Maartje

Maartje's enthusiasm and curiosity knows no bounds. She loves museums, nature, food, walking, architecture, history, animals. Writing and photography is a big passion and she has been writing about cooking, minimalism, food, hotspots and travel for many years. Above all, she has a special place in her heart for castles, royal jewels and ancient Egypt. Maartje gave up her job as a lawyer to bring more balance to her life: less work and more life. Besides to The Orange Backpack, she works as a legal entrepreneur.

Recent Posts

Nestled along the rugged coastline of Galicia, the often-overlooked city of La Coruña offers a delightful escape. It’s home to one of northern Spain’s most distinctive lighthouses, and the city itself is filled with charm and character, making it well worth a visit. We spent two days

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With a mere count of 60 residents, Ponte Maceira can certainly be considered quaint. Yet, with its distinctive bridge and historical streetscape, it rightfully earns a spot on the list of Spain’s most beautiful villages, in our opinion. This charming hamlet is exceptionally picturesque, making it a

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What do the King of Spain, the wealthiest man in the country, and the famous architect Antoni Gaudí all share? The charming village of Comillas, tucked away on the northern Spanish coast. Despite its small size, this picturesque village holds an impressive collection of architectural gems, thanks

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The rugged northern coast of Spain is characterized by its wild cliffs, beautiful sandy beaches, and lush greenery. Yet, nowhere does the coast become as spectacular as at Playa de las Catedrales. Due to its unique rock formations, it’s often referred to as the most beautiful beach

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The official list of Spain’s most beautiful villages is extensive, but Cudillero in Asturias rises above the rest as a standout gem. Located in Northern Spain, this quaint fishing village is nestled in a crescent-shaped valley, creating an almost amphitheater-like arrangement with houses climbing up the cliffs.

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Santander is a city full of surprises, blending vibrant street art, a historic cathedral, and striking modern architecture. It may not be the most famous tourist destination in Spain, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. With its unique charm and hidden gems, it truly deserves

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We had never heard of this destination before and were surprised by the extent of historical grandeur in the small city center. From an impressive cathedral to remarkable city palaces, Avilés turned out to have a beautiful historical center. Add to that an iconic museum of modern

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Spain’s list of most beautiful villages is filled with picturesque treasures, and the charming fishing village of Lastres is undoubtedly one of them. Perched on a hillside overlooking the sea, this enchanting village boasts breathtaking viewpoints, narrow winding streets, and impeccably preserved historic buildings. Every corner feels

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Nestled along the breathtaking coastline of Asturias, you’ll find many charming fishing villages, but one truly stands out from the rest. We’re talking about Tazones, a picturesque village proudly listed among the prestigious “Los Pueblos más Bonitos de España” (The Most Beautiful Villages in Spain). Though it

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