OH LIFE ENGLISH february 2026 MK 1

24 january 2025 - price 10 £

30 janvier 2026 in memoriam

SUMMARY

Eric HEIDEBROEK

Editor‐in‐Chief – AGJPB‐Accredited Journalist F05749

Ode to Love

2

In early November, we learned that our

colleague Charles MAHAUX was suffering

from an incurable illness. Doctors had told

him he would likely not live to see Christmas.

They clearly underestimated our friend

— and just as much his devoted wife, Christiane.

Together, they faced the illness with

courage, doing everything in their power

to ease its effects and preserve as much

comfort as possible. Aware that time had

become precious, they chose to savour life’s

pleasures and multiply the moments shared

with their loved ones.

From these moments arose extraordinary

encounters: friends and companions from

all over the world, met during years of travel

reporting, who continue to send messages,

memories and affection. There was also the

visit of the United States Ambassador, who

came to greet the father of Régine, one of

Charles’s daughters, whose work — in the

highest American circles — showcases the

photographic talent and creativity she inherited

from him. Benoît, his youngest son

and a member of the OH! LIFE team, visited

him regularly, as did his grandchildren, with

whom Charles shared moments of rare intensity.

Julie, Christiane’s daughter, surrounded

him with a delicate, filial tenderness, as

did India, her daughter, often by their side.

Each brought Charles a joyful, luminous presence

that meant the world to him.

And Christiane, day after day, embodied

that quiet strength that only true love

can offer.

On January 17, our globetrotter, our

Grand Reporter, slipped away peacefully,

taking his final breath in the arms of the

woman he loved.

St.GERLACH and McLaren 750S Tokyo Blue !

FRENCH ROAD TRIP Chartres - Futuroscope - Nausicaà

The African Islands of the Atlantic: A magnificent Exploris cruise

PIRELLI OPEN NEW SHOP iN KNOKKE

Springsteen on Tour 2023

Lotus Cars & Manoir de Lébioles

Spa-Francorchamps

Bentley GTC Hybrid V8

Bentley Bentayga and Clarance Hotel Lille

The Douro Cruise

The Ijselemeer Cruise

NEWS

CALENDARIO

PIRELLI 2022

By BRYAN ADAMS

and

STATIC’S

PIRELLI INAUGURE UN CONCEPT A KNOKKE

4 5

KNOKKE

Pirelli opens the first

P Zero World Authorised Dealer in Benelux

On 11 July 2025, Pirelli opened its first PZERO World Authorised Dealer in

Benelux, in Knokke. For obvious reasons, the number of luxury and sports

cars in this prestigious and popular seaside resort is one of the highest

in the country. This service point aims to further strengthen the brand’s

reputation in the region, alongside international sponsorships

- from F1 to tennis and MotoGP - which reinforce the value

and recognition of the Pirelli

brand worldwide.

Knokke-Heist is therefore a new step in

a journey focused on the future, which

places product excellence and customer

experience at the heart of its concerns.

By Eric HEIDEBROEK

Layout : Pascale LINTERMANS - HEIDEBROEK

6 7

«We are proud to open this brand new PIRELLI service centre, authorised as a ’P Zero World

Authorised Dealer’ in Belgium, further strengthening Pirelli’s presence in this market, which

is characterised by a high percentage of high-end and prestige cars and is therefore ideal

for a concept of this type. Knokke-Heist is also a region that perfectly reflects the brand’s

values: excellence, innovation and customer focus,» said Tiziano BEDINI, Head of Commercial

Operations for Benelux.

«This opening is part of Pirelli’s global strategy to consolidate its leadership in the High

Value segment by expanding its distribution network and presence in key markets.»

The partnership between Pirelli and W. Van Acker & Sons is no coincidence:

the Knokke-based company is renowned for the excellence

of its customer-oriented services. This is a quality that Pirelli actively

seeks to develop its global network of over 100 «P Zero World Authorised

Dealers». Through this collaboration, the brand is strengthening

its position in the most exclusive products in its range, while

continuing to be involved in the various fields in which it excels, from

Formula 1 to elite motorsports and the world of design.

8 9

A McLaren 750S Tokyo Blue

at Château St. Gerlach

Of

When super‐sport mobility

meets the monastic serenity

of ancient stone

ONE

McLaren 750S

AT THE

St. Gerlach

World Wide HOTEL

10 11

Arranging test drives for extraordinary

cars is never simple, and

pairing such a machine with a

property worthy of its pedigree is

just as delicate.

Yet we were fortunate enough to

bring together two superstars for

the span of a late‐weekend escape.

Château St. Gerlach lies just

a few kilometres from Maastricht.

This five‐star Relais & Châteaux

property sets the tone immediately:

a place that knows how to

welcome, how to host, how to

elevate a stay.

Our McLaren stands proudly at the

entrance of this venerable estate. It

draws the eye, it seduces, and

when its engine fires up, the deep,

raspy voice of its 4‐litre V8—

hand‐built in England by Ricardo—

sets hearts vibrating and charms

every ear within reach.

When this sculptural machine

glides through the vast park, open

to the public and dotted with

contemporary artworks, it flexes its

muscles and plays with the light.

Any light, in fact. Under full sun,

the paint and lacquer reveal depth

and shimmering curves. When the

day fades and the sunset casts its

warm glow across its flanks, the

car’s muscles stand out even more

12 13

clearly. One suddenly sees the

silhouette of a supple, powerful

predator—one with whom negotiation

is required.

St. Gerlach radiates calm and

wonder, its green surroundings

inviting rest and serenity.

Step inside and you immediately

feel at home. The place welcomes

you as if you had stayed here before, as

if the walls themselves recognised you.

The Oostwegel Collection entrusted

designer Roelfien Vos with the complete

redesign of the estate: all 58 rooms, the

lobby, the reception and the salons. And

the moment you cross the threshold,

you understand why they chose her.

Roelfien Vos didn’t simply redecorate

the hotel—she reinvented it. She infused

it with her tactile elegance, her

eye for detail, her unique ability to turn

a space into an intimate experience.

Here, everything invites you to touch, to

settle in, to linger.

16 17

The armchairs?

Not seats—refuges. Warm fabrics, soft

textures like a caress, enveloping shapes

that invite you to sink into them. One

gives in almost involuntarily, drawn in

by comfort.

The rooms have been reimagined as

contemporary cocoons, where landscape‐inspired

curves meet sculptural

lines. Wardrobes become art pieces,

headboards ripple like the Geul valley,

and every material tells a story. You

want to run your hand across the velvets,

trace the wood grain with your

fingertips, disappear into the deep‐coloured

cushions.

In the lobby and salons, light glides

across textures, reveals floral patterns,

and highlights the dialogue between

heritage and modernity. Beams, stone

walls and traces of the past converse

with luxurious fabrics and bespoke

finishes. It is a place where one

breathes, slows down, savours.

Camille Oostwegel Sr. preserved fragments

of the past: historical objects,

rare pieces, small relics whispering the

estate’s story. These silent witnesses

anchor the transformation in tangible

memory.

Roelfien Vos has created a décor that is

not merely seen—it is lived, touched,

felt. A place where every detail invites

immersion.

18 19

At reception, we are immediately taken

care of and guided to our room: a spacious

junior suite with a refined, understated

elegance. The blend of neo‐classical

and modern furniture creates a clean,

unfussy atmosphere. Balanced and

harmonious. To the left of the entrance, an angular wardrobe

serves as a dressing area, integrating the minibar

and storage. In front, a small lounge table and a soft grey

fabric sofa. The king‐size bed stands beneath a rectilinear

arch that blends into the Mansard‐style ceiling. The back

wall is adorned with delicate floral tapestries. The bathroom

is generous and offers all the amenities expected

at this level.

20 21

The view over the surrounding

heathland ensures absolute

tranquillity.

Despite being conceived long

before the digital age, St.

Gerlach offers excellent

connectivity: USB and USB‐C

outlets integrated into the

power sockets, high‐quality

Wi‐Fi, and state‐of‐the‐art

televisions with the ports

needed by those who travel

with their consoles.

USBA

USBC

Breakfast is served in a veranda

overlooking the heath. And

despite the exceptional influx

of guests attending André

Rieu’s concert, the service was

remarkably efficient—quick,

smiling, impeccably organised.

The staff impresses, especially

during the rush.

22 23

The gardens of St. Gerlach are open to

the public, and many Valkenburg residents

stroll here with their families. Everything

unfolds with great respect for the place

and for the exclusive character of the

hotel infrastructure envisioned by Camille

Oostwegel Sr.

Even more impressive: Camille Sr. chose

to donate the 150‐hectare heathland

surrounding the estate—now the Ingendael

Nature Reserve—to the region for a

symbolic florin, on the condition that it

become a protected area. Wild horses and

cattle roam freely, moving through a

landscape astonishingly untouched by

human constraint. Marked paths guide

visitors, who explore the reserve with

deep respect. The magic of St. Gerlach lies

in this harmonious coexistence between

international five‐star guests and the local

community.

A rotating egg‐shaped

sculpture covered in mosaic…

A creation by Irène van Vlijmen †

EVENING

Gourmandises

26 27

The restaurant occupies a grand residence,

once the home of Baron de

Sélys Fanson.

Several original rooms, including the

superb library, form a privileged setting

where history meets elegance.

Upon arrival, the maître d’hôtel greets

you warmly and leads you to your table.

The charm works instantly. You walk

through large, elegant dining rooms,

perfectly set, where many guests savour

their meals.

28 29

On this Sunday evening, the

restaurant is nearly full. The

acoustics are masterfully

controlled: even the clinking

of cutlery seems absorbed.

Conversations become a soft

murmur, laughter blends into

the atmosphere.

Our table, set in an open

corner of the room, offers a

view of the gardens and the

majestic library wall.

The whole scene is impressive,

distinctive, almost theatrical.

Each dish arrives like a delicate

sculpture, revealing

flavours while respecting the

identity of each ingredient.

When the meats arrive, they

surprise with their old‐world

taste.

30 31

creations are born right here.

The service, stylish and attentive,

enhances the sense of comfort and

well‐being.

The cuisine orchestrated by Chef

Guido Le Bron de Vexela reaches an

impressive level.

It was Meredith Oostwegel who

suggested the four‐course menu

with wine pairing—an “all‐in”

experience that allowed us to

appreciate the controlled power

and finesse of each preparation.

cuisine deeply rooted in Limburg’s

terroir, carried by contemporary

elegance.

He works with the estate’s produce

with an almost instinctive sensitivity:

vegetables from the garden,

herbs and flowers from the

grounds, poultry raised at the

château, meats from the Ingendael

Reserve.

Each plate expresses this intimate

link between landscape and table.

His cuisine, both powerful and

No wonder: the wild cattle from the

nature reserve, once processed,

supply part of the cuts served at St.

Gerlach. As for the poultry, it comes

from the château’s own breeding line,

tracing back to Roman times. The

wines come from the estate’s vineyards,

and their precision and

freshness are remarkable.

Guido Le Bron de Vexela works with

the estate’s produce—vegetables,

herbs, flowers, spices—most of his

Guido Le Bron de Vexela began his

apprenticeship in the kitchens of St.

Gerlach before training in several

renowned establishments, eventually

returning more than a decade

ago. Here, he has developed a

delicate, reveals bold flavours,

subtle combinations and a mastery

of cooking that commands admiration.

In every dish, one senses the

hand of a chef who knows his land

and elevates it with respect and

modernity.

32 33

Camille Sr

IN THE

House That

Dream Built

We met Camille Oostwegel Sr., an iconic figure of Limburg’s

hospitality world, who told us he has now passed the reins of the

family‐owned Oostwegel Collection to his son, Camille Oostwegel Jr.

34 35

He now embodies the new generation—at once the

heir to an exceptional heritage and the official

Relais & Châteaux representative for the Benelux.

And so it is Camille Oostwegel Sr. whom we meet

today, no longer involved in daily operations yet still

very much present as Founder and Member of the

Supervisory Board. He welcomes us with that quiet

elegance shared by the great hoteliers, in the sumptuous

setting of Château St. Gerlach in Valkenburg.

36 37

A place we reached at the wheel of a McLaren

750S Tokyo Blue—a striking shade that

irresistibly catches the eye and highlights

the sculptural lines of the British supercar.

The contrast is striking: the sharp modernity

of the McLaren, its sky‐blue paint shimmering

under the Limburg sun, set against the

serenity of an ancient monastic estate

surrounded by gardens, orchards and meticulously

restored historic buildings.

A setting that already tells a story—the

story of a family that has made heritage

preservation a true art of living.

Over coffee in one of the château’s salons,

Camille Sr. rewinds the clock. He recalls the

origins of his hotel group, the years of

transformation, the bold decisions, the

painstaking restorations. And before anything

else, he insists on the central role now

played by Camille Jr.—his vision, his energy,

and the way he has forged strong ties with

Relais & Châteaux, eventually becoming one

of its key representatives in Northern and

Eastern Europe.

As he speaks of his son, his face lights up

with a discreet yet unmistakable pride. He

sets down his cup, leans slightly toward us,

and says: “You know… Camille recently

gave a very interesting interview. He has his

own way of seeing things.”

38 39

Then he touches on what seems essential

to both father and son: “He talks

about meaningful luxury. A luxury that

makes sense. Not abundance, not ostentation…

but balance. Respect for place,

for seasons, for people.” He smiles. “And

these aren’t just words. Look: 377 Michelin

stars, 41 green stars, a partnership

with UNESCO, strong decisions like

banning bluefin tuna and eel. These are

real commitments.”

The story flows on, almost as if Camille

Sr. were mentally rereading the interview

while adding his own colours.

And without any prompting, he begins

to recount not the article itself, but the

story behind it—the one only a father

truly knows.

“For him, development isn’t expansion,”

he begins. It’s a journey. An endless

journey in search of exceptional places.”

He pauses, letting the words settle. “He

often says our guests are looking for the

opposite of standardisation. And he’s

right. They want an experience, not a

format. A house with a soul, not a

calibrated product.”

“Every year, nearly 500 establishments

apply to join Relais & Châteaux. Only

about twenty are accepted. Camille

insists on this: the selection is drastic.

Five hundred criteria, mystery visits, a

presentation before the board…

There is pride in his voice, but also a

hint of admiration. “Relais & Châteaux

counts 580 properties in 65 countries.

But no two are alike. That’s the strength

of the network—its diversity, its authenticity.

And Camille Jr. explains this

beautifully.”

It’s not a label you stick on a door.

It’s a philosophy you embrace.”

40 41

He straightens slightly, emphasising the

importance of what comes next:

“As delegate for the Benelux, Eastern

Europe and Scandinavia, he represents our

region on the international Board of Directors.

He defends our members, follows new

openings, identifies properties that could

join us. And he organised the World

Congress in Copenhagen in 2023. Hoteliers

still talk about it.”

At that moment, it becomes clear that this

father is not simply recounting his son’s

career. He is describing continuity. A vision

carried forward. A philosophy passed from

one generation to the next.

42 43

“You see,” he concludes, “Relais &

Châteaux isn’t a label. It’s a family. An

international family united by a shared

idea of hospitality, gastronomy, and

respect for place.

And Camille… well, Camille has become

one of its most dedicated artisans.”

The silence that follows is not empty. It

is filled with heritage, pride, and the

sense of a future already taking shape.

Then Camille Sr. begins to tell his own

story. “I was born in Valkenburg,” he

says. “I was baptised in St. Gerlach’s

church, which was once the chapel of

Baron de Selys Fanson’ château.

I was about seven when I became

friends with the farmer’s son—the

farmer whose farm would later become

today’s Château St. Gerlach.

“I played with him for years, though

never for long—there was always work

to do on the farm. With my friend, I

learned farm life, how to care for the

animals, how to milk the cows. I’m still

amazed by their habits: each cow had

its own stall, and every time they returned,

they went straight to it.”

«Time passed, and he began working in

his construction company. “When the

baron died without an heir, he left his

estate to the clergy. The property was in

ruins. I contacted the ecclesiastics and

asked to take it over.

44 45

They offered it to me for a symbolic

florin—48 cents—but of course with

conditions… such as restoring the

church while respecting its original

features, since both it and the château

were listed buildings.

They also asked me to build a presbytery

and add a modern chapel to the old

structure. It took me two to three years

to rebuild the church and the farm into

a comfortable hotel, which quickly

became a five‐star property, while the

château became a gastronomic restaurant

and a venue for receptions, weddings

and events.

Behind it, the 12th‐century Norbertine

abbey was transformed into hotel

apartments, now undergoing a new

transformation to meet the needs of

today’s eclectic clientele.”

1960

A lover of history and art, Camille Sr.

leads us into the park, where we admire

the permanent exhibition of sculptural

works. He stops before a well framed by

figures representing the local lord,

Baron de Selys, the farmer presenting

his credentials, an ecclesiastical dignitary,

a matron, and St. Gerlach himself,

who became a priest after a tumultuous

life as a soldier.

1990

He guides us toward the church and

shows us the new chapel, whose back

wall features a fresco by Irène van

Vlijmen (1940–2007).

46 47

“In 1991,” he explains, “I commissioned

her to create this mosaic Madonna. She

composed it with passion and talent.

And here’s an important detail: the pigments

come from the descendants of the

Venetian suppliers who provided Michelangelo,

identical to those used for the Sistine

Chapel ceilings.”

It is not the only work by Irène van Vlijmen

on the estate—she also created the rotating

egg‐shaped mosaic sculpture in the

château’s park.

Inside the church, he points to the frescoed

ceilings reminiscent of the Vatican.

“I asked my teams to restore the ceilings,

and they discovered, beneath layers of

paint, a lighter, more ethereal work. We

48 49

some with them, as did Bruce

Springsteen and many other

personalities.

“A lady from Washington sent

me a photo of her roses in

bloom. She wrote that in spring

she placed some St. Gerlach

sand at the foot of her rosebush—and

she had never seen

such beautiful roses!” he says,

still amazed.

Using 3D facial reconstruction

software, scientists have recreated

the face of St. Gerlach

from his skull. And it was thanks

to a donation from Charlie

Watts, drummer of the Rolling

Stones, that this reconstruction

became possible.

removed all the paint covering the church’s sky,

and now it lives again, creating an idyllic atmosphere.

I love this place—I was baptised here,

made my communions here, married here… and

my funeral will pass through here as well.”

At the centre of the church lies the sarcophagus

of St. Gerlach. Beneath it, sand from the region’s

chalk rock—said to have beneficial properties.

Camille Sr. recounts how the Rolling Stones took

50 51

Good to know:

Château St. Gerlach also offers, in addition to its

58 Relais & Châteaux rooms and suites, more than

a hundred extra rooms and apartments located in

the former priory. The estate features 15 meeting

rooms and can host club gatherings, seminars and

banquets for up to 750 guests, all within a modern

and fully equipped infrastructure.

Château St. Gerlach

Joseph Corneli Allée 1

6301 KK VALKENBURG AAN DE GEUL

+31 43 608 88 88

info@stgerlach.nl

Booking :

McLaren 750S

Thirty extra horses over the 720S, and even more attitude to go with them.

54 55

That tell you something.

That make you want to chase the

next line, and the next, and the

next again. It all begins with that

twin‐turbo V8 born at Ricardo.

An engine that never tried to be

polite.

It breathes,

it exhales,

it growls,

it lives.

In the 750S Spider, it feels as if

it has been reborn. Sharper, more

eager, more expressive.

s though it has something to

prove. And when it wakes up just

behind your back, inside that carbon

cocoon, it creates a moment

you don’t forget.

Some cars are content with being

fast. Others try their best to impress.

And then there are those that, from

the very first metres, remind you

why you love to drive.

The McLaren 750S Spider belongs to

that last category. Not because it shouts

louder than the others, nor because it

flaunts numbers that would make an engineer

blush.

No.

Technical Specifications

Engine : Ricardo V8 – 3,994 cc

Bi‐Turbo, 32 valves

7‐speed automatic transmission

750 hp @ 7,500 rpm 800 Nm @ 5,500 rpm

Dimensions : 4.57 m × 1.93 m × 1.20 m

Weight: 1,500 kg

0–100 km/h in 2.8 s - Top speed: 332 km/h

It belongs to that rare breed of machines

that speak to you.

Fuel Consumption

56 12 l/100 km to 21 l/100 km (Sport) 57

Not because it makes noise — but because

it speaks to you.

It whispers, “Ready?”

And you are.

Even if you don’t know it yet.

A supercar that knows how to be gentle

You might think a McLaren — especially a

Spider — is a wild beast, an intimidating

machine, something demanding. And yet,

the 750S surprises with its softness.

It has nothing to envy from a Porsche

when navigating the city or handling a

slightly crazy daily routine.

The 750S can be genuinely

docile in everyday life.

It slips through city traffic

with surprising ease and

elegance, its V8 humming

with a muted, velvety

growl. And yet, with a

single gesture, it can

unleash its full voice on

track — roaring for your

pure enjoyment.

58 59

The steering is light, visibility surprisingly

good, and the suspension — yes, the suspension

of a 750‐horsepower supercar —

can behave with real civility.

This is where McLaren excels. Comfort isn’t a

compromise. It isn’t a concession. It’s a philosophy.

Even with the carbon buckets, you can

drive for hours without fatigue. And the Spider

adds something more: the sky as a ceiling,

the wind as a companion, and that feeling of

being closer to the road, the air, the world.

But don’t be fooled.

Beneath that softness lies a beast.

Carbon as a backbone

From the very beginning, McLaren has built

its sports cars around a carbon structure inspired

by Formula 1.

This isn’t marketing.

It’s what changes everything.

Rigidity, precision, lightness — it all comes

from there. The 750S Spider, despite its retractable

roof, remains astonishingly stiff.

You never feel the slightest twist, the slightest

hesitation. It’s as if the car were carved from

a single block. The 750S isn’t a revolution, it’s

a deep evolution. A 720S refined, sharpened,

lightened, made more expressive. And that’s

exactly how it feels. The 720S was already a

formidable supercar, one of the lightest in its

class. The 750S pushes the cursor one notch

further. Not to break records, but to deliver a

purer experience.

A chassis that reads the road

The Proactive Chassis Control system (Phase III)

is one of McLaren’s secrets. No need for technical

jargon: just know that the car reads the

road.

It analyses it.

Anticipates it.

60 61

Reacting before you even realise what’s happening.

In Comfort mode, the 750S Spider absorbs imperfections

with improbable grace. You find yourself cruising,

enjoying the scenery, forgetting you’re driving

a supercar. Switch to Sport, and everything tightens.

The car becomes more direct, more connected. And in

Track mode… it becomes a weapon.

A machine that demands your presence:

fully, completely. No distraction.

No approximation.

Just you.

62 63

64 65

That’s when the 750S reveals its true face.

A new kind of rage The 720S had temperament.

The 750S has rage. A more assertive,

more deliberate aggression.

Not brutal, intense.

You feel that every command, every millimetre

of throttle, every movement of the

wheel triggers an immediate reaction.

No filter.

No delay.

No compromise.

People speak of “mechanical transparency.”

That’s exactly it. The car hides nothing.

It tells you everything. Shows you

everything. And it’s up to you to keep up.

You must tame it. Understand it. Accept

that it may overwhelm you at times.

