Amazing Towns You’re Not Visiting (Yet)
- Shanna Stewart
- 2 days ago
- 22 min read
“Some places don’t just change your scenery — they change your pace, your mood, and the way you breathe.”
If you’re craving something fresh, skip the usual tourist trail and head somewhere unexpected. These under‑the‑radar towns deliver big personality in small, memorable ways — from indie shops and cozy cafés to scenic trails, historic districts, and that irresistible “hidden gem” energy.
This post will cover these extraordinary destinations:
Lisse, South Holland
Lisse is a charming Dutch town best known as the home of Keukenhof and the surrounding tulip fields, making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Netherlands during spring.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Lisse is during spring — late March through mid‑May — when the tulip fields and Keukenhof are in full bloom. This is when the town transforms into a colorful, once‑a‑year landscape of flowers and mild weather. Outside of tulip season, Lisse is quiet and charming, but spring is when it truly shines.
Where to stay:
Boutique Suites Lisse - Keukenhof
3-Star Hotel
Tucked away in the centre of Lisse, Boutique Suites Lisse offers the ease of apartment-style living with the comfort of a boutique stay.
With just eight thoughtfully designed suites, the hotel focuses on what matters: space, privacy, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're here to explore Keukenhof, stroll through the flower fields, or stay a little longer for work, we’ll help you feel right at home in Lisse.
Alexander Hotel (24 minute drive from Lisse)
4-Star Hotel
The short stroll to Noordwijk aan Zee’s sandy beach makes Alexander Hotel a popular choice with families and holiday makers. Sun-seekers will also appreciate the large terrace of the Alexander Beach Club, while full relaxation is guaranteed at the next-door Azzurro Wellness if the weather’s not playing nice. The 57 bedrooms are well-proportioned, and all have their own balcony; there’s an unabashed boldness to their decoration, especially the “Dutch Design” rooms.
Vesper Hotel (30 minute drive to Lisse)
4-Star Hotel
When luxury, design and a touch of vintage come together, you can expect a magnificent hotel, and Vesper will not disappoint. The guestrooms exude minimalist style, each decorated in a different colour. The beautiful sea view is this boutique hotel's trump card, as is the delicious breakfast after a good night's sleep.
Things to do in Lisse:
1. Visit Keukenhof Gardens
The world‑famous spring gardens with millions of blooming tulips.
2. Bike Through the Tulip Fields
Rent a bike and follow the marked routes through colorful flower fields.
3. Explore Kasteel Keukenhof
A historic estate with gardens, art exhibits, and seasonal events.
4. Tour the Tulip Experience Amsterdam
Interactive exhibits, photo spots, and a behind‑the‑scenes look at bulb farming.
5. Visit the LAM Museum
A modern art museum focused on food, pop culture, and playful design.
6. Walk Around Huys Dever
A small, restored medieval tower house with a peaceful countryside setting.
7. Enjoy a Boat Ride Through the Flower Fields
A quiet, scenic way to see the tulips from the water.
8. Wander Lisse’s Town Center
Cafés, boutiques, and a charming small‑town feel perfect for a slow afternoon.
Ortisei (Val Gardena), South Tyrol, Italy
Ortisei is the heart of Val Gardena and one of the most beautiful mountain towns in the Dolomites — a place where pastel‑painted chalets, flower‑lined balconies, and dramatic peaks all meet in one walkable, storybook setting. It’s the ideal base for travelers who want effortless access to the region’s most iconic viewpoints: Seceda, Alpe di Siusi, and the Resciesa plateau are all reachable by cable car right from town. Days here are slow and scenic — think cozy cafés, boutique shops, alpine‑modern hotels, and evenings spent wandering a pedestrian‑only center that glows under the mountains. Ortisei blends Italian warmth with Alpine calm, making it a dreamy home base for hikers, spa lovers, and anyone craving a soft‑adventure escape in the Dolomites.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Ortisei is June through September for warm weather, clear trails, and the most cinematic Dolomite views. Spring and fall offer quieter paths and cooler temps, while winter transforms the town into a dreamy ski destination — but summer is when the lifts, meadows, and iconic viewpoints are at their most accessible and breathtaking.
Where to stay:
Giardin Boutique Hotel B&B
3-Star Hotel
Giardin Boutique Hotel B&B is a highly-rated, chic boutique hotel located in Selva di Val Gardena, Italy, set in a hillside chalet-style property just a minute's walk from a ski lift and 50 meters from the SS 242 superstrada.
