Inspiration – Page 5

Pinkish flowers in the foreground with the sandy Praia do Camilo in Portugal surrounded by jagged golden cliffs in the middle ground leading to blue ocean

10 Most Magnificent Beaches in Europe

Written by Iulian Milcomete on February 3, 2021. Posted in Inspiration.

You don’t need the Caribbean in order to have a sun-soaked beach getaway. While Europe is often most lauded for its cuisine and culture, it also boasts countless stretches of dreamy coastline. These are the ten best beaches in Europe to make a splash or kick back and let the waves be your gentle soundtrack, all with their own signature scenery.

© Lucianbolca | Dreamstime.com

1) Myrtos Beach – Kefalonia, Greece

The Ionian Islands are known for their spectacular beaches, and Kefalonia’s Myrtos Beach is often hailed as the best of in all of Greece. Spend the day lounging on the pebbly shore or taking a dip in the electric blue waters, before heading up to one of the viewpoints to watch the sunset over the horseshoe of rocky cliffs surrounding the beach.

© Tagstiles | Dreamstime.com

2) Scialara Beach – Puglia, Italy

Hallmarked by its giant stone monolith, known as “Pizzomunno”, and matching white cliffs, Scialara Beach in Puglia easily stands out from the other best beaches in Europe. In addition to being mythical and incredibly picturesque, the long stretch of flat, shallow shoreline is perfect for a leisurely walk on the beach. And although it’s located in Italy, the legend of how Pizzomunno was formed sounds more like one of the many tragic love stories in Greek mythology. The story goes that Pizzomunno was a target of the sirens who stayed true to his lover, Cristalda, and never gave into their temptation. In retribution, the sirens pulled Cristalda down to her death in the depths of the sea and transformed Pizzomunno into the monolith found there today.

© Daliu80 | Dreamstime.com

3) Praia do Camilo – Algarve, Portugal

Climbing down 200 steps with the knowledge that you’ll have to make a return trip eventually may not sound like the greatest start to a day on the beach, but Portugal’s Praia do Camilo is well worth the workout. It doesn’t hurt that you’ll have an amazing view the whole way down. Praia do Camilo is exemplary of the wondrous rock formations that have brought the Algarve region so much attention, with pillars and archways as golden as the sand between your toes.

© Toldiu74 | Dreamstime.com

4) Chia Beach – Sardinia, Italy

South Sardinia is comprised of one gorgeous beach after another, but Chia Beach proves itself as one of the best. The fine sands and crystal waters speckled with greenery look more like something you’d expect out of the Caribbean than one of the best beaches in Europe. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some flamingos or dolphins nearby.

© Elgreko74 | Dreamstime.com

5) Voidokilia Beach – Peloponnese, Greece

Voidokilia Beach is one for the nature lovers. Though the gentle waves and soft sand are alluring enough, its location might be its most standout feature. The beach sits on a narrow strip of land bordered on one side by Voidokilia Bay, and on the other side by Gialova Lagoon, a natural habitat for over 270 species of birds and reptiles. Located in Pilos of the Peloponnese, Voidokilia Bay is also believed to be the “sandy Pylos” mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey.

© Thomas Dutour | Dreamstime.com

6) Playa de Ondarreta – San Sebastian, Spain

As the smaller strip of sandy coast lining the stellar Concha Bay, Playa de Ondarreta is the more tranquil counterpart to popular Playa de La Concha. Families often favor Ondarreta for its wealth of activities, from playgrounds to kayak rentals. If you wish to visit both, it’s easy to hop between the two through the short tunnel lined with nautical artwork that connects them. The paradise found in tight proximity to downtown San Sebastian, Spain is what leads these to be considered two of the best urban beaches in Europe.

© Vitalii Mamchuk | Dreamstime.com

7) Balos Beach – Crete, Greece

Not only is Balos Beach a sight to be had as it spans the gap from mainland Crete to the Tigani Peninsula, but the lagoon also provides ideal conditions for a beach day in Greece. The sand is soft, perfect for laying out a towel, and the water is warm and welcoming. And no matter if you choose to reach the beach by the short hike in from the car park or by ferry, you will be provided with amazing views of this truly unique space.