But once you’re in sync, once you find

the rhythm, the 750S Spider becomes an

extension of yourself. A machine that amplifies

your gestures, your intentions, your

desires. The Spider as a revealer

You might think the Spider version is a

whim. An aesthetic choice.

A desire for wind in your hair.

66 67

But no.

The Spider is a revealer.

It amplifies sensations. Opens the stage.

Throws you into the sound,

the air, the light.

The roof folds away in seconds, and

suddenly everything changes.

The V8 is no longer just noise.

As in the 720S, the rear window can

drop, revealing the full musicality of the

eight‐cylinder. You enjoy its magic without

disturbance, even when the weather turns.

You drive differently.

You feel differently.

You live differently.

A supercar that makes you want to drive

And perhaps that is the greatest talent of the McLaren 750S Spider.

It simply makes you want to drive.

68 69

ROAD-TRIP in France

This year, we have chosen to offer you road trips that truly uplift the spirit. Initially, we had planned a Tour

of Automotive Museums in Germany with the support of Germany Travel. However, this project had to be

postponed until next spring—a rain check, but not a cancellation. So, we turned our attention to France,

First Part : Chartres - Poitiers - Boulogne-sur-Mer

and thanks to the collaboration with Atout France, we have crafted a feature we believe you will love. Our

goal is to bring you leisure experiences that are both enlightening and entertaining—from the surprising

wonders of Chartres, to the futuristic thrills of Futuroscope, and the aquatic marvels of Nausicaá.

While the reportage is the work of shared words and photos

by Eric & Pascale HEIDEBROEK - LINTERMANS,

the Layout is signed Pascale LINTERMANS!

DESTINATION

FUTUROSCOPE

For this French road trip, we opted for a full-size electric sedan: the Mercedes-Benz

EQE 350+. Compared to the EQS, the «E» features a conventional trunk

instead of a more practical hatchback. We packed three suitcases—one very

large and two medium-sized—which easily fit into the 430 liters of available

space, along with two sports bags to secure everything. The rectangular shape is

ideal for Tetris-like packing. This electric «E-Class» is 8 cm shorter than the «S»

but still measures 4.95 m in length, 1.96 m in width, and 1.51 m in height. The

3.12 m wheelbase ensures exceptional interior

space.

The 350+ is powered by a permanent magnet

synchronous motor on the rear axle, delivering

320 hp and 565 Nm of torque to the

massive 21-inch wheels with 285-width tires.

Despite weighing 2,415 kg, energy consumption

remained between 19 and 21.5 kWh/100

km over the entire route, which was 90%

highways. The adaptive cruise control made the

journey exceptionally comfortable, and the automatic

adjustment to fluctuating speed limits

helped avoid any unpleasant souvenirs.

ARRIVAL IN

CHARTRES

LA CIVETTE

Nestled at the corner of Rue Sainte-

Même and Rue Noël-Ballay, the

bar-tabac-brasserie La Civette—now

run by the dynamic duo Bulent Akdogan

and Christopher Mouton—is the

ideal spot for a great time!

A true institution in Chartres, this

warm and welcoming place attracts

both locals and tourists seeking good

cheer. The menu features entirely

homemade French cuisine.

Whether for coffee, a drink with

friends, or a refreshing cocktail, La

Civette is the perfect place to unwind!

First stop: Chartres, located just an hour and a half from

Paris, is a city of profound historical significance. As a key chapter

in French history, Chartres (in the Centre-Val de Loire region)

boasts a rich medieval heritage, famous for its historic ambiance

and picturesque streets.

Historic Houses and Quarters

The city center is filled with half-timbered houses, such as the

Maison du Saumon (Salmon House) and Maison de la Truie-quifile

(The Spinning Sow House), adorned with intricate carvings

Jean Moulin

and Chartres

Jean Moulin, figure

Jean Moulin, an iconic

figure of the French

Resistance,

served as the prefect

of Eure-et-Loir.

It was in Chartres that

he refused to sign a

propaganda document

demanded by the Nazis

- an act of courage that

marked the beginning

of his clandestine

struggle.

His name is now

honored across the

city, including at a

secondary school

(collège) dedicated to

his memory.

and animal motifs. These buildings reflect the commercial and artisan life of the 15th and

16th centuries, particularly around the Place de la Poissonnerie (Fish Market Square).

Chartres by Night

Chartres comes alive after dark, especially in summer. The highlight is ChartrEstivales, a free

festival featuring over forty concerts and performances annually in iconic venues across the

city. French and international artists perform in a friendly, inclusive atmosphere.

Another must-see is Chartres en Lumières, a magical nighttime trail where the city’s monuments

are illuminated with artistic projections. For a unique twist, you can even explore it by

canoe on the Eure River.

A NIGHT IN CHARTRES FOR 4

If you choose to visit

Chartres, plan to stay

a few days—there

is much to see and

do! For this purpose,

we recommend

the apartment with

parking at 23 Rue

des Réservoirs in

Chartres, which we

discovered on

www.booking.com

This apartment offers

all the necessary

comforts, including

parking. While the

overall comfort is

impeccable, the sofa

bed is more suitable

for children.

The first thing you notice about

Chartres is its tranquil, stylish streets

with ancient architecture. It’s a welcoming,

lively, and human-scale city.

We appreciated the peaceful atmosphere

and smooth traffic flow,

unmarred by obstructive sidewalk

poles like those in Lille. The spiral

underground parking garage is both

architecturally impressive and practical,

with reasonable parking costs (see photos

at the start of the reportage, «Arrival in

Chartres»).

While Chartres charms with its half-timbered

houses, medieval alleys, and flowerdecked

bridges over the Eure, it is ultimately

the Cathedral of Notre-Dame that

dominates both the skyline and the imagination.

A masterpiece of French Gothic architecture,

it is renowned for its exquisitely

sculpted portals—true stone bibles where

saints, apostles, and biblical figures come to

life in limestone.

Stained Glass:

Between Romanesque and Gothic

The cathedral houses 2,600 m² of stained glass, some

dating back to the 12th century. Among them, the

Belle Verrière (Beautiful Window) is iconic: a Romanesque

Virgin Mary in luminous blues, set within

a 13th-century Gothic ogive. This stylistic contrast

is unique—the lighter, celestial Romanesque blue

contrasts with the deep cobalt of the Gothic, creating

a rare visual and spiritual harmony.

The Life of the Virgin windows, donated by winemakers,

depict Mary’s childhood in three distinct panels,

arranged in a cross pattern against a blue background

bordered with floral motifs and red and green circles.

Henri IV

was crowned and

anointed

King of France

in this cathedral

on February 27,

1594.

Witness the captivating face-off

between Romanesque and Gothic stained glass!

At the center, four square panels of clear, vibrant

blue steal the show, punctuated with red for a

«wow» effect. Their imposing size and characteristically

Romanesque luminosity starkly contrast

with the smaller Gothic windows, adorned in

deep blues. An artistic duel that narrates the

evolution of light through the centuries!

U

The Miracle of the Virgin’s Veil

During the fire of 1194, which destroyed the

previous cathedral, three monks took refuge

in the crypt with the precious relic: the Veil

of the Virgin, gifted by Charles the Bald in

the 9th century. Miraculously preserved, its

rescue was interpreted as a divine sign, sparking

a massive mobilization to rebuild the

cathedral in record time.

Inside Chartres Cathedral, the walls surrounding

the choir and altar are adorned with

exceptionally rich and delicate sculptures.

These works also testify to the skill of the

often-anonymous artists who labored in obscurity

to glorify the sacred space.

Goodbye Chartres, Hello Futuroscope!

Barely time to admire the cathedral, and our EQE 350+ is already

speeding toward Poitiers—without even needing to recharge.

The range? Impressive. A quick stop at a Leclerc rest area on the

highway: clean and well-maintained, a rarity during peak season

when incivility too often turns these places into disaster zones. We

stretch, snack, and breathe. The road becomes a pleasure: no stress,

no frantic search for charging stations, just comfort and scenery.

And Chartres? A gem to revisit. But for now, onward to the futuristic

thrills of Futuroscope.

Futuroscope’s vast parking lots are situated

between the park and the train station.

Futuroscope has its own train station! That’s good to know!

Upon arrival at Futuroscope, large parking lots covered with

photovoltaic panels welcome you, and the cherry on top:

they are equipped with 600 charging stations.

A small detail: the solar canopies installed over the parking

lot of the ‘Station Cosmos’ hotel produce more than 100%

of the energy consumed by the hotel and the Space Loop

restaurant. That sets the tone! You’ll see!

AMONG THE HOTELS NEAR

FUTUROSCOPE THAT CATER

TO A WIDE RANGE OF BUD-

GETS, WE CHOSE TO UNPACK

OUR BAGS AT THE ECO-

LODGE.

ITS LODGES BLEND

SEAMLESSLY INTO A

VIBRANT, NATURAL SETTING

TYPICAL OF THE VIENNE

REGION: SHIMMERING

PONDS, DANCING REEDS,

LUSH VEGETATION... THE LO-

CAL WILDLIFE PROVIDES A

GENTLE MELODY, ALL EXIS-

TING IN PERFECT SYMBIOSIS.

JUST A STONE’S THROW FROM

FUTUROSCOPE

Ecolodgee bets on a living luxury, rooted in respect for

the natural world. Its project features 120 lodges integrated

into a landscape designed as a breath of fresh air.

Each lodge is delicately nestled within a haven of biodiversity,

offering a sensory immersion where birdsong and filtered light

dance through the foliage. Designed as cocoons open to nature,

the lodges include a sun-drenched master bedroom with a glass

door opening onto a terrace, a central bathroom, and a cozy

children’s nook with a play area.

At the

lobby desk,

borrow books and

games about nature

to explore and

have fun!

The materials are natural and sustainable: local wood, plantbased

insulation, and green roofs. Slightly elevated to allow for

the free movement of wildlife, the lodges combine comfort with

energy efficiency through natural ventilation, bioclimatic orientation,

and more.

Take the

challenge of

showering in

5 minutes!

All the

plant species

on the site

are water

efficient.

Here, luxury is harmony

with the elements.

On its 3.5-hectare property, nearly

half is dedicated to ecosystem regeneration.

This is not a backdrop

but a living landscape. The design

draws inspiration from the method

of Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki,

prioritizing dense native planting

to foster ecological resilience.

The grounds are composed of local

species typical of the Vienne region

and incorporate areas for late

mowing as well as spaces left to

evolve freely. These features allow

plants to follow their natural cycles

and provide lasting refuges for insects.

Local wildlife reclaims its full

privileges on the Ecolodgee estate,

which pays a beautiful, living tribute

to biodiversity.

Ecolodgee is not just a place to

stay but a sensory experience—an

invitation to slow down, observe, and reconnect

with our surroundings.

This quality hotel thus offers a model of hospitality

where the environment is not a selling

point but a given—a way of living, hosting,

and passing on knowledge, all while providing

modern comfort and dedicated service.

THE LODGES ARE

FBUILT FROM WOOD

SOURCED FROM

SUSTAINABLY

MANAGED

FRENCH FORESTS

THEIR DESIGN

WAS CARRIED OUT

BY A LOCAL CARPENTER

WHO—WITH THE HELP

OF ARCHITECTS—

FABRICATED AL THE

STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS.

All

lodges

are built

with wood,

a biosourced

material

At the

lobby desk,

borrow books and

games about nature

to explore

and have fun!

The heart of Ecolodgee is its spacious,

air-conditioned, and comfortable

lobby. You can enjoy simple yet

incredibly tasty meals here, both

indoors and outdoors. The cocktails—

with or without alcohol—are

delicious and beautifully colorful.

The Ecolodgee staff is exceptionally

attentive, always wearing a smile

and dedicated to providing excellent

service. Truly top-notch!

THE SEATING

BENCHES FOR

THE NIGHTTIME

SHOW’S

GRANDSTAND

WERE MADE

FROM THE RECYCLING

OF 7,000 TETRA PAK FOOD

CARTONS, USING

A PROCESS INVENTED

BY URBAN’EXT.

PAR URBAN’EXT.

LA CLÉ

DES SONGES

Dive into the dazzling outdoor nighttime spectacle, «La Clé des Songes» (The Key to

Dreams)! This masterpiece was born from the explosive collaboration between the

creative geniuses of the Park and the magicians of ECA2, the world-renowned kings of

breathtaking shows.

Imagine sets so colossal they seem ripped straight from a dream, dancing lights that

ignite the night like fireworks, water features that create an aquatic symphony, and

pyrotechnic effects so stunning they will leave you speechless. Every evening, as the

sun sets, this show transports you to another world—and it’s included in your ticket!

Back at the Lodge to enjoy breakfast, delivered between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. in a wicker

basket. It includes your coffee, hot water for tea, fresh milk, and fruit juices—the

orange juice is freshly squeezed, and the cloudy apple juice exudes organic freshness.

Pastries, rolls, «Bonne Maman» jams, and old-fashioned yogurt reinforce this impression

of naturalness and quality.

Here, we rediscover forgotten flavors. Ecolodgee fully embraces its commitment to

offering a stay away from urban chaos and the frantic pace of modern life.

Here,

«zero waste»

is in our

sights!

STATION COSMOS: THE HOTEL COMMITTED TO SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

It is a layover between sky

and earth, where every

action honors the planet.

From its very conception,

the building was designed

as a union between

innovation and respect for

living systems.

Solar power fuels the

facility, water is used

sparingly, and the rooms

breathe with the rhythm

of their occupants, silently

adjusting light and

temperature.

Waste is carefully sorted,

and materials are chosen

for their simplicity and

local origin. Travelers are

invited to slow down and

participate in a mission

that goes beyond mere

comfort.

Station Cosmos raises

awareness without

imposing, values resources,

and turns hospitality into a

responsible act.

BY THE END OF 2025,

THE PARK WILL HAVE

ACHIEVED CARBON NEUTRALITY.

A UNIQUE EXAMPLE IN THE

WORLD OF LEISURE PARKS.

Would you like to sleep

on another planet?

The 4-star Cosmos Hotel

resembles a space

station surrounded by

lunar landscapes.

SPACE LOOP

The moment you place your order, get ready for an

unforgettable show: your meals embark on a

daring circuit, defying the laws of gravity,

delivering a dining experience as thrilling as it is

memorable.

Your taste buds ignite, your eyes widen, and

adrenaline surges…

Welcome to the restaurant where dining becomes

a full-fledged attraction!

AN «IMMERSION» SPACE

THAT FUSES WATER WITH VIDEO MAPPING,

LIGHT PLAY, MEDIA PROJECTIONS,

AND CHOREOGRAPHED WATER EFFECTS.

A CHALLENGE ACCOMPLISHED WITH

THE COLLABORATION OF THE CANADIAN

COMPANY MOMENT FACTORY.

THE MAGIC OF THE

AQUASCOPE

After two years of hard work, a budget of 57 million euros, and

a touch of love for the planet, the Aquascope unveils its wonders!

Imagine over 6,000 m² of covered, themed adventures,

not to mention an outdoor space that awakens with the sun.

Ready to dive into exploration?

?

A DEDICATED SPACE FOR BABIES

IS AVAILABLE IN BOTH PARKS.

ADMISSION IS FREE FOR

CHILDREN UNDER 5 AT

BOTH PARKS.

TODDLER ZONE

To slide down mini-slides perfectly

sized for little ones, let them get lost

in a watery maze, discover a musical

cave, and be surprised by a giant

tipping water bucket...

ids can play with water in a thousand

ways, all under the watchful eye of

Kraki, the area’s mascot creature.

?

POOLS HEATED

TO 29°C AND 31°C

THROUGHOUT THE

ENTIRE KIDS’ AREA!

A SURVEIL-

LANCE STATION

PROVIDES AN

EXTRA LAYER

OF SAFETY FOR

EVERY ATTRAC-

TION.

Unique experiences on each of the 8 slides!

Thrill-seekers can enjoy a freefall drop, those who love

a dizzying spin can take on the spirals, and competitive souls

can race each other—there’s something for everyone.

The giant Matrix raft invites you for a family descent.

Guaranteed laughs!

A «THRILL» ZONE FEATURING 8 DIZZYING

WATER SLIDES, A WAVE POOL OVERLOOKED

BY A GIANT NET, AND THE STARTING POINT

FOR AN OUTDOOR DYNAMIC RIVER.

THE COVE

Imagine yourself immersed in a world

where technology and nature

converge to create a magical experience.

You stand before a vast

300-square-meter canvas that perfectly

follows the contours of a cove,

transforming every nook into a living

work of art through breathtaking

video mapping.

With a resolution of 33 million pixels,

you are plunged into a visual universe

that will leave you breathless. At the

heart of this cove, a mysterious island

releases six laminar water jets, dancing

with grace and elegance before

your awestruck eyes.

But that’s not all! A curtain of water—a

“pixel fall”—comes to life

before you, crafting intricate glyphs

through the synchronized opening

and closing of 1,500 valves. It’s as if

the water itself is whispering an

ancient, mysterious story to you.

To top it all off, two interactive sensory

beaches invite you to become part

of the adventure. Walk, touch, play,

and watch as the environment responds

to your movements, crafting a

truly unique and personalized experience.

Finally, a control room discreetly

nestled in a truss above the water

basin ensures every detail unfolds

flawlessly.

A «THRILLS» ZONE FEATURING

8 DIZZYING WATER SLIDES, A WAVE

POOL OVERLOOKED BY A GIANT NET,

AND THE LAUNCH POINT FOR AN

OUTDOOR DYNAMIC RIVER.

«LES ABYSSES DE LUMIÈRE» (THE LIGHT ABYSS)

OFFERS VISITORS AN IMMERSIVE AND SENSORY EXPERIENCE

AT THE HEART OF AN IMAGINARY AND POETIC WORLD.

The 165 m² panoramic screen surrounds the audience at 270°, transporting

them into a multimedia show that tells the story of Kraki, the extraterrestrial

octopus. The water basin, flooded with light effects and fine, bubbling

bubbles, interacts seamlessly with the projections. Magical!

Take advantage of the beautiful weather to

swim in the crystal-clear waters of this stainless

steel outdoor pool. Its hue shifts between

transparency and silver reflections, capturing

every ray of light. The Silver Pool is a true

source of well-being and relaxation, awakening

all the senses.

Futuroscope’s

Three Green Commitments:

Firstly, the choice of 100%

green energy thanks to a

super energy mix: photovoltaic

panels for self-consumption,

geothermal energy with

thermo-frigo pumps, biomass,

and finally, a small supplement

of guaranteed-origin

green electricity. The park

breathes sustainability!

THE INNOVATIVE WATER CYCLE

BYAQUASCOPE

Secondly, zero artificialization

of land! The entire project was

built on former buildings and

parking lots. And on a one-hectare

plot, 2,500 m² were given

back to nature. How? By planting

700 plant species and creating

1,000 m² of filtering gardens.

Nature is reclaiming its rights, and

it’s fantastic!

Finally, thirdly, the implementation

of a super efficient water circuit.

Water is used for different purposes

before being returned to the

ground through natural filtration.

Take the example of the Bermuda

attraction’s basin: the water is recycled

and filtered naturally.

BERMUDA ATTRACTION

POOL

ECOLODGEE

THE IRRIGATION

OF GREEN SPACES

A truly ecological and smart water

cycle!

Crowned with three European awards and the prestigious Global Innovation and Creativity

Award presented in October 2024 by the World Waterpark Association, the Aquascope also

swept the industry’s Oscar. Announced at the IAAPA Expo in Orlando, Florida, the Thea Award for

Outstanding Achievement – Water-park was presented to the Futuroscope teams on March 15,

2025, during the 31st annual Thea Awards ceremony at Universal Studios Hollywood, California.

FORTY YEARS AFTER THE FUTUROSCOPE’S INCEPTION,

THE PARK IS RECONNECTING WITH ITS FOUNDING VISION

THROUGH THE CREATION OF ‘CAMPUS NUMERIA’, AN EDUCATIONAL

AND DIGITAL HUB ON THE ORIGINAL SITE. TOUTED AS THE SCHOOL

OF THE FUTURE, THIS NEW CAMPUS EMBODIES THE PARK’S CORE

INNOVATIVE SPIRIT

ROAD TRIP TO A CLEAN FUTURE

Futuroscope’s teams are

constantly pushing new frontiers,

a place where imagination,

innovation, and creativity

converge—without any limits.

This is its core strength and

defining originality.

Throughout the park,

displays updated in

real-time inform

visitors when an

attraction is down

for maintenance, its

scheduled reopening

time, the current wait

time, and the start

time of the next

show.

THE SECRET TO ENDLESS FUN AND

UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURES!

KINÉ MAX, A BREATHTAKING

ARCHITECTURAL MARVEL!

Designed by architect Denis Laming and built from the

ground up in 1987, Kiné Max represents giant quartz

crystals that appear to burst forth from the earth.

Standing 35 meters tall at a 60° angle, its walls are

made up of 3,000 mirrored panels.

Twenty thousand hours of computer studies were

required to determine the exact dimensions of each

panel. Subsequently, a large-scale model made of

Plexiglas was used to verify every measurement provided

by the computer.

Kiné Max houses a 600 m² screen. Its walls are cleaned

by professional climbers.

On April 5, 2025, the attraction

«Les Yeux Grands Fermés» celebrated

its 20th anniversary and

welcomed its two-millionth visitor.

Created in collaboration with

the «Les Yeux Grands Fermés»

association, the attraction is

France’s largest initiative for

raising awareness about visual

impairment. It offers a sensory

journey in complete darkness,

guided by a blind facilitator,

through various locations

around the world recreated

through sounds, textures, and

scents.

Plunged into darkness, visitors

experience a unique

adventure that takes them

from Zanzibar to the Andes,

via Tokyo. This experience,

which reverses the roles

between sighted and nonsighted

people, promotes

better understanding and

dialogue around disability.

LES YEUX GRANDS FERMÉS IS MUCH

MORE THAN AN ATTRACTION !

IT’S A PROFOUNDLY HUMAN EXPERIENCE

THAT LEAVES A LASTING MARK.

Futuroscope, certified with

the «Tourisme & Handicap»

label for motor, cognitive,

and hearing disabilities, is

committed to providing an

inclusive experience for all

visitors. Created in 2001, this

label guarantees reliable and

objective accessibility at tourist

sites across France, with

compliance validated by specialized

evaluators.

For visitors with disabilities,

Futuroscope offers several special

services and rates upon

presentation of valid documentation:

A 15% discount on admission

tickets, also applicable for one

accompanying person; reduced

rates on stays for both the pass

holder and one accompanying

person; complimentary parking

upon presentation of a valid disability

card; the «PSH Accessibility

Pass» granting priority access to

attractions for the visitor and up to

four accompanying persons; wheelchair

rental available at the park

entrance; adapted routes and personalized

assistance in restaurants and

shops; full accessibility at the

Aquascope featuring adapted wheelchairs

and specialized water access

equipment.

And accessible rooms in all on-site

hotels.

FUTUROSCOPE STRIVES

TO MAKE EVERY VISIT AN

ENJOYABLE AND ACCESSIBLE

EXPERIENCE FOR ALL.

A ZANY TRIP THROUGH TIME

WITH UBISOFT’S ENDEARING

HEROES. AND SPECIAL EFFECTS

THAT TURN UP THE INTENSITY

FOR MAXIMUM THRILLS.