The hotel features warm Alpine-style rooms with knotty-wood decor, balconies, minibars, and free Wi-Fi, with upgraded options offering sitting areas and Nespresso machines. Guests can enjoy a refined breakfast buffet, a cozy bar, and a reclaimed-wood spa equipped with a Finnish sauna and hot tub, alongside a fitness room.
Diamant Spa Resort
4-Star Hotel
Diamant Spa Resort Hotel is a 4Superior Star hotel located in Santa Cristina Valgardena in the heart of the Dolomites, Italy. The property features a 2,000 m² spa and wellness area, including both indoor and outdoor heated pools, a sauna, steam room, and fitness center.
Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa
5-Star Hotel
The Dolomites are home to lodges of all descriptions, from quaint old wooden contraptions to ultra-modern eco-lodges. But there’s nothing else quite like the Gardena Grödnerhof Gourmet & Spa Hotel. Constructed in 1923, it’s about as ornate as these things can be; a 21st-century restoration left its majestic silhouette intact, even as it updated its color palette and its interior finishes.
Its rooms and suites contain plenty of classic Alpine gestures, like exposed timbers and panels of knotty pine. They’re also equipped with modern furniture and up-to-date comforts, as well as balconies with views of the town and the valley.
The village of Ortisei, in the Val Gardena, is nothing if not picturesque, and offers easy access to the Dolomiti Superski area. In summer, the region offers a wealth of trails for hiking and biking. And travelers in any season benefit from Gardena Grödnerhof’s impressive spa.
As for restaurants, the Grödnerhof comes with two; given the setting, the hearty Restaurant Gardena would be more than adequate, but it’s joined by the MICHELIN-Starred restaurant Anna Stuben.
Things to do in Ortesi and nearby:
1. Take the Seceda Cable Car
Ride straight from town to one of the Dolomites’ most iconic ridgelines — dramatic peaks, panoramic trails, and unforgettable views.
2. Explore Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)
Europe’s largest alpine meadow, reachable by cable car from Ortisei. Soft rolling hills, wooden huts, and dreamy sunrise light.
3. Ride the Funicular to Resciesa
A quieter, scenic plateau perfect for easy walks, photo spots, and wide‑open mountain views.
4. Wander Ortisei’s Pedestrian Center
Boutiques, cafés, gelato, wine bars, and pastel‑painted chalets — the town is made for slow strolling.
5. Visit the Museum Gherdëina
Learn about Ladin culture, local history, and the region’s wood‑carving tradition.
6. Relax at a Spa Hotel
Ortisei is known for its wellness scene — saunas, pools, and mountain‑view relaxation rooms.
7. Day Trip to Santa Cristina & Selva
Neighboring Val Gardena villages with more lifts, trails, and alpine charm.
8. Hike the Adolf Munkel Trail
A nearby classic at the base of the Odle peaks — forest paths, meadows, and postcard‑perfect scenery.
9. Visit the Church of St. Ulrich
Ortisei’s landmark church with beautiful frescoes and a peaceful square.
10. Explore Val di Funes
A short drive away — home to the famous St. Magdalena church and some of the Dolomites’ most photographed landscapes.
Svolvaer, Lofoten, Norway
Svolvær is the cultural and adventure‑forward hub of the Lofoten Islands — a small coastal town wrapped in dramatic peaks, Arctic light, and that moody‑romantic atmosphere Northern Norway does so well. It’s the easiest base for exploring Lofoten, with ferry connections, scenic drives, and excursions leaving right from the harbor. Travelers come for fjord cruises, sea‑eagle safaris, cozy waterfront cabins, art galleries, and those iconic red rorbuer huts set against jagged mountains. It’s also one of the best places in Lofoten for Northern Lights in winter and midnight sun in summer, giving it year‑round appeal. Svolvær feels both rugged and welcoming — a perfect home base for soft adventure, photography, and slow Arctic wandering.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Svolvær depends on the experience you want: June–August for midnight sun, hiking, and bright Arctic days; September–March for Northern Lights, cozy winter vibes, and dramatic snowy landscapes. Summer feels expansive and golden, while winter brings that moody‑romantic Lofoten atmosphere Svolvær is known for.
Where to stay:
Anker Brygge
3-Star Hotel
Anker Brygge is a full-service hotel and rorbu (traditional fishing cabin) complex located on the island of Lamholmen in the heart of Svolvær harbor, Lofoten Islands, Norway. It offers accommodation in traditional fisherman's cottages and modern suites, along with on-site dining at Restaurant Kjøkkenet and the Bryggebaren pub.
