Hello everyone
The High Tatras are impressive rising from the foothills with the highest peak in northern and eastern central Europe. We stayed just outside the ski town of Strbske Pleso, and headed out from here on our mountain walk. It was a hot and partly cloudy day (thankfully – we have 36°C, so cloud is great!) and the views were amazing.
From here we headed east to Spišský Castle – a huge ruin
fortress dating from the 12th century. It sits high above the
surrounding flatter countryside with great views.
We then drove south west through the old mining town of Banská Štiavnica towards Hungary. Throughout Slovakia, the scenery has been spectacular. However, on the outskirts of many towns, there are numerous ramshackled sheds and tumble-down buildings which look like shanty towns. Young children line the road selling berries and mushrooms from buckets – quite a shock really.
Budapest is a fantastic and vibrant place. Buda on the west
bank is hilly with the Royal Palace and Matthias Church, whereas Pest on the
east has the St Stephen’s Basilica (with his mummified right hand on display!)
and the huge Parliament building (the largest building in Hungary). The famous
Chain Bridge connects the two, and is particularly beautiful lit up at night. We’ve
seen the sights, done a walking tour and enjoyed people watching. We also took
an evening river cruise on Peter’s birthday which was excellent.
We are on the city camp half an hours’ walk from the centre.
Its been very hot and sunny, and the camp-site is over-full, but our small spot
is thankfully under a tree for shade. The Hungarian Forint currency exchanges
at approx. 390 to the pound, so we’ve got thousands and thousands in our
pockets, and the beer and wine are cheap too!!
Our route is south, whilst we make decisions about where to
head next.
Will post again next week - love to all
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