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Tag Archives: panoramic view

Featured Ohio Winery: Terra Cotta Vineyards

16 June 20248 February 2025

Passing cattle farms along the hilly landscape of Muskingum County, I approached Terra Cotta Vineyards in New Concord, Ohio.  The long gravel drive boasted beautiful full grapevines that would soon be ready for harvest.  It was an early Saturday afternoon, the calm before the storm as a large crowd was expected for the winery’s popular weekend cook outs with a selection of strip steak, marinated pork or salmon cooked over the grill.

The winery, owned by Donna and Paul Roberts, was first established in 1996 sitting in the midst of fifty-six acres.  With an environment similar to the European wine regions, the Roberts family found the perfect terrior to grow quality grapes that can sustain the cold Ohio winters.

Entering the rustic winery, the light woods of poplar accented by the terra cotta walls were overshadowed by the gorgeous open, cathedral ceiling.  The tasting table was to my left where I decided to try a few samples which included the Chambourcin,  Steuben, Baco Noir, Catawba and the Terra Rosa.

I ordered a glass of the Terra Rosa and took a seat on the back porch to admire the dramatic valley views and rolling hills.   I learned that beneath the beautiful green landscape was red clay soil and the region is known for its beautiful clay ceramics.  In addition to their daughter, Alysia’s pottery, it was how the Roberts’ family came up with the name of the winery, Terra Cotta Vineyards.

So while I am enjoying the panoramic view and the delicious wine, I think about the upcoming harvest.  While so many factors have an impact on the quality of the wine, all of the preparation and maintenance over the spring and summer will be important.  But in the end, everything is about the harvest.

I would be interested in hearing about your visit to Terra Cotta Vineyards, if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Do you have a favorite wine or another Ohio wine suggestions?  I would be happy to learn more about the Ohio wine industry and look forward to your message and recommendations.  Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Terra Cotta Vineyards
2285 Rix Mills Road
New Concord, OH 43702
Telephone:  740 872 3791

Please refer to the winery’s website for the most up-to-date information such as hours of operation.

Where to Stay:

Hotel Garland
150 Garland Way
New Concord, OH  43762
Telephone: 855 462 9255

Where to Eat:

Theo’s Restaurant
632 Wheeling Avenue
Cambridge, OH  43725
Telephone:  740 432 3787

Looking for authentic home cooking, we stopped at Theo’s Restaurant for lunch and ordered burgers and fries.  The service was excellent and so was the food!

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Athens, Greece: A Living Museum

5 September 202323 September 2024

Athens was once the center of civilization….the pulse of the world and believed to be the center of the universe.   Today it is a living museum, full of archaeological sites and artifacts.  A city steeped in history and a love for philosophy and science.  In Athens, you can walk in the footsteps of countrymen who have made an impact on the world in areas such as medicine, architecture and mathematics.   Over the years, Athens was a city to conquer and has suffered a few setbacks, but this ancient civilization, even today, has always managed to forge ahead.

DSC_0800 - Syntagma Square and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Our first stop on our tour of Athens was Mars Hill.  Traveling by bus from the airport, we passed  a few sites which our guide pointed out, starting with Syntagma Square.  Located northeast of the Plaka, a popular city neighborhood, the square stands in front of the neoclassical Parliament building.

Also referred to as Plateia Syntagmatos, this beautiful courtyard was once a part of the Royal Palace of Greece’s first king, King Otto I.  Organized demonstrations took place here leading to the country’s historic constitution of 1843 in which they gained independence from the Ottoman Empire.

Today, the Evzone Guards, an elite unit of the Greek military perform the changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.  The uniforms of the guards have historical significance.   The pompoms on the shoes go back to the ancient Mycenaeans.  The 400 pleats in the winter skirts resemble the number years that the Greeks were under the rule of the Ottoman Empire.

At five minutes before each hour, the guard changes, providing a presentation of the crossing of the guard.  On Sundays at 11AM, visitors can witness a full crossing of the guard ceremony complete with marching band.DSC_0824, Temple of Olympian Zeus

Taking a right from the Parliament building we came upon the ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch.  The Temple of Olympian Zeus (Olympieion), measuring 360 feet by 145 feet when it was completed, towered 56 feet high.  Construction began during the rule of Peisistratos and was completed by Hadrian, the Roman Emperor in 131 AD, taking over 700 years to complete.