Thon Hotel Svolvær
3-Star Hotel
Thon Hotel Svolvær is located in the heart of Lofoten, with a restaurant, gym, conference facilities and floating sauna - perfect for combining work and pleasure. The hotel offers 211 rooms, including standard doubles with Nespresso machines and larger suites with views of the Vestfjorden. Key amenities include a rooftop garden, a floating sauna complex (LYST Lofoten) with diving boards, a fitness room, and free Wi-Fi.
Thon Hotel Lofoten
4--Star Hotel
Thon Hotel Lofoten is a 4-star hotel located in Svolvær, Norway, situated directly next to the Lofoten Cultural House and close to the harbor and city center. The property features 161 rooms, including business, standard, and suite options, many of which offer views of the fjord and mountains.
Things to do in Svolvaer:
1. Sea‑Eagle Safari
A classic Lofoten experience — fast RIB boats, towering cliffs, and close‑up views of white‑tailed eagles.
2. Trollfjord Cruise
Sail into one of Norway’s most dramatic fjords, with narrow passages and sheer mountain walls.
3. Wander Svolvær Harbor
Colorful boats, cozy cafés, art galleries, and those iconic red rorbuer huts set against jagged peaks.
4. Magic Ice Bar
A fun, surreal stop — sculptures, glowing ice rooms, and Arctic‑themed cocktails.
5. Hike to Svolværgeita (or admire it from below)
The town’s famous “goat horn” peak — a bucket‑list climb for pros, a great photo stop for everyone else.
6. Visit the Lofoten War Museum
A surprisingly compelling collection of WWII artifacts and stories from the region.
7. Explore the Lofoten Glass Studio
Hand‑blown glass pieces inspired by Arctic light and sea colors.
8. Chase the Northern Lights (Sept–March)
Svolvær is one of the best bases in Lofoten for aurora tours and clear‑sky viewpoints.
9. Kayak Through the Harbor
A peaceful way to see the mountains and waterfront from the water.
10. Day Trip to Henningsvær
Karlstad, Varmland, Sweden
Värmland is one of Sweden’s most quietly beautiful regions — a place of deep forests, glassy lakes, and that soft Nordic light that makes everything feel calm and cinematic. It’s the kind of destination where you slow down without even trying. Travelers come for lakefront cabins, cozy towns, outdoor adventures, and a strong arts-and-culture scene woven through its villages.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Värmland is June through September, when the lakes are warm, the forests are lush, and the long Nordic days make outdoor exploring feel endless. Early fall (September–October) is also beautiful, with golden forests and crisp, cozy weather. Winter is peaceful and atmospheric, but summer and early autumn are when the region truly shines.
Where to stay:
Home Hotel Bilan
3-Star Hotel
Home Hotel Bilan is only 10 minutes from Karlstad Central Station and is a homely hotel with a relaxing atmosphere. From here you have walking distance to Värmland's museum, Wermland opera and the Sandgrund Lars Lerin art gallery. The hotel offers breakfast, coffee and dinner – so here you can sit back and come to rest.
Home Hotel Drott
4-Star Hotel
Home Hotel Drott is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Karlstad, Sweden, at Järnvägsgatan. Formerly known as Clarion Collection Hotel Drott, it offers 85 stylishly decorated guest rooms equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and tea/coffee makers. The hotel features a restaurant serving a complimentary buffet breakfast, a bar/lounge, a fitness center, sauna, and hot tub. It is situated within walking distance of key attractions like Stora Torget, Vänern Lake, and the Town Hall.
Elite Stadshotellet Karlstad, Hotel & Spa
4-Star Hotel
Elite Stadshotellet Karlstad is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Karlstad, Sweden, known for its historic 19th-century architecture and waterfront location near the Klarälven river. The property features a comprehensive spa and wellness center with an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness facilities, alongside a restaurant serving Swedish and bar cuisine.
Things to do in Karlstad:
1. Stroll Stora Torget & the City Center
Karlstad’s lively main square with cafés, boutiques, and that sunny, easygoing vibe the city is known for.
2. Visit Sandgrund Lars Lerin
One of Sweden’s most beloved artists — atmospheric watercolor landscapes in a beautiful riverside gallery.
3. Explore Mariebergsskogen
Karlstad’s city park: walking trails, a small beach, wildlife enclosures, cafés, and lake views. Great for slow mornings.
4. Walk Along the Klarälven River
Peaceful riverside paths, bridges, and scenic viewpoints — especially lovely at golden hour.