NOT SO RABID AFTER ALL!

The Single Rider lines are perfect for a

solo adventure! Ideal for brave visitors

exploring the park alone or for anyone

daring to break away from their group

to experience an exciting attraction!

THE FLYING

CRÊPE

UNDENIABLE

KNOW-HOW!

THE TIME

MACHINE

Playful methods,

such as drawing

a hopscotch grid

on the ground

or hanging a

magic drawing

board with its

markers, are

used to captivate

children

during waiting

times.

During the waiting time, a film explains

the safety instructions, thereby capturing

the attention of all visitors, both

children and adults.

This visual tool, which combines humor

and a psychological approach, makes it

possible to convey essential information

in a clear and memorable way.

The objective is not to replace staff

intervention, but rather to enhance the

effectiveness of communication while

optimizing the customer experience.

An initiative that perfectly illustrates

the park’s commitment to safety that is

accessible and well understood by

everyone.

THE DETAIL

THAT CHANGES

EVERYTHING!

AT FUTUROSCOPE, SAFETY IS

PRESENTED IN AN INNOVATIVE

AND EDUCATIONAL WAY.

THE FLAVOR WORKSHOP

Le talent et l’imagination des A

team of skilled chefs and their

dedicated staff give rise to an

inventive cuisine, where each dish

is a unique masterpiece, thoughtfully

crafted with passion. By

selecting exceptional ingredients,

they compose a symphony of

flavors that awakens the senses

and invites you on a journey.

Allow yourself to be surprised by

their creativity.

LA VIENNE

DYNAMIQUE

TO FULLY ENJOY THE PARK, ALLOW

YOURSELF 3 DAYS FOR YOUR VISIT. IT WILL

SAVE YOU A LOT OF FRUSTRATION ;)

TARGET :

MARS

ROBOT DANCE

THE EXTRAORDINARY

JOURNEY

WEIGHTLESSNESS

SPARK:

THE CURSE OF

THE BLACK OPAL

COSMIC

COLLISIONS

IN ZERO-G

Astra, a glass prism

topped with a sphere

that symbolizes the

rising sun over a changing

world.

STORM

CHASER

The proportions of the

prism were calculated

based on the Golden

Ratio to give the building

its harmony. The Golden

Ratio, discovered by the

Greeks of the classical era,

represents a divine harmony

that is found in nature

and art.

ARTHUR,

THE 4D ADVENTURE

The glass roof is covered

with 900 m² of photovoltaic

panels capable of producing

more than 120 kW, enough

to power 5 houses.

The openwork sphere, made

of stainless steel and polyester

lace, was put in place using a

700-ton crane.

Weighing 50 tons, the sphere

was pre-assembled near the

pavilion to facilitate its installation

in a single piece.

ASTRA

A FASCINATING BLEND OF SCIENCE FICTION AND

SCIENTIFIC ADVENTURE, THIS THEME WAS A NATURAL

INSPIRATION FOR FUTUROSCOPE’S CREATIVE TEAMS

TO DEVELOP AN EXTRAORDINARY ATTRACTION.

The Bermuda Triangle is one of the most

mysterious areas in the world. Located in

the Atlantic Ocean, off the southeastern

coast of the United States, it is bounded

by a triangle connecting Miami, Puerto

Rico, and Bermuda.

This region is infamous for the many

unexplained disappearances of ships

and airplanes that have occurred

there. For over a century, this phenomenon

has captivated attention, blending

fascination and speculation.

The Mission:

Sent by the Atlas Agency,

an expert in the topographic

analysis of sites with scientific

anomalies, a team of three

explorers was dispatched on a

mission into the Bermuda Triangle.

MISSION

BERMUDA

Their goal: to unravel the mysteries

of this area, notorious for its

many unexplained disappearances.

However, once on site, everything

goes wrong. One by one,

the team members vanish.

When visitors arrive at the base

camp, it is deserted.

From that moment, they must

embark on an expedition to

find the missing explorers.

The boats, specially designed

for Futuroscope by

the German company MACK

Rides, combine two technologies

that are usually separate:

roller coaster technology

and water ride technology.

These boats are capable of

traveling on water, on land,

and in the air.

OVER 3,400 M² OF LANDSCAPED GREENERY!

The landscaped site is

characterized by

exceptional

biodiversity, hosting

4,500 plants from 72

different species,

including trees,

palms, shrubs,

climbing plants,

perennials, and

aquatic plants, among

which a remarkable

Jubaea chilensis

stands out.

The teams

responsible for

creating the park

prioritized species

adapted to the local

climate and requiring

little water, in line

with a goal of water

conservation and

sustainable

maintenance.

This living landscape

is enhanced by slate

monoliths and

mineral mulch, which

accentuate the site’s

scenic character.

Furthermore, the use

of anti-rhizome

barriers to contain

the bamboo and the

reduction of

impervious surfaces

demonstrate the

commitment to

sustainably integrate

Mission Bermuda into

its environment.

THE ROCKING

BOATS

When they enter the water, they

give the impression of floating

freely, while in reality, they are

precisely guided by submerged

rails.

In this innovative guidance system,

the boat’s hull is connected to a

rail-mounted chassis via a pantograph.

This configuration allows for tight

turns as well as realistic movements

such as pitching and rolling.

The boats are capable of accelerating,

reversing, and performing dynamic

climbs and descents.

IN THE RAFTING SECTION,

THE BOATS, GUIDED BY RAILS,

MOVE FORWARD USING THE FORCE

OF THE CURRENT GENERATED

BY POWERFUL PUMPS THAT

POUR UP TO 8,000 LITERS

OF WATER PER SECOND.

The boats of Mission Bermuda use Rocking

Boat technology and a LIM (Linear Induction

Motor) propulsion system, which is often

used for roller coasters.

Instead of cables, the LIM uses magnetic

fields: electromagnets on the rails and metal

plates under the boats enable rapid

acceleration.

OVER 4,500 TREES

AND PLANTS WERE

PLANTED TO CREATE

THIS EXOTIC LANDSCAPE.

Conceived as a life-size

adventure film, «Mission

Bermuda» was designed to

capture the strangeness and

enchanting beauty of the

legendary Bermuda Triangle.

Here, immersion is achieved

through spectacular 7,000 m²

physical sets, sensory effects

(mysterious mist, explosions,

tumultuous rapids...),

and dynamic staging.

A JOURNEY

THROUGH A

WORLD OF

WATER

EFFECTS

*

*

A 15-meter-long

curtain of mist beneath

the bridge

42 meters of fog

over the water

*

*

An air shoot creating

an XXL geyser, 5

meters high

Water bubbling

effects

*

*

A massive water

bubble that

surges up

Two air-splash effects

on each side

of the final drop

*

*

A mechanical tree

falling over the

course

A 5-meter-long

waterfall

The experience takes place

aboard Rocking Boats, hybrid

vehicles developed by the

manufacturer MACK Rides

and specially customized for

Futuroscope.

Half-coaster, half-water ride, these

boats offer a unique sensory

experience, both on water

and on land.

After navigating between the dark

rocks of the Bermuda Triangle and

escaping the tumult of the rapids,

visitor-explorators must pass through

a space-time portal materialized by a

16-meter high drop at over 60 km/h,

ending their ride with a spectacular

splash!

Accessible to children from 1.05m (3’5»),

allowing families to share fabulous

thrills together.

2 CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS

FOR 5,000 M³ OF WATER

TREATED BY PHYTOREMEDIATION

WE LEAVE

THE ÉCOLODGEE

NEXT STOP :

BOULOGNE-SUR-MER

Three days is... too short.

We didn’t see everything,

do everything,

or try everything.

So, why not a bit of history...

In 1982, the Vienne département

(a rural and unremarkable region)

needed an electric shock.

René Monory, a minister under President

Giscard d’Estaing and President

of the Vienne’s General Council,

envisioned a unique place focused on

«knowledge» and the «future.»

Copying Disney was out of the question:

he even said that the concept for

Futuroscope was something he hadn’t

found anywhere else in the world!

What he wanted was cutting-edge

technology and mind-blowing visual

effects in a recreational environment.

His vision became reality.

And today, 43 years later, Futuroscope

is an internationally recognized French

flagship that is constantly evolving!

Despite a full charge — especially on the

highway — the car indicates it won’t be

able to reach Boulogne-sur-Mer in a single

stretch. The 634 kilometers (listed as 584

km on navigation apps, which don’t fully

account for terrain realities) exceed the

range margins estimated by the onboard

computer.

So we’ll recharge along the way, after

roughly three hours of driving, with slightly

higher consumption than between

Chartres and Futuroscope, hovering

around 23.5 kWh per 100 kilometers compared

to 19.5 to 20.3 kWh.

Yet the temperature is mild, the air conditioning

isn’t running at full blast, and we’re

using adaptive Cruise Control, which ad-

justs automatically to speed limits on each

road segment — even if it sometimes

detects odd limits (50 to 70 km/h on the

highway!). The hilly terrain may explain

the extra energy demand. At the Shell

highway rest stop, 150 kW superchargers

were managed by a team of volunteers

from FFAUVE (French Federation of Electric

Vehicle Users’ Associations), who handled

the charging process with pleasantly

efficient coordination during this particularly

busy moment. The delegate asked us

to limit our charge to 85% to free up the

station quickly — just enough time to enjoy

a salad or a burger over thirty minutes

— and it worked perfectly. As a bonus, he

offered us coffee vouchers, a thoughtful gesture that

made the break even more enjoyable. The advertised

charging speed (150 kW) was indeed delivered, with

145 kW despite ten vehicles plugged in.

This EQE 350+ sedan doesn’t go unnoticed: passersby

admire its sporty profile and elegant balance. The

image of this electric Mercedes-Benz, both inside and

out, leaves a strong impression. Some even told us

this version is quite rare in France…

After this short stop, we’re back on the road toward

Boulogne-sur-Mer, where we’ll discover Nausicaá

and an apartment at the Evancy hotel, located near

Nausicaá and recommended by Camille Le Dauphin

from Atout France.

BOULOGNE-SUR-MER

Boulogne-sur-Mer: A

Harmonious Blend of

History and Modern

Comfort

Boulogne-sur-Mer is a

highly pleasant port city. Its

wide avenues seamlessly

meet the narrower lanes of

the old town.

This rare harmony,

intelligently planned by

the city council, creates

a safe and comfortable

environment. Cars move with

natural caution, noticeably

reducing stress for more

vulnerable road users.

The Hôtel Evancy benefits from

this tranquillity, occasionally

interrupted by police cars or

ambulances whose sirens

ricochet off the high walls

of modern buildings—their

vegetation still too young to

muffle the sound.

The Hôtel Evancy offers

a rational approach to

accommodation, suited

for both family stays and

professionals working in the

large-scale industrial port

facilities.

It features very comfortable

two-bedroom apartments

with generous space and

large windows overlooking

the city and the marina.

These apartments belong to

various owners who rent them

out through the Hôtel Evancy. It’s an investment that ensures their

property is well-maintained; indeed, all hotel services guarantee

everything is and remains perfect, at no cost to the owner.

Various plans are available: owners can entrust the apartment

year-round or reserve periods for their own use.

Meanwhile, guests enjoy fully modern comforts, and the hotel

provides a breakfast—copious, it must be said.

While we enjoyed the apartment’s

comfort, we charged our Mercedes about

a hundred metres from the hotel, which

only has a dedicated «drop-off» zone.

The nearest public charging point is near

the ULCO university building (Université

du Littoral Côte d’Opale – Capécure

University Centre), creating a natural

link with the aquarium and the marine

research values found at Nausicaá.

At the public charger, the rate was €0.08

per minute between 8:00 and 21:00, and

€0.02 per minute at night—approximately

€4.80/hour by day and €1.20/hour at

night. After a night charge, we parked on

a large esplanade behind the hotel.

We took the

opportunity

to explore the

surroundings.

It’s easy and close

by: cross one of the

two bridges, and you

are right in the heart

of the city. The dock

leading to the open

sea is surrounded by

spacious pedestrian

areas where you

encounter numerous

seagulls.

We’ve had it up to here.

Four centuries after Galileo dared to say the

Earth was a sphere, The Cat now observes

that... the world seems to have lost its

marbles. And our favorite feline,

a stoic observer of the surrounding chaos,

is moved to remark — in his own way.

A much-appreciated

calm reigns here. These

spaces are enjoyed by

all, especially children

who meet entertaining

characters like a

clown crafting balloon

animals.

Simple things that make

children’s (and their

parents’) eyes shine.

The port is also a living

space for fishermen offering

their freshly caught fish and

shellfish.

We spoke with several

generations, like Ginette,

who pursues her passion

despite being of retirement

age. Nothing trumps the

pleasure of offering the

fruits of the family’s catch.

The same goes for the

young fishermen presenting

their haul. We must salute

the courage required by

this difficult profession,

especially as modernity is

everywhere, the sea remains

unchanged: dangerously

captivating.

Boulogne-sur-Mer is intimately linked

to maritime life and great discoveries.

Tales of sailors and explorers blend with

military history. The 1940-1945 war,

of course, left its marks all along the

nearby Opal Coast and Norman shores.

Ancient fortifications lend a powerful

structure to the urban landscape.

Allow yourself to be charmed

by an address where

authenticity meets elegance.

Nestled in the heart of the

urban buzz, this venue

invites you to savor a traditionally

rooted cuisine,

thoughtfully reimagined

and crafted on-site from

fresh, carefully selected ingredients.

Chez Jules

8 Pl. Dalton,

62200 Boulogne-sur-Mer.

Giant walls, watchtowers, and other

carefully preserved remnants also

serve city life today, hosting numerous

restaurants and estaminets (traditional

pubs) where musicians enliven evenings

with jazz, creating a pleasantly lively

atmosphere.

Strolling through the Auguste

Mariette garden, dedicated to the

local Egyptologist and nestled at the

foot of the ramparts, you discover a

representation of Saqqara’s pyramid,

the Nile, a lotus basin, a palm grove,

and a monumental obelisk, alongside a

statue on a pyramidal base and a typical Egyptian

solar boat. This spot offers total escapism in unique

serenity.

Walking the ramparts is a pleasure, offering

views rich in historic monuments and beautiful

period constructions. The old stones emanate a

coolness and reassuring colours, though sometimes

intimidating given their military purpose...

Yet even here, flowers keep their

colours and animate the scene,

swaying in the breeze.

Boulogne-sur-Mer meticulously

maintains its gardens for visitors’

delight. This marriage of past, present,

and future is omnipresent, contributing

to the charming plenitude of a city that

has evolved with its time.

Even as

commemorative

plaques honouring

dramatic and

valorous events

ensure the memory

of those who

sacrificed for today’s

tranquillity.

Strolling by day or

night brings

many wonders

and lessons.

Boulogne-sur-Mer:

An Open-Air Museum

84 versions of Street Art

are scattered throughout

the city, a visual feast that

delivers messages from

artists across the globe.

In the «Land Art» approach,

compositions

made solely from natural

materials blend seamlessly

into the urban landscapes.

With the apartment’s

comfort, and the teens

satisfied by permanent,

high-quality Wi-Fi, it

was time to head to

the Nausicaá complex.

We skipped the rather

narrow and expensive

parking near the Centre

of the Sea, remembering

to use a serious discount

coupon offered by the

Nausicaá shop.

AND WE GO TO

NAUSICAÀ

THE CALL

OF THE BLUE

INTO THE DEPTHS:

THOMAS PESQUET

EXPLORES THE OTHER

FRONTIER

Imagine:

after floating among the stars,

Thomas Pesquet, our favorite

astronaut, is now diving into the

abyss !

In August 2025, the space hero

traded his spacesuit for a hightech

submarine, the famous Ifremer

«Nautile,» and set off to discover

the depths of the Atlantic,

2,000 meters below the surface.

A breathtaking experience,

ADV

which he shared with the general

public, notably through Nausicaá,

the renowned marine center.

Aboard the «Nautile,» he lived

an adventure straight out of a

movie, at the controls of a craft

that strangely resembles

a spaceship – a titanium sphere

packed with cutting-edge

technology.

THE SECRETS OF

THE NAUTILE

THE NAUTILE AND THE SECRETS

OF THE DEEP

Since 1984, the Nautile has been taking

its passengers on a journey outside of

time, thousands of meters below the

surface. This little technological gem can

dive to depths of 6,000 meters, where

light no longer penetrates and absolute

silence reigns, opening a window onto

97% of the seafloor—a world still largely

unknown.

Onboard, you embark on a 10-hour total

immersion in a pressurized capsule

equipped like a science-fiction studio:

powerful spotlights, high-definition

cameras, robotic arms, and cutting-edge

instruments allow for observing, filming,

and sampling the planet’s most secret

ecosystems.

It is a dive into the unknown, a scientific

adventure but also a profoundly human

one, where every descent is an encounter

with the extraordinary.

My altitude record was already done; all that was missing was

the depth record!! ? Thank you to @ifremer_officiel for the

invitation to dive aboard the #Nautile, from the oceanographic

vessel #Atalante. This #dive to 2000m was the logical continuation

of a discussion that began in 2021 and even in 2011,

when, right at the start of my career, we noted with the @marinenationale

the similarities between underwater and space

missions.

Extreme environments and #technology: pressure, temperature,

darkness… so many obstacles overcome thanks to technology.

Energy, navigation, and communication systems, along with

breathable atmosphere, are very similar between space and the

abyss (as are the cramped cabins), the heavy airlocks, and even

the structure of the vehicles. And, at the risk of surprising some,

it pilots like a space capsule, with three axes, inertia… and a

lot of anticipation.

20% OF MARINE SPECIES

DESCRIBED IN THE LAST 10 YEARS

WERE DISCOVERED THANKS TO

EXPEDITIONS BY THE MUSÉUM.

WAVES AND DIZ-

ZINESS WITHOUT

LEAVING DRY LAND!

At Nausicaá, the ocean is an

experience to be lived, not

just observed.

Thanks to an immersive attraction,

you virtually step

aboard the Thalassa. The floor

sways, the walls vibrate:

suddenly, you’re in the open

sea, at the heart of an oceanographic

mission.

Every movement faithfully

recreates the ship’s rolling

motion, plunging you into the

daily reality of researchers braving

the elements to study the

oceans. A stunning sensory experience—both

thrilling and fascinating—that

reminds us how

scientific exploration is also a

profoundly human adventure.

Science and #exploration: Their field of study? Mid-ocean

ridges, where underwater volcanoes support a teeming and

unexpected array of life. Thanks to the Nautile and the marine

researchers, we are exploring the limits of life on Earth… and

perhaps its origins. A mission that is, in many ways, similar to

those we will conduct on the #Moon or Mars.

ABOARD

THE THALASSA

In short, I felt right at home, whether due to the technical similarities

or the warm welcome from the sailors and scientists.

AT 6,000 METERS BELOW #submarine #lifeaquatic #yellowsubmarine

THE SURFACE, THE NAUTILE CRAFTS ADVENTURE, METER BY METER.

THE FISH THAT

LIVES IN A SHARED

BURROW UNDER

THE SAND

Slender as an eel, this

discreet fish lives in

colonies on sandy or

seagrass beds, each

individual keeping a

precise distance from

its neighbors.

Only its head protrudes

from the sand, the rest

of its body remaining

buried, ready to retract

at the slightest sign of

danger—even the

bubbles from divers are

enough to startle it.

Measuring up to 40 cm

long but a mere 14 mm in

diameter, it feeds on

plankton and never leaves

its burrow, not even to

reproduce. Males and females

draw near, intertwine…

yet remain firmly

anchored. An

underwater life as secretive

as it is fascinating.

THE NAUSICAÁ

ENDOWMENT FUND

SUPPORTS 8 MARINE

CONSERVATION PROJECTS

HETEROCONGER

HASSI

THE MINERAL

BREATH

Beneath the shifting

mirror of the waves, the

ocean whispers ancient

secrets. It harbors, in its

deep blue abyss, vast

reserves of energy that

could illuminate our future—oil,

gas, but also

the quiet whisper of methane

and the delicate

promise of hydrogen.

Its seabed is strewn with

precious minerals: copper,

nickel, cobalt, gold, platinum…

raw materials that

fuel the technological

dreams of our time. And

among these treasures, «rare

earth elements,» invisible yet

essential, give life to our

screens, our satellites, our

connected worlds.

The ocean is a true mineral

library, a breath of the future,

an enigma humanity is still

learning to decipher.

80% OF THE PLANET’S

MINERAL RESOURCES ARE

BELIEVED TO BE OCEANIC.

Hailing from the calm waters

of southern Papua New

Guinea, Indonesia, and northern

Australia, the pig-nosed

turtle fascinates as much as it

intrigues.

Although it is a freshwater

turtle, accustomed to peaceful

river branches and isolated

lagoons, it possesses

the astonishing ability to

transform into a true marine

explorer.

As if carried by the currents,

it swims long distances

without ever stopping, gliding

underwater with the

grace of sea turtles. Sometimes,

it is spotted at sea, and

even on certain beaches

where it comes to lay its

eggs, just like its ocean-dwelling

cousins.

A powerful symbol for Aboriginal

communities, this turtle

with its distinctive snout is

now endangered. A victim of

the destruction of its natural

habitat and coveted for the

pet trade, it is becoming

increasingly rare.

SEABEDS WITHOUT DISTURBING

THE WATER.

THE CAREGIVERS

AT THE HEART OF

MARINE WELL-BEING

At Nausicaá, animal care

specialists watch daily over

the health and well-being of

the marine animals. Under

the supervision of the veterinarian,

they provide care,

feeding, and tank maintenance,

all while sharing

their passion with the public

during events like narrated

feeding sessions.

Their daily routine is governed

by precise logistics:

menus tailored to each species,

food preparation enriched

with vitamins, and

custom distribution. Some

rays, for example, eat several

times a day, while other

species are content with just

a few meals per week.

THE CAREGIVERS

THE PIG-NOSED

TURTLE

A LIVING TREASURE,

BETWEEN LAND AND

SEA, IN URGENT NEED

OF PROTECTION.

ARCHITECTS ENVISION

THE ECO-FRIENDLY FLOATING CITIES

OF THE FUTURE, LIKE ARTISANOPOLIS—

A PROJECT CHAMPIONED BY THE

SEASTEADING INSTITUTE.

Photo : Seasteading-Institute-by-

Gabriel-Scheare-Luke-Lourdes-

Crowley-and-Patrick-White

THE WORLD’S

PANTRY

With 24 kg of seafood consumed

per person each year,

Europe has a true appetite for

the treasures of the sea. Fish,

crustaceans, shellfish… these

foods nourish far more than

just our plates. They represent

an essential source of protein

for humanity and support the

livelihoods of millions of people

worldwide through fishing and

aquaculture.

CITIES OF

FUTUR

But this abundance is not infinite.

To continue benefiting from

these riches tomorrow, it is crucial

to preserve marine ecosystems

and combat overexploitation.

The sea is not a bottomless

pantry: it is a fragile balance that

must be respected.

Living on the Water:

Innovation Afloat

What if tomorrow, our

homes could float?

With nearly half of humanity

living near coastlines,

the shore has become an

open-air laboratory for

rethinking our way of life. In

the face of rising sea levels

and climate challenges,

architects and engineers are

already envisioning floating

habitats that are autonomous

and sustainable.