Only 15 of the original 104 Corinthian columns remain. The structure once displayed colossal statues of  both Zeus and Hadrian.  DSC_0875 - Hadrian's Arch

Close to the area of Lysicratu is Hadrian’s Arch which was once a dazzling white structure topped with Corinthian columns.  The arch was built in 131 AD by the Roman Emperor, Hadrian who is also credited for completing the temple.  On the arch side facing the traffic (west) is an inscription, “This is Athens, ancient city of Theseus” and on the east, “This is the city of Hadrian and not of Theseus”.   The east side was a gateway to Roman structures which included the Temple of Olympian Zeus,  also completed by Hadrian.  It represents the division between Classical Greece and the Roman Province.

DSC_0848, Church of Agios Eleftherios

The Church of Agios Eleftherios was once a meeting place for the archbishops of Athens when the Ottomans prohibited them from meeting in the church within the Parthenon.  Known as the “old cathedral”, this place of worship has been around since the 13th century.

DSC_0921 - Panathenaic Stadium

In the district of Pangratti is the Panathanaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro, “beautiful marble”), the “stadium of the first modern Olympic games”.  It has since been refurbished through funding by Evangelis Zappas and George Averof.

DSC_0918, George Averoff Statue, Athens, Greece

There is a statue of George in the square near the stadium.

DSC_0928, Hiking up Mars Hill

Known as the Areopagus, Ares’s Hill as well as Mars Hill, this amazing climb provides impressive views of historic Athens as well as a remarkable vantage point to photograph the Acropolis.  This location is most popularly known as the place where the apostle Paul shared his Christian faith with local Greek intellectuals.

DSC_0927 - Mars Hill View

A panoramic View from Mars Hill, from left to right, are structures such as Ancient Agora and Thissio Park.  The Plaka would be located towards the center and the Acropolis to the right.  Tickets to the Acropolis are also valid for visiting the Greek and Roman Agoras, Hadrian’s Library, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Theatre of Dionysos and the Kerameikos Cemetery.

IMG_1429, Amazing View from the Acropolis

From Mars Hill, the Temple of Hephaestos, is the most intact Doric temple in Greece.   It is dedicated to the god of iron workers, blacksmiths, those that worked with fire who created items such as tools, statues, jewelry and armor.  It was transformed into a Christian church, the Chapel of St. George (of the dragon) which may have helped in keeping the temple in its current state.

From Mars Hill, we were now ready to explore oneof the most magnificent temples of Greek architecture, The Acropolis.

Have you visited the spectacular city of Athens?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below!  Many thanks for reading about my day in Athens and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do: 

Syntagma Square
Athens 105, 57, Greece

Temple of Olympian Zeus
Athens 105, 57, Greece

Hadrian’s Arch
Athens 105, 57, Greece

Church of Agios Eleftherios
Acharnon 384, Athina 111 43, Greece

Panathanaic Stadium
Vasileos Konstantinou Anevue (opposite the statue of Myron Discobolus)
Athens, 116 35, Greece

Areopagus
Theorias 21, Athina 105 55, Greece

Ancient Agora
Adrianou 24, Athina 105 55, Greece

Thissio Park
Apostolou Pavlou, Athina 105 55, Greece

Hadrian’s Library
?, Areos 3, Athina 105 55, Greece

Theatre of Dionysos
The Acropolis
Mitseon 25, Athina 117 42, Greece

Kerameikos Cemetery
Ermou 148, Athina 105 53, Greece

Temple of Hephaestos
Athens 105 55, Greece

Chapel of St. George
Thrasillou 18, Athina 105 58, Greece

Acropolis
Athens 105 58, Greece

Odeon of Herodes Atticus
Dionysiou Areopagitou, Athina 105 55, Greece

Where to Stay:

AVA Hotel and Suites
9-11 Lyssikratous Street, Plaka,
Athens, Attiki, 105 51  Greece
Telephone:  +30 21 00325 9000

Where to Eat: 

2Mazi Restaurant
48 Nikis Street, Plaka
Athens, Attiki, 105 51  Greece

What to Eat:

    • Baklava is layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts, spices and sweetened with honey
    • Greek Salad
    • Greek Wine from Santorini is unique as the grapes are grown in volcanic ash
    • Gyros
    • Lamb
    • Local Olives
    • Mashed Fava Beans (Fava me Koukia)
    • Moussaka is an eggplant or potato based pie with meat and cheese
    • Pomegranates
    • Saganaki is a phyllo pastry stuffed with cheese and covered in honey
    • Souvlaki are meat kabobs made from lamb, beef or chicken
    • Spanikopita is a phyllo pastry filled with spinach, cheese, and sometimes onion
    • Tomato Fritters made with tomatoes and onion, they are spiced either with oregano and peppermint then deep-fried
    • Tzatziki is a yogurt based sauce with bits of garlic, onion, cucumbers, olive oil and lemon. Pita bread is usually served with this dish for dipping.

What to Read: 

  • The Odyssey, by Homer
  • The King Must Die, by Mary Renault
  • Little Infamies, by Panos Karnezis
  • My Family and Other Animals, by Gerald Durrell
  • Uncle Petros and Goldbach’s Conjecture, by Apostolos Doxiadis
  • Freedem and Death, by Nikos Kazantzakis
  • The Dark Labyrinth, by Lawrence Durrell
  • The Names, by Don DeLillo
  • Atticus the Storyteller’s 100 Greek Myths by Lucy Coats and Anthony Lewis

Photo Guide for Athens, Greece:

  • Acropolis
  • Temple of Olympian Zeus
  • Ancient Agora
  • Dromeas “Running Man” Sculpture
  • Changing of the Guard (Evzones)
  • Panatheniac Stadium
  • Anafiotika Neighborhood
  • Mount Lycabettus
  • Lake Vouliagmeni
  • Pentelikion Waterfall
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Corfu, Greece…the Favorite Vacation Destination for an Empress

8 May 20233 May 2025

D4 Corfu Fort in Old Town

Overlooking the Mandraki Harbor in Corfu, the old fort displayed evidence of Venetian influence with images of winged lions resting on its fortification.

Kerkyra, more commonly known to tourists as Corfu, is located just off the mainland of Greece, between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.   Corfu Town is a popular port with a strong Venetian influence as exhibited in its architecture.

D4 Restaurants in Corfu Town

Throughout the maze of streets in the Old Town, there were several streetside cafes.

D4 The Liston Restaurant

One of the more interesting areas of Corfu Town was Liston.  Because it had once been occupied by the French, the country’s influence on Corfu was visible in its architecture.  Fashioned after the Rue de Rivoli, it was a replica of one of Paris’ most famous streets.  The French ruled here from 1797 to 1814 (with a brief rule by the Ottoman in between), and then later the British from 1814 to 1864.

D4 Promenade in Old Corfu Town

In the early days when the Venetians ruled Corfu, only the noble and aristocrats were permitted to walk among the arcades.

D4 Entrance to Spyridion, Corfu

Through the alleyways I caught a glimpse of the beautiful flowers cascading from archways and apartment balconies.  D4 Church Spyridion in Corfu Town

The Church of Agios Spyridon was located a few blocks behind the Liston.  Built in the 16th century, it displays ceiling murals designed by Panagiotis Doxaras.

D4 Lit Church candles

I love the Greek tradition of placing candles in the sand outside of the church.

D4 Corfu, famous for kumquats

There are many shops scattered among the streetside restaurants that offer local delicacies.  One of the shops provided samples of kumquats and kumquat liquor.  Kumquats are a fruit that comes from a tree.  They are small, about the size of an olive and resemble the orange in both appearance and taste.

D4 Boats in Corfu Harbor

It was time for us to board the bus headed to the Achilleion Palace.   Sailboats anchored off the scenic coast as we made our way south during our drive.

_DSC0511

The Achillion Palace was built for Empress Elisabeth in 1890 as a second home and retreat from her native Austria.  It was later acquired by German Kaiser William II in 1898 after she was assassinated.  The palace is now a museum displaying the belongings of both the Empress and Kaiser.
D4 Achilles at the Achillion Palace

Throughout the mansion there were statues and paintings of Achilles.  Achilles was a mighty warrior and Greek hero of the Trojan War.   He was killed when a poisoned arrow was shot through his heel, the only vulnerable part of his body.