5. Tour Karlstad Cathedral
A bright, elegant 18th‑century cathedral with a calm, airy interior.
6. Visit Värmlands Museum
A modern, beautifully designed museum covering regional history, culture, and rotating exhibitions.
7. Relax at Vänern’s Waterfront
Lake Vänern is Europe’s third‑largest lake — think beaches, marinas, and breezy summer evenings by the water.
8. Take a Boat Tour
In summer, hop on a canal or lake cruise for a soft, scenic way to see Karlstad from the water.
9. Explore Hammarö Nearby
A short drive south — lighthouses, rocky shores, forest trails, and that quiet Nordic‑coastal feel.
10. Enjoy Karlstad’s Café Culture
The city is known for its sunny personality — perfect for fika stops, outdoor seating, and slow afternoons.
Lake Ohrid, Macdedonia
Lake Ohrid is one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes — a UNESCO World Heritage site wrapped in turquoise water, terracotta‑roofed villages, Byzantine churches, and soft mountain horizons. It’s the kind of place that feels both ancient and effortlessly peaceful, where days move slowly and everything is framed by the shimmer of the lake.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Lake Ohrid is May through September, when the lake is warm, the water is crystal‑clear, and the town comes alive with cafés, boat trips, and long golden evenings. July–August are the warmest and most vibrant, while May–June and September offer quieter streets, softer light, and perfect swimming weather without the crowds.
Where to stay:
Villa Dea
3-Star Hotel
Located near the historic center, Villa deA welcomes its visitors with warmth and hospitality that only a family residence can offer. Here, every guest is greeted with care and courtesy, with dedicated service aimed at ensuring well-being and comfort at all times.
This villa, which has belonged to a family for generations, has recently been transformed into a guesthouse with seven rooms, combining timeless elegance with modern comfort. Each space is carefully furnished, respecting the original style and creating a relaxing and refined atmosphere.
Guests of Villa deA can expect not only high-quality accommodation but also a warm and personalized welcome. Attention to detail, the courtesy of the staff, and the desire to create a unique experience are at the heart of our hospitality.
Villa Varosh
4-Star Hotel
Villa Varosh is a highly-rated 4-star apartment complex located in the old town of Ohrid, North Macedonia, offering a "home away from home" experience with modern amenities and central access. Situated just 600 yards from the Early Christian Basilica and an 8-minute walk from Port Ohrid, it provides convenient access to major lakeside attractions while maintaining a quiet atmosphere.
Villa & Winery Mal Sveti Kliment
4-Star Hotel
Villa & Winery Mal Sveti Kliment, is an exclusive and privately owned Bed & Breakfast and boutique winery, located near the entrance of the old city of Ohrid called Lower Gate. In a quiet alley away from the traffic but just 50 to 100 steps from the lake and the most exclusive cafés and restaurants, the villa offers the perfect opportunity to explore the old city on foot and be close to shops, restaurants and even beaches.
They also feature a breakfast room and wine bar in a traditional stone design, where guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet as well as award winning wines.
Things to do at Lake Ohrid:
1. Visit St. John at Kaneo
The iconic cliff‑top church overlooking turquoise water — the most cinematic viewpoint on the lake.
2. Wander Ohrid’s Old Town
Stone lanes, lakeside cafés, terracotta roofs, and a soft, historic glow at golden hour.
3. Walk the Kaneo Boardwalk
A wooden path hugging the cliffs — peaceful, scenic, and perfect for slow mornings.
4. Explore Samuel’s Fortress
Climb the ancient walls for sweeping views over the lake and mountains.
5. Swim at Potpesh Beach
A tiny, charming beach right below the old town — clear water and a relaxed vibe.
6. Boat Trip to the Monastery of St. Naum
A dreamy ride along the shoreline to a lakeside monastery surrounded by springs and peacocks.
7. Visit the Bay of Bones Museum
A reconstructed prehistoric stilt village floating above crystal‑clear water.
8. Explore the Springs at Sveti Naum
Take a small rowboat through emerald‑green springs feeding the lake — quiet, magical, and serene.
9. Wander the Ohrid Promenade
Shops, gelato, sunset views, and that warm Mediterranean‑Balkan atmosphere.
10. Discover Struga
A calmer lakeside town on the western shore — riverfront cafés, beaches, and a slower pace.
