Lakeside Beaches, France: Discover the Magic of Lake Vassivière in Limousin
Lake Vassivière in the enchanting region of Limousin is a hidden gem that caters to all tastes. During a donkey-trekking holiday, we stumbled upon one of France’s largest artificial lakes. The lake boasts five gorgeous sandy beaches with designated swimming areas, charming beach cafes, and kayak rental services. If you’re looking for more than just sunbathing, there are plenty of walking and cycling paths to explore. However, the true treasure lies in the lake’s island, which features a lighthouse, a sculpture park, and a historic chateau turned restaurant. You can reach the island by crossing a footbridge, taking a free water taxi, or even paddling a canoe. For accommodations, we stayed in a luxurious yurt on a nearby donkey farm, which cost us around €400 for a week. Trust me, you won’t regret visiting this picturesque paradise in France. – Angela Luke
A Haven of Citrus Bliss, Sicily: Discover the Kolymbetra Gardens
Escape the dry heat of Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples and immerse yourself in the lush oasis of the Kolymbetra gardens in Sicily. While the gardens offer free entry with a National Trust card, we were pleasantly surprised to be the first visitors ever to present one. The receptionist greeted us with joy and warmth, making us feel exceptionally welcome. These gardens are a paradise of citrus plants, ranging from grapefruit-sized lemons to fragrant bergamots, a variety of tangerines, kumquats, and ugli fruit. Although the paths may be steep and uneven, the beauty that surrounds you is utterly breathtaking. – Lynne Collis
Swedish Island Paradise: Discover the Tranquility of Asperö
If you’re seeking a tranquil and peaceful retreat, look no further than Asperö, one of the pristine islands in the Gothenburg archipelago. During our stay, we rented a cozy cabin by the water, and the picturesque views simply took our breath away. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, although be prepared for a shockingly cold temperature. Asperö has a unique charm, with no cars in sight. Locals navigate the island on foot or using charming little motorized trailers. Don’t worry about accessibility, as the island is connected to the mainland by a regular local ferry, while a convenient tram line links the coast to Gothenburg’s city center. – Helen
Falling in Love with Palma de Mallorca: Explore the Magic of the City
In 2011, I embarked on a series of trips to Palma de Mallorca and instantly fell in love with this captivating city. From the vibrant Paseo Maritimo to the charming Arab quarter, every corner of Palma de Mallorca offers a unique experience. The view of the cathedral’s golden stone glowing in the sunset, framed by luxury yacht masts, is simply awe-inspiring. While tourists abound, Palma de Mallorca remains a bustling working city, with locals taking buses to go about their daily routines. Venture beyond the residential areas to enjoy a relaxing beach day in Ses Illetes or soak in the breathtaking views from Castell de Bellver. – Janet Dean
Discover the Wildlife Wonders of Czech Republic: Rusava and Beyond
Nature lovers will find their paradise in the picturesque village of Rusava, nestled in the southeastern part of the Czech Republic. At Hotel Rusava, which overlooks a scenic valley in the Hostýn-Vsetín mountains, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of pine and beech forests, alpine meadows, and breathtaking hiking trails. For a delightful wildlife experience, head west to the Poodři wetland area near Ostrava, a birdwatcher’s paradise. To the south lies Soutok nature reserve, the largest in the country, where you can spot majestic eagles, intriguing beavers, and even wild boar. Don’t forget to take a short trip to Kroměříž, famous for its stunning Unesco world heritage site castle and gardens. – Rob Dalziel
Blissful Relaxation in Romania’s Bear Lake: A Unique Experience
Prepare to be enchanted by the surreal beauty of Bear Lake in Romania. As you float in its saltwater, a sense of bliss overtakes you. This extraordinary lake surprises with its depth, reaching up to 18 meters, all while being adorned with trees. The water, unusually warm for a salt lake, gradually becomes warmer as you descend further, with temperatures reaching a soothing 35C at a depth of one meter. Some visitors come to seek the lake’s reputed healing properties, while others simply indulge in carefree floating. Regardless of your intentions, Bear Lake promises an unforgettable experience. – Caroline
The Unforgettable Charms of Kastellorizo, Greece: A Hidden Gem
Embark on a ferry journey from Rhodes or Kas in Turkey and arrive at Kastellorizo, one of Greece’s easternmost islands. This picturesque destination offers exquisite yet affordable accommodations at Hotel Megisti, as well as numerous apartments and hotels to suit your preferences. Spend your days swimming at the tranquil beach on the far side of the basilica or venture to the tiny St. George’s island for a day filled with snorkeling and swimming. After the day-trippers have departed, indulge in a delectable meal at one of the charming harborside tavernas, where you can savor super-sparkly fish, fresh salads, and slow-cooked lamb. Keep an eye out for curious loggerhead turtles that may pop their heads out of the water to join the feast. – Jayne
Tranquil Retreat in Hungary: Discover Lake Balaton
Located less than two hours away from Budapest by train, Lake Balaton offers a serene escape from the bustling capital. Thermal spa waters and a plethora of seafood eateries line the lake’s shores, providing a haven for locals looking to unwind. Lake Balaton holds a special place in my heart, as my grandparents used to spend their summer holidays there while my mother and aunt were growing up. During my visit in 2019, I stayed with a lovely local family on their farm, indulging in daily cycling adventures, savoring organic produce straight from their garden, and embracing the calming waters. It was a true lockdown experience before the daunting year that followed. – Zara
Sarajevo, Bosnia: Where History and Beauty Collide
Sarajevo, the charismatic capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Nestled amidst dramatic mountains, the city invites you to explore its fascinating heritage. One day, we embarked on a scenic hike to Lukomir village, where the traditional way of life is still cherished. In the evening, we found ourselves at the Zlatna Ribica bar (meaning “golden fish”), sipping on inexpensive glasses of medovača, a delightful honey brandy, to whet our appetites. Later, we strolled across the Latin Bridge, where the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand ignited the first world war. To end the day on a high note, we indulged in a hearty Bosnian meal at the cheerful Aščinica ASDŽ cafeteria. – Theo
The Hidden Gem of Sainte-Enimie, France: A Spectacular Experience in the Massif Gorge
Embark on an unforgettable adventure in the Massif Central region of France and discover the breathtaking town of Sainte-Enimie. Nestled within the majestic Gorges du Tarn, this town offers a spectacular sight as you descend into the gorge. Take a moment to explore the hermitage carved into the rock above the town, providing a glimpse into the area’s rich history since the seventh century. Wandering through the town feels like a delightful treasure hunt, as you stumble upon hidden alleyways and traces of past communities. The rest of the gorge is equally stunning and deserves its own dedicated holiday. We are already planning a week-long journey to fully immerse ourselves in its natural marvels. – Matt Elliot
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