D4 Statue of Achilles at the Achillion Palace

Another statue on the grounds of the mansion showed Achilles reaching towards his ankle in pain after having been shot.  Today we know the tender area behind our foot as the “Achilles Tendon”.

D4 Palace Painting of Achilles

In keeping with the Achilles theme throughout the mansion, the mural inside titled “The Triumph of Achilles” depicted Achilles’ defeat over Hector during the Trojan War. Achilles was riding a chariot dragging Hector behind._DSC0539

Empress Elisabeth had a tragic life.  A year after the death of her son, she decided to build a summer home on the island of Corfu.  She grew to love the Greek culture and language and the Achillion Palace was her favorite place with its panoramic view of the island.

_DSC0549

Elisabeth’s love of Greek mythology was evident in the entryway of her palace with statues depicting fairies and fauns.

_DSC0556

Once I had completed the tour of the Achillion Palace, I took a moment to have a drink at the Nova Bella Vista, a Mediterranean café.  It was the perfect opportunity to take in the coast.

We had a short bus ride to the town of Paleokastritsa on the east side of the island where we would visit a monastery, have a group lunch and then hang out at the beach if there is enough time.

D4 The Moni Theotokou Monestery

The Monastery of the Virgin Mary, also known as Panagia Paleokastritsa, is of Byzantine origin and was first built in 1228. It was a short uphill climb from the beautiful bay of Paleokastritsa. The current structure was from the 18th century and provided stunning views of the coastline.

D4 Bell Tower in the Monestery

Even today, there are Greek Orthodox Monks who reside here to hold mass and provide assistance to the local residents.  They offer tours of the monastery and grounds and are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding their home.

D4 Cats of the Monesteries

There are several resident cats who will take the time to play with you during your visit to the monastery.  They live here permanently and are cared for by the monks.

D4 Gas Lamps within the Church of the Monestery

As we approached the church, we were reminded that only those dressed appropriately (shoulders and knees must be covered) were permitted to enter.  They also requested that we provide a small monetary donation.

D4 Palaiokastritsa Grottoes

Leaving the village of Lakones towards the bay, I was rewarded with a magnificent view of Paleokastritsa and the fir trees.

D4 Plants framing the Grottoes

The crystal blue waters and rock formations below can be explored by kayak. There is a small beach here for those that have brought the proper attire, but soon we would board the bus to head back to the ship.

D4 Grottoes ready to Explore, Corfu

The bay of Paleokastritsa from the beach was full of craggy rocks. There were several restaurants across the street to enjoy a light lunch and there were a variety of menu items for sale.  I did not want to leave the beautiful blue sky and blue sea, the friendly locals and the relaxed atmosphere.  I can see why this island is perfect for an Empress.

Have you visited the island of Corfu?  Where did you go and what was your favorite activity?  I would be happy to hear about your adventures in Corfu if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit and wishing you Many Happy Travels!

D4 Part 2 of the Achilles Painting

…dragging Hector behind…

Have you had the opportunity to visit the island of Corfu?  What was your favorite part of your visit?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my amazing visit to Corfu and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do: 

Old Venetian Fortress
Corfu, 491 00 Greece

  • Admission Fee:  6 Euros per person and 3 Euros for seniors
  • Hours:  Open daily from 8AM to 8PM
  • Amenities:   restaurant (expensive), restrooms, ice cream and refreshments
  • Scenic Views:  The views of Corfu Town and the Ionian Sea are spectacular from the fort.
  • Length of the Tour:  2 – 3 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  The entrance is located in front of the Liston near the Explanade.  The climb to the top to see the lighthouse is steep.  The walking paths are a bit slippery, so wear appropriate walking shoes.  When the cruise ship is in port, the fort can be quite busy and with only one restroom, the lines can be long.  The attraction is not handicap accessible.

Church of Agios Spyridon
Platytyra, Corfu, 49100
Telephone:  +30 26610 39912

  • Admission Fee:  No charge, but a small donation is much appreciated
  • Hours:  Open daily from 7AM to 8PM
  • Length of the Tour:  1 hour
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Wear appropriate dress which requires the shoulders and knees to be covered.