Bacharach, Germany
Bacharach is one of the Rhine Valley’s most enchanting towns — a pastel‑painted medieval village tucked between steep vineyards and the shimmering Rhine. It feels like stepping into a storybook: half‑timbered houses, cobblestone lanes, castle ruins above the town, and river views that glow at golden hour. It’s small, walkable, and wonderfully atmospheric, making it an ideal base for exploring the Upper Middle Rhine UNESCO region.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Bacharach is May through September, when vineyards are green, river cruises are running, and the town feels warm, lively, and romantic. May–June and September are especially lovely for softer light, fewer crowds, and ideal hiking weather, while July–August bring the warmest days and the most activity along the Rhine.
Where to stay:
HOTEL AM MARKT
3-Star Hotel
Hotel am Markt Bacharach (also known as Hotel Dettmar) is a 3-star family-run hotel located in the historic center of Bacharach, Germany, just steps from the market square and the Rhine River embankment.
Established in 1900, the hotel is housed in historic buildings and offers 13 rooms with views of the mountains or the town.
Altkölnischer Hof
3-Star Hotel
Hotel Restaurant Altkölnischer Hof is a 3-star superior family-run hotel and restaurant located in the heart of Bacharach, Germany, within the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley. It is a historic half-timbered house situated directly on the market square (Marktplatz), offering a terrace for guests, and is approximately a 6-minute walk from the Bacharach train station.
Burghotel Auf Schönburg
4-Star Hotel
Burghotel Auf Schönburg is a 4-star hotel and restaurant located within a historic castle in Oberwesel, Germany, offering medieval atmosphere, gourmet cuisine, and views of the Rhine Valley.
The hotel features 25 rooms and suites with traditional, romantic décor, many including balconies or terraces with Rhine views. Amenities include complimentary minibars, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi in most rooms. The on-site restaurant serves German, European, and Central European cuisine, with dining options available in elegant indoor areas or on scenic terraces.
Things to do in Bacharah:
1. Wander the Old Town
Half‑timbered houses, cobblestone lanes, pastel facades, and that storybook‑medieval charm at every turn.
2. Climb to Stahleck Castle
A short uphill walk to panoramic Rhine views. Even if you’re not staying there, the lookout is worth it.
3. Walk the Town Walls
A scenic, slightly hidden path along Bacharach’s medieval fortifications — quiet, atmospheric, and great for photos.
4. Visit the Wernerkapelle Ruins
Gothic stone arches open to the sky — haunting, romantic, and one of the most iconic spots in town.
5. Take a Rhine River Cruise
Sail past vineyards, castles, and steep cliffs. Bacharach is one of the prettiest departure points on the Rhine.
6. Wine Tasting in Local Weingüter
Riesling country at its best — intimate tastings, family‑run wineries, and vineyard views.
7. Hike the Rheinsteig Trail
A gorgeous section of the long‑distance trail passes right above Bacharach with sweeping river panoramas.
8. Explore Nearby Towns
Easy day trips to St. Goar, Boppard, Rüdesheim, and the legendary Lorelei rock.
9. Sunset at the Riverfront
Golden light, quiet benches, and pastel reflections on the Rhine — simple, dreamy, perfect.
10. Browse Local Shops & Cafés
Small boutiques, wine bars, and cozy cafés tucked into medieval buildings.
Dinant, Belgium
Dinant is one of Belgium’s most dramatic little towns — a narrow ribbon of colorful buildings pressed between the Meuse River and towering limestone cliffs. It feels instantly cinematic: saxophones lining the bridge (a tribute to Adolphe Sax, who was born here), a cliff‑top citadel watching over the town, and the onion‑domed Collegiate Church rising right from the rock face.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Dinant is May through September, when the Meuse River is lively, the weather is warm, and boat cruises, castle visits, and outdoor cafés are all in full swing. May–June and September are especially lovely for softer light, fewer crowds, and ideal walking weather, while July–August bring the warmest days and the most activity along the waterfront.
Where to stay:
Au Gres De Vents
Au Gré des Vents is a guesthouse and holiday rental located in the village of Furfooz, just outside Dinant, Belgium. The property occupies an 18th-century restored farmhouse that blends authentic rustic charm with modern comfort.
The interior design is characterized by colorful decor and the preservation of the building's old-world character, including features like a pellet wood stove in the breakfast room. Guests staying in the holiday gîtes benefit from private entrances and private terraces or small gardens. The accommodations are described as spacious and well-fitted, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by the greenery of the Dinant countryside.
ibis Dinant Centre
3-Star Hotel
Put your bags down and relax at ibis hotel in Dinant, located in the heart of this pretty town, birthplace of Adolphe Sax, inventor of the saxophone. Close to historic center, the hotel is on the banks of the Meuse, a short walk to bars, restaurants, and Casino de Dinant. Enjoy our hotel bar serving snacks 24 hours a day, and free Wi-Fi for business trips. A public parking lot is 50m from the hotel.
