Holiday 2021 - Rediscover Europe, away from the crowds

Already have a travel destination in mind? Admittedly, 2021 hasn't turned out the way we imagined. Flights have been canceled, travelers have to spend half of their vacation in quarantine or aren't allowed to enter the country at all. Nevertheless, we're drawn abroad again. But where can you enjoy your summer vacation with a clear conscience? We've compiled our top travel destinations in Europe for you. The best part? Fewer crowds and maximum relaxation! Have fun...

1. Lofoten Islands, Norway

At Norway's northernmost point, a green lung of 80 islands stretches across turbulent waters. The Lofoten Islands – Here, visitors encounter enchanting nature and rough seas. This diverse country, with its high mountains, deep fjords, and vast azure beaches, offers a magical experience for all nature lovers. Despite its location in the far north, mild temperatures can be enjoyed, especially in summer. The islands are worth a visit at any time of year, as natural phenomena such as the Northern Lights can only be admired from mid- to late August. In addition to this natural spectacle, a variety of activities are offered on the islands. For example, hikes or mountaineering tours (of varying difficulty levels) can be booked. If that's not for you, you can also book romantic horseback riding tours along the beach or follow in the footsteps of the Vikings in one of the many museums. In addition to exploring the country, you can also discover the secret depths of the sea. For example, you can go whale-watching by boat, snorkel in the Arctic Circle, or surf the waves.

2. Cornwall, England

Cornwall is a peninsula located on the Celtic Sea at the southwestern tip of England. In contrast to the typical English weather, the area boasts a rather mild climate. The area's history is rich and varied, dating back to the Celts and the Romans, and thus, it features common relics such as burial mounds, stone circles, and other Roman artifacts. Medieval castles and palaces like St. Michael's Mount invite you to a romantic journey of discovery. St. Michael's Mount, the symbol of Cornwall, rises out of the sea off the coast. At low tide, the island lies like a mirage in the glittering desert, and at high tide, it seems inaccessible. However, a causeway was built as a precaution, allowing easy access to the island from the mainland. In addition to its historical wealth, Cornwall attracts visitors with its stunning bays, steep cliffs, idyllic fishing villages, and Caribbean beaches. The artists' village of St. Ives, for example, offers a long sandy beach with turquoise water and fascinating art galleries, cafes and gardens that invite you to explore.

3. Mostar, Bosnia Herzegovina

This holiday destination is often underestimated, yet it is such a diverse country. It offers magnificent natural spectacles, idyllic beaches directly on the Adriatic Sea, and historic cities and ruins. In the capital, Sarajevo, you can explore the country's exciting and dark history, as well as large shopping centers, museums, theaters, and trendy cafés. Or cross the Stari Most Bridge in Mostar's old town. It symbolically represents the bridge between Christianity and Islam. The Kravice Waterfalls, among others, provide a cooling alternative to the city. As temperatures often climb above 40 degrees Celsius in summer, this oasis is usually a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. Another equally beautiful alternative is the Pilva Waterfall. Once you've had enough of cooling off, you can explore the ruins of Počitelj, surrounded by mountains. The remains of the fortress stretch across several hills, offering stunning views of the ruins and the surrounding area.

4. Costa Nova, Portugal

Colorful Portugal. The colorful fishermen's houses on the Costa Nova will likely no longer be an insider tip for much longer. This unique view invites you to take photos and thus Instagram pictures. As aesthetically pleasing as these huts look today, in the eighth century they were purely functional. The fishermen didn't paint the wood colorfully because it looked good, but so that the houses could be easily distinguished from the beach from the water and thus made them more recognizable. These brilliant white beaches provide the perfect foundation for sun-tanned skin. In addition to a beach holiday, you can also visit the city of Aveiro, also known as the "Venice of Portugal." Just 12 km from the coast, it invites you to take boat trips in colorful Moliceiros boats through the small canals, stroll through the winding alleys, and sample the local delicacies. So pack your leather bag and go!

5. Gibraltar, Spain

We continue on to Spain. On the peninsula in southern Spain, north of the Strait of Gibraltar, lies the British overseas territory of Gibraltar. There, "The Rock" rises 426 m above the land. Interspersed with natural caves, it served as a refuge for Neanderthals over 28,000 years ago. Remains of this period can still be admired today in Gorham's Cave. Shells, knife blades, scrapers, and the remains of marine animals have been found. The stalactite cave St. Michael's Cave also offers an impressive view into the interior of the mountain. For a view from high above, you can visit the various viewpoints on the Rock (also known as Monkey Rock). There you will find, among other things, Gibraltar's attraction – free-roaming Barbary macaques. The city is also worth a visit. In addition to many restaurants, cafés, and cultural events, interesting details about the history of the Rock can be discovered by visiting the Gibraltar Museum.