Achilleion (Achillion) Palace
Telephone:  +30 26610 56245

  • Admission Fee:  10 Euros per person
  • Hours:  Open daily from 8AM to 9PM
  • Amenities:   restaurant nearby, audio guides, gardens,  souvenir stalls, restrooms,
  • Scenic Views:  The views of Corfu Town from the gardens is beautiful.
  • Length of the Tour:  2 – 3 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:   Have your passport/identification ready for renting the audio guide.  When the cruise ship is in port, the palace can be quite busy and they have priority over individual entries, so go early in the day or late afternoon to escape the crowds.

The Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also known as Panagia Paleokastritsa
Kavos, Greece

  • Admission Fee:  No fee, but be prepared to make a small contribution
  • Hours:  Open daily from 8AM to 9PM
  • Amenities:   restaurant  with stunning oceanside views.  udio guides, gardens,  souvenir stalls, restrooms,
  • Scenic Views:  Beautiful view of the Paleokastritsa up the climb and the restaurant also has amazing views
  • Length of the Tour:  1 – 2 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  The walk up the hill to the monastery is quite steep.   Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water if the temperature is warm.  There is a monk available to answer any questions you may have.

Where to Stay:

MarBella Corfu
Agios Ioannis Peristeron
49084 Corfu, Greece
Telephone:  +30 26610 711836

Where to Eat:

Cafe Liston
Kerkiras 10
Kerkiras, 491 00 Greece
Telephone:  +30 2661 045528

What to Eat:

  • Baklava is layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts, spices and sweetened with honey
  • Greek Salad
  • Greek Wine from Santorini is unique as the grapes are grown in volcanic ash
  • Gyros
  • Lamb
  • Local Olives
  • Mashed Fava Beans (Fava me Koukia)
  • Moussaka is an eggplant or potato based pie with meat and cheese
  • Pomegranates
  • Saganaki is a phyllo pastry stuffed with cheese and covered in honey
  • Souvlaki are meat kabobs made from lamb, beef or chicken
  • Spanikopita is a phyllo pastry filled with spinach, cheese, and sometimes onion
  • Tomato Fritters made with tomatoes and onion, they are spiced either with oregano and peppermint then deep-fried
  • Tzatziki is a yogurt based sauce with bits of garlic, onion, cucumbers, olive oil and lemon. Pita bread is usually served with this dish for dipping.

What to Read:

  • The Rough Magic by Mary Stewart
  • The Raven Witch of Corfu by Effrosyni Moschoudi
  • The Holiday by Erica James
  • Stars of Fortune by Nora Roberts
  • Invincible  Summer by Alice Adams
  • The Venetian House by Mary Nickson

Photo Guide for Corfu, Greece

  • Old Town Corfu (Kerkyra)
  • St. George’s Church in Kerkyra
  • Achilleion Palace
  • Palaiokastritsa and the Monastery
  • The Gorge at Agni Bay
  • Cape Drastis
  • Vlacherna Monastery (near Mouse Island)
  • Canal d’Amour
  • Sunset at Loggas Beach
  • Porto Timoni Beach
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Spotting my First “Bison” at Sioux Falls, South Dakota

11 August 201821 September 2024

dsc_0873

It had been a long day of driving (close to 1,000 miles), but I was on a high having reached Sioux Falls, Idaho.  With plenty of energy to explore the Sioux Falls Park, I knew this would be the perfect opportunity for some exercise and a moment to stretch out my legs.  The park was around the corner and the sun was beginning to set.

I could smell the mist of the falls long before they came into view.   The sun felt warm upon my face and I could hear the spray from the water close by as I began making my way towards the roaring sound.  From the parking lot, a paved walkway gave start to the art trail winding its way through the woods.  Along the path were placards offering a brief overview of the park and its history.  Magnificent sculptures were set up along the trail which was a part of “SculptureWalk”, a local event held annually, designed to help “keep the arts alive”.  The small hike ended at the spectacular falls, observation deck and café.

dsc_0883

Situated in the midst of town, this amazing attraction has been drawing visitors to its location since 1856.  Photographs from the late 1800s document the popularity of this site and show how the park has evolved over time.  Falls Park sits on 123 acres to include the falls,  the cafe as well as the observation tower.