Modular platforms powered

by solar energy, interconnected

marine neighborhoods,

integrated aquatic

farms…

This is no longer science

fiction, but a new frontier

of urban innovation. Living

on the water also means

rethinking mobility, the

circular economy, and our

relationship with nature.

A blue revolution is

underway.

A BLUE LIVING LAB,

AN INCUBATOR

FOR INNOVATIVE

PROJECTS, WAS CREATED

THANKS TO NAUSICAÁ.

Fortunately, the future looks promising.

Marine biotechnology,

which is booming, is already enabling

the development of innovative

medicines, sustainable materials, and

even alternative fuels. Marine species

are full of fascinating molecules

that are still largely unexplored.

GIANT

OF THE SEAS

Majestic and mysterious,

the giant oceanic

manta ray (Mobula

birostris) glides near

the surface, between 0

and 1000 meters deep,

where ocean currents

deliver its favorite feast:

plankton. It is recognized

by the two elegant

cephalic lobes framing

its wide mouth,

like wings ready to take

flight.

With a wingspan of up to

8 meters and weighing as

much as 1.8 tonnes, it is

the largest ray in the world—a

true giant of the

oceans. And when it comes

to motherhood, it

holds its secrets: babies are

born fully independent,

after developing inside

their mother’s body. Only

one pup at a time, but each

one is already prepared to

explore the depths.

MAJESTIC YET VULNERABLE,

THIS RARE SPECIES IS EXPLOITED

IN ASIA AND STRUGGLES TO

REPRODUCE. A MARINE

JEWEL LIVING ON

BORROWED TIME.

SPOTTED

EAGLE RAY

At Nausicaá, each spotted eagle ray (Aetobatus ocellatus)

embodies far more than just an inhabitant of the large tank.

They are ambassadors of a European conservation program

that works to preserve the genetic diversity of marine species

by rigorously tracking their genealogy. An essential initiative in

the face of the silent erosion of biodiversity.

In 2021, an adult spotted eagle ray from Burgers’ Zoo in the

Netherlands joined the waters of Nausicaá. Two males already

in the tank were her sons—a family reunion that highlights the

strength of the bond between institutions committed to species

preservation. She enriches the genetic heritage of the

group and contributes to a valuable breeding dynamic.

An underwater ballet that

takes your breath away—a

breathtaking display of

power and grace.

MOBULA

BIROSTRIS

MALPELO

FUNDATION

SCIENCE IN THE

SERVICE OF SHARKS

In the turquoise waters surrounding

Malpelo Island, off the coast

of Colombia, lives a creature as

fascinating as it is threatened:

the hammerhead shark.

With its iconic silhouette and

unique lateral eyes, it embodies

both the raw beauty and the

fragile balance of marine biodiversity.

Despite its designation as a

UNESCO World Heritage site and

the creation of a marine protected

area, these ocean giants remain

targets of illegal fishing.

Their populations struggle to

recover, and their future now

depends on our ability to understand

them… and protect them.

This is where Nausicaá steps in,

partnering with the Malpelo

Foundation for an ambitious and

vital project: the tagging of hammerhead

sharks.

Using acoustic and satellite tags,

scientists track their movements,

study their migratory routes, and

monitor population trends to

better anticipate threats and

adapt conservation measures.

THE OCEAN’S HIDDEN

TREASURES:

WHEN THE SEA HEALS,

PERFUMES, AND INSPIRES

What if our next breakthrough

treatment emerged from the

ocean’s depths? For years, scientists

have turned to the mysterious

marine world in search of

novel molecules. Their mission:

to uncover compounds that

could alleviate suffering, treat

illness, and even transform

modern medicine. Many of

these substances show significant

promise.

MARINE SPECIES

FORM A VAST BANK

OF GENES AND

MOLECULES

THE OCEAN

FOR HEALING

Yet the sea’s gifts extend

even further. Marine organisms

produce unique compounds

used in diverse

fields—from gourmet cuisine

and luxury perfumery

to advanced surgical practices.

Even the behavior

and biology of sea creatures

inspire innovation,

leading to surprising new

technologies.

By studying nature’s most

resilient and adaptive

designs, we continue to

find sophisticated solutions

to human challenges,

reminding us that

the ocean remains one

of our most profound

sources of knowledge

and inspiration.

50% OF ANTICANCER

AGENTS COME FROM

THE SEA

RAJA AMPAT, JEWEL OF

THE CORAL TRIANGLE

KEEPING WATERS CLEAN AND HEALTHY

MEANS PROTECTING THE WELL-BEING OF THOSE

WHO EAT SEAFOOD OR ENJOY COASTAL ACTIVITIES.

Nestled among the turquoise waters

of the Philippines, Indonesia, and the

Solomon Islands, the Coral Triangle is

far more than a tropical paradise—it is

the cradle of marine life.

At the heart of this natural wonder, the

Indonesian islands of Raja Ampat unveil

an underwater spectacle that takes your

breath away—considered one of the

richest ecosystems on the planet.

Imagine: over 1,000 species of colorful

fish, 537 varieties of hypnotically shaped

corals, and a level of biodiversity that

marine biologists worldwide can only

dream of. But this sanctuary isn’t just beautiful—it’s

also protected. Thanks to an ambitious

government program, local communities,

especially fishers, are actively involved in

preserving this natural treasure.

And if you dive into these crystal-clear waters,

know that your adventure contributes to a

virtuous cycle: an ecological fee, included in

tourism costs, funds environmental initiatives

and supports sustainable development in

nearby villages.

Traveling here means immersing yourself in a

world where luxury rhymes with consciousness.

PROTECTING MARINE LIFE HELPS

THE OCEAN BETTER WITHSTAND

GLOBAL WARMING.

MANGROVES

THE MANGROVE:

WILD ELEGANCE IN SER-

VICE OF THE PLANET

It is a scene straight out of a

tropical dream: a forest of

sculptural roots, feet in salt

water, bathed in golden light.

The mangrove, a natural jewel

of equatorial coastlines, embodies

both raw beauty and ecological

power.

Its iconic trees, the mangroves,

seem to float between sky and

sea. Their aerial roots form a

magical labyrinth where marine

life thrives discreetly.

Young fish find a peaceful refuge

here, safe from predators, where

they can grow in security—a true

natural nursery.

A BULWARK AGAINST CLIMATE

CHANGE

But the mangrove does more than

inspire awe—it is a precious ally in

the fight against climate disruption.

A true carbon sink, it absorbs emissions

and protects shorelines from

storms and erosion.

MANGROVES

IT’S ALSO...

MANGROVE HONEY

Bees are drawn to the

blossoms of mangrove

trees, producing a

distinct, aromatic honey

with subtle flavors and

unexpected health

benefits.

MEDICINAL PLANTS

For generations, local

communities have used

mangroves’ bark, leaves,

and roots for their

natural healing `

properties.

THE REEF’S PANTRY

Mangroves

serve as a sheltered

nursery for young

reef fish, supporting

both biodiversity and

sustainable local fisheries.

NATURAL PIGMENTS

Mangrove trees provide rich,

natural dyes used to color

traditional textiles and

handicrafts, linking ecology

to cultural heritage.

The mangrove

gives far more

than protection,

it nourishes,

heals, and inspires.

SEVERAL ZEBRA SHARKS HAVE BEEN BORN

AT NAUSICAÁ AS PART OF A EUROPEAN

CONSERVATION PROGRAM!

THE ZEBRA SHARK:

STAR OF THE DEEP AND MUSE

OF ENGINEERS

This peaceful inhabitant of

coral reefs inspires far more

than underwater photographs.

Its skin has given rise to antibacterial

and anti-fouling coatings,

its fins have revolutionized

aeronautics with

«sharklets,» and its tail has

served as a model for innovative

tidal turbines.

It is found in the Indian and

Pacific Oceans, at depths

between 5 and 30 meters.

Respectful and calm, it often

allows divers to approach…

offering an unforgettable encounter.

A REFINED AND

VIBRANT ECOSYSTEM

On its muddy soils, fiddler crabs play

their part, while oysters, mussels,

and anemones cling to the roots

like living jewels.

Every corner of the mangrove is a

stage where nature displays

its finest creations.

MAJESTIC RESIDENTS

In this wild theater, stars are not in

short supply: the saltwater crocodile,

impressive and mysterious,

can reach six meters in length.

It shares its territory with the sea

turtle, an elegant ocean voyager,

and the mangrove snake, venomous

and fascinating.

THE MUDSKIPPER

This fish doesn’t just swim—it

climbs trees like a true mangrove

adventurer. The

mudskipper can hoist itself

onto mangrove branches

using its pectoral fins, which

act like suction-cup limbs.

To survive out of water, it

carries a small reserve of

water around its gills.

This allows it to spend minutes

at a time hunting

insects on land.

CORALS

A THOUSAND CORAL CUTTINGS

HAVE BEEN REPLANTED IN THE

MALDIVES WITH REEFSCAPERS.

THE WORLD CORAL

CONSERVATORY

Faced with the growing

threat to coral reefs, a

visionary project has

emerged under the leadership

of the Oceanographic

Institute of Monaco: to

create a global collection of

the main species and strains

of reef-building corals.

Corals are like the secret artists

of the deep. They are made up of

tiny polyps, miniature anemone-like

creatures that dance

with the currents.

Their delicate yet formidable

tentacles are armed with stinging

cells, capturing plankton

with surprising efficiency. These

reef builders thrive in clear,

sun-drenched waters for a

reason: they adore sunlight.

Within their tissues, they host

microscopic colorful algae—like

benevolent roommates. These

algae convert the polyp’s waste

into nutrients and, in return,

provide it with nourishment

through photosynthesis.

It’s a beautiful symbiosis that

gives birth to the wonders of the

reef—a living collaboration

between animal and plant, light

and water, stillness and motion.

The goal?

To safeguard this living

heritage before

it disappears.

These corals, true architects of

the seabed, are now housed in

public and private aquariums

around the world. This network

forms a precious “genetic reservoir,”

conceived as a life bank for

the future.

Thanks to it, ecological restoration

projects can be envisioned—particularly

through propagation—in

degraded marine areas, provided,

of course, that environmental

conditions are conducive to their

survival.

YOU, TOO, CAN ADOPT

A CORAL!

Just 8 km from the enchanting shores

of Zanzibar, Chumbe Island Coral Park

is a true haven for nature lovers and

those seeking escape.

This preserved island is home to a

protected marine reserve where visitors

can explore both a lush coastal forest

and a stunning coral reef—a paradise

for divers and dreamers alike.

Here, every stay has meaning: a portion

of the revenue generated by tourism is

reinvested in educational projects,

scientific research, and ecosystem

preservation carried out by the island’s

rangers. Travel becomes an act of commitment.

And to experience this enchanted

getaway, 7 eco-bungalows nestled in

the vegetation offer a unique experience

in perfect harmony with the

environment. Solar energy, rainwater

harvesting, natural filtration… everything

is designed to ensure your footprint

remains as light as the sand beneath

your feet.

ECO-RESPONSIBLE

TOURISM

TO DIVE

IS TO RESPECT

Diving is like stepping into another

world — a vibrant, colorful realm

where corals paint landscapes

straight out of a waking dream.

Divers have the privilege of experiencing

this magic up close… but

they also witness its fragile reality.

Beneath the surface, change is unmistakably

real. Respecting dive

sites means preserving a living treasure

— and it begins with a few

simple rules

Learn about the site

and its wildlife

Learn to identify

threatened and

protected species

Don’t throw

anything into the sea

Avoid stepping on

the seabed when

entering the water

Master your

buoyancy and fin gently

Take nothing back

with you

NAUSICAÁ: THE OCEAN,

THE RESPONSIBLE WAY

Since 2018, Nausicaá has

done more than captivate

visitors with its tanks and

marine species. By adopting

a Corporate Social Responsibility

(CSR) approach, Nausicaá

integrates ethical and

sustainable practices into all

its activities—from its staff to

daily operations.

Every detail is designed with

environmental respect in

mind, following the standards

of the ISO 26000 framework.

In collaboration with the Fondation

de la Mer, Nausicaá

co-developed the “Ocean SDG

14 Reference Framework,” a

practical tool to measure and

reduce its impact on marine

ecosystems.

Nausicaá has also been awarded

the “Sustainable Entertainment”

label by SNELAC, which recognizes

leisure and cultural venues committed

to environmental and social

responsibility.

ACTIONS AND

COMMITMENTS

RESPONSIBLE

SHOP

At the heart of Nausicaá, the gift shop stands out for its ethical and local commitment. Every

product offered is carefully selected for its responsible manufacturing: sustainable materials,

short supply chains, French craftsmanship… Here, “Made in France” isn’t just a slogan—it’s a

reality. By promoting the circular economy and local talent, the shop reduces its carbon footprint

while offering beautiful, useful, and meaningful objects. It’s the perfect place to find a

souvenir with heart—one that respects the planet.

Nausicaá’s parking lot is just a few minutes’

walk from the aquatic center. However, the

height clearance is limited, so roof boxes will

not fit. The spaces are narrow, and extra care

is needed to avoid scraping your wheels—especially

with larger vehicles and fancy rims.

A useful tip: the Nausicaá gift shop offers

a handsome discount on parking—just

remember to validate your ticket before

leaving, or you’ll pay the full rate. Also, during

peak hours, exiting the parking lot can

require a healthy dose of patience.

The Choice :

Nomade

Motorhomes,

A Must !

efficiency and organization that we were able

to verify throughout our trip, demonstrating

the high degree of professionalism of this team.

What’s more, compared with our first partner,

the vehicle made available to us is considerably

larger, and features equipment not foreseen

in the first project, such as a sanitary unit

with toilet and shower. As we were leaving

with three people, Nomade Motorhomes

spontaneously suggested a version equipped

with a pop-up roof, so that the third occupant

could enjoy royal comfort. This turned out

to be an excellent solution compared with a

hammock fixed behind the front seats...

At OH! LIFE, the idea of testing a

motorhome in the back of our minds

for some time.

The plan to attend a concert by Bruce

Springsteen and the E Street Band’s on the

last leg of his tour of Europe, in Monza

tour of Europe, in Monza, was beginning

to take shape.

Everything runs smoothly,

even when it’s not easy!

Because on June 7, the partner with whom

we’d been working on this project for many

weeks announced that he’d had to withdraw

at the very last minute, and we had to react

very quickly to meet our commitments. During

our visit to the Holiday Show last February,

we had met the young and dynamic Nomade

Motorhomes team. We got back in touch and

explained our project. They were won over

and decided to join us, despite the fact that it

was high season. That just goes to show their

sense of anticipation and precision. A quality of

226

BRUCE, WE’RE COMING!

Plume @ Eric HEIDEBROEK • Capture d’images @ Caminter 2023

During the confinements, the authorities required us to remain in our «bubble». And for our part, at the

editorial office, we wanted to present our readers with a solution for getting out of their homes in complete

safety. And we came up with the «mobilhome» formula, which lets you stay in your own bubble

while traveling... We then launched a series of articles entitled «Travel safely in your Mobibulle©». If

our journalists had this experience, we had none. So, as we had tickets for the Bruce Springsteen and

the E Street Band concert in Monza, we said to ourselves, «after all, why not.» We’ll even take the

opportunity to take a little trip to Italy... Here’s the story of a great experience!

228 229

Program:

1 - Como Lake, 2 - Venice, 3 - Monza, 4 - Turckheim

The concert is scheduled for July 25, so we receive

the motorhome on July 21 at 3pm. With

time to prepare it, we left Nomade Motorhomes

around 5pm. We had planned our trip

so as to leave in the late afternoon for the longest

stage (888 km), Beersel - Menaggio (Lake

Como). We would then leave Menaggio for Venice,

297 km away, where we would stay for 2

days. From Venice, we’d head back to Milan,

where a cab would take us to the concert at

the Monza circuit. The next day, we’d start the

return trip home, stopping off at Turckheim in

Alsace (420 km) and then heading for the Hannut

office (462 km), to give the motorhome a

good clean before returning at the agreed time

on July 28.

As recommended in the Nomade Motorhomes

instructions, it’s important to remember that

while driving a «Van» or a «Grand Van» is similar

to driving a very large car, you need to get

used to not only the width, but above all the

length. Remember to widen curves, especially in

built-up areas, to prevent the rear wheel from

climbing the kerb. Or, even trickier, in some

campsites when the «roadways» are more than

narrow... And trees tend to lean against the bodywork.

Fortunately, the occupants of these holiday

resorts are used to it, and provide excellent

service to the more novice.

Such was the case at the Menaggio campsite

on the shores of Lake Como. Admittedly a very

pretty spot with its small pebble beach, but their

fairly narrow, terraced paths don’t really pose

any problems, just on arrival and departure. A

little patience, a great helping hand and you’re

all set! Prego! «And that’s just as well, because

I wouldn’t do this every day,» said Marie-Pierre

CASEY in the 1985 «Pliz» commercial.

It’s also worth remembering that, while the

«Van» drives at legal speeds without a care

in the world, and brakes well, it’s important

to anticipate traffic conditions,

even more so than in a car. This applies

to slowing down and overtaking,

as well as steep climbs and descents,

due to their greater weight and higher

center of gravity. With a little practice, you

can manage the power required and the cooling

of the brakes. The Ducato started out as a utility

van. Burstner has done a good job with the

fittings, using high-quality materials. The beds

provide ample comfort. In the pop-up roof, you

benefit from wide openings that let you enjoy

the view. The mattresses are comfortable.

The blinds, cleverly integrated into the windows,

offer all the privacy you could wish for, and are

also very aesthetically pleasing, even if they need

to be operated with care. In terms of comfort,

space is at a premium, but getting around and

using the furniture is easy.

On the driving side, these FIAT vans are surprisingly

upright and the pedals are rather tiring.

It’s surprising that the Stellantis Group, which offers

these vehicles under different brand names,

has ergonomics that don’t provide the comfort

expected even of professional drivers. Indeed,

it’s easy to be surprised when, on approaching

a roundabout, the Ducato collapses on the front

wheel outside the bend - and not just the motorhome

in this test, we found that the Peugeot

230 231

a hotel concierge... and then, suddenly, we see a

minibus maneuvering. The driver tells us to head

for Zurich and take the Gotthard, which leads to

Italy. Elementary for those who know. And now

we know too!

St Gotthard road tunnel

And here we are, off we go again to tackle

this famous 16.9-kilometre tunnel through the

mountains. And it’s a smooth ride on the Swiss

freeways, all the way to the Gotthard...

The Ducato’s clutch sometimes disagrees, forcing

us to use the double clutch to relieve it. It’s

just that the going keeps getting tougher and

tougher, and the weather’s like hell!

It’s not a traffic problem that’s holding us up, it’s

the Swiss, who only let about twenty vehicles

through at a time. So you can imagine when

there are thousands of them... And a queue that

stretches for several kilometers.

For us, it took 3 hours!

When the road is finally free again, it’s still raining

and we notice that a greasy film is preventing

the windscreen wipers from doing their job. So,

at the first opportunity to stop - and this after

many kilometers, as the infrastructure doesn’t

allow it - we stop to remove a layer of paraffin

with «paper towels».

In fact, it’s because of the trucks stuck with us in

the traffic jam, which emit fumes of badly burnt

fuel oil - and, of course, extremely greasy fuel

oil - when idling and restarting. At five forty-two

in the morning, we arrive at our first stopover,

Lake Como!

van from «Monsieur Bricolage» had the same

tendency, not that you’re coming too fast! It’s

not only very uncomfortable, but also on the

verge of losing front-wheel grip.

On the other hand, roadholding is very good,

even on the winding roads of the Vosges, at legal

speeds and without any concern for precision.

For the purposes of this report, a 140 hp Fiat

Ducato did the job. Sufficient power and torque,

consumption over +/- 2,700km in the region of

450 euros, i.e. between 9 and 10 liters of fuel oil

per 100 km, but in its defense our timing was far

from that of holidaymakers.

We drove at good speed on all the motorway

networks. It’s worth noting that the Italian

freeways were perfect, and that the speed limits

were well thought-out and adapted to the

conditions and infrastructure we encountered.

From Beersel to Menaggio, we took the E411

to Luxembourg, then continued through France

to Basel.

In Switzerland, our gsm, which was in charge

of navigation, was unable to give us the route

to Italy... The reason was the price of access to

the Swiss Internet network, which charges 4G at

€12 per megabyte, and after 5 megabytes and

therefore €60, the account is blocked for security

reasons. Unless you give permission to the operator,

who will then put you out of business...

Telephony/Internet in Switzerland is a racket!

So, war is war. It’s 1 a.m., and let’s face it, we’re

lost! So we try asking directions, for example to

232 233

Lake

Como

Lake Como is a magical

place with an image

of luxury and opulence,

generated not least by

the residential choices of

numerous celebrities.

Not to mention the fact

that this place of

delicate charms is also

the setting for numerous

films and exceptional

events.

The inhabitants of Como

have understood this well,

and their paradise is visited

by a huge number of enthusiasts

who come to admire

the superb villas and the

tranquil calm of the villages

set against the foothills surrounding

the lake. The clear

waters, the almost Helvetian

cleanliness of the

streets, the Latin charm of

the inhabitants, the uniquely

fragrant coffee, the fruits

and vegetables of rare freshness

and powerful flavor. All

this generates a sense of

plenitude and inimitable relaxation,

all the more so because

the temperatures are

so pleasant. Not too hot,

not too cold, with the occasional

breeze to balance the

atmosphere.

Travellers make no

mistake make no

mistake, Lake Como is

an ideal place to spend

good times, enjoying

fine cuisine and

delicious local wines.

Several boat excursions are

available. These range from a

234 235

Cadenazzi, the luxury motorboat comparable

to a Riva, in which the stars travel or

shoot scenes from their finest films.

It’s also possible to hire a motorboat in the

image of the stars. Numerous captains offer

their services for around 450 euros for

a one- or two-hour trip.

You’ll discover villas whose gardens

plunge down to the clear waters, letting

your imagination carry you away to the

magical world of the inhabitants of these

places, be they rich or simply ordinary. The

lake makes no difference, offering its fullness

to everyone. Now, these private luxury

speedboat rides come at a price that

can’t compete with a public transport boat

ride. In fact, these boats are like buses,

ferrying passengers from town to town

around the lake in record time.

They offer a glimpse of the lake’s beauties

for just a few euros. The three of us paid

€13.50 to reach Villa Carlotta.

A sunny stroll with a refreshing breeze on

the upper deck. We could have continued

to the terminus, as it was no more expensive

and just as pleasant.

236 237

Menaggio, a Latin town rich

in ancient trees,

memories, intimate alleyways

and clear waters.

238 239

The towns of Lake Como

Peaceful and pleasant,

Dolce farniente, prego...

240 241

Villa Carlotta, a luxuriant oasis of rare plant species and a

wealth of sculptures displayed in large spaces

Rare essences, a house with an extraordinary view and containing works

of art from antiquity to the present day.

242 243

It’s now 300 years since the

Marquis Clerici of Milan

built Villa Carlotta in Tremezzina.

The villa

has had several masters, including

Princess Marianne

de Nassau, who gave it to

her daughter Charlotte for

her marriage to Duke

Georges II. He was responsible

for the development

of the botanical garden,

enriching it with

numerous rare species.