Thanks to its central location, the hotel is ideally situated to discover the city's tourist riches.
Castel de Pont-à-Lesse
3-Star Hotel
Castel de Pont-à-Lesse is a 3-star hotel located in Dinant, Belgium, situated in a former château surrounded by 25 hectares of natural parkland near the Lesse River. The property features 91 rooms, an indoor pool, sauna, restaurant, and conference facilities.
Things to do in Dinant:
1. Ride the Cable Car to the Citadel
Soar up the cliffside for sweeping Meuse River views and a dramatic look at Dinant from above.
2. Visit the Collegiate Church of Notre‑Dame
That iconic onion‑domed silhouette pressed against the limestone cliffs — atmospheric inside and out.
3. Walk the Charles de Gaulle Bridge
Lined with colorful saxophones honoring Adolphe Sax (born in Dinant). A fun, whimsical photo moment.
4. Tour the Maison Adolphe Sax
A tiny but charming museum dedicated to the inventor of the saxophone — quick, quirky, and very Dinant.
5. Cruise the Meuse River
Soft, scenic boat rides that show off the cliffs, castles, and riverside villages from the water.
6. Explore the Citadel Grounds
Panoramic terraces, historic exhibits, and cliff‑top paths with some of the best views in the Meuse Valley.
7. Visit the Rocher Bayard
A dramatic split rock formation just south of town — a quick stop with a great storybook feel.
8. Day Trip to Château de Freÿr
A riverside Renaissance château with terraced gardens and orange trees — elegant, peaceful, and very photogenic.
9. Kayak the Lesse River
A classic Ardennes activity — gentle rapids, forested banks, and a fun way to explore the region.
10. Wander Dinant’s Riverside Promenade
Cafés, pastel reflections on the water, and that golden‑hour glow when the cliffs light up.
Pienza, Italy
Pienza is the dreamiest hill town in the Val d’Orcia — a Renaissance jewel overlooking rolling golden fields, cypress‑lined roads, and that soft Tuscan haze that feels straight out of a film. It’s small, elegant, and impossibly scenic, with every lane opening to another postcard‑worthy view.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Pienza is May–June and September–October, when the Val d’Orcia is glowing, the temperatures are warm but gentle, and the landscapes look straight out of a Renaissance painting.
Where to stay:
La Bandita Townhouse
3-Star Hotel
La Bandita Townhouse is a boutique hotel and restaurant located in Pienza, Tuscany, and is a member of Design Hotels™. The property features 12 air-conditioned rooms and suites, including Standard Double, Superior Double, and Junior Suite options.
The on-site restaurant is highly rated for its creative Tuscan and Mediterranean cuisine, offering dishes such as pork belly, ravioli with foie gras, black truffle pasta, and rabbit with pistachio terrine.
Castello di Spedaletto
4-Star Hotel
A small paradise on the Tuscans hills in which nothing is left to chance, an unforgettable experience, in the heart of the Orcia Valley, just a few minutes away from Pienza….Let yourself be conquered by Laura’s kindness, by Luchino’s helpfulness, by Palmina’s cooking experience and by Amedeos’ mill. The Agriturismo Castello di Spedaletto is situated inside the organic farm of our family, between Pienza and Monticchiello – a panoramic and central position to visit the beauties of the Orcia Valley.
Casa Newton
5-Star Hotel
On first look, Casa Newton looks like a textbook Tuscan fantasy. And while this countryside estate-turned-boutique hotel has all the trappings — set amid the rolling green landscapes of the Val d’Orcia and enclosed by old stone walls, the property is dotted with olive groves, fragrant herb gardens, and scenic vineyards — it’s a stylish upgrade from the standard agriturismo.
Everything from the crimson-hued country house to the stone-lined pool deck, now shaded by vintage-inspired, bubble gum-pink parasols, has been reimagined with mid-century modern flair. Rooms are hip but down-to-earth with exposed beams, colorful patterned wallpaper, and original artwork by contemporary Italian artists; a pair of suites in restored farm buildings nearby have private garden terraces. A pair of farm-to-table restaurants and an on-site winery add to the appeal, and guests are encouraged to enjoy their late afternoon aperitivi anywhere on the grounds.
