Our last day in DC was packed. Up early, we hit the road for more sights to explore.

First stop was Great Falls. Great Falls is a series of rapids and waterfalls on the Potomac River, 14 miles upstream from Washington DC, towards the beginning of the Potomac River. The spectacular falls roared beside us as we made our way to one of three vantage points.

Next stop was the Washington National Cathedral perched high on a hill in NW Washington. This gothic cathedral is the sixth largest cathedral in the world. We undertook the guided tour with a wonderfully entertaining and at times, irreverent docent, who brought the cathedral to life. She explained the ‘hidden’ meaning of the iconography and ornate decorations. The stained glass windows are exquisite, full of entertaining and meaningful images. There is even a window dedicated to space exploration. The cathedral’s foundation stone was laid in 1907 and the completion ceremony was held in 1990. It has a charming and delightful Bishop’s Garden. The 360 degree views from the towers are stunning and far reaching. We could see all the major memorials and Potomac River, as well as the Blue Ridge Mountains. What we thought was going to be a short. 30 minute stop, ended up being over 2 hours and oh, so worth it.

We then drove through the Chevy Chase and Georgetown precincts. These areas contain many embassies and the Vice-President’s home. The homes and schools we passed were staggering in their size and architecture. Very wealthy communities.

Our next stop was the waterfront and Old Town Alexandria. What a delightful area! We visited an old torpedo factory which had been converted into an arts community centre. We dined at The Chart House overlooking the Potomac and watched water ferries come and go with holiday makers. Driving home we meandered through the magically lit streets of Old Town.

It has been a wonderful few days here in Washington DC, made possible and all the more special by sharing our ‘discoveries’ with Gregg and Carol Turner. They were our superb tour guides.

Washington DC … We will be back!

Such is Life!