed down from generations whilst soaking up the views of this incredible landscape uniting land and sea.

This amazing discovery ends with the Etna National Park, on the volcano depths.

Then the grand finale, the emblematic cone, always active, watching over the coast with its sandy beaches. It is the highest active volcano in Europe (3 345 metres) giving life to an incredible play field for lovers of extreme sensations without too much effort.
Take a half day excursion or a total immersion including spending the night up here close to its heart.

Imagine, after a restful night in bivouac where you will learn about its mystery in a more intimate way on the north face. The refuge is far away from civilization. And to add even more sensations, find yourself face to face with the summit which rises majestically whilst the fumes remind you of the presence of the volcano.

A 4×4 will drive you up to the plateau, still on the northern face where the road suddenly stops. Your guide will lead you along the sportif course. Take to your bicycles, and follow the guide to arrive up to the craters of the summit, a few bends later and you will find the ancient cone. After leaving the chestnut forest behind, you will find no more vegetation instead you will be surrounded by lava which shows as a chaotic mass. Walk with prudence in this moon landscape from where you can just about see the houses below. The white smoke will lift you into a mysterious universe.

Brace yourself as they may change colours and according to the force of nature, and get ready to descend back down to earth as the sounds of civilization start to be heard again.
In autumn the colours contrast with the bright light between the black of the volcanic stone and the colours of the trees with their shining leaves.

Best period for this trip September and October
 
All requirements are susceptible to be modified and can change according to the evolution of the pandemic. For all destinations, travellers need to respect the health protocol and the restrictions in the hotels and all the touristic activities.
Live St Trop as an expert !

Live St Trop as an expert !

by | Jul 4, 2020 | Uncategorized

As we sit around our tables as a family, each of us expresses a desire to travel far, to catch a plane and fly far away, experience jetlag and really feel like we are on holiday again.
But sometimes it’s better to follow reason instead of the heart and what if exotic lands are only a short drive away, where you can still enjoy your daily comforts??

The Charly Team is happy to propose a corner of the French Hexagon where nature and man live in harmony. Lived and relived, this region is adored by many travelers, its villages are dreamlike and its bell towers have featured as backdrops to many a film.

Here the Mediterranean Riviera breathes glamour, some people fall in love at first sight, others like to explore further into the rich backcountry but everyone eventually falls for this area, Yes! This really is the Peninsula of Saint Tropez and let yourselves be guided and inspired by us.

From azure coastlines, divine smelling pine tree forests, green valleys to charming villages with great little places overlooking the gorgeous beach of Gigaro seeing the Peninsula this August will be much quieter than other summers!

ParAnd for some great suggestions, we must thank our Italian Filippo Verani Masin whom originally from Monaco has chosen to live a simple local life here. He is the owner of the furniture boutique “La Maison des Lices”, stocking accessories but also furniture and textiles with inspirational Mediterranean themes for indoors and outdoors.

 

 Cafes, beaches – we share the secrets!

For Filippo the place for a coffee is undoubtably within the private gardens of the Maison Dior Femme – “Dior des Lices”, where the majestic palm trees shade you and hide the small hotel situated at the end of the garden. Here enjoy a perfect breakfast, a local lunch or a sublime dinner of refined local produce. Open from June to September.

Once upon a time a small restaurant, today, Club 55 is the celebrated family beach club of Pampelonne – it is the only chic and chilled beach club without electro music or Champagne battles. It is welcoming, elegant, and of course a local’s favorite.

Of a morning, walk right along the beach for a coffee at Ramatuelle at “Loulou à la plage”. The first one of these was a restaurant-bar housed in the Musée des Arts décoratifs in Paris. Now they have opened a second one overlooking the Pointe du Capon. With a homely feel, the private beach with white parasols and wooden transits gives the idea of setting sail. It offers the Dolce Vita vibe, French Riviera version, the menu is simple, generous and light.

Filippo favourite restaurants

The “Banh-Hoi” for its exotic Vietnamise and Thai cuisine. The nicest aspect is that you can dine outside in a small side street without any crowds.