dsc_0894

The park requires no entrance fee and accessing the observation tower is also free of charge.  An elevator lifts visitors to the top to spend an unlimited time on the platform and it is definitely worth the view.

dsc_0892

Known to the Lakota Sioux Indians as “Laughing Waters”, it was the Big Sioux River that wound its way through the town of Sioux Falls.  It took over 7,400 gallons of water to drop 100 feet to create this beautiful cascade.     During certain times of the day, the sun reflects off of the falls creating a beautiful scene of rainbows.

dsc_0876

The “SculptureWalk” statues remain along the path until the next year when the new installments are presented on the lawn.    A 20 mile path started at Falls Park and wound its way through the city providing areas of rest for those enjoying the trail.

The Monarch of the Plains, a permanent sculpture, was my first “bison” sighting of my trip.

I was happy to have a nice stroll after driving over 13 hours and this was a perfect way to wind down for the day.  The park was busy with visitors and locals, fishing and enjoying the falls and a late afternoon meal at the cafe.  There were several vantage points to enjoy the falls including the 5 story observation tower, offering a 360 degree view of the city’s skyline, the falls and the Big Sioux River.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Sioux Falls, South Dakota?  Did you stop by Falls Park or can you recommend any additional sites in the area?   I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Thanks for reading my blog post and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Falls Park, Sioux Falls
131 E. Falls Park Dr.
Sioux Falls, SD   57104
Telephone:  605 367 7430

  • Admission Fee:  There is no fee for visiting Falls Park.
  • Hours:  Open daily from 5AM to 12AM
  • Amenities:  waterfalls, observation tower, picnic shelters, sculptures, restrooms, restaurant, open air shelter, bike trail access point, historic displays, drinking fountains and visitor center
  • Scenic View: Spectacular views of the falls and an observation deck for incredible scenic views of nearby Sioux Falls.
  • Length of Visit:  1 hour
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Wear comfortable shoes and be careful on the rocks.

Where to Stay:

Clubhouse Hotel & Suites
2320 S. Louise Avenue
Sioux Falls, SD  57106
Telephone:  605 361 8700

Where to Eat:

Taco John’s
1920 W. 12th Street
Sioux Falls, SD  57106

I ordered a couple of tacos and they reminded me of Taco Bell, but with more of a spicy kick.

What to Eat: 

  • Chislic:  Similar to shish kabobs, this local food is made of cubed meat, usually fried while  stacked on a stick. German and Russian immigrants are credited for bring this food to the US.   Eat this amazing dish as an appetizer or a snack.
  • Indian Tacos:  Similar traditional tacos, the only difference is that the filling is stacked on fry bread instead of tortillas.
  • Kolaches:  Popular in Slavic countries, kolaches are mini pies filled with candied fruit or cream cheese.
  • Kuchen:  Also hailing from Germany and meaning “cake”, this pastry is made with sweet dough and filled with custard, fruit or nuts.
  • Wasna:  A food from the indigenous people of the Great Plains, the snack is made of dried buffalo meat, cranberries and grains.
  • Wojapi:  Another Native American recipe, Wojapi is a dipping sauce made of chokeberries.

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

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The Currituck Beach Lighthouse, North Carolina

14 May 201716 September 2024

Standing at the base of the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, I noticed the impressive, ominous tower of bricks reaching 158 feet towards the Carolina sky.  My family and I had stopped at the historic Corolla Village to climb the 214 steps that leads to the gallery deck for phenomenal views of the North Carolina coast.

We could see the lighthouse from our summer rental home and the children were fascinated with watching the lights at night.  Counting the seconds as the glow circled back to the house, the kids giggled at each passing of the light and jumped up and down in excitement.

It was a hot summer day and although the lighthouse cast a shadow as if to protect us in line, we realized it was going to be steamy climb on the inside. Slow and steady we climbed each step, reaching the tight circular deck at the top.  From here we would be able to experience gorgeous views of the Outer Banks that reached all the way to the Virginia state line.