Things to do in Pienza:
1. Stroll the Historic Center
Honey‑toned stone lanes, Renaissance architecture, and that soft Tuscan glow at every turn.
2. Visit Piazza Pio II
A perfectly proportioned Renaissance square — harmonious, elegant, and the heart of Pienza.
3. Step Inside the Pienza Cathedral
Light, airy, and beautifully symmetrical. The views from behind the cathedral are iconic.
4. Walk the Panoramic Walls (Via dell’Amore)
A dreamy path overlooking rolling fields, cypress lines, and the golden Val d’Orcia.
5. Taste Pienza’s Famous Pecorino
Visit small cheese shops for aged, truffle, or fresh pecorino — the town’s signature flavor.
6. Explore Palazzo Piccolomini
Terraced gardens and sweeping views that feel straight out of a Renaissance painting.
7. Wander to the Pieve di Corsignano
A simple, ancient Romanesque church just outside town — peaceful and atmospheric.
8. Drive the Iconic Val d’Orcia Roads
Cypress‑lined lanes, rolling hills, and cinematic viewpoints — perfect for golden‑hour photography.
9. Day Trip to Montepulciano or Montalcino
Wine towns just minutes away — ideal for tastings, long lunches, and vineyard views.
10. Sunset Over the Valley
Find a quiet overlook and watch the hills shift from gold to rose to blue.
Kent, England
Kent — often called “The Garden of England” — is a soft, pastoral stretch of southeast England filled with orchards, vineyards, chalk‑white cliffs, and some of the country’s most beautiful historic homes and gardens. It’s where rolling farmland meets the sea, where medieval villages sit beside grand castles, and where literary history and romantic landscapes blend effortlessly.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Kent is May–September, when the gardens are in bloom, the countryside is lush, and coastal towns feel lively and sun‑washed.
Where to stay:
Duke of Cumberland
3-Star Hotel
This historic pub with rooms, which dates back to 1867, boasts a prominent position at the top of the High Street. It has recently undergone an extensive transformation, retaining its unique character while introducing a stylish look and feel.
Enjoy a seaside break with a difference in one of its eight stunning boutique bedrooms, each with its own unique style and character.
Marine Hotel
4-Star Hotel
Promising spectacular sea views and blissful relaxation, The Marine Hotel in Whitstable is a truly special setting for dinner and drinks or a luxurious weekend break. The stunning boutique bedrooms here provide some of the finest places to stay in Whitstable - and with the beach almost on the doorstep, there’s no better base for a coastal Kent getaway.
Cave Hotel & Golf Resort (6 miles from Whitstable Harbor)
5-Star Hotel
The Cave Hotel & Golf Resort is a luxury accommodation and golf venue located in Boughton-under-Blean, near Faversham, Kent. Situated on 167 acres of countryside with views of the Kentish North Downs, the property features a 41-room hotel, two golf courses, and a driving range.
The resort is designed as a modern sanctuary inspired by the primal comfort of ancient caves, featuring sleek design and rich interiors.
Things to do in Whitstable and nearby:
1. Wander Harbour Street
Indie boutiques, pastel shopfronts, bookshops, and cafés — Whitstable at its most charming.
2. Eat Oysters by the Sea
Whitstable is famous for its oysters. The Royal Native Oyster Stores and Wheelers Oyster Bar are the classics.
3. Walk the Beachfront Promenade
Shingle beaches, colorful beach huts, and that soft, hazy coastal light. Perfect for golden hour.
4. Explore Whitstable Harbour
Fishing boats, seafood stalls, and a lively weekend atmosphere. Great for photos and fresh seafood.
5. Visit the Old Neptune Pub (“The Neppy”)
An iconic pub right on the beach — sunset drinks with waves at your feet.
6. Cycle or Walk the Crab & Winkle Way
A scenic trail connecting Whitstable to Canterbury through woods and countryside.
7. Browse the Harbour Market
Local makers, artists, and food stalls in a cozy, creative setting.
8. Take a Boat Trip to the Maunsell Sea Forts
Atmospheric WWII sea forts rising from the water — eerie, cinematic, unforgettable.
Daytrips nearby:
Herne Bay (10 minutes)
Canterbury (20 minutes)
Faversham (15 minutes)
Margate (30 minutes)
Corfu, Greece
Corfu is one of Greece’s most lush, romantic, and Venetian‑influenced islands, floating in the turquoise Ionian Sea off the country’s northwest coast. It feels softer and greener than the Cyclades — cypress‑studded hills, pastel villages, olive groves that glow at golden hour, and hidden coves wrapped in emerald water.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Corfu is May–June and September–October, when the island is lush, the sea is warm, and the light feels soft and cinematic.