At the “Patio” the Italian chef who receives his guests in the superb courtyard of the Hotel Yaca, a tranquil and picturesque spot. Enjoy a gourmet journey in a romantic setting. 

For a taste of street food, make your way to the White 1921 hotel, on the iconic place des Lices. Now part of LVMH group, a new restaurant has just opened.

Heading up “ToShare”, Jean Imbert has thrown himself into a new gastronomic adventure with his American partner the artist Pharell Williams..

And to finish, a laidback choice:

“Au caprice des Deux” where the Chef in collaboration with his sister prepares a regional and traditional cuisine in the heart of the old town 

And of course, how can we forgot the most famous of all the tropézienne, Its delicate pastry and its light patisserie cream perfumed with flower of orange? For him a must is chez Laurent Cavazza rue Clemenceau. Élève Lenôtre, is the grandson of the pâtissier creator of the original recipe.

 

Our coup de coeur : l’Éphémère, a FoodTruck under the shade of pine trees. For an aperitif and a few gastronomique tapas or some plates to share at  Domaine viticole Fondugues-Pradugues in Ramatuelle.

And to start of the evening in a great way, the secret of a perfect apero : a must, a simple hideaway from the bustle of Saint Tropez at “La plage des Salins” sink your feet directly into the water. At sunset then move to the table for a delicious pizza.

The best ice cream in St Tropez generally has long queues but Barbarac will not disappoint you. The sorbet is their speciality alongside traditional ice cream flavours all home made with fresh and natural ingredients. Gourmet flaveurs served in cones with multicolour straws.

 

 

 

And now to shopping – when Filippo leaves his boutique it’s at the market that we find him Tuesday and Saturday morning, he takes time to browse the stalls at the Place des Lices market. Seasonal fruits and vegetables, culinary specialities, regional products of the local area. Let yourself be tempted by the anchovies peppers, the beignet of courgette flowers, calamari or petit farcis.

And to finish off your look of the perfect local, look for the famous sandals les Tropeziene, vintage version, from the shop Rondini, multicolour or plain in natural leather, they are tied to your ankle with flax ties.

And to really treat yourself visit Massimo Marchese a luxury jewellery maker from Italy who can teach you a thing or two about precious stones. Coloured diamonds, sparkling adornments, wedding bands, all of his creations are unique pieces with a minimalist and personal style.

As all lovers of nice things, our guide will take us to the “Fromagerie du Marché”, place aux Herbes. Its speciality the famous brie with truffles, with many different types of comtes, a large selection of goat cheese and renown butters.

And as a base for your exploration we recommend not far from La Croix Valmer, hidden amongst the vineyards between roses and rare eucalyptus “Lily of the Valley”. Imagined by Philippe Starck, is a destination in itself. The renowned architect refers to his project “All my life I dreamed of being here”. Ph.S. The magnificent ancient pine trees are a perfect setting for this hotel immersed in nature.
It all dramatically overlooks the Varois coast with its transparent waters and fine sand from high above Gigaro beach.

An exceptionnel property in a exceptionnel location. The spaces are open and luminous right into the interior. The 38 rooms and 6 suits all surround the external pool and the terraces open up over the bay. Of course, there is outstanding service but the welcoming is homely and the atmosphere is familiar as in typical southern style. A calmness surrounds you.

The traveller looking for peace and harmony, body & spirit can take advantage of the spa services and their getting fit program. Grace at “The Village”, the centre dedicated to the perfect balance between pleasure and health objectives. With therapists who can tailor their programs and a diet to get a durable result whilst getting in shape in this paradise. At the spa enjoy relaxation, around the pool where only adults are to be found.

 

Soon you will be jetting off

Soon you will be jetting off

by | Jun 11, 2020 | Uncategorized

Europe is slowly awaking from its slumber. We would like to introduce a select few regions nearby, to which you may be able to travel sooner than you may think, perhaps even in a plane!  Whilst we wait for the total lifting of travel restrictions and whilst safety and preventive health measures are being established around the World, we can’t resist sharing some ideas to get you travelling again.