The metal, spiral staircase was secure but made us feel weak in the knees.  The distance between each step was shallow, so we were more cautious to ensure that we would not trip nor lose our footing.  Windows had been inserted randomly giving us a breath of fresh air to carry on with our climb. The breeze felt great but we could feel the sweat dripping through our clothes and we had not yet reached the top.

There were signs at each window that labeled the thickness of the lighthouse at each stopping point.  With walls measuring 5 foot 8 inches at the bottom, the depth of the walls tapered off to 3 feet towards the top.

We loved the fact that the Currituck Beach Lighthouse had not been painted so the one million bricks were exposed.  Compared to the other Outer Banks lighthouses, Currituck Light was the last major brick lighthouse built on the shores of North Carolina.

It seemed like eternity but we finally reached the top and were met with a stunning view and a gentle breeze.  We carefully stepped onto the gallery and realized once again, we were weak in the from the height and instantly grabbed onto the rail.  Cautiously walking the circular overlook, I too found myself white-knuckling the banister but soon become more comfortable enough to loosen my grip.  We couldn’t get enough of the breeze and the spectacular panorama of the Atlantic Ocean, the Currituck Sound and the beautiful homes along the coast.

On the sound side of our view, the Whalehead Club stood out with its daisy yellow color and delicate dormers.  The Currituck Heritage Park was beautifully landscaped with Carolina foliage and was home to native birds, such as the osprey.

I was fascinated with the untouched natural habitat that had not yet been commercialized by local real estate. I learned from the lighthouse curator that the area had been preserved from further development and generations of visitors will have the opportunity to experience this view.

Around the corner of the platform, the  children were searching for the rental house where we were staying.   The group of homes made it somewhat difficult to confirm, but it was fun to watch how easily the kids were entertained.

The Currituck Beach Lighthouse was completed in December of 1875 and lit by the first lighthouse keeper, Nathaniel G. Burris.   We learned that the lighthouse is known as a first order lighthouse meaning that it has the largest of seven Fresnel lenses.

Since 1939, the beacon’s light has been automated, illuminating at dusk and ending at dawn. It can be seen for 18 nautical miles.

For more information about the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, visit the museum and lighthouse exhibits on the ground floor.  Learn more about the Fresnel lens, the shipwrecks and history of the lighthouse keepers.

Check out the website for the lighthouse to learn more about upcoming events such as educational series, wine tastings, historical sessions, and a Halloween event.

Email the lighthouse directly at info@currituckbeachlight.com or call 252 453 8152.

What to See and What to Do:

Curritick Beach Lighthouse
1101 Corolla Village Road
PO Box 58
Corolla, NC  27927
Telephone:  252 453 4939

Where to Stay:

Inn at Corolla Light
9606, 1066 Ocean Trail
Corolla, NC  27927
Telephone: 252 453 3340

Where to Eat:

The Oceanfront Grille
1197 Franklyn Street
Corolla, NC  27927
Telephone: 252 453 4748

The Bacon Wrapped Sea Scallops were drizzled with teriyaki sauce, which I ordered as an appetizer.  For my entree, I wanted to try the Filet Mignon as well as the Crabcake which was available as a combination meal.

What to Eat: 

  • Crab Benedict at Sam and Ornies on Nag’s Head
  • Frogmore Stew Steamer Bucket from Armstrong’s Seafood in Nag’s Head
  • Donuts at Duck Donuts
  • Carolina Barbecue at Pigman’s BBQ on Nag’s Head

What to Read: 

  • Hatteras Blue, by David Poyer
  • Early from the Dance, by David Payne
  • Surf Men by C.T. Marshall
  • Murder at Hatteras by Joe C. Ellis
  • Return to the Outer Banks by Diann Ducharme

Photo Guide for the Outer Banks

  • Pea Island Wildlife Refuge for capturing local birds
  • Jennette’s Pier to photograph local fishermen and beautiful sunrises
  • Ocracoke Horses
  • Triangle Shipwreck at Kill Devils Hill
  • Shipwreck artifacts at Seagreen Gallery
  • The Cape Hatteras lighthouse at Cape Hatteras
  • Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo

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About Me!

I have had a passion to travel for as long as I can remember and landed my dream job at the age of 19 on a cruise ship. The Suite Life of Travel is about those experiences as well as my future endeavor to explore this amazing world!

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