© Pod666 | Dreamstime.com

8) Porthcurno Beach – Cornwall, United Kingdom

When people think of the best beaches in Europe, the United Kingdom doesn’t often come to mind. But Porthcurno Beach is paradise in a land known for dreary weather, with its white sands, turquoise waters and granite cliffs. Finish out a relaxing day on the beach with a quick trip up to the Minack Theatre, carved into the cliffs and home of fantastic views of Porthcurno Bay.

© Biletskiy | Dreamstime.com

9) Zlatni Rat – Brac, Croatia

Coupled with unbelievably blue waters, Zlatni Rat’s unique v-shape formed by sea and wind currents makes it stand out among the array of outstanding beaches speckled throughout Croatia. The same conditions that formed Zlatni Rat are also constantly changing its form, albeit very slowly. If you’re looking to spend your day doing more than just lounging, this is also one of the best beaches in Europe to try snorkeling or windsurfing.

© Eva Bocek | Dreamstime.com

10) Palombaggia – Corsica, France

Found in the sea between France and Italy, the island of Corsica is famous for its clear waters and luscious sands. Among a multitude of beaches, Palombaggia is often considered a step above. The diverse terrain splashed with pine trees and reddish rocks makes for a very photogenic environment, and the warm, shallow waters are perfect for a light swim or some snorkeling.

Featured image: © Marius Dorin Balate | Dreamstime.com

Bright pink peonies in Jardin de Los Frailes growing along the stone wall of San Lorenzo de El Escorial

Jardin de Los Frailes, Spain: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on February 1, 2021. Posted in Adventure, Inspiration, Spain.

The town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is most known for its royal monastery, built under the reign of King Philip II, who also wanted it to serve as a palace and a burial place for his father. Construction took over twenty years with multiple additions made along the way, adding up to the massive structure that soars out of the mountains. Since 1984, both the monastery and much of its surrounding territory has been a UNESCO World Heritage site. While the inside of the monastery is famed for its Renaissance art and awe-inspiring library, the Jardin de Los Frailes that lines the outside is equally stunning.

Hedges carved in maze-like patterns are spread around this garden, offering fantastic views of not only the monastery, but also of Madrid’s sprawling Sierra de Guadarrama. For a pop of color in late spring and early summer, bright pink peonies bloom along the stone walls and blue pools of water reflect the sunny Spanish sky. Tours can sometimes crowd the inside of the monastery, but the Jardin de Los Frailes doesn’t suffer the same problem, as many groups skip over the outside areas almost entirely. Free to enter, the garden is quiet and spacious, with an ideal landscape that masterfully blends architecture and nature.

Rear view of a young couple sitting on a ledge with their arms wrapped around each other, overlooking Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea

3 Croatia Honeymoon Destinations

Written by Iulian Milcomete on January 28, 2021. Posted in Croatia, Inspiration.

While parts of Croatia have begun to take off as travel hotspots, overall it continues to fly under the radar as a coastal paradise speckled with awe-inspiring fortresses. The allure of this underrated honeymoon spot knows no bounds. Whether you prefer to spend time together lounging on a beach or touring charming old towns, these Croatia honeymoon destinations have you covered. To top it all off, you’ll be able to end each night with a romantic dinner over some of the best wine and seafood in the Mediterranean.

© Scott Jones | Dreamstime.com

1) Mainland Dalmatia

The mainland of Croatia’s Dalmatia region is home to some of the country’s most popular destinations, such as Dubrovnik and Split. These cities skyrocketed to fame after they were featured as filming locations for Game of Thrones, and they’ve continued to entice visitors with the charm of signature red-roofed buildings and shimmering blue waters. It’s the perfect place to cap off a wedding that was, hopefully, not very red. Dip your toes in along golden shores or charter a yacht for the day and skim along the waves to the Elaphiti Islands.

