DIARY | TRAVEL – CULTURE MOVES EUROPE
Drawing for the Ocean
Hello there! Welcome to the diary of my travel.
Here, I am sharing the impressions along the journey route: Cologne – Peniche. Thanks to the grant Culture Moves Europe I could experience „slow-traveling“ and see some amazing places …
So here it comes … a short report of my seven-day trip from Cologne to Peniche in Portugal, stopping in some amazing places like Brussels, Paris, Bordeaux, Biarritz, Bilbao, Sevilla, and Faro.
Now on my final destination, I’m already thinking about how I’ll make the return trip, and I’d love to hear your suggestions if you have any cool routes in mind! Hereby you can see the trace of the journey so far, showing the cities I visited.
(By now on my wish-to-go back-list: Sevilla and Bilbao!)
Part 1: Brussels and Paris to Bordeaux
I kicked off my adventure early morning of October 1st, by heading from Cologne to Brussels … (in the photo: passing the train station in Liége/Lüttich – always impressed by this architecture by Alvaro Calatrava). Cold and rainy weather and delayed train of Deutsche Bahn set the tone for my trip. Then it was off to Paris with Eurostar and the challenge of changing le gares in Paris on the run – nevertheless, the passage through these cities served as a reminder of Europe’s interconnectedness, both geographically and environmentally. Catching the train at the Gare du Montparnasse, moreover with an espresso & croissant in hand, felt like a victory – I made it! 🙂
And certainly: by opting for the train over flights, I reduced my CO₂ emissions by nearly 80%, contributing to a significantly lower carbon footprint!
Part 2: Bordeaux to Biarritz
Next up was the journey from Bordeaux to Biarritz on the fabulous OuiTGV. I love this train—smooth, fast, and super eco-friendly! Riding along the coast, I felt so good knowing I was reducing my carbon footprint by about 70% compared to flying. Upon arriving in Bordeaux, I was captivated by the stunning Bordeaux Saint-Jean Station, built in the late 19th century and designed by architect Léon Sulpice. The grand architecture is a sight to behold, and I was especially impressed by the amazing illustrated map inside the station, created for the Expo Universelle in 1895. This map showcased the city’s connections and attractions, reminding travelers of the rich history and beauty of the region.
After soaking it all in, I headed to Biarritz. It only rained there, but stil – it was great to spend the night there. In the early morning I made a walk to the coast, stumbling upon the stunning Art Deco architecture of La Musée de la Mer. The museum’s location right by the ocean reminds of how crucial it is to protect our marine environments.
Part 3: Bilbao
After a night in Biarritz, I hopped on a bus to Bilbao. First time counting on the ALSA (bus company in Spain), I was a bit stressed – two minutes of changing bus time in San Sebastián – but to my surprise it all worked!
And Bilbao was just great. Impressive, but so relaxed, sunny and overall laid-back … I was tired, the wine tasted good – felt happy and drunk pretty fast …
And, yeah … The Guggenheim. Like no other museum I’ve ever seen. Frank Gehry’s design is all curves, titanium panels, and flowing shapes that almost look like they’re melting into the river. It’s got this wild, futuristic vibe that makes you think you’re walking inside a piece of art, not just visiting one. And right outside, you can’t miss Louise Bourgeois’ giant spider sculpture, Maman. Symbolizing maternal protection, fear, and the complex nature of relationships. It’s both creepy and strangely comforting, like it’s guarding the place. Definitely makes you stop and think!
Part 4: Sevilla via Burgos, then Faro and beyond
From Bilbao, the journey took a different turn as I joined a car ride toward Sevilla, with a stop in Burgos. Though traveling by car tends to produce higher emissions, splitting the ride among three passengers significantly reduced our individual carbon footprints. The trip south revealed diverse Spanish landscapes, and arriving in Sevilla, the warmth of the climate, architecture and sounds of the city, and the duration of the journey … it all makes me almost falling asleep, while standing. I don’t feel any curiosity where I am, promising to me to explore it on my way back home.
Part 5: Faro
But next early morning, I choose again an ALSA bus to Faro, a route that again produced fewer emissions than flying. The bus ride is pleasant and serves as the transition to a place that always feels like home—Faro. Finally, I am in Portugal!
Having been several times In Faro, I was happy to find a cozy studio with an outdoor space, where I could set up a temporary outdoor atelier. The slower travel choice allowed me to reconnect with the ocean, and even visit Praia do Faro! Ilha do Faro and furter islands, like Culatra and Armona are unique marine biodiversity spots, but therefore a stark reminder of the environmental challenges coastal regions face, such as rising sea levels.
Relaxing in Faro, I wonder how to connect my pleasant travel-break in this location with the overall idea of my project – and decide to design the first INFOGRAPHIC from the upcoming series, showcasing the marine biodiversity of Ria Formosa Natural Park.
The ecological significance of this place extends beyond Portugal. It contributes to marine conservation efforts, sustainable fishing practices, and the mitigation of climate change through blue carbon ecosystems.
Part 5: Faro to Lisbon and Peniche
And finalmente, from Faro, I took the Intercidades-comboio to Lisbon, enjoying the scenic landscapes of the Alentejo region along the way. The rolling hills, dotted with cork oaks and olive trees, offered a peaceful and distinctly Mediterranean feel, reflecting the slower, more grounded pace of life in this part of Portugal. The journey is smooth, and upon arriving in Lisbon, I made a quick stop at the Sete Rios Station – from where, I hopped onto a Rede Expressos bus heading to Peniche, feeling a sense of excitement of my upcoming long stay there.
The combination of train and bus travel allowed me to take in the unique beauty of Portugal’s landscapes, connecting with the journey in a way flying definitely could never offer.