Perched on the edge of the

lake the villa Carlotta offers

an unobstructed view of the

blue waters of Lake Como.

Alongside it, on more than 8

hectares, its gardens are

refreshingly shaded, with

glades of luminous green.

The villa is home to extraordinary

works of art, displayed

in vast spaces that

show them off to their best

advantage.

244 245

Villa Carlotta

Via Regina, 2 - 22016 Tremezzina

Tremezzo, Como

https://www.villacarlotta.it/fr/

Beauty, love and origins are brought to life in the heart

of the Villa Carlotta estate - magic, magic!

246 247

248 249

Camping Venezia Village

We leave Menaggio and spendid

Lake Como for Venice, 460 km

away. The road is quiet, the

weather is good and the ride is

smooth. We arrive at the Venezia

Village campsite to find a place

that matches the photos we’ve

seen on the net. Everything is of

the highest quality, with generous

spaces for motorhomes and

well-defined vegetation. The relaxation

facilities are

The indoor swimming pool is as

pleasant as it is popular, and the

sanitary facilities are exceptionally

well-equipped, clean and

well-maintained, with comfortable

surfaces and music. Catering

is simple and very affordable,

so much so that we won’t be

using the camper’s kitchenette.

Our rating: 10/10, more than fair

prices and a warm welcome!

Camping Venezia Village

Via Orlanda, 8/C- 30170 Mestre

https://www.veneziavillage.it/fr/

250 251

Venice

Our first steps in Venice on a

cab boat like the stars... It’s

another way to discover the

city, with a tour of the Grand

Canal and then a discovery

through a maze of canals

where you’ll come across

many gondolas...

The worst... The worst are the tourists**

So, to avoid being in their way, we’ll be taking

the Venetian route. Of course, we’ll be passing

through some tourist hotspots, but our guide

«Caminter» has concocted a more intimate itinerary

for us, off the beaten track. We discovered

real life, real Venetian scenery. We met craftsmen

and shopkeepers who work with Venetians on a

daily basis.

By talking to them, we were able to get to know

them without thinking of them as tourists. They

tell us about daily life in this special city, with no

cars and, instead, canoes to get from one nauti-

** Some «tourists» don’t respect anything, leave their

garbage everywhere. They pay and think they can get away

with anything. It’s sad for those who discover their remains,

their passage.

We journalists, can only observe the bitterness of the Venetians.

Yes, tourism is a source of income but a minimum of

manners and and respect would not be a luxury...

252 253

Albergo Antico Capon

30123 Campo Santa Margherita – Dorsoduro Venezia

https://www.anticocapon.it/

cal street to the next. Vegetable

growers run their stores

from boats, while building

contractors use «truck» boats

filled with platras or sand and

cement, as the case may be.

Venice is teeming with these

trades, moving through the

canals that tourists rarely, if

ever, visit. It’s easy to understand

why some people choose

Venice as their home.

Thanks to Aldo, who received us with respect and courtesy in this restaurant. Antico Capon.

The cuisine is simple with a touch of refinement. We recommend it!

It’s a city steeped in history,

art and elegance, where water,

sun and home all come

together in a very special atmosphere.

254 255

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

When we talk about art, we can’t help but think «Peggy Guggenheim», and

knowing that she rests in Venice for eternity is all the more reason to visit the

Collections she built throughout her life.

If you love the contemporary, the audacious, the exhaustive and the rare, you’ll

love her collections.

Above and beyond the perfection of the exhibitions, what stands out most is

Peggy Guggenheim’s fundamental work, which will give work to the artists she

supports, and you will discover the evolution of the work of her protégés.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Palazzo Venier dei Leoni - Dorsoduro 701

I-30123 Venice

https://www.guggenheim-venice.it/

256 257

Ca’ Macana (Atelier fondé en 1984)

Dorsoduro 3215 30123 Venezia

https://www.camacana.com/

Catalogue complet en ligne

Venetian mask creation workshop

Venice, with its centuries-old

carnival, is an undisputed

magnet for masks and

costumes. The lagoon is

the scene of an artistic

life renowned for its

refinements.

We met one of the artisans

who specializes in maskmaking,

Alfio di Contin.

He has three workshops in

Venice.

Mirta, one of his employees,

was busy finalizing an order

of over 300 masks for a

reception.

In the second shop, we

admired Alfio’s meticulous

work. Yes, he himself is

passionate about painting

and decorating masks. And

in the third workshop, masks

are formed from templates

or drawings and invented

structures. This workshop

attracts the most passionate

of Venetian art enthusiasts.

If you step into one of his

working areas, don’t be

surprised to be seduced!

The Fontegoart Gallery presents «Unconscious Beauty», paintings by Nicola Tenderini until August

28, 2023. An exhibition promoted by the Venezia Art and Design Assiciazione culturale in collaboration

with Galleria ADmore. www.fontegoart.it

258 259

Water Taxi

https://www.veneziaturismo.net/

On our first day, we took a cab to visit

Venice. A superb mahogany boat, driven

by a captain who took his time showing

us around Venice’s canals. His piloting

ensured our comfort and the best

viewpoints.

In Lake Como, the fare was 450 euros for

an hour, but we preferred a boat-bus

ticket at 13.50 euros...

Here in Venice, the three of us paid

140 euros for an hour and a half of

discovery and visual pleasure.

Complete happiness!

260 261

After Venice, it’s time to head back up to

Monza, where Bruce and the E Street

Band are waiting for us.

Since the start, we’ve been overtaken by vehicles,

many of them sticking to our side, and well, what’s

so special about us?

It’s only when we come across an Estonian coach

in a traffic jam, stopped on our right, honking at

us and waving «OH LIFE Go To SPRINGSTEEN

At MONZA» stickers that we finally understand...

So, as we had one large sticker left over, we

offered it to them, much to their delight!

And a little further on, to thank us, they offered us

two large cans of beer. A little later, a couple

waved to us. The driver, standing in line, waves

concert tickets out of his open window.

So it’s already on the road that we get into the

mood! It was really great!

We weren’t sure we’d be able to find a place to

park the camper van, in Monza, we decided to

stay at the Sporting Hotel in Brugherio.

It’s a three-star hotel, but what comfort, kindness

and service, worthy of a 5-star hotel! Highly recommended!

The cab they booked for us dropped

us off in Monza, another good experience.

Hotel Sporting

Via Santa Caterina da Siena, 35

20861 Brugherio (MB)

https://www.hotelsportingbrugherio.com/

262 263

Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band

Autodromo Nazionale Monza

HERE’S THE HIGHLIGHT OF OUR MOTORHOME TRIP,

THE BOSS CONCERT AT MONZA. BRUCE DREW A CROWD

OF OVER 70.000 ! A REAL TIDAL WAVE!

A GREAT ATMOSPHERE AND A REAL SUCCESS!

264 265

Age 71,

and he’s fresh as a daisy!

The crowd cheers,

he doesn’t walk, he runs over

with his guitar at arm’s

length, to the traditional

«BRUUUUSSSSSS»

from the crowd’s hooting

crowd... which fades away at

the first chord of the Boss’s

guitar. And then!

ONE

TWO

THREE

FOUR !

All hell breaks loose, fans

jump up and down, arms

outstretched, the star is in

top form, and so

is the E Street Band!

And it doesn’t stop there, as

the Boss performs a whole

string of songs without

taking a breath, showcasing

every member of his band.

266 267

Bruce Springsteen and

the E Streetband are true

professionals! It’s all

done like clockwork.

268 269

THE SECRET

OF BRUCE AND THE

E STREET BAND

In any order...

PASSION - PROFESSIONALISM

STRENGTH OF WORK -

ABNEGATION - TEAM SPIRIT

Sport, weight training,

physical and mental

maintenance and, above

all, a lot of hard work

are the keys to such

performance.

That’s the secret !

Just think, before the

European tour, THEY

PERFORMED EVERY 2 DAYS

from April 01 onwards

in New York, Brooklyn,

Cleveland (OH), Baltimore

(MD), Belmont Park (NY), and

on April 14 in Newark (NJ).

BEFORE THE EUROPEAN

TOUR (opposite), which

began on April 28 and ends

on July 25. On August 09,

it’s off again for the USA

tour, starting with Chicago

(IL), Foxborough (MA), East

Rutherford (NJ), Syracuse

(NY), Baltimore (MD)

,Pitsburgh (PA), Uncasville

(CT), Albany (NY),

Columbus (OH) Washington

(DC), Vancouver (BC),

Edmonton (AB), Calgary

(AB), Winnipeg (MB),

Toronto (ON), Ottawa (ON),

Montreal (QC) Poenix

(AZ),San Diego (CA)

Ingelwood (CA), and finally

on December 10 and 12 in

San Francisco (CA).

EUROPEAN TOUR 2023

MONZA is the final leg of the

Springsteen and E-Street Band

European Tour 2023.

A VERY BUSY TOUR:

April 28 and 30 Spain

(Barcelona)

May 05, 07 and 09 Ireland

(Dublin)

May 13 and 15 France (Paris)

May 18 Italy (Ferrara)

May 21 Italy (Rome)

May 25 and 27 Netherlands

(Amsterdam)

May 30 Scotland (Edinburgh)

June 11 Netherlands (Landgraaf)

June 13 Switzerland (Zurich)

June 16 England (Birmingham)

June 18 Belgium (Werchter)

June 21 Germany (Düsseldorf)

24, June 26 and 28 (Gotheborgh)

June 30 and July 02 Norway

(Oslo)

July 06 and 08 England (London)

July 11 and 13 Denmark

(Copenhagen)

July 15 Germany (Hamburg)

July 18 Austria (Vienna)J

uly 21 Germany (Hockenheim)

July 23 Germany (Munich)

July 25 Italy (MONZA)

August 09 start of North

American tour.

270 271

BORN IN THE USA and it’s time to go home !

And there you have it, after a 4-hour concert with no posing, no weaknesses,

Bruce & The E Street Band filled the hearts and ears of thousands of

spectators. One comment, however: the quality of the sound, and its nonaggressive

amplitude, and yet we were under a column of sound. Fantastic

concert, extraordinary performance! Just one word to sum it all up:

THANK YOU! And welcome back to America for the rest of the Tour 2023!

cutting

edge

performance

For OH! Life and its partner

NOMADE-MOTORHOMES,

it’s time to return home.

In the same style as Colmar,

only a few kilometers away,

Turckheim offers a reassuring

face with its bourgeois

houses and wooded structures.

Turckheim (France)

Le Stammtisch

1 Place Turenne - 68230 TURCKHEIM - France

https://le-stammtisch-restaurant.eatbu.com

The medieval campsite at

Turckheim is a family-run

structure where many

regulars gather.

It’s a place that camping

fans will appreciate.

Services are of a high standard,

although the sanitary

facilities lack a little privacy

due to their suspended partitions.

But the clean showers

make up for it. Laundries

and other practical facilities

provide the necessary

comfort.

The town of Turckeim knows

how to entertain, and at the

Stammtisch restaurant we

were treated to a «Jambonneau

au Munster*» which

was not only hearty but also

extraordinarily tasty.

After this gourmet stopover,

enjoy a guided tour of the

town by folkloric characters.

It’s a great way to round off

this pleasant stop.

«Munster = strong cheese»

274

275

The new LOTUS Eletre and Emeya

pay a visit to the Juge des Ardennes!

276 277

The Spa Francorchamps circuit

is constantly active. During our

visit, Curbstone, led by Ludovic

COLMAN, a former Pirelli

employee, was on the track for

pre-season tests for various GT

and other LMP2 championships.

A sporting atmosphere, mechanical

preparations and adjustments

punctuated the numerous driving

sessions.

With the Lotus Eletre and Emeya, we have chosen

to use the Spa Formula 1 circuit as our stage.

This is in order to place these new LOTUS cars in

a world that the British brand has frequented for

decades with extraordinary success and aura.

Although LOTUS is no longer in competition, the

fact remains that its spirit lives on. It is also a

fact that at historic gatherings, many enthusiasts

bring this legendary brand back to life.

In the photos, Pascale

(Caminter),

the faithful Jean-Paul Decorty

and yours truly at the wheel.

Ready? GO!

DFrom the very first turns of the

wheels, even if they are limited to

30 or 40 kilometers per hour, the

LOTUS cars glide along the track

with rare elegance and natural

ease. They seem to be born for it!

Even if they are electric, they

retain an exceptional signature,

that of this historic brand with an

ingenious, innovative and above

all glorious past. If LOTUS is now

moving into electrification, it is

to meet the current needs of the

market and the ongoing transformation

of the automotive industry.

While it is true that for Sir Colin

Chapman there was only one

motto:

“Light is right”, today’s electric

cars are theoretically lighter than

combustion cars - with equal

power - if and only if the batteries are removed. And so, for example,

the LOTUS EVIJA responds precisely to this idea with 0.94

kg/hp... It weighs 1,887 kg and develops 2,000 hp and a torque

of 1,700 Nm. To get all that power on the road, it has four-wheel

drive. Each wheel has a 500 horsepower electric motor! The range

282 283

is announced as 400 km. Four modes are available: City, Tour with 1,400 hp, Sport with

1,700 hp and Track with 2,000 hp and a top speed of 350 km/h. This supercar is super

rare, with only 130 units to be produced.

Well, this takes us a little away from the Eletre and Emeya. Eletre is the SUV LOTUS, it’s

fashionable and the design is particularly successful.

284 285

The English designers, both in terms of design and technology, are very proud of it, and

with good reason.

LOTUS announces that:

«Eletre and Emeya were born in Great Britain and raised all over the world. It is a collaboration

between the highly experienced and dedicated Lotus teams based in the United

Kingdom, Germany and China.” LOTUS

continues: “These are the teams responsible

for product definition and characteristics

at Hethel, home of Lotus since 1966, the

design teams at the Lotus Tech Creative

Centre (LTCC) in Coventry, the engineering

and dynamics teams at the Lotus Tech Innovation

Centre (LTIC) in Raunheim, and the

engineering and manufacturing teams at

Lotus Tech in Wuhan.»

286 287

Yes, LOTUS belongs to the Geely Group, which also owns Volvo Cars, Polestar and Smart.

Geely is also active in Mercedes-Benz. And yes, the Chinese have a lot of capital, but they

are also very traditional. Chinese investors immediately saw the value in preserving the

roots of European brands. On the one hand, for their wealthiest local clientele, who love

to show off at the wheel of cars with a history and a Western brand image, and also, their

289

ambition is to convince Westerners to buy

products that know how to keep the original

standards. And it is clear that the Eletre

and Emeya are well built in line with this

strategy.

The quality of the assembly is of the highest

standard, as is the finish. Inside too, we find

beautiful materials, the finest leathers and a

rare elegance in the design of the on-board

furniture. We are in perfect agreement with

the high standards expected at this level of

product.

We note that if the level of product is of the

highest, the prices are in agreement. Just

because LOTUS cars are built in China does

not mean that they are not of the expected

quality, on the contrary.

Western customers get what they pay for.

LOTUS is at the top end of the sports car

market and is a smart choice. Everything

290 291

about these cars is worthy of the English brand. Yes, they are four-seaters, and yes, they are

bigger than the ultra-friendly hatchbacks and roadsters of the well-known combustion-engine

LOTUS cars. But you have to move with the times, and the Eletre and Emeya are right up there

with the big boys and exclusive cars. They look terrific, the SUV has a sporty approach with a

sleek design. The Emeya has the look of a Lamborghini Countach with 4 doors.

293

It’s stunning and impressive.

When you get into the Eletre or sit behind the

wheel of the Emeya, you immediately feel at

ease. There’s the leather, the nubuck, the design

of the dashboard with its individual contours

trimmed with nappa leather and red topstitching,

the center console with two doors opening

onto a large refrigerated space, and the

large screen with its pictograms that are a little

too thin and too small. But in the long run, you

get used to it and quickly find your way around.

For a fully digital system, it is quite easy to

use, even if you are not too keen on it.

LOTUS, like many other brands, would do

well to take inspiration from a practical

shortcut to deactivate intrusive functions

such as “Lane Assist” and “Speed Limit”

in the idea developed by Citroën in the

new C3. Two buttons next to each other,

press for a few seconds and “hop”, it’s

deactivated!

The steering wheel falls nicely into the

hands, the diameter is perfect, the size of

the circle too. And what about the Nubuck

feel, hmmm.

The two Lotuses start in the same way.

You press the brake and flip the little lever

to D or R. The car starts and stops automatically.

LOTUS has placed paddles behind the steering

wheel. One on the right to choose the driving

mode and one on the left to adjust the energy

recovery force on 3 levels plus an “off” for the

“freewheeling” function.

Quiet and very well cushioned, the LOTUS offer

real comfort. The air suspension is convincing.

There is no porpoising effect, which is characteristic

of many electric vehicles with metal suspensions

that never manage to contain the brutal

reactions during compression and rebound.

The LOTUS therefore have air suspension

with different levels of reaction.

There are 5 different modes: Range (a kind of

eco mode without the unpleasant constraints),

Tour, which is the most frequently used mode,

then Sport mode, and finally “Individual” mode,

296 297

where you can mix and match your

choices. On the Eletre, an additional

mode is added, OffRoad mode.

You can also choose the height of

the suspension, normal, low or... very

low!

Thanks to this last setting, added to

the sport mode, the Emeya becomes

a formidable sports car.

While the road holding of the two

Lotus cars tested is flawless, when

you use the sport mode with the suspension

lowered, you benefit from a

very sporty rigour and behaviour in

an effective hardness.

298 299

The 612 hp and 700 Nm are no small feat.

They allow the experienced driver to use

the energy potential and the rigidity of the

chassis in an extremely convincing way despite

the more than two tons of the whole.

As for braking, no worries, the big brakes

handle the extra work required. As with all

supercars, the power is primarily there to

please the owner and in the long run it is

only used for good reasons. Soon, the Lotus

cars could be found on the track, during

“Track Days” so that their owners can appreciate

their capabilities.

This is also where the “R” versions with

over 900 hp can express themselves in

complete safety, especially since this version

also has a “track” mode.

This small detail shows how much the

designers of these new LOTUS cars have

300 301

confidence in their creation. For our part, we

appreciated the elegance and sobriety of the

exterior and interior lines.

We also liked the impressive reserve of power

available instantly when needed. It is reassuring

and particularly pleasant. The advertised

range is 600 km with 20-inch wheels, but the

22-inch wheels, although very beautiful, eat

up nearly 200 km. LOTUS claims a range of

around 535 km with the 22-inch wheels.

And so we have calculated a reliable range of

around 440 km by riding carefully, but without

dragging the bike.

The Manor

of Lébioles

where the

refuge

of a time

for yourself

Our LOTUS bikes took us along the little roads characteristic of the Spa region

to our end-of-day “pit stop”: the magnificent Manoir de Lébioles.

This manor house was built between 1905 and 1910 by Georges NEYT, who is said to have

been the illegitimate son of King Leopold I. The idyllic reputation of the spa town of Spa is

well established, and the Domaine de Lébioles is hidden away in the middle of the forest.

The place is discreet, remarkably calm, incredibly rich in natural tranquillity, and above all

the pure air of the great forests.

The Lodomez family has

anticipated the unique

atmosphere of the naturally

majestic setting and the

charm of this large building.

Having been awarded

5 stars since 2023, the premises

are naturally suited

to welcoming guests in the

generously sized rooms

and suites of between +/-

30 and 75 m2.

The decoration is tasteful, the cleanliness and the attention

to detail are remarkable, to such an extent that

one feels as if one has been welcomed into a charming

private home.

Although nature inevitably beckons one to go for a walk,

the rooms also have an irresistible appeal.

One feels really at ease

there and one makes the

most of it!

It is very peaceful there,

thanks to the harmony

of the colors and the

antique-style furniture

combined with modern

elements.

The large armchairs

upholstered in comfortable

fabrics that fit in

with the generous, authentic

and expressive volumes,

creating this very comfortable

sense of well-being.

We also appreciate the discreet

storage elements and

although they seem more basic,

they are cleverly integrated

into the walls and match their

utilitarian character. It is their

discretion that makes them

relevant. Well done!

308 309

The bathrooms are very large with all

modern comforts in an impeccable

neoclassical style.

We are indeed in a genuine stately

home that has shed its austerity to

offer this image of comfort and hospitality

that envelops you directly.

Time for yourself

And when you enter the “common

rooms”, you are captivated by the

height of the ceilings, the large

wooden columns, the warmth of the

open fire, the bunches of flowers, the

subdued light of the lampshades, the

comfort of the fabric armchairs, the

quilted leather of a coffee table that

can also be used as a pouffe. And

those splendid painted wooden ceilings,

which are every bit as good as

those small, intimate lounges where

you can take some time for yourself.

The Manoir de Lébioles is the perfect

answer for those who want

time to themselves, far from the

hustle and bustle of modern life.L

And it’s true, you will immediately feel that this way of welcoming

you, with a smile and that feeling of being at your

service and anticipating your every wish, without disturbing

your privacy, is undoubtedly a great moment that you will

enjoy without resisting. In a word: Happiness.

A restaurant, a creative chef...

What more could you want?

A passionate and dynamic maître d’hôtel!

Serge ROMPEN gets the ball rolling. He has been active

for many years and offers the five-course Menu, which is

mouth-watering to read about...

The combination of large rooms with unusually

high ceilings, the intimacy of a library

lounge or a cozy bar-boudoir for enjoying

a quality drink. Numerous intimate places

where you can isolate yourself and appreciate

the gentle environment: this is how the Domaine

du Manoir de Lébioles aims to pamper

its guests.

Their leitmotif is unquestionably to say :

«Let yourself go,

we’ll take care of the rest, for you».

312

Manorial Menu (5 courses)

served for the whole table.

To begin with

Foie Gras and Blue Lobster from Brittany

Foie Gras Terrine / Lobster Crudo /

Rose Vinaigrette Lobster Consommé

Italian Melanosporum Truffle (suppl. €20)

Signature Dish

Smoked Trout from “La Commanderie 7”

Sweet Onion Soup from the Cévennes / Black

Garlic - Tile from Valèt de Waimes

Mango ice cube and seaweed gomashio

Tepache mango and caraway N.A. “Home

Made”

Veal sirloin

Sweet potato confit with vanilla / macadamia

nut crisp Red wine sauce emulsion / roasted

crosne

314 315

Black Forest

Cherry confit / cocoa / forest fruits / sour cherry

and kirsch sorbet

or Selection of cheeses from “Maison Straet”

(suppl. €11)

5-course menu €98 p.p.

Wine pairing package €46 p.p.

It’s Chef Loïc JAMBON, whose talent is recognized

by Gault et Millau, which is saying something!

The Chef concocts all his dishes using local produce

or produce from neighboring countries. The

trout comes directly from La Commanderie 7 in

Fouron Saint Pierre, the veal is supplied by the

Ferme du Mont des Brumes in Stoumont, and the

vegetables come from Deigné du Fond des Pans.

The fish and seafood are from Brittany, more

specifically from Cap d’Erquy. The condiments,

on the other hand, travel further, from Asia, Italy,

Spain, etc.

Dogs are allowed in the manor

house for a fee of €49. The staff at

the manor house are very attentive.

A mat and a bowl are provided and

the owners are regularly approached

to ask if their companion needs anything,

a little water, for example.