When you want to escape the bustle of a city, you can venture to the Peljesac peninsula for local wine tastings and delightfully fresh meals in tiny fishing villages. If you’re a fan of oysters, they’re a must-try delicacy here. While this area could be easily summarized in a day trip, it’s worth spending a couple of nights to thoroughly explore the quieter scenery, whether that means strolling along fortress walls or tucking yourselves away in secluded coves of pebbly beaches. For the couple itching for an outdoors adventure, consider conquering the summit of Sveti Ilija together. From here you not only will be able to take in the many islands of Croatia spread out below, but if it’s a clear enough day you may also see Italy across the Adriatic Sea.

© Xbrchx | Dreamstime.com

2) Dalmatian Islands

The Dalmatian Islands have everything you could want in an island honeymoon and more. Hvar, Korčula and Brač are the three most popular islands, thanks to their abundance of gorgeous beaches and delightful stone towns. There are a plethora of other islands to choose from, ensuring that the two of you will be able to balance your honeymoon with activities to suit both your interests. But if you’re looking to celebrate amidst lively nightlife, a few nights on Hvar are a must. Glitzy and glamorous but still seeping with old town charm, this island is becoming somewhat of an answer to France’s St. Tropez.

For a truly unique experience, spend some time on Vis, a former military base that has only been open to tourists since 1989. This helped to preserve the area, leaving much of its natural beauty intact. Relatively popular with day-trippers looking to check out Stiniva Bay or the Blue Cave, staying overnight here is less common and will allow you more freedom as the sun sets.

© Ribica | Dreamstime.com

3) Istria

If you’ve been amazed and astounded by Italy, Istria is calling for you. Just like in Tuscany or Piedmont, you can have a romantic outing of wine tasting, olive oil tasting or truffle hunting through a luscious green landscape. If you really want to marvel upon another impressive colosseum, Pula can provide that for you. If you miss the colorful coastal towns of the Cinque Terre, allow the city of Rovinj to lure you in. And if you’ve missed Italy so badly that you’re dying to spend any small amount of time there again, Venice is reachable in a day trip.

As enticing as the similarities may sound, Istria still has its own Croatian flavor, from more iconic red roofs to an intricate overlap of histories on display. The region is home to an abundance of small towns, each with their own personality, that you can set out on day trips to. Or you can use the peninsula as a base for aquatic excursions to Lim Fjord or the Brijuni Islands. If thrill-seeking is your love language, there no shortage of options, whether you wish to paraglide over the countryside or rappel down into mysterious caves. Though sandy beaches are harder to come by here, this diversity of other activities Istria has to offer makes it one of the ideal Croatia honeymoon destinations.

Featured image: © Tommyandone | Dreamstime.com

The amphitheater of Delphi in the foreground with the Temple of Apollo in the middle ground and mountains in the background

Temple of Apollo, Greece: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on January 28, 2021. Posted in Adventure, Greece, Inspiration.

With a controversial and highly polarizing history, the Oracle of Delphi, otherwise known as Pythia, made quite the reputation at the Temple of Apollo. Shrouded in mystery, magic, and occult activity, the temple of oracles now lay in ruins; it is the perfect place to explore the mysteries of the ancient world and the superstitions that swirled within it.

Built and rebuilt several times throughout the centuries, the Temple of Apollo has had a rocky past. One of which centered around the high priestess and oracle Pythia that was established in the 8th century BC, and was known for hallucinations, frantic oracles, and trances.

According to some sources, the Pythia would sit on a perforated tripod centered over a fissure in the rock which would emit sweet smelling gasses from the earth; these fumes would send the Pythia into an altered state of mind and physicality in which she could deliver her oracle. With low doses of the gases, the Pythia would remain calm and deliver her thoughts, which were said to be the direction of the gods. With high doses, the Pythia would move into a frenzied state, thrashing about, wildly screeching, and chanting.

Although the science behind the chasm fumes have been highly debated over the years, the Temple of Apollo is an incredible place to explore, learn, and reflect on the practices of the ancient world. You may not find the chasm with mysterious fumes, but you’re sure to be amazed by the architecture, layout, and spectacular views of this ancient temple.

Featured image: © Emicristea | