What is travel for? For some of us, it’s a break from work. For others, it’s a way to journey through time, into new cultures, with enchanting smells and unknown tastes. Travel is an experience. Here are some of the finest…
1. Study the open waters in West Cork (Ireland)
Just thinking about what lies beneath the Wild Atlantic waters mystifies. In West Cork, the unspoiled waters are home to common dolphins, minkes and humpback whales. Taking a boat trip beyond the coastline on a whale and dolphin watching experience gets you up close and personal with the creatures who dwell where land and sea collide. Set on the same waters is Eccles Hotel – an 18th century stay renowned for its wellness experiences, artisan cuisine and breathtaking views.
2. Go back in time in Vienna (Austria)
You wouldn’t be crazy for believing you’d stepped back to the year 1600 when you stay at Hotel Stefanie in Vienna. The astonishing hotel is the oldest in the Austrian capital, wonderfully preserved in the centre of the city. You’re a stone’s throw away from St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Vienna and Belvedere Palace – if you can bring yourself to leave your beautiful bedroom or suite.
3. Feel mentally and physically transformed in Abano Terme (Italy)
Looking for a complete wellness transformation? In-the-know travellers hankering that kind of luxury flock to Abano Ritz Hotel Terme. This stay boasts five-star pampering in the heart of Veneto. Immerse yourself in the healing thermal spring, or book in for a massage or wellness treatment – with techniques from East and West.
4. Get out of your comfort zone in Roch (Wales)
Known as the ‘Mountain of the Angels’, Carn Ingli in Wales provides the most mystical backdrop for a holiday in Pembrokeshire. Make sure you bring your hiking boots – the area is a treasure trove of fascinating archeological sites, perfect for hiking. Ramble your way through 170 acres of ancient oak woodland, home to more than 400 species of lichens: strange organisms made up of fungus and algae that thrive in the fresh, wet air of the area. Fill up, rest up, and live your best Welsh holiday life at Roch Castle.
5. Sail the Greek Islands
Learn the ropes on the Aegean (where else?) with our Greek island-hopping itinerary. There’s no finer way to experience the glittering blue waters up-close, hopping off at UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Chios, historic Rhodes, postcard-perfect Santorini and an ancient Cretan village along the way.
6. Get high in the Jungfrau Region (Switzerland)
Jumpstart a new exercise regime in the heart of the Swiss Alps. High altitude holiday experiences see you working on endurance, strength and flexibility on the elevating peaks. Rest weary bones at Hotel Falken, which serves nourishing meals and mountain-view rooms to relax and power you through. The hotel’s position in the car-free village makes it a skier and hikers’ paradise, providing direct access to some of the most spectacular alpine terrain in the world.
7. Be quiet in Vadstena (Sweden)
It doesn’t get any closer to Heaven than a serene stay in a monastery. Once the home of monks and nuns, Vadstena Klosterhotel now brings peace and serenity to stressed-out travellers in need of out-of-office silence. Escape from the hubbub and discover the power of peacefulness by shutting up for a weekend or a week in this Swedish oasis of calm. You’ll return home de-stressed, well-fed and refocused.