Where to stay:
Acanthus Blue
3-Star Hotel
Acanthus Blue is a highly-rated boutique hotel located in Corfu Town (Garitsa area), Greece. It is known for its intimate size, garden-like atmosphere, and excellent on-site restaurant and bar. The property includes a garden, terrace, restaurant (serving sushi and other cuisine), bar, and offers amenities like WLAN, air conditioning, and massage services.
Grecotel Daphnila Bay
4-Star Hotel
Grecotel Daphnila Bay is a luxury all-inclusive resort located in Dassia, Corfu, Greece, situated on the exclusive Kommeno Peninsula. The property is designed to blend into the landscape, tumbling down a green hillside overlooking Dassia Bay and the Ionian Sea, surrounded by mature olive and cypress trees.
The resort offers an all-inclusive experience that includes unlimited meals at five restaurants, unlimited drinks, and access to the Aqua Park at the neighboring Grecotel Costa Botanica. It also features a Blue Flag awarded sandy beach, multiple pools including a seawater indoor semi-covered heated pool, and extensive sports facilities such as tennis and paddle courts.
Take advantage of a free breakfast buffet, a beach bar, and a poolside bar at Grecotel Daphnila Bay. This property is a great place to bask in the sun with a private beach, beachfront dining, and beach massages. For some rest and relaxation, visit the sauna or Turkish bath/hammam, and indulge in aromatherapy, hydrotherapy, or a facial. At the 4 on-site restaurants, enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, kids' meals, and international cuisine. The health club offers fitness classes and yoga classes; other things to do include beach yoga, archery, and ecotours. In addition to a grocery/convenience store and a terrace, guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.
Domes Miramare Corfu
5-Star Hotel
None of the Greek islands are particularly unsightly, but even among such gems, Corfu stands out. And equally easy on the eyes is Domes Miramare, a modernist hotel that was originally constructed in the Sixties for the Onassis family. And after a thorough yet sensitive renovation — its original mid-century style is perhaps more fashionable than ever — it’s back in business under Mariott’s Luxury Collection banner.
It’s also back to its status as one of Greece’s most prestigious hotels. Its adults-only policy goes a long way towards maintaining an atmosphere of refinement, and the new interiors, by designer Kristina Zanic, will have you reaching for your most flattering resort wear. The rooms, suites, and villas vary in size and in views but are uniformly extravagant — though they’re visually restrained, their comforts are second to none.
Domes Miramare has a rare private beach, a pair of pools with corresponding pool bars, and the Soma Spa, featuring products by Elemis and Codage Paris. A pair of restaurants, Makris and 1962, serve elevated Mediterranean and Corfiot fare under the guidance of the Michelin-starred chef Tassos Mantis. And while it won’t be easy to tear yourself away from the hotel’s comforts, the rest of Corfu awaits — you’re 20 minutes from town via the hotel’s own yacht.
Things to do on Corfu:
1. Wander Corfu Town (Kerkyra)
UNESCO‑listed, Venetian‑influenced, pastel‑toned. Lose yourself in narrow lanes, arcaded squares, and soft golden light.
2. Explore the Old Fortress
Panoramic sea views, dramatic stone walls, and a gorgeous lookout over Corfu Town.
3. Visit Paleokastritsa
Emerald coves, turquoise water, dramatic cliffs — Corfu at its most cinematic. Perfect for swimming, boat trips, and photography.
4. Hike to Porto Timoni
A double‑bay viewpoint that feels like a postcard come to life. Short hike, huge payoff.
5. Boat Day to Hidden Coves
Rent a small boat from Paleokastritsa or Kassiopi and explore caves, coves, and quiet beaches only accessible by water.
6. Visit Achilleion Palace
A neoclassical palace built for Empress Elisabeth of Austria. Terraces, statues, and sweeping Ionian views.
7. Explore Kassiopi
A charming harbor village with tavernas, beaches, and a relaxed, upscale vibe.
8. Sunset in Pelekas
One of the island’s most beautiful sunset viewpoints — soft, hazy, golden.
9. Drive the Mountain Villages
Lakones, Old Perithia, and Sokraki offer stone houses, quiet squares, and panoramic views.
10. Taste Corfiot Cuisine
Try sofrito, pastitsada, bourdeto, and the island’s signature kumquat liqueur.
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