8 uniquely European experiences to add to the list
Discover an unexplored side of Europe with Albatross Tours. (Image: gydyt0jas)
| THIS ARTICLE WAS CREATED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH Albatross Tours |
Embark on a European trip that delves behind the obvious and creates remarkable memories that last a lifetime.
The enduring allure of Europe is one of life’s least mysterious cases. Where else can travellers go when they want to experience a whirlwind of cultures and climates within an hour-long plane or train ride away? No two trips to Europe will ever be the same, which is why this diverse continent consistently lands atop the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s list of ‘most visited regions in the world’. With so many attractions vying for attention, Albatross Tours cuts through the obvious and takes guests to experiences often overlooked by the most eagle-eyed of travellers.
Discover a new side of Europe with Albatross Tours. (Image: Rehina Sultanova)
What’s more, it removes the unwarranted stress associated with self-planned journeys, so there’ll be less time spent staring at spreadsheets and more time spent savouring the moment.
1. Chase waterfalls in Plitvice
Included in the 16-day Beautiful Slovenia & Croatia’s Istrian Jewels tour, a journey through Croatia isn’t complete without a visit to Plitvice. Spend two nights in its waterfall-riddled forest, exploring both the upper and lower levels of Croatia’s freshwater oasis.
Over a dozen bodies of water make up Plitvice Lakes National Park, each boasting a natural pool full of vibrant cerulean water; venture along the boardwalks connecting the waterfalls and fill your camera roll with pictures of Croatia’s unsung beauty. Two evenings drifting off to the sound of cascading waterfalls is worth more for the soul than money can buy.
Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park. (Image: gydyt0jas)
2. Breeze through the Istrian Peninsula
Continue the tour of Croatia at Poreč, a heavenly coastal town that will serve as home base along the Istrian Peninsula. Spend sleepy afternoons grazing at cafes and restaurants before taking the scenic route to nearby destinations including Grožnjan, an unassuming town surrounded by thick greenery that’s become renowned for its celebration of music.
Over the course of three nights, get whisked away to Veralda for a taste of Croatia’s finest vino, marvel at the 2000-year-old Roman arena in Pula and circle back to Poreč and stare, mouth agape, at the Euphrasian Basilica; hours could go by while deciphering how anyone from the 4th century was able to craft such an intricate structure.
Relax in a Poreč cafe. (Image: Jan Kopriva)
3. Inch closer to the stars at Matterhorn’s alpine crossing
The Matterhorn alpine crossing is the definition of a ‘pinch-me’ moment (and a recent addition to the 15-day Leisurely Switzerland – The Glacier Express and Cable Car Adventures tour). Glide over glistening snow aboard a cable car that ascends to 3500 metres above sea level. From the viewing platform, necks will crane as visitors attempt to count the number of summits scattered throughout Italy and Switzerland, while the sheer height of the journey will have you and your small group of fellow travellers feeling on top of the world.
Stay Italy-side for a delicious lunch before catching a cable car back to where you started in Switzerland.
Take a cable car journey across the Alps to enjoy lunch in Italy. (Image: Switzerland Tourism)
4. Hitch a ride on the Glacier Express
Take advantage of Switzerland’s unrivalled rail system en route to conquering the Matterhorn. The Glacier Express, one of the world’s most famous modes of transportation, can only be described as having been plucked from the pages of a fairy tale and gently placed in the real world.
Whiz through the mountainside in the comfort of a carriage as the train inches closer to the alpine resort of Zermatt, a magical place in its own right. Before reaching Zermatt, there’s ample time to make a pitstop at the Oberalp Pass, the highest point on the Glacier Express, which features a view that won’t be forgotten.
Hop aboard the Glacier Express train. (Image: Christof Sonderegger)
5. Majestically float across Cappadocia
Opening in 2025, the Cradles of Civilisation featuring Gallipoli, Cappadocia and those Greek Isles tour will take small groups to the clouds above Cappadocia in Türkiye, offering a bird’s-eye view of the fairy chimneys and expansive rock houses. Developing a reputation for hot air balloons dotting the sky, Cappadocia is unlike any other modern-day destination; instead of demolishing historic rock formations to build infrastructure, locals have adapted their entire existence around them, working alongside nature to preserve this distinct and memorable environment.
Enjoy the landscape of Cappadocia with an included balloon ride. (Image: Timur Garifov)
6. Spend time reflecting in Gallipoli
Gallipoli is a searing reminder of the sacrifices made in the early 20th century, and there’s so much to unpack on the Cradles of Civilisation tour.
Between ANZAC Cove, Brighton Beach, Ari Burnu Cemetery, the Mehmetçik Statue and the ANZAC Commemorative Site there’s enough history to fill an entire month’s itinerary. But it’s not just an all-encompassing history lesson – Gallipoli is a stunning peninsula and there will be restful moments reserved for stretching on the sandy beaches.
Contemplate the beauty and history of Gallipoli.
7. Get a taste of the royal life at CastelBrando
Sleeping in a literal castle is a pipe dream for most but a reality on The Italian ‘Grande’ tour. For two nights you’ll retire to luxurious beds at CastelBrando, a 2000-year-old castle converted into a four-star hotel overlooking the enchanting city of Veneto.
The ancient castle has been given a modern upgrade with restaurants and pools, yet the property itself remains meticulously preserved. Each room is dripping with opulence, the gardens are vast and lush, and the views from the countless balconies are second to none.
Sleep in luxury at CastelBrando. (Image: 3sP94F10)
8. Relax at the ultimate spa retreat in Tuscany
Relaxing for five nights in the spa town of Tuscany is the closest anyone will get to heaven on earth. Tuscany’s Montecatini Terme is heralded for its Parco delle Terme – which translates to ‘park of the baths’ – and it delivers on its promise: the complex blends historic architecture with traditional, mineral-rich spas. Once thought to be the cure for an array of ailments, five days in this better-than-fiction town on The Italian ‘Grande’ tour will certainly cure a case of the blues.
Relax in Tuscany’s Montecatini Terme.
Magnificent