Pearl of Central Europe, Hungary is a charming and unique country.

Feel like you are in Brooklyn in the heart of Budapest, rendez-vous in a coffee shop of the center, hidden away in a small side street, for a tranquil breakfast. Delight in a hot chocolate with homemade whipped cream or a fresh bowl of muesli. Then brunch in a « ruin bar », a unique place, straight out of the underground universe of New York, like a vibrant ‘bazar’, a mix between a flea market and a bohemian cafe, generally off the beaten track.

Continue your voyage far from the city, in the spectacular forest known as the city of clouds, Visegrad, which sits high above the Danube and offers incredible views.

We have all missed nature and witnessing the never-ending views over the Hungarian ‘steppes’ brings many good vibes. A visit here offers you another side to the country.

Immerse yourself in local life, cross the countryside in a horse and carriage, and enjoy this traditional art form of riding, taught to you by experienced riders.

Against all expectations, tulips are not actually from Holland…

they were imported from Turkey in the 16th century. The iconic tulips flower in Holland at the end of March, proudly showing their colors until the start of summer. Taking a bicycle and riding along country lanes through local villages is the best way to enjoy seeing the tulips. For those who simply can’t get enough or are less active, visit the gardens of KeuKenhof to see these gorgeous flowers in bloom.

Haarlem is a small authentic town full of charm. Sitting in the famous district of the bulbs, it is the historic capital of Holland. Calm, picturesque, full of flowers on display, its cobbled streets and historic buildings invite you to simply stroll around.

Not to be missed in Haarlem is the chance to enjoy a drink in an old church, wander around the market tasting fresh herring or mackerel smoked directly in front of you.

In need of space? The region of Wadden is a magnificent natural reserve which is a World Unesco site.

Situated just off the coast, the 5 islands that make up the park are a protected area ideal for relaxing.

It’s a paradise for deer, fallow deer, bighorn sheep, roes but also bulls, raptors and other rare animals.

You have already met, the press talks about it, its songs pierce our hearts, one unique island, Corsica ! Where to find many different worlds in one small place?  

The prairies of Argentina, translucent Caribbean waters, Highlands country, American ranches, African farms or the plains of Brazil… here the mountains are steep, punctured by alpine lakes, with walking trails, stunning views and of course the sea which is life here, the catch of the day will always feature on your plate. 

Either Robinson Crusoe or Shepard style, everybody will find their nest, their beach or rock.  
It’s the moment to visit as this island will most likely not be overrun this summer!

 

Croatia, enclave of the Adriatic lying between sea and mountains.
Country of contrasts, you can even reach it by car from South of France.

There are more than 700 islands lost at sea, some inhabited, which have stayed truly wild.

On the west of the country, the natural park of lakes, Plitvice is a World Unesco site. The views are outstanding. Home to 16 lakes set one below the other, from which the waters tumble down from one into the next, creating stunning waterfalls. The clear and turquoise waters, invite you to swim. Don’t give in to the urge as the pools have protected status, to conserve their wild fauna and flora which will surprise and delight you.

The Kamenjak Peninsula with its jagged coastline is home to a number of bays and beaches of exceptional beauty comprising 11 inhabited islands, with a large number of secret beaches and coves. From the cliffs – more of less high – you can dive straight into the turquoise sea.

This small natural reserve is the home of orchids many of which are rare. The absence of construction has let nature take over and go truly wild.

In the Parc National de Krka, there are a number of elevated pontoons allowing you to walk above the clear waters whilst surrounded by dense and luxuriant vegetation. The access to Skradin allows you to walk up to a spectacular waterfall where a swim is a must. The paths and bridge enable you to observe the geomorphological forms which have taken place over the centuries and the hundreds of varieties of bird, reptiles and wild cat.

 

For a dose of culture, all of the oldest towns of Croatia offer their own very unique mix of medieval history and charming seaside resort.
Our tip, stay away from the more touristic ones and enjoy the real vibe of this country of ex-Yugoslavia..
These are only a few ideas to fire up your imagination and start working on your dream.

24 hours in Jerico

24 hours in Jerico

by | May 29, 2020 | Uncategorized

Everybody at home, episode 2.
Where do you find Indian, Spanish and African influences intertwined together?
All co-existing happily to offer you a variety of experiences and surprises…..
Let’s start the day with a work of Latin American literature, which is rich and dynamic and is best represented by the Nobel prize winner in Literature, Gabriel Garcia Marquez (up here two of his most famous books). Part of the appeal of this Colombian author is that he takes us through our imagination, to explore distant Spanish speaking lands.
Never without my coffee! One of the best in the World. Of course, you already know, that Colombian coffee is legendary: noir, tinto, with or without milk, enjoyed at any time of day – in the kitchen, in the living room or on a street corner, always served in its small goblet
“And what will we eat? “
“Tamales”: little food parcels dating from the Pre-Hispanic era. The base of this specialty is corn flour or rice flour to which you add meat, vegetables, potatoes, carrots and herbs to give it a unique taste. This mix is then wrapped in a banana leaf or corn husk. To lend its smoky taste, the tamales is steam cooked. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients! In Colombia, Tamales are breakfast for some, although perhaps for us, its maybe best as a morning snack, as a Tamales first thing in the morning can be challenging……

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This morning, we relax, whilst admiring an art piece of Fernando Botero. He represents Colombian society through each of his pieces, giving a true critique of society – a mirror of the situation in his country during his lifetime, represented in his paintings and sculptures. Careful as the Maestro does not like the term ‘large’ but prefers voluptuous. Volume is for him, “a celebration of life and sensuality”.
Of course, you will need some exercise now and why not to the sound of Yuri Buenaventura, the most Francophile of Colombians, with his devilish salsa. Salsa, but also Merengue, quintessentially European, Aboriginal and African, Reggaeton with its world renown artists, Tango or of course the music of the Andes, all of which are renown worldwide in their own right. The Cumbria, the most important here, represents the cultural heritage of Colombia and gives rhythm to the lively nights of the country.
It’s important to note that Colombia – close to the equator – has no real seasons. Therefore, the sun rises and sets basically at the same time all through the year. Ensure therefore that you make time for lunch…
This one always includes a great variety of fruits and vegetables, produced abundantly all year long. Here even banana is a vegetable! Close your eyes and hear the call of the fruit seller passing through the street with his cart, « aguacateeee maduro, mango, aguacaaaate » and buy it directly from your window.
It’s too hot to go outside so stay inside in the cool and immerse yourself in Jerico! “Jericó, El Infinito Vuelo de los Dias” – a film of Catalina Mesa shown in cinemas in June 2018, Winner of the best documentary and public award Cinelatino. Catalina Mesa takes us on a journey to Jericó, a small Colombian village in the north-west of the country. She shows us a portrait of the female spirit, through twelve local women, whose lives are full of laughter but tinged with sadness at times. The film is a tribute to family first most, to an old auntie who has spent her entire life in the village, to the family members who migrated towards the city and to a generation overflowing with stories and experiences. All of these women are welcoming and open to an honest dialogue, which takes place in the privacy of their homes, so they can finally speak freely. Some of their stories can be hard to hear as the village, like most of Colombia, was touched by the military conflict. Husbands and sons, tragically killed or kidnapped in the conflict, which has left the wives to carry on alone. Even in tragedy, however humor is always present, as is music, poetry, colors and sunshine. Whilst the dialogue and the preservation of the collective memory are the strong points of this film, the beauty, energy and the openness of the characters are what makes the soul of the movie.
Tonight, we will enjoy Fish Sancocho.
This is a traditional Colombian soup.
Usually made with chicken, we present a fish version.
We ara happy to share Dominique Oudin’s recipe, Chef at the Santa Clara Hotel in Cartagena.