Does anyone else suffer from severe summer wanderlust? When the good weather shows up, it’s all I think about.
I have a few trips coming up for work, but there’s still so many places demanding to be encountered. New cities and new scenery – here’s five European destinations on my hit list for 2017…
1 Lydford Gorge, Devon
Technically, this one isn’t new (I visited about ten years ago with my family) but it’s still a summer must-see. The deepest gorge in the South West of England, Ledford Gorge boasts a rather spectacular 30m roaring waterfall, with plenty of wild flowers and buttercups to add to the atmosphere too.
Where to stay: Gidleigh Park Hotel
Book a room in the nearby Gildleigh Park Hotel for an indulgent retreat. Stylish interiors and Michelin-starred meals – yes please.
2 The Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye
Scotland has so many beautiful places I’m dying to see, but The Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye have particular appeal. A completely natural phenomenon, the pools feature cascading waterfalls which make their way through naturally carved rock to create stunningly vivid blue and green pools of water below. They’re surrounded with folklore, and you can even swim in them. Straight in the basket.
Where to stay: Hotel Eilean Iarmain
There’s beauty in simplicity, and this quaint hotel provides exactly that. Get away from reality and enjoy its charmingly traditional rooms instead. For longer adventures, rent a cottage and enjoy even more of the rustic landscape.
3 Venice, Italy
Italy is enchanting in many ways, but Venice is especially gorgeous. There’s a general rule of thumb to abide by in Venice: If you don’t get lost, you’re not doing it right. With delicious cuisine, intricate waterways and heaps of culture, it’s a must.
Where to stay: Hotel Metropole
Opulent, oriental and highly enjoyable – the Metropole is a five-star hotel on the prestigious chiavoni promenade with its own private water entrance.
4 Madrid, Spain
I’ve been to Spain six times in the last eight months, but it still somehow pulls me back. Few cities have more charisma or energy than Madrid – this city knows how to enjoy life and is perfect for a quick weekend getaway.
Where to stay: NH Collection Madrid Suecia
I stayed in this beautiful hotel during my last visit and hated parting ways upon checkout. Read my full review here for more of this five star retreat.
5 Athens, Greece
One of the world’s oldest cities, Athens is rich in both culture and history. Once the core of Ancient Greece, it’s brimming with selfie-worthy landmarks – and delicious cuisine. I’ve never been, but it’s calling my name.
Where to stay: Pallas Athena Grecotel
This trendy hotel offers 55 graffiti rooms, designed by 10 differs artists. With no room quite the same, it’s great for those seeking something a little more individual.
Hope you enjoyed,
Sophie x