Life is good at the Manoir des Lébioles,

where breakfast is generously

served with all the necessary gourmet

treats and attentive service.

However, while the general atmosphere

encourages you to enjoy the

comfort and the attentions, nature

beckons. The forests of Spa and

Creppe in particular attract visitors

to the great outdoors. Whatever the

season, in fact.

320 321

Even if the beautiful seasons make the walks greener and more

lush, spring sees the rebirth of the deciduous trees. The amorous

flights of birds brighten up the horizon and while the deciduous

trees have not yet regained their density, you can easily see far,

see the streams and rivers whose silvery reflections reflect the

pulsating life of the environment.

The terraces offer a tranquility and relaxation that are incredibly

beneficial. The Domaine de Lébioles has 16 rooms and suites, as

well as professional workspaces that are useful for holding meetings

in peace and quiet. A spa, with revitalizing treatments, and

an indoor swimming pool complete the package.

INFOS :

Domaine de Lébioles 1/5

B-4900 Spa (Creppe)

Tel: +32 (0) 87 79 19 00

manoir@manoirdelebioles.com

https://www.manoirdelebioles.com/fr/

325

How to Leave the Castle

on Tiptoe…

Thanks to the electro-feeling

of the new Bentley GTC

The new version of the Bentley Continental not only boasts a new look, but

also active hybridisation of its famous V8 engine. This noble 4.0-litre engine

develops 600 horsepower at 6,250 rpm with 800 Nm of torque available

between 2,500 and 4,500 rpm, and its electric unit adds 190 hp with 450 Nm

of permanent torque, giving a total of 782 horsepower and 1,000 Nm. The

result is that 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in 3.4 seconds. The top speed is

285 km/h. What is interesting about this configuration is that the 450 Nm

of electric torque is added to the already generous torque of the V8 engine,

giving this beautiful convertible a solid feel from the very first metres.

When you start it up, this Continental launches itself in the electric silence

of its 26 kWh battery, which gives it a range of 80 km...

But you can’t help but long for the throaty roar of the eight cylinders.

And to do that, when you start it up, you don’t press the brake when

you turn the ignition. Instead, you select ‘Sport’ mode and start the

engine... and VROOOAAARRR! Now that’s what I call life!

Bentley hasn’t just modernised the lines: it has refined the design with meticulous

work on the curves, optimising aerodynamics while preserving the iconic sculptural

presence. The lines of this new generation of Continental GTs are faithful to those

created by Belgian designers van Braekel and Donckervolke. The new designers have

sharpened the lines of the front end by modifying the headlights, which now feature

two round, directional full-LED optics with a sleek upper eyeliner for daytime running

lights. At the rear, the tail has also been given a new, more tapered style, but one that

remains in keeping with the oval tradition established by the Belgians.

The Conti GT’s rolling base is originally that of the prestigious Volkswagen Phaeton W12.

Since 2018, the modular structure of the Porsche Panamera has served as the basis for

the Continental GT, which still features four-wheel drive and four-wheel steering.

Inside, the style remains extremely comfortable and very ‘British’ in design. The large

Nappa leather seats, with their carefully crafted and selected structures, are particularly

striking in this ‘First 1 Edition’ version, which boldly combines shades of navy blue

and crushed strawberry red, quilting and elaborate stitching details that truly showcase

the craftsmanship of British artisans. You enter this ‘convertible’ and are greeted

by the unmistakable scent of Connolly leather. It’s magical. In this version, there is no

fine wood trim, but the dashboard and centre console, as well as the door trim, are

finished in turned aluminium, adding a touch of technical and visual sophistication.

Each material has been carefully chosen to enhance the on-board experience, making

every journey as pleasant as a break in a cosy lounge.

A haven of peace with the top down In coupé configuration, the GTC Hybrid is

transformed into a rolling sanctuary. The soundproofing, meticulously crafted

down to the last millimetre, almost completely isolates the cabin from outside

noise. The exemplary smoothness of the ride is enhanced by magical suspension

that effortlessly absorbs the bumps in the road. The hypnotically smooth hybrid

powertrain operates silently, gliding imperceptibly between electric propulsion

and combustion.

Power is always available and delivers remarkably smoothly, even if the

extra weight is slightly noticeable during more sporty acceleration. On

the motorway, the Bentley eats up the miles, offering a serenity that is

ideal for long journeys.

The soul of the GTC is revealed with the top down

But it is with the top down that the GTC Hybrid reveals its true soul.

The transformation, as quick as it is silent, unleashes a unique sensory

experience. The wind is skilfully tamed, caressing the interior

without ever disturbing, even at high speeds. The pleasure

of feeling the sun’s rays and hearing the soft murmur

of the V8 (or the hushed silence of electric mode) adds an

almost meditative dimension to the driving experience.

Surprising agility on the roads of the Condroz

To really experience the GTC Hybrid, there’s nothing

better than a winding route. We head for

the rolling hills of the Huy region, with a stop at

the Golf de Naxhelet, a discreetly charming green

oasis. Despite its imposing dimensions, the Bentley

proves to be surprisingly agile. The chassis, with

its exemplary rigidity, and the precise, responsive

steering inspire absolute confidence, even in the

tightest corners. Thank you, four-wheel steering!

What stands out above all is the smooth flexibility

typical of the greatest Bentleys. Every acceleration is

a delight, whether electric or thermal: the power is

delivered in a continuous flow, without jolts or delays.

The perfectly smooth gearbox is unnoticeable,

as if it were part of the high-precision mechanics.

A sound to make you tremble And then there’s the

sound. When called upon, the 4.0-litre twin-turbo

V8 doesn’t just growl: it roars with a gravity

that takes you to the pit of your stomach. It’s not

just exhaust noise, but a mechanical symphony,

testimony to the controlled excess that lies dormant

under the bonnet. This deep rumble, both

powerful and refined, is the auditory expression

of a car that combines raw performance with absolute elegance. Arriving at the

Golf de Naxhelet, the GTC Hybrid imposes its aura: at first silent and majestic, it

suddenly reminds you, with a press of the accelerator, that it is also a racing beast

beneath its grand touring attire.

Conclusion: The Quintessence of Grand Touring The Bentley GTC Hybrid is much

more than a car: it is an experience. A masterful blend of luxury, performance

and environmental awareness, all wrapped up in timeless aesthetics. Whether it’s

bonneted up for a transcontinental journey or convertible for a summer drive, it

embodies automotive excellence with unrivalled grace. The First-1-Edition, with

its exclusive finishes and light blue livery, only reinforces this feeling: this Bentley

is already a collector’s item, a rare piece destined to leave a lasting impression.

Fragrance Bentley AZURE for Men

Bentley Azure for Men first captivates with its vitality:

a vibrant opening of zesty mandarin and bergamot,

enhanced by a touch of spicy ginger. The effect is immediate

– bright, distinguished, without ostentation. The

composition remains airy, like a light breeze on sun-warmed

skin. Azure is a refined interpretation of a classic,

impeccably polished, embodying the spirit of Bentley

– underlying power, sharp elegance. Its measured sillage

is intimate and unusual. AZURE is imbued with freshness

and lightness for everyday wear, lasting 4-5 hours without

being overpowering.

LILLE

BENTAYGA

at the

Nestled in the heart of Lille, a stone’s throw from the

Grand-Place and Vieux-Lille, the Clarance Hotel is much

more than just a luxury establishment.

A prestigious member of Relais & Châteaux, it

embodies the French art of living, combining refinement,

conviviality and attention to detail.

Immerse yourself in a world where old-world charm meets

modern comfort. Choosing the Bentley Bentayga in this

unique Riviera finish was the best way to discover this

establishment.

Writing: Eric Heidebroek and Christiane Goor - Image Capture Charles Mahaux and Pascale Heidebroek

Layout: Pascale HEIDEBROEK -LINTERMANS

The extreme

refinement and

craftsmanship of the

Bentley Bentayga with

a long wheelbase

combines with the

luxurious atmosphere

exuded by the

Clarance, imbued

with tradition and

modernism.

An intimate, refined

environment

As soon as they cross the threshold,

visitors are enveloped by the hotel’s

atmosphere.

The Clarance Hotel is a beautiful

18th-century townhouse, carefully

restored to preserve its historic character

while adding a contemporary touch.

The lobby, with its elegant woodwork

and carefully chosen works of art, sets

the tone: here, every detail counts. And

what details!

The Clarance is a temple of eccentric

lighting fixtures that give each room a

crazy charm!

The inner garden, a veritable oasis of

greenery, is one of the jewels of the

establishment. In summer it offers a

space of calm and relaxation, far from

the hustle and bustle of the city. An

ideal place to sip tea or enjoy a glass of

wine in peace and quiet.

Exceptional rooms and suites

The Clarance Hotel offers 19 rooms and suites, each one unique. The

spacious and bright spaces are decorated with discreet elegance, combining noble materials (wood,

stone, leather) and contemporary touches.

The king-size beds, covered with high-end bed linen bed linen, promise deeply restful nights. The

bathrooms are equipped with walk-in showers or deep bathtubs, accompanied by hospitality products

from the collections of the Cinq Mondes house in Paris.

Treat yourself and reserve a table in

the library area, it’s magical!

A brief history

The Hôtel Clarance is located in the

mansion built in 1796 by the Countess

of Hespel. In 1953, it was acquired

by the master brewers Motte-Cordonnier,

and today they produce a beer

called “Clarance”.

In 2015, Ms. Aurélie Vermesse transformed

it into a boutique hotel, which

became the Hôtel Clarance.

What really sets the Clarance Hotel apart is its

warm and personalized welcome.

The attentive and discreet staff are always ready

to anticipate the needs of the guests.

Despite its proximity to the bustling center, the

establishment enjoys absolute calm, guaranteeing

a peaceful night’s sleep for its guests.

The Clarance Hotel is much more than just

accommodation: it is an experience in its own

right. Between its enchanting setting, its exceptional

comfort and its impeccable service, it

embodies French excellence. Whether for a

romantic getaway, a business trip or a cultural

break, this establishment is sure to please you

and make you fall under the spell of Lille.

The Clarance restaurant is closed on

Sundays, so we booked a table at the

Estaminet “La Ch’tite Brigitte”, a

typical old Lille house. A very friendly,

convivial, noisy place where customers

chat, laugh and enjoy typical dishes

from the North of France.

The kitchen is open, the menu serves

as a placemat. It’s written small but

that’s because it’s mixed and the

regional dishes are very popular, such

as fricadelles, calf’s head, carbonnades

and quite a few choices at Maroile...

In addition, all the drinks are listed,

desserts, digestifs and sodas too... As

we said, it’s a lot.

The Ch’tite Brigite is a temple of taste

and not only is the food delicious and

flavorful, it’s also generous. Without

ending up with a bang.

This is what you hear when you call

Ch’tite Brigitte! It’s delicious!

Tel: +33 3 20 20 99 89

A word of advice: book before you go,

it’s always fully booked...

Both Lille and Brussels

have been attacked

by ecologists!

Both Lille and Brussels have

been attacked by ecologists!

It’s unbelievable, getting

around Lille is a punishment,

cars are treated like pariahs,

fortunately with the Bentley

and its incredible comfort,

serenity and big 4-litre V8, we

slip between all those damn

ugly posts that line the streets,

preventing you from stopping.

So much the better, we are

traveling in a pleasant senator’s

train, comfortably seated

up high to admire the superb

architecture of the place.

When we can find a place to

park, we can walk in the

pedestrian areas. It is very

large, the buildings are beautifully

presented and delight

the eye.

As always, these idyllic moments

do not last long, due to

Visiting Lille in a Citroën 2CV, which

pollutes more than a Bentley, is a fun

and popular experience.

the madmen on bikes who come

hurtling along at full speed and put

walkers at risk. This just goes to show

that there is still work for the Greens

to do to solve this madness.

In the meantime, Lille has buildings

rich in architecture that leaves its

mark on the ages. The colors are

shimmering and powerful.

The people of Lille are as worried as

the people of Brussels about the

disappearance of many local shops.

Without an urgent and above all

intelligent reaction from the authorities,

Lille could see its commercial

fabric die, which, as in so many other

cities, is exported to large shopping

centers on the outskirts.

Les façades du vieux Lille se mirent

dans la profondeurs des laques

de la Bentayga Riviera

The Bentley Bentayga EWB

for Enlarged Wheelbase

stands out for its imposing

appearance and refined

design. The extended wheelbase

(18 cm longer) is

harmoniously integrated,

reinforcing its majestic

appearance without affecting

its proportions.

The sleek lines, wide grille

and sophisticated LED

headlights give the vehicle

an undeniable road presence.

The Bentayga we tested is

equipped with a good-sized

4-liter twin-turbo V8 that

offers a whopping 550

horsepower and 770 Nm.

Despite the vehicle’s imposing

size and its weight

of nearly 2470 kg, this

engine offers impressive

performance: 0 to 100 km/h

in 4.6 seconds and a top

speed of 290 km/h.

The Bentayga EWB is also

equipped with all-wheel

drive and adaptive air suspension,

guaranteeing a

dynamic and comfortable

ride.

In Sport mode, the V8 unleashes

a deep, mesmerizing

sound, while offering surprising

agility for an SUV of

this size. In Comfort mode,

the suspension absorbs road

imperfections, providing an

ultra-smooth driving expe-

rience. The precise steering system and anti-roll

technology contribute to reassuring and efficient

road holding.

While consumption may seem high, during our test

it came to 13.5 liters per hundred with variables

from 12.6 to 17.2 liters, depending on traffic conditions,

more demanding in town, smoother in builtup

areas and on highways.

It can be said that this large SUV is within the

average range. Especially since, in normal use, you

can count on 12-13 liters per hundred and emissions

of 298 g/km. When the Bentayga can benefit

from the plug-in hybrid version of the V8, consumption

will drop considerably and power will increase

considerably.

The inside of the hood is padded in

a similar way to the door trim...

The Riviera Collection...

Born from the inspiration of a Monégasque

customer of the Crewe brand, the Bentley

in this test drive is unique in the world.

And while it is possible to create one with

the same specifications, it will not bear

the Riviera emblems... These extraordinary

specifications already have an exceptional

color, Aegean blue, reminiscent of the

turquoise blue

of the Mediterranean off Monaco. The standard

wheels are polished, 22-inch, 5-spoke

rims. Our test car had 21-inch winter tires.

The chrome has given way to a Blackline

finish, which is clean, neat and elegant.

It’s all about the interior!

Especially in the back, which offers two Learjet-style

business aviation seats with 22 different

adjustments and advanced technology that

uses 127 sensors to manage the morphology of

the occupants in order to offer them extraordinarily

optimized comfort.

The rear doors are motorized, with assistance

provided when opening to offer a lightness of a

good kind and when closing by pressing the adhoc

button or when the doorman gently pushes

the door back. The interior design uses a combination

of sumptuous leathers.

The main color is called “Linen”, the details are

in “Brunel” leather and the on-board furniture

and floors are in Automne midnight blue. The

Pale Pinstripe woodwork is reminiscent of the

light tone of the teak decks of luxury yachts.

The small holes are made by hand

and diffuse a precise

and elegant light.

Epilogue

When Eric, the editor-in-chief of Oh

Life magazine, which publishes our

travel articles, invited us to join him

while he tested the Bentley Bentayga

“Riviera Collection”, we obviously

jumped at the chance. The chance to

eat up the miles from the back seat

as if we were sitting in a lounge!

For passengers, Bentley mode means

curling up in comfortable seats

made of fine leather with automatic

posture adjustment and seat air

conditioning that guarantees total

well-being and perfectly temperate

buttocks.

Legs outstretched, wide armrests,

drinks slipped into a small built-in

fridge, two screens and headphones

to escape to music or the cinema

without disturbing your neighbor, so

many little details that allow you to

relieve the stress of everyday life as

soon as you get settled.

No wonder Bentley occupies a

special place in the luxury car range!

All the more so as this car gives the

impression of gliding over the road.

Whether the road is dotted with

potholes or cobblestones, there is no

sign of this.

No jolting, no swaying, the ride

remains stable and the journey takes

on the pace of a refined cruise.

Thank you, sir, for this rare

experience!

The Cruises...

EXPLORIS ATLANTIC ISLAND TREASURES

10 JOURS EN MÉDITÉRRANÉE BY AZAMARA

CROISIERE AUX AÇORES

CROISIERE SUR LE DANUBE

EXPLORIS, UN CROISIÉRISTE

D’EXPÉDITION D’EXCEPTION.

CROISIERE SUR LE NIL (EGYPTE)

MOBY MEDITERRANEE

MSC - WORLD CRUISE 2027

MSC EURIBIA - LES PERLES DU NORD

LES FJORDS DE NORVEGE

398 399

Atlantic island treasures

The Narrative

Christiane GOOR

***

The Art of the Image

Charles MAHAUX

Exploris takes you to the island treasures of the Atlantic.

If I mention archipelagos in the Atlantic Ocean, no doubt you’ll first think of

the Canaries, perhaps the Azores, or even Cape Verde, but certainly not

the Bijagos, unless you’re a sport fishing enthusiast. Embark with us off the

African continent or closer to its coasts for a complete change of scenery.

400 401

April 2025. It all begins in Dakar,

where our flight lands at

the end of the day.

As we will only reach the port

the next day in the afternoon,

the plunge into the African

atmosphere is total with a safari

day in the Bandia reserve 65 km

from the capital.

3500 ha of fabulous nature

between giant baobabs and

thorny bushes which brings the

mythical African fauna within

everyone’s reach, with the exception

of large carnivores.

The delight is such that everyone,

amazed, falls silent and

recovers their childlike soul

upon discovering the tall giraffes,

white rhinos, zebras,

ostriches, and impalas that

no longer startle at the approach

of all-terrain vehicles

to the great pleasure of the

photographers.

We will have lunch there in

a bar-restaurant overlooking

a watering hole where crocodiles

argue over patches

of beach while monkeys

approach the tables on the

lookout for a crust of bread.

www.reservedebandia.com

404 405

The Exploris One, an elegant liner

We are delighted to be back on this ship,

which allowed us to discover Chilean

Patagonia in December 2023..

This was the inaugural voyage of this

new, 100% French and Francophone

expedition cruise company.

Its president, Philippe Videau - co-founder

of Ponant where he served as president

for about twenty years before

leaving to recreate the adventure with

Exploris - «advocates for a balanced corporate

vision combining performance,

personal fulfillment, and respect for our

blue planet and all its inhabitants.»

He adds that «with the Exploris One,

which we own, expeditions remain

human-scaled with just 144 passengers

(120 in polar regions), a format that

allows everyone access to unsuspected

treasures in the world’s most remote

regions.»

406 407

With only 80 passengers on this expedition,

connections form quickly, especially

since our first day will be spent at sea.

The same passion seems to animate all

travelers on this voyage - discovering

little-known distant landscapes - and

we quickly share emotions, or simply an

apéritif or even a meal together.

This is especially true as all expedition

team members - from the captain to

guest speakers, including the expedition

leader and her team of naturalist guides

- are always ready to share their passion

and knowledge.

French being the common language

among all passengers on this cruise -

French, Belgians, Swiss, Luxembourgers,

and Quebecers alike - has facilitated

communication and, most importantly,

allowed everyone to benefit from all

essential lectures for understanding the

environments we encounter

daily.

Beyond daily excursions,

we divide our time

between the forward

observation lounge and

panoramic decks, with

the full 202-meter circuit

around Deck 6 being ideal for stretching

our legs - not to mention the two jacuzzis,

sun loungers, and the restaurant

serving exceptional menus blending

French cuisine with local specialties featuring

barracuda among other delights!

408 409

The Bijagos Archipelago,

88 confetti islands

The territory of Guinea-Bissau is divided

into two main areas: the mainland,

where the capital city Bissau is located,

and the insular region, an archipelago of

islands and islets, of which only 23 out of

88 are inhabited.

This is home to the Bijagos people, who

gave their name to the archipelago—a

people with warrior roots, fiercely protective

of their independence and their land.

The Portuguese never succeeded in colonizing

them, except for using them as

suppliers of enslaved people, whom the

Bijagos captured on the mainland.

For this purpose, the Portuguese even

established the first capital of Guinea-Bissau

on the island of Bolama, which bears

its name.

It was an administrative center and an

important trading post until it was transferred

to the mainland in 1941. Today,

we will discover abandoned buildings

and nostalgic neoclassical architecture

along streets covered in ochre earth—

remnants of a colonial past that recall the

opulence of the governors of yesteryear.

These 88 islands off the African coast

are mostly nestled within a setting of

mangroves, which form the link between

the land and the ocean. Recognized as a

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1996,

some islands are covered in forests,

others in savannas, and the presence of

channels and mudflats makes navigation

difficult. Fortunately, our fleet of Zodiacs

is led by a local guide who shows us the

way.

After landing, we will still have a halfhour

walk along a trail surrounded by

tall trees before reaching the first huts,

which are the spiritual center of the village

inhabitants. We will be careful not

to approach them too closely, so as not

to disturb the site.

410 411

We will then continue our walk through

the heart of the sacred forest before

arriving at the village—a cluster of huts

scattered around a large central square,

where the residents await us for a festive

encounter.

It is the women who lead the dance,

moving to the frantic rhythm set by the

resonant music played by men armed

with sticks on wooden drums.

A matrilineal clan-based society.

Through our visits from one island to

another, we quickly understood that insular

isolation has allowed the preservation

of a traditional way of life, far from modern

civilization.

Founded on a matrilineal principle, the

Bijago system assigns women an essential

role. She is the head of the family

and can choose and even divorce her

husband, who has no rights over the

children, who bear their mother’s family

name. Fieldwork, hunting, and fishing

are primarily the domain of men, while

the entire village area, child-rearing, and

spiritual matters are the responsibility of

women. In short, one belongs to a matriarchal

lineage, a clan, a village, then an

island, and finally to the Bijago people.

This clan-based system defines the territorial

division of the archipelago’s islands,

which enjoy near self-sufficiency in socio-religious

and economic terms.

Animist beliefs are still honored, and here

again, it is women priests called balobeiras

who perform religious functions.

The transition to adulthood involves a

four-month initiation for young men and

women under the guidance of village

elders, who teach them the secrets of

the island and the spirits that govern it.

By sanctifying the natural environment

in this way, the islanders help protect

the unique biodiversity of the Bijagos. It

is said that only three «White» people

have been adopted by the Bijagos to the

412 413

extent of being allowed to live in the

archipelago.

This is the case of Laurent Durris, who,

along with his wife Sonia, was our precious

private access to connect with the

archipelago’s inhabitants.

Laurent, a master fisherman to the point

of becoming a fishing guide in Guinea-Bissau

and thus in the Bijagos, one

day discovered his dream island: Kéré,

the size of two football fields. To purchase

it, he had to seek permission from

the spirits through a balobeira. It was not

enough to speak the Bijago language or

know their customs.

By chance, he once found himself in the

forest on the path of a pregnant woman

whose water had broken and who was

having difficulty giving birth. Remembering

the birth of his own daughter, which

he had witnessed, he was able to assist

the young mother, who turned out to be

the daughter of a village chief. The chief

literally adopted Laurent and supported

him before the spirits, who granted him

permission to live on the island of Kéré.

