Barcelona, Catedral de la Santa Cruz y Santa Eulalia
Possibly the best time to visit this magnificent Gothic cathedral is early in the morning, when the sunbeams tumble in through the high windows and the air is heavy with the scent of incense. Barcelona’s cathedral also has another, more unusual attraction: 13 geese, which waddle around the cloisters, gaggling excitedly. Legend has it that when the cathedral was being built in the 14th century, the geese prevented a theft with their hissing and screeching. The number 13 symbolises the age of Saint Eulalia when she was martyred by the Romans for refusing to renounce her Christian faith. Oppo-sites attract, and if you’re in need of a refreshment after visiting the Gothic monument, may we suggest a break at Satan’s Coffee? The café, located in Hotel Casa Bonay, is reputed to serve the best coffee in the city.
Barcelona, Casa Bonay
Casa Bonay is the brainchild of a whole bunch of creative minds, who teamed up to design an eclectic space that is instantly engaging and radiates a cheerful energy. We guarantee that you’ll feel like you’re staying with friends. The neo-classicist building, which dates back to 1869, was reinterpreted by Studio Tack and furnished with umpteen plants and local designer furniture by Marc Morro of AOO. Casa Bonay’s two rooftop terraces are the perfect spots to lounge late into the night, sampling the great wines on the hotel’s natural wine menu.
Iceland, A stroll with elves
It is said that half of the inhabitants of Iceland believe in elves and trolls. These skittish little creatures are reputed to be most active in and around the harbour town of Hafnarfjörður. Numerous piles of lava rocks have been built to protect the mythical beings. In fact, as you immerse yourself in the magical landscapes of Iceland, crossing moss-covered plains and hiking past geysers and waterfalls, you’ll understand fully why fables play such a central role in Iceland’s culture and traditions. There’s even an elf school in Reykjavík, where you can graduate with a diploma. Should you feel in need of some sustenance after walking with the elves, we highly recommend booking a table at Matur Og Drykkur and treating your-self to cod head in chicken broth. Replete with Icelandic specialities, Kleif Farm – only 35 minutes from the restaurant – is the perfect place to rest your head for the night.
Iceland, Kleif Farm
One of the nicest places at Kleif Farm is the cosy sheepskins in front of the giant panorama window – the perfect place for a spot of relaxing meditation as you gaze out at the sheep and Icelandic ponies grazing on the endless grasslands. Enjoy the direct view of the stunning mountains as you immerse yourself in the wild, breathtaking Icelandic countryside. The Summerhouse was recently beautifully renovated and is now a luxurious hideaway for families and friends with space for up to 10 people. Make sure you drag yourself away from those sheepskins for long enough to soak in the hot tub!
Ibiza, Es Vedrà
Admittedly, the rocky islands of Es Vedrà and the smaller island of Es Vedranell off the west coast of Ibiza are no longer the insider tips they once were, but their rising popularity in no way detracts from their exceptional beauty. The rugged rocky outcrops jut up from the deep-blue Mediterranean, glowing in the evening sun. Two of the best spots from which to admire these unique nature reserves are Torre des Savinar and Cala d’Hort bay. You can also sail around the island – provided you’re not afraid of your compass needle going crazy, as the island is said to have an unusually strong magnetic field. Some even believe that it is part of the lost island of Atlantis or even a secret UFO base. After your outing, we recommend popping into the Ses Boques restaurant, which serves the most delicious fish in salt crust. Afterwards, head off north to Can Martí country hotel.
Ibiza, Finca Can Marti
The whitewashed finca nestles in the green Can Martí Valley, surrounded by pines and olive trees. Organic farming and tourism have been harmoniously combined in this eco hotel. The people behind the idea are the Brantschens, a Swiss couple who bought the old farmhouse in 1994 and gradually converted it into a charming eco hotel. The suites and casitas have been finished with all-natural materials and furnished in a rustic bohemian style. Guests can enjoy yoga sessions around the natural pool, dine on grilled summer veggies under the starry sky or enjoy the simple pleasure of petting the donkeys.
Tuscany, Il Giardino dei Tarocchi
The gigantic, absurd, and brightly coloured 22 tarot figures created by the artist Niki de Saint Phalle are scattered around the Giardino dei Tarocchi park in Tuscany. Made with mirror shards, glass, ceramic and mosaics, the sculptures – some of which are large enough to walk through – are an arresting group in a truly opulent setting.
Romania, Transylvania
To visit Transylvania is akin to travelling back in time. Central Romania is simply studded with Dracula curiosities, medieval towns and haunted castles. The region also boasts breathtaking wilderness, pristine nature and dense forests, home to more brown bears than anywhere else in Europe, as well as wolves and lynxes. For a perfect night in suitably historic surroundings, the lovingly restored guesthouses at Bethlen Estates are the ideal choice.
England, Hampton Court Maze
A stroll around the oldest hedge maze in Britain can soon turn into a lengthy and possibly perplexing undertaking. You may not find your way out of this historic maze, but you’ll enjoy every moment of trying to escape. While you’re there, you can soak up some Bridgerton flair: in the Netflix series, the queen resides at Hampton Court.