6. Bruges, Belgium

Surrounded by romantic canals, Bruges' city center is affectionately known as the "Venice of the North." Here, too, you'll find unique architecture, lovingly decorated mailboxes, and colorful window frames and doors. It's a great alternative to overcrowded Venice. In addition to your eyes, your taste buds will also be delighted by delicious Belgian chocolate, pralines, and traditional beer brewing. One thing's for sure: this vacation won't be boring! Boat trips through the charming canals, shopping tours through the picturesque old town, overnight stays in a uniquely restored guesthouse, and carriage rides through the medieval alleys. For a change from the city, the sea in Zeebrugge is just 15 km away. There, weather permitting, you can work on your summer tan, go swimming, or walk up and down the mudflats.

7. Sofia, Bulgaria

When you think of a holiday in Bulgaria, the first thing that comes to mind are the beaches on the Black Sea. But does the capital Sofia offer so much more? Historical buildings not far from Sofia, such as the Belogradchik Fortress in the northwest, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral or the colorful Rila Monastery in the mountains, offer all history buffs impressive insights into times gone by. The city center is bursting with ancient buildings and invites you to explore. After adventures in the mountains, the city can be explored. How about a little shopping trip? Or would you rather visit a museum? In the evening, the question arises: "Where should we go to party now?" That's right... the library! Sofia's youth go to the National Library to drink, dance and hang out. The club there is called "Once upon a time Blbliotheka" and every summer opens its doors to a romantic park for all its guests.

8. Setenil de las bodegas, Spain

White houses hidden in a rocky valley. As if carved from stone, the houses nestle into the cliffs in northern Cádiz. The cleft was created by the Guadalporcún River. The city lies on the famous "Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos of the Province of Cádiz" and can be connected to the more popular towns by a circular tour. But be careful, some streets are so narrow that it is difficult to navigate by car. Therefore, it is best to explore the city on foot. The small town is not only the perfect photo location, but also offers old Moorish castle ruins, Gothic churches, and a 16th-century town hall. Hidden cafés and restaurants invite you to take a leisurely break and offer the opportunity to sample various specialties.

9. Verdon Grand Canyon, France

The Caribbean meets the Grand Canyon. A turquoise river winds its way through the Verdon Gorge, 250 to 700 meters deep. A true natural experience that won't soon be forgotten. Called the Grand Canyon of France by some, it offers an unforgettable swimming, climbing, and hiking adventure. Mountain roads offer incredible views, reservoirs invite relaxing bathing, and small rock villages invite you to stroll. A perfect stopover on your Provence trip. The nearby idyllic village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is one of the most beautiful places in Provence. Stroll through narrow streets, visit aesthetic stone houses, and marvel at the mountain stream. If you're planning a vacation in Provence, don't miss the lavender fields. They bloom from early June to mid-August.

10. Kornati Islands, Croatia

If you want to plan a vacation completely cut off from the crowds, the Kornati Islands in Croatia are probably the best solution for you. They extend over 150 islands and reefs that are waiting to be explored. The Kornati Islands are located in Dalmatia off the coast of Zadar. The bright, barren islands create an unreal contrast to the blue Adriatic Sea and seem to have come from another planet. For a spectacular panoramic view of the islands, you should definitely visit the Vrata Opata viewpoint. The ruins of the Tureta Fort date back to late antiquity and, in addition to a beautiful view, offer remains to be seen. In the evening, the restaurants entice visitors with fresh fish and delicious wine. Swimming is a must on these islands. Many romantic bays lead to the water. Another natural phenomenon are the "crowns," steep cliffs formed by erosion. The largest are located on the islands of Mana, Klobučar and Rašip Veli.

11. Ostuni, Italy

Not so unknown anymore is the town of Otsuni, la "Città bianca," the white town in Apulia. Here you'll experience full Italian flair with its small, hidden alleys, romantic architecture, and excellent Italian wine and olive oil. The town is situated on three hills in the province of Brindisi and offers a fantastic view of the surrounding olive groves. In addition to many shopping opportunities, the town offers a cathedral with magnificent rose windows and panoramic roads around the town. A cultural highlight is the annual "Cavalcata di Sant'Oronzo" festival commemorating the town's patron saint, St. Oronzo, which takes place between August 25th and 27th. Since Otsuni is not far from the coast, there are many beaches and bays in the area. The "Lido Morelli" beach offers fine, light sand, perfect for a swim or a tanning adventure.

We hope we were able to give you some ideas for your summer vacation and wish you lots of fun!

Your myBagFactory team