This is how he established an ecolodge

there dedicated to sport fishing and ecotourism

in the Bijagos.

https://bijagos-kere.fr

Another larger island also welcomes

tourists: Orango Island, part of Orango

National Park, covering 1,582 km² of

terrestrial and marine sections across five

islands. A true natural sanctuary, it is

home to unique wildlife, including hippopotamuses

adapted to saltwater.

We did not see them and contented ourselves

with following a naturalist guide

who allowed us to observe male parrots

busy building their nests suspended from

high bamboo branches under the watchful

eyes of female parrots, who approved

or not. Along an immaculate beach, an

ecolodge has been established, offering

414 415

an immersion into a preserved world

where land and water merge.

https://www.orangohotel.com

An Invitation to Share

Their Living Spaces

This morning, the ship dropped anchor

off the coast of Carache Island,

and those who wished to do so joined

a group of about ten women in Zodiacs,

ready to gather shellfish in the

mudflats—better known as the intertidal

zone, that part of the coastline alternately

covered and uncovered by the

sea with the tides. It forms a rich and

diverse ecosystem, home to flora and

fauna adapted to the varying sea levels.

This morning, the women are taking

advantage of the receding tide to

harvest shellfish, and several female

passengers, wearing water shoes, are

joyfully joining in the activity. Some had

the clever idea to bring a teaspoon,

which proved very useful… A sense of

camaraderie quickly develops between

us, and as we harvest, we learn that

the goal is to collect at least 10 kilograms

of shellfish, which will later be

cleaned and grilled.

They engage in this work twice a day,

and each harvest is allocated to one

of the women in the group, ensuring

that everyone eventually receives their

share, which they will sell at the market

after processing. The money earned

belongs solely to the women, who are

free to spend it as they please. Later,

we visit the small village of Ampitcha,

which consists of a few huts shaded by

tall trees. Hammocks are sufficient for

sleeping, and a few pigs roam freely,

digging into the sandy soil.

We then leave the women for a walk

along the water’s edge, through bushes,

sand, and rocks, until we reach a

small cove and its beach. Here, those

who wish can take a swim in the warm,

416 417

clear water, while others marvel at the

dozens of small crabs also taking advantage

of the low tide to emerge from

the sand and scurry away.

The next day, we dock at Caravela

Island, which also boasts a secluded

beach fringed by lush forest. We venture

into the woods for a walk of at

least half an hour before reaching the

village of Anipoc, hidden behind this

wooded barrier. The villagers introduce

us to their daily activities, such as

pounding palm nuts in a mortar until

the flesh separates from the pit. The

nuts are then soaked in warm water to

infuse and release their juice, which is

used in cooking.

Elsewhere, women weave plant fibers

they first cut from branches before securing

them around their big toes. This

is a communal task, a pleasant way for

them to work while chatting. For us,

it’s an opportunity to explore their hut

dwellings, though there is also a brick

school that doubles as a disco, where

families gather in the evenings to sing

and dance.

Another village, and the same warm

welcome, allowing us to witness their

animist rituals through dance. Though

the meanings elude us, we grasp how

deeply they live in harmony with their

natural surroundings. We depart surrounded

by a swarm of children, delighted

to touch the Zodiacs we must

climb into, even giving us a playful

push. One last, already nostalgic glance

at this fascinating world of history,

culture, and biodiversity that Laurent

and Sonia have helped us understand.

Northward Bound!

A day at sea was necessary to transition

from the Bijagos Archipelago to the Cape

Verde Islands, a scattering of ten islands

off the coast of Senegal. We would explore

four of them, with the last serving

as our disembarkation port.

418 419

First stop: Praia, the capital of

Santiago Island, the largest in

the archipelago.

The contrast with our Bijagos experience

was immediate—here, the vibrant energy

of a multifaceted city, its colorful market

brimming with generous women selling

cassava, yams, mangoes, and limes.

A short stroll led us to the historic Plateau

district, where colonial buildings cluster,

including the neoclassical presidential

palace, just steps from a sweeping view

of the bay.

We then boarded a bus to ascend to Cidade

Velha, the oldest city in Cape Verde

and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This

«Old Town» was also the archipelago’s

first capital.

From the ruins of the Royal Fortress of

São Felipe, where imposing cannons still

seem to await pirate raids, we enjoyed a

unique vantage point over the ocean and

the small port of Ribeira Grande, once

a pivotal hub in the transatlantic slave

trade.

The city peaked in the 16th century but

never fully recovered after the sack by the

privateer Jacques Cassard of Nantes.

In the main square, the pillory still stands,

flanked by a beautiful Manueline column

where rebellious enslaved people were

once publicly punished. Today, it draws

children and tourists who frolic on the

black sand beach beside colorful fishing

boats bobbing lazily in the water.

Second stop: Fogo Island, the «fire

island,» dominated by an active volcano

soaring 2,829 meters—a challenge

for avid hikers. We left the small port of

São Felipe by bus, crossing arid, striking

landscapes to reach the volcano’s base.

The last major eruption in 2014 left the

land strewn with hardened lava rocks, yet

residents have returned to rebuild their

420 421

villages at the foot of the volcano. Their

conical, black stone houses, topped with

wooden roofs, dot the slopes, and vineyards

thrive in the ash-rich soil.

In the village of Portela, the caldera

unfolds like a phantasmagorical landscape—jagged

rocks pierced by bursts of

vibrant green vegetation.

Fertile pockets support pomegranate

trees, peach orchards, and vineyards. We

savored the intense local wines, both

white and red, at an inn built from volcanic

stone, welcoming tourists amidst raw,

spectacular nature. The warmth of the

resilient locals contrasted powerfully with

the harsh, dramatic environment.

Third stop: Santo Antão, the archipelago’s

second-largest and most mountainous

island, a paradise for hikers.

From the moment we disembarked in

Porto Novo, the bus journey revealed

sheer cliffs, lush terraced farms, fertile

valleys, sugarcane fields, and pine forests.

We traversed the Estrada da Corda

(Rope Road), a 36-kilometer winding

path paved with basalt stones by political

prisoners during the dictatorship of Salazar.

Acacia trees line the route, their roots

anchoring the soil.

Carved into steep slopes, the road climbs

to summits where eucalyptus and pine

trees overlook deep valleys shrouded

in cool, fertilizing mists. From the

viewpoints, we seemed to float above a

sea of clouds crashing against the mountains.

The journey continued to other lookouts,

like Espigão Bravo, with breathtaking

views of rocky ridges and the

crater of Cova, an extinct volcano now

forming a vast agricultural amphitheater.

Sugarcane, yams, and cassava create

green mosaics across the slopes. Descending

from the ridges, we entered the Paul

422 423

Valley, where hamlets cling to mountainsides—a

Eden overflowing with fruits, vegetables,

and flowers. Even coffee trees

grow on terraces here.

We visited a small bar where coffee is traditionally

roasted in an old pot, ground in

a mortar, and filtered—resulting in a delicious

brew, much like the artisanal rum

from the Beth d’Kinha distillery, where an

ancient press still stands in the courtyard.

We then descended to sea level at Ribeira

Grande, following a winding

30-kilometer coastal road back to Porto

Novo, where our ship awaited. Here,

wind-whipped waves crash against cliffs,

carving out the path we traveled.

Journey’s end: São Vicente Island,

specifically the port of Mindelo, nestled

in the near-perfect semicircle of Porto

Grande Bay, a magnet for sailboats.

We had time to wander the city before

heading to the airport. Mindelo retains

beautiful 19th-century colonial architecture,

like the rose-colored governor’s

palace (now the People’s Palace) and a

miniature replica of Lisbon’s Belém Tower.

It is also the birthplace of Cesária Évora,

the iconic Cape Verdean singer, whose

10-meter-high portrait adorns the municipal

library.

Pastel-hued colonial houses line the

streets, and we ended our stroll at Estrela

Square, home to a bustling open-air

market—ideal for souvenirs, exotic fruits,

and local crafts. The vibrant azulejos

(blue ceramic tiles) covering entire walls

depict the lives of the island’s fishermen.

Info: I highly recommend visiting the

website of this new cruise company

https://exploris.co/en_GB

to explore their future destinations.

The Exploris One, currently the company’s

only ship, is a true floating hotel where

424 425

everything is included. Its fleet of Zodiacs

ensures quick, close access to sites

under expert guidance. Two new ships,

designed in the same spirit, are in preparation

for future expeditions.

An incredible bonus: the culinary excellence

under Gilles Narbeburu, trained by

Michelin-starred chefs.

His dishes dazzle the palate, offering a

gourmet journey in harmony with the

landscapes we explored.

426 427

The Douro,

The best of European river cruises

Plume :

Christiane Goor

*****

Capture d’Images :

Charles Mahaux

The long tradition of vineyards that have made its

reputation has created a cultural landscape of exceptional

beauty that can be discovered in all its splendor

when you choose the option of a week-long cruise

punctuated by several visits, some oenological and

others more touristic.

A little geography. The Douro, so named

for the approximately 200 kilometers

it flows through in Portugal, has its

source in Spain at an altitude of 2160

meters in the north-central part of the

country, where it flows for nearly 600

kilometers under the name Duero, making

it one of the longest rivers on the

Iberian Peninsula, before forming part

of the Spanish-Portuguese border and

finally crossing northern Portugal to

flow into the Atlantic Ocean at the Porto

estuary. Only the Portuguese valley

of the Douro is navigable, even if the

river sometimes winds its way along

schistose gorges.

The M/S Queen Isabel,

our floating hotel.

When you board the M/S Queen Isabel,

which takes its passengers under the

banner of Rivages du Monde to the

Spanish border, offering them a round

trip through a landscape of hills that

proudly displays the treasure extracted

from its bowels thanks to the age-old

work of winegrowers, you are sure to

treat yourself to a peaceful getaway.

You can let yourself drift along this

long liquid road and take in the view,

lying on a deckchair or immersed in

the warm water of the pool or even

standing by the railing at the bow of

the boat.

From the heights, you can make out a

narrow road that follows the meandering

river, you can sometimes see a

small train emerge from a tunnel carved

into the shale hills, and you can

rejoice in having chosen the slow pace

of a cruise that offers a 360-degree

view, provided you feel like strolling on

the sun deck.

With its 59 cabins spread over three

decks, the Queen Elizabeth offers the

assurance of an intimate cruise. Porto

welcomed us at the end of the day

with rain, but no matter, everyone was

far too impatient to discover what

would be our new home for a week.

Each cruise begins with the distribution

of cabin entrance badges, where

a first logbook with information about

the evening’s program is already waiting

for us.

The passengers are cheering up,

some of them exploring the decks,

while the majority are busy in their

well-appointed cabins, distributing the

contents of the suitcases that have

found their way into the wardrobe or

under the beds. The cabins on the boat

are all exterior and most have a large

bay window offering a splendid panoramic

view of the Ribeira do Douro, the

historic heart of Porto, which is illuminated

from sunset onwards.

The more spacious cabins on the Panorama

deck even have a private

balcony, which is always a hit with

smokers. They are all cozy with a full

and well-appointed shower room with

soap, shampoo and cream dispensers

from the well-known L’Occitane brand.

Then comes the first contact with the

panoramic lounge bar, located as it

should be on the Panorama Deck,

where a quick presentation of the crew

members at our service takes place.

Then we are directed to the restaurant

room located on the Upper Deck.

Each of us is assigned a table that will

be ours for the duration of the trip.

Once seated at the table, all that remains

is to enjoy the chef’s cuisine,

which combines Portuguese specialties

with more international dishes

to satisfy all tastes, especially since

a choice of menu is offered for each

meal. The wine offered at lunch and

dinner changes every day, but it is

always a Douro wine.

Finally, from dawn onwards, the Sun

Deck welcomes curious passengers who

enjoy the departure from Porto on a river

covered with fog banks long before

breakfast. The small city is still asleep as

we glide under the 6 bridges that mark

the entrance or exit of the city.

Over the water.

The cruise is punctuated by the passage

of 5 locks that allow you to jump over

208 km of a 125-meter drop between

the level of the Atlantic Ocean and the

small port of Barca d’Alva on the Spanish

border.

These dams, which are also hydroelectric

power stations, have made it possible

to tame the tumultuous course

of the Douro. Each of them has locks

that serve as a water elevator for boats

going up or down the river. But it is still

impressive when you realize that they

only offer some 30 cm of clearance to

the right and left of our boat’s hull and

that it is by eye that our captain slips

into the narrow corridor formed by the

chamber closed at the end by a double

door, or even by a cylindrical door that

slides up and down.

We will have the chance to pass

through the Carrapatelo lock, which

is said to be the highest lock in Europe at 35

meters, yet can be crossed in barely 25 minutes.

It has been nicknamed the Cathedral and with

Bach’s Toccata played by our cruise director to

accompany our ascent to the upper water level,

this experience is all the more unusual and disconcerting.

Conversely, on the return to Porto,

we will be just as surprised, even stunned, to

discover the river some 22 meters below the

Pocinho and Valeira locks.

The creation of the dams has somewhat transformed

the river into peaceful stretches of water

from one lock to the next, with even some

lovely sandy river beaches lined with tree-lined

lawns that provide shade during the hottest

hours.

Most of the activities such as kayaking, rowing,

paddleboarding and jet skiing are discovered

in the first part of the cruise, but the further up

the river you go, the more you get the strange

feeling of entering a different world. This time

you will share the river with a few fishermen or

other cruise boats, which you will always pass

with a wave of the horn and loud cheers from

the passengers.

Above all, we let ourselves be captivated

by this monumental landscape

of terraces that criss-cross the steep

slopes of the hills that follow one another

along the river, alternating with

rugged schistose rock formations that

tumble down to the river where it

narrows, carving out its bed between

gorges.

The landscape becomes more rugged

and the terraces are lined with olive

and almond trees alongside the vines.

Hamlets with whitewashed walls clustered

around a church and quintas

with their wine-producing buildings

dot this landscape halfway up the hills.

It is no surprise that UNESCO granted

its label to the entire Alto Douro wine

region in the cultural landscapes category

in 2001.

The source of port.

Wine has been produced in the Douro

valley since ancient times and over

the centuries, from the 13th century

onwards, the wines of the Douro,

known as “perfumed wine”, i.e. aged

wine, were already being exported,

particularly to Flanders and France.

As demand grew, wine production

increased until it reached a breaking

point because production was no longer

sufficient and wines of mediocre

quality from poorly maintained plantations

and sometimes from vineyards

outside the Douro Valley were put

on the market. The immediate consequence

was that the reputation of

Douro wines was tarnished. It was

then that it was decided to control the

geographical origins of the wine to

protect its quality and its marketing.

To this end, the Real Companhia Geral

das Vinhas do Alto Douro, which regulates

the wine trade, was established

in 1756 at the instigation of the Marquis

of Pombal.

The small town of Peso da Regua, located

on the banks of the river, owes its

development to this, and it is still going

strong today. Since 1980, the Douro

Institute, based in Regua, has been

the only body authorized to award the

quality label to winegrowers and to

define the authorized quantity of port

production according to the harvest.

The remainder is sold as Douro table

wine. This also explains the possible

confusion between Douro wines and

port, which are often produced in the

same places but obviously do not have

the same flavor or the same alcohol

content. Port is in fact a fortified wine

- that is the accepted expression - with

brandy.

Moreover, the same Douro Institute

has a monopoly on the brandy used

to fortify port. It all began in the 17th

century when the British made contact

with Portugal to resist Napoleon.

English merchants deprived of French

wines by the blockade imposed by

the emperor developed a taste for the

more heady wines of the Douro. However,

these did not survive the crossing

to England well and a merchant had

the idea of adding brandy to stop the

fermentation.

The barrels were then taken on

flat-bottomed boats, rabelos, to the

cellars located in Vila Nova de Gaia, on

the opposite bank of Porto, on the left

bank of the Douro River.

All the brands are thus represented in

a group of buildings gathered in a sort

of village. Of course, each of them organizes

visits, tastings and has a shop.

Among the wine tours organized by

the cruise, we will remember two,

the one that allows you to climb the

wine plateau at an altitude of 600 meters

at Quinta de Avessada and then

the one that allows you to discover in

Quinta do Seixo the vineyards of the

Sandeman company whose emblem

is a mysterious character with a Hidalgo

hat and a university cape. Two getaways

that allow you to discover the

river from above, to better understand

how the small shale terraces are organized

on which only one row of vines

grows, whose roots can sink into the

layered structure of the shale soils up

to ten meters in search of water.

A great opportunity in the first quinta

to enjoy a glass of sweet Moscatel

wine in the exceptional light of the

sunset over the vineyard and in the second

to gaze into a valley that plunges

in tiers into the blue of the Douro, a

breathtaking landscape.

Discovering

the hinterland,

beyond the hills.

The peaceful city of Lamego is considered

one of the most fascinating historical

sites in Portugal because it was

here in 1139 that Alfonso Henriques

was proclaimed the first king of Portugal.

He had a cathedral built there,

of which only the square bell tower remains

of the original Gothic structure.

But the city is also an important place

of pilgrimage to the monumental baroque

sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos

Remédios, covered with a white roughcast

that brings out the granite edges.

No less monumental is the spectacular

double flight of baroque steps that

climb the hillside to the sanctuary. 686

steps that provide lovely views of the

soaring of its 9 landings adorned with

sculptures, fountains and magnificent

azulejo paintings.

Our boat is in Pinhão after a detour to

the center of the village, well known

for its small train station, one of the

most beautiful in the country, with

its facades decorated with 25 panels

of azulejos illustrating the work in the

vineyards and daily life in the heart of

the Douro valley.

The small village of Castelo Rodrigo

occupies a superb site, crowning a hill

that opens onto a circular panorama

of the plateau planted with olive, oak

and almond trees that extends towards

Spain to the east and the Douro valley

to the north.

The village has experienced many vicissitudes

in the course of its history,

especially as it sided with Castile

against Portugal on several occasions.

The ruins of the castle at the top of the

hill are the vestiges of this past history.

Today, the village, surrounded by imposing

ramparts, retains its medieval

appearance with its Manueline pillory

and steep alleys lined with sturdy

stone houses. There are only about

thirty inhabitants left who live in these

intramural houses, the others preferring the

more modern small town below, but these diehards

offer visitors the chance to discover their

village with a few humble souvenirs, quality local

products and cork-based handicrafts, not to

mention a terrace under the trellis with an incomparable

view of the landscape.

We will spend two nights moored on the quay

of Vega Terrón, where the river Agueda flows

into the Douro, thus forming the border with

neighboring Spain. In fact, one day is devoted to

the discovery of Salamanca, some 120 km away.

A jewel preserved by UNESCO since 1988, this

city, home to one of the oldest European universities

and a beacon of Castilian Spain, is one of

the greatest artistic and historical sites in Spain.

Lying languidly on three hills that stretch along

the Tormes River, it opens up majestically and

radiantly like a mineral bouquet, multiplying

towers and steeples, domes and cubes, palaces

and churches.

After a guided tour that helps us to decode

the historic center, it’s time to wander through

a maze of alleys and small squares that all

converge on the nerve center of the city, the

incomparable Plaza Mayor, undoubtedly one

of the most beautiful in Europe.

The last stop on the cruise is Solar de

Mateus, an elegant 18th-century manor

house and a jewel of Baroque art.

We are familiar with the round, flat

bottles of this slightly sparkling rosé

wine, which is particularly pleasant

as an aperitif, but we are less aware

that the label displaying the name and

image of the prestigious palace was

donated by a penniless count of Vila

Real, owner of the Solar, to Fernando

van Zeller Guedes, a visionary entrepreneur

who, in 1943, launched Portugal’s

first rosé wine.

A visit to the palace allows you to discover

places that have lost none of

their history, always changing with the

generations that occupy the site.

The gardens are also a marvel of landscape

art with a French-style box garden,

a rose garden, a cedar tunnel and

above all a lake, a mirror of water built

in the 1950s, which extends the whole

edifice with its main facade reflecting

in the middle of a chestnut and oak

wood planted in the 1960s.

The end of the cruise ends in Porto,

where we will also spend 2 nights so

that we can take two heritage tours in

the same day in the Minho region, land

of Vinho Verde, which is best enjoyed

in summer, served chilled as an aperitif

or with seafood. Braga, a city founded

by the Roman emperor Augustus and

later elevated to the rank of capital of

Roman Galicia, even rivaled Santiago

de Compostela in power and importance

in former times.

Today it is a destination that pleasantly

combines history, culture and strolling

through its labyrinth of narrow alleys, its Gothic

churches that make Braga known as the

Portuguese Rome, its shopping streets with

houses covered in azulejos and its Baroque

buildings. It is also home to the country’s oldest

Sé, or cathedral, of which only a few medieval

remains, such as the south portal or the

arches of the main portal, are left.

Finally, the extraordinarily flowery garden of

Santa Bárbara is worth a visit for the luxuriance

of its flowers but also for the historic

buildings that border it.

In Guimarães, some 25 km from Braga, the visit

begins in the upper town, at the palace of

the Dukes of Braganza, built in the 15th century.

Its originality lies in the mixture of traditional

architecture, which gives it a fortress-like appearance,

and sloping roofs bristling with tall

cylindrical chimneys, which are more reminiscent

of Burgundy, where Alphonse Henriques,

first Duke of Braganza but also the first King of

Portugal, liked to visit.

The lower town is home to a medieval quarter

so well preserved that it has been listed as a

UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can wander through winding alleys and

small squares occupied by café terraces, your

gaze drawn to the laundry drying in front of

colorful facades, pretty wrought iron balconies,

granite awnings and the arches that

connect the alleys.

One last look before returning to Porto for the

Dos Santos Passos church at the end of the

Boulevard de la République du Brésil, decorated

with a multitude of azulejos against a

backdrop of wooded hills.

Porto, the pearl of the North.

As the cruise port of Porto is in Vila

Nova de Gaia, Porto’s twin town on

the other bank of the Douro, it is from

the boat or from the quay along the

river that you discover Porto unfolding

in front of you. From the heights of the

cathedral or the tall tower of Clérigos,

the city tumbles down to the quays in

a jumble of tall, narrow, colorful houses

with their balconies piled on top of

each other, often hung with washing.

In the foreground, the famous rabelos,

those wooden boats that once transported

wine barrels from the vineyards

some 100 km upstream, avoiding the

eddies of the Douro thanks to a skillful

use of the large pole at the stern.

Today they offer short trips on the

Douro, which include the opportunity

to pass under the six bridges of Porto

until reaching the river’s mouth in the

Atlantic Ocean.

It is on its shadier bank, which is therefore

better suited to the conservation

of wines, that Vila Nova de Gaia

has brought together all the cellars of

the Douro. About fifteen of them offer

guided tours.

Porto is best discovered on foot. Just

cross the Dom Luis I double-decked

metal bridge to arrive in the lively Ribeira

district.

From the quay, lined with welcoming

restaurant and café terraces, you can

choose to delve into the often labyrinthine,

steep and dark, which lead

to small squares, baroque churches,

convents, façades covered with azulejos,

wrought iron balconies, until finally

reaching the esplanade of the

cathedral, which looks more like a

church-fortress.

The twisted pillory in the center of the

square dates from the end of the 19th

century. From the square, the view

opens up onto the river and its quays,

but also onto the tumbling red roofs of

this rollercoaster city.

On the way back down, you should enter

the astonishing São Bento railway

station, whose walls in the main hall

are covered with azulejo panels illustrating

the country’s historical achievements.

To continue towards the quays of the

Douro, the Rua das Flores, which has

been pedestrianized since 2004, is

particularly pleasant to walk along, especially

as it is lined with pretty traditional

shops and several baroque-style

residences with emblazoned facades.

In the past, this street was home to the

silversmiths and jewelers who worked

with the gold and silver that arrived

from the colonies.

The last evening on board the M/S

Queen Elizabeth, and what better way

to conclude than with a little fado recital,

this sailors’ lament with melancholy

songs that speak of saudade,

that is to say unfulfilled love, loss and

nostalgia.

At the end of this cruise, you feel that

you will return home leaving a part of

yourself on the banks of the Douro.

RIVAGES DU MONDE

Rivages du Monde offers this

exceptional cruise along the

Douro from April 1st to mid-November,

week after week, with

different prices depending on

the season you choose.

This cruise, punctuated each day

by a stopover of a few hours

and a mooring for the night,

allows you to immerse yourself

in the hinterland or in Porto for

those who like to stroll in the

evening.

Activities

are also offered:

lectures, a folk show, fun activities,

and more.

A journey of serenity.

INFOS:

www.rivagesdumonde.be

Holland as seen

from the Ijsselmeer

A cruise on the Ijsselmeer, the largest lake in the Netherlands.

Neither truly river nor truly sea, this six-day cruise takes you

from one inland lake to another between the provinces of North

Holland in the west and Flevoland and Friesland in the east. An

exotic trip close to home to realize how much water is a natural

part of the landscape in the Netherlands.

Plume : Christiane Goor

Capture d’Images : Charles Mahaux

Fryslân wind farm on Ijsselmeer

Passage under the Houtribdijk

between the Markermeer and the Ijsselmeer

Amsterdam Central Station, a stone’s throw from the marina

Without really realizing it, you will first

cross three lakes: the IJ, on the edge

of which Amsterdam stretches; the

IJmeer, a narrow lake on the edge, an

important resting place for birds; and

finally the Markermeer, a 700m2 lake,

also freshwater, before reaching a 30

km long dike that separates these first

lakes from the IJsselmeer, the largest

of the Netherlands’ lakes at 1100 m2,

also separated from the Wadden Sea by

a 32 km dyke. Between the two large

lakes, we will cross the dyke, first passing

through a lock with a 20 cm drop

and then slipping under a bridge that

rises up, interrupting traffic.

Amsterdam,

a metropolis that feels like a big village.

This is where any cruise on the Ijsselmeer

begins and ends. The boat, the

MS Victor Hugo, is moored a 5-minute

walk from Amsterdam Central Station.

All you have to do is carefully cross a

double cycle path, a real highway for

two-wheelers, which already gives you

an idea of how important cycling is in

this city.

A half-day and a full day in Amsterdam

at the start and end of the

cruise allow those who have the

courage to explore the city on foot

to discover more closely these UNES-

CO-listed canals that fan out in a halfmoon

shape around the historic center

of Amsterdam.

Herengracht, Singelgracht, Keizersgracht

and Prinsengracht are all lined

with superb residences from past

centuries.

Baroque, Renaissance, Neoclassical or

even Art Nouveau, there is something

for everyone. The facades are adorned

with elegant cornices and feature

Boats and residences on the water occupy the banks of a canal

The bicycle is king in Amsterdam

Even some bridges are invaded by a terrace when the weather is nice.

stepped or bell gables, still topped with

a hoisting beam that was once used

to lift goods into the attics and is now

used for moving in, as the tall houses

are narrow with stairwells that are too

cramped to climb with furniture.

The complex network of Amsterdam

city center is also a unique residential

area with nearly 2,500 homes established

in houseboats or built on barges.

Moored along the banks of the canals,

some are also an attractive accommodation

option for those who want to

discover life on the water.

As soon as the sun comes out, terraces

are set up everywhere, along

the sidewalks, on the bridges, on the

barges, and the city becomes joyful, a

bohemian place with bicycles decorated

with flowers hanging from the bridge

railings. The slow rhythm of the water

alone suffices to bathe the city in serenity.

All that remains is to stroll, to lose

yourself, to let chance lead you back to

the majestic façade of the Central Station,

built on more than 8,000 pillars to

support the structure!

Crossing the Ijsselmeer to Lemmer.

Crossing the Markermeer allows you to

discover the silhouettes of port cities,

which are particularly noticeable due to

the forest of masts of the moored sailboats.

Then, curiously, it would seem

that cars are running on the water on

the horizon!

This is just an illusion created by the

road stretching along the Houtribdijk,

the dyke built in 1976 between Lelystad

in Flevoland and Enkhuizen in North

Holland. It is more of a dam designed

to provide protection in the event of a

breach of the Afsluitdijk, the high dyke,

also resembling a dam, built in 1933 fur-

Water sports in Giethoorn

ther upstream, between North Holland

and Friesland, to prevent possible flooding

but above all to turn the former

Zuiderzee into a freshwater lake, the

IJsselmeer, fed by several rivers, and thus

create polders and therefore new land.

In fact, the Netherlands owes everything

to water: 17% of its surface area is

made up of polders, artificial land carved

out of the seas and marshes thanks

to the ingenious system of dykes and

mills, to such an extent that more than

a quarter of Dutch territory is below sea

level.

The proximity of the Wadden Sea can be

felt in the gusts of wind that splash our

boat, enough to make the panoramic

view from the front of the lounge bar

appreciable.

A wind that turns the 89 Fryslân wind

turbines that stand like a dense forest,

forming the largest offshore wind farm ever

built in the world on a freshwater body.

The arrival at the end of the day in the port

of Lemmer offers the pleasure of stretching

your legs and discovering a small town that

has become an important center for water

sports in view of the motor boats, yachts

and other sailboats that are moored there.

Night is falling little by little, the shops are

closing their doors and, as is often the case

in the Netherlands, the large bay windows

of the houses reveal the daily life of the

inhabitants.

Giethoorn, a lakeside town

with a fairy-tale appearance.

A trip to this picturesque village, which

stretches along a network of canals that

flow into vast expanses of water separated

by small islands covered with reeds, is not

to be missed. The whole area was once a

region of marshy peat bogs, and the extrac-

The museum of traditions of the small town

Stroll along the canals with views of old farms with camel-backed roofs and numerous footbridges

tion of peat gave rise to the lakes.

Canals were dug to transport the peat

and thatched cottages were built on

their banks. Today, the peat is no longer

extracted, but the thatched cottages

are still there and have become charming

houses, mostly with thatched

roofs, some of which are curved on

the farms. Indeed, as the farms grew in

size, the land along the canals remaining

cramped, they grew in height to

such an extent that the farm building

overlooked the dwelling house, creating

a difference in level known here as a

“camel’s back”.

The old weighing tower is now a caf

Atmosphere at the Zuiderzee Museum

The marina

In Giethoorn, everything is done on

foot, by bike or by boat. Vehicles are

left outside the village.

The houses, preceded by flowerfilled

lawns, overlook the main canal

spanned by as many small private

humpback bridges as there are houses.

Other footbridges can be raised to

allow the passage of boats stored in

the boathouses. Churches, restaurants,

shops, galleries and a museum in a

restored farmhouse that traces the life

of yesteryear are all little stops along a

walk after the inevitable tour in a tour

boat, a sort of floating bench wagon

that crosses one of the lakes near the

village because the canals are oneway!

During the winter, the site is taken

over by ice skaters!

Enkhuizen is rich

in its flourishing past.

In the past, this small town was oriented

towards the sea, the former Zuiderzee,

and herring fishing was very prosperous

there. Residence of the Frisian chiefs and

lords, member of the Dutch East India

Company, it had its golden age in the

17th century. But the silting up of the

port, the creation of the polders and

the construction of the great dike of

the Ijsselmeer put a stop to its maritime

activity.

Since then, it has exploited the land of

the hinterland to grow bulb plants and

has transformed its original port into an

important marina.

A free stroll through the heart of the

old town allows you to discover many

testimonies of its prestigious past: the

Drommedaris, an imposing tower once

used to guard the entrance to the port,

now a pleasant café-restaurant; the Waag,

or building where goods were weighed;

the classical-style town hall; and numerous

beautiful Renaissance-style façades, whose

gable decorations tell the story of the city’s

historical prosperity.

The Zuiderzee Museum is well worth a

visit. It consists of an indoor museum and

also an open-air museum visible from the

old city ramparts.

There are a dozen buildings there that belonged

to the East India Company, which

evoke daily life in the old fishing ports of

the Zuiderzee between 1880 and 1932,

the date of the construction of the Afsluitdijk,

the “closing dike”. More than 130

houses from many locali

ties in the region have been reconstructed

there to offer a picturesque village museum.

Hoorn, a small

historic and welcoming town.

It was a Dutch navigator who was the

first to round the southernmost tip of

the Americas in 1516 and he named this

distant cape after his hometown: Cape

Hoorn, since simplified to Cape Horn.

This gives an idea of what this secluded

port in a bay of a sea that is no longer

maritime was like in the past. Hoorn was

also, like Enkhuizen, one of the six ports

of the East India Company, and like its

neighbor, it fell into oblivion with the creation

of the great closing dike.

But the small town still has an air of life

with the many fishing boats, nets suspended

from the davits, stowed along

the canal or at the entrance to the port.

Other boats and yachts show that here

the focus is always on the lake. Ancient

fortified gates guard the land entrances to

the town.

Old facades topped in turn with stepped,

pointed or bell gables seem to support

each other as if to better compensate for

their inclination, as if they were leaning

over to better stare at passers-by. It should

not be forgotten that they are built on

wooden palisades or pillars placed in the

water...

No visit to the city would be complete

without a look at the lifelike bronze children

perched on the harbor wall next to the

Hoofdtoren fortified tower.

Edam, Alkmaar

and Dutch cheese.

Hoorn is the starting point for a bus tour

that takes passengers to the heart of Holland

cheese, with the first stop in Edam,

a peaceful little town where Edam cheese

was once made. Today, production is industrialized.

It’s an opportunity to buy small, colorful

cheese balls, enough to extend the trip

beyond the cruise.

Another discovery, Alkmaar is known as

the cheese capital because this small town

has taken care to preserve its picturesque

cheese market in front of the Weigh

House on the Kaasmarkt, a colorful spectacle

that takes place every Friday morning

from May to September.

We were there in May, out of season, but

the town revealed itself with its typically

Dutch provincial and discreet charm.

A circular canal, once fortified, encircles

the city center, crisscrossed by channels

shaded by lime trees and spanned by

numerous bridges, some of which are still

drawbridges and made of wood.

The alleys ring out with the ringing of

bicycle bells and open onto small squares

filled with sidewalk cafés.

The brick façades open onto large bays

where the aligned green plants act as curtains.

One can easily imagine that in the

evening, the lamps are lit and reveal charming

family intimacies that leave everyone

indifferent, as everywhere in the Netherlands.

Return to Amsterdam

and visit Keukenhof.

If you take the cruise on

May 25, you will have

the opportunity to visit

Keukenhof, a 32-hectare

estate that rolls out a carpet

of millions of flowers

for eight weeks every year.

Here in the Netherlands,

the flat country has earned

an international reputation

thanks to its bulbs, which

are exported all over the

world, mainly to the United

States, Japan and Germany.

As soon as you pass

through the gate, the scent

of hyacinths is intoxicating.

A few steps are enough

to take in a multicolored

panorama, unique because

it is ephemeral. Opposite,

to the left, to the right, the

spectacle is grandiose. The

paths draw perspectives

materialized by rows of

trees more than a century

old and, above all, by

flower-covered beds.

The tulip has reigned supreme

since its introduction

in 1593 at the foot of

the windmills.

This flower, which comes

in a multitude of colors,

does not actually originate

from the Netherlands, but

rather from a mountainous

region of the Caucasus

that was then part of the

Ottoman Empire.

It was a botanist, Charles

de Lécluse, originally from

Arras and employed in Leiden,

who planted the first

tulip bulb in the Netherlands

there in 1593, using

a handful of onions stolen

from the court of Sultan

Suleiman the Magnificent

by an Austrian ambassador

who gave them to him.

He acclimatized this flower

so well that some 50 years

later, there were already

650 varieties of tulips and

this profusion of colors and

shapes caused such a craze

that it could be called

“tulipomania”.

Vases and gardens adapted,

the polders reclaimed

from the sea provided

prime land and bulbs and

onions were exported with

a label of Dutch origin.

Even today, it is one of the

riches and sources of pride

of our neighbors to the

north.

It is one of the clichés, like

clogs or cheese. The Batavians

have become the

largest producers of bulb

flowers with 20,000 hectares

of fields. Tulips, but

also lilies, gladioli, narcissi

and hyacinths color certain

countryside. Keukenhof

is, in a way, the showcase

of this know-how.

The signature

Croisieurope

On the MS Victor Hugo.

A pioneer of river cruises in

France, the company now

boasts 46 years of expertise

and while the river

remains its favorite playground,

CroisiEurope also

offers coastal cruises.

The MS Victor Hugo is a

four-anchor boat that was

completely refurbished

in 2019. Its 45 cabins are

spread over two decks with

wide views of the outside.

The size of the boat allows

it to dock in the heart of

cities and give passengers

the impression of traveling

almost as a family.

What’s more, full board

is included with drinks at

mealtimes and at the bar,

with the exception of the

finest wines.

The cruise director and

his host speak French and

Dutch fluently and are very

attentive to meeting all expectations.

Functional Wi-

Fi is also free of charge. All

that remains is to choose

one or other optional excursion,

and remember to

tip the guides and contribute

to the ship’s kitty.

The next cruises on the

Ijsselmeer are scheduled

from May 2025 until October

2025.

HOLLAND

Keukenhof

the springtime of Europe

Plume : Christiane Goor - Capture d’Images : Charles Mahaux

As soon as you pass through the

gate, the scent becomes intoxicating.

A few steps are enough to

take in a multicolored panorama,

unique because it is ephemeral.

Opposite, to the left, to the right,

the spectacle is grandiose. The

paths draw perspectives materialized

by rows of trees more than

a century old and, above all, by

flower-covered beds. We are in

Keukenhof, a 32-hectare estate

that rolls out a carpet of millions

of flowers every year for eight

weeks. Here in the Netherlands,

the flat country has earned an international

reputation thanks to its

bulbs, which are exported all over

the world, mainly to the United

States, Japan and Germany.

The tulip,

native to the Caucasus

The tulip has reigned supreme

since it was first planted at the

foot of windmills in 1593. This

flower, which comes in a multitude

of colors, does not actually

originate from the Netherlands,

but from a mountainous region of

the Caucasus that was then part

of the Ottoman Empire.

It was a botanist, Charles de

Lécluse, originally from Arras

and employed in Leiden, who

planted the first tulip bulb in the

Netherlands there in 1593, using

a handful of onions stolen from

the court of Sultan Suleiman the

Magnificent by an Austrian ambassador

who gave them to him.

466 467

He acclimatized this flower so well

that some 50 years later, there

were already 650 varieties of tulips

and this abundance of colors and

shapes caused such a craze that

it could be called “tulipomania”.

Vases and gardens adapted, the

polders reclaimed from the sea

provided prime land and bulbs

and onions were exported with a

label of Dutch origin.

Even today, it is one of the riches

and sources of pride of our northern

neighbors. It is one of the

clichés, like clogs or cheese. The

Batavians have become the largest

producers of bulb flowers, with

20,000 hectares of fields. Tulips,

but also lilies, gladioli, narcissi and

hyacinths color certain countryside.

Keukenhof is, in a way, the

showcase of this expertise.

Around a hundred companies

with the coveted title of “Purveyor

to the Court” supply their bulbs,

which are planted by the million

between the end of September

and the first frosts, providing a

colorful spectacle from March to

May.

To make this magnificent wooded

park even more magical, dozens

of gardeners use the technique of

planting in tiers. In practice, the

bulbs are planted on top of each

other: the late tulips are placed

deepest, under the early tulips and

crocuses. This is enough to renew

the flowerbeds that line the walk

in this historic site. The remains of

Teyligen Castle are still visible. This

estate belonged to the Countess

of Holland, Jacoba van Beieren,

from 1401 to 1436. It was here

that she hunted and gathered

fruit, vegetables and herbs for the

castle kitchens, which is why, it is

said, the name Keukenhof (literally

The Kitchen Court) stuck.

On site, you will be told that the

foundations of the current park

date back to 1840 and bear the

hallmark of the landscape architects

who designed the famous

Vondel Park in Amsterdam. It was

the mayor of Lisse, the nearby

village, who took the initiative

to launch this pleasure garden in

1949 with the collaboration of

horticultural professionals. Since

then, it has enjoyed unflagging

success: Keukenhof welcomes 1.5

million visitors from all over the

world every year, including many

Belgians. And more than 18 species

of migratory birds...

A changing environment

Gradually, this veritable institution

has multiplied the facets

of these gifts of nature. On the

edge of ponds appreciated by

swans and ducks or at the top of

small mounds, the sight of these

flowers never tires, especially as

the natural setting constantly

changes as you walk along. The

majestic trees thus change the

468 469

perspectives and create diverse

atmospheres. Whether they are

a hundred years old or not, they

are the object of everyone’s attention:

every 5 years, a plane

flies over the park to photograph

them using infrared technology,

to make sure that they are all still

healthy. The bright green lawn

- more than 6,500 kilos of grass

seed are sown every year! - helps

to make the backdrop even more

dazzling.

As you follow the paths, you will

discover a succession of themed

gardens. Here, in the Natural

Garden, bulbs and perennials have

returned to the wild. There, in the

Music Garden, you can let yourself

be lulled by the melodies. Further

on, in the Historical Garden, as

you pass through the wooden

doors, you are transported back

to the Middle Ages. Within the

shelter of the walls, the distinctive

herbs recall the era of the former

mistress of the house, Jacoba van

Beieren. More recent, the Japanese

Garden, located near the

mill, offers a magnificent panorama

from its terrace and symbolizes

the 400-year-old ties between

Japan and the Netherlands.

Art and horticulture

To provide additional pleasure for

visitors, the managers of Keukenhof

have embellished the site with

a series of works of art. There is

even a statue trail as well as photo

and painting exhibitions in various

pavilions. The estate has several

covered areas that are particularly

appreciated on rainy days. These

pavilions showcase, among other

things, exhibitions of cut flowers

or are dedicated to particular

species such as orchids, bamboos

or lilies.

With such a menu, a day’s visit

seems very short. However,

it would be a shame to head

straight for Belgium. As soon as

you leave the estate, the fields

of flowers are everywhere as you

take the small roads of the surrounding

countryside.

Truer than life, of course. Stripes of

different colors alternate for your

viewing pleasure. What beauty!

The bouquet of tulips on the living

room table on your return will be

just a faint memory of this original

getaway.

Practical information:

In the fall, at the end of September,

the park is transformed

into a large market offering a

wide assortment of bulb flowers

as well as related items such as

flower decorations, garden furniture,

fences and nostalgic, warm

and decorative objects. To reserve

tickets and obtain more information:

www.keukenhof.nl/fr/

470 471

MSC World Cruise 2027

Travel the world without packing and unpacking your bags

472 473

For those who dream of discovering the world

without having to pack and unpack their suitcases

at every stop, the MSC World Cruise

2027 is the ideal solution.

This exceptional voyage offers the opportunity

to cross five continents in 121 nights and

explore 45 extraordinary destinations in 25

countries. On board the elegant MSC Musica,

passengers will enjoy absolute comfort as they

sail to some of the world’s most beautiful destinations,

culminating in a spectacular crossing

of the Panama Canal - a rare and unforgettable

experience.

Extended stopovers in iconic cities such as

Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Sydney and

Papeete will allow travelers to fully enjoy

these fascinating places.

An extraordinary journey

full of highlights

This epic cruise, spanning more than 37,000

nautical miles, promises an unforgettable experience.

Passengers will even have the unique

opportunity to cross the equator twice, allowing

them to “lose” a day... and relive it all

the better!

Embarkation for this round-the-world trip is

possible from four European ports: Civitavecchia

(Rome), Genoa, Marseille and Barcelona,

with a scheduled departure between

January 5 and 8, 2027.

During this unique adventure, travelers will be

able to discover some of the most spectacular

and varied destinations in the world:

474 475

Mindelo, Cape Verde – Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere

of this city, which blends African and Portuguese influences.

Papete - Tahiti

Casablanca, Morocco – Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere

of the souks of Marrakech and visit the sumptuous Bahia

476 477

Ushuaia, Argentina – Explore the magnificent,

untamed landscapes of Patagonia.

Aitutaki, Cook Islands – Admire the turquoise lagoons

and pristine beaches worthy of a tropical paradise.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Admire the majestic mountains a

nd iconic beaches of the Cidade Maravilhosa.

478 479

A refined stay aboard the MSC Musica

On board the MSC Musica, passengers will enjoy comfortable

accommodation with a spacious balcony cabin offering a

breathtaking view of the ocean.

The ship has large indoor and outdoor spaces, including elegant

lounges that are perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Every evening, a large 1,100-seat theater offers captivating

shows, while several international restaurants, including the

Kaito Sushi Bar and two main restaurants, offer a varied and

refined culinary experience.

Passengers will also be able to enjoy three swimming pools, a

panoramic nightclub, shops, a games room and much more.

For those seeking wellness, the MSC Aurea Spa offers massages,

spa treatments, sauna, steam room and whirlpool for

absolute relaxation.

Sydney, Australie – Découvrez l’Opéra de Sydney

et l’emblématique Harbour Bridge.

Honolulu, Hawaï

– Explorez l’histoire

fascinante et les plages

idylliques d’Oahu.

480 481

An all-inclusive cruise

for a carefree trip

The MSC World Cruise 2027 guarantees a luxurious

and hassle-free experience thanks to an all-inclusive

offer including many exclusive benefits:

- 15 carefully selected land excursions, allowing you to

explore some of the world’s most iconic destinations.

- A complimentary Dine & Drink package, so you can

enjoy exquisite cuisine at no extra cost.

• Discounts on laundry services, so you can travel in

style with your clothes always looking impeccable.

MSC Voyager Club members with Classic status or

higher will receive an additional 5% discount on their

booking.

What’s more, the loyalty points accumulated during the

cruise will be tripled and credited in advance, offering

even more exclusive benefits.

From boarding to disembarkation, the MSC World

Cruise 2027 has been designed to offer an unforgettable

and serene experience.

Thanks to the all-inclusive offer, travelers will be able to

fully enjoy this exceptional journey without worrying

about additional costs.

Frank Van den Steen, Regional Director

Benelux of MSC Cruises, emphasizes:

«MSC World Cruises are iconic journeys in the world

of cruising and are enjoying growing success with experienced

cruisers and new travelers alike. The itinerary

of the MSC World Cruise 2027 is a real invitation to

adventure, with the discovery of five continents, making

this cruise even more special. It will be a journey full of

emotions and discoveries, enhanced by the comfort and

exceptional facilities of the MSC Musica, for an unforgettable

round-the-world experience.»

www.msccruises.be

OH LIFE ENGLISH february 2026 MK 1

Transform your PDFs into Flipbooks and boost your revenue!

Delete template?

Save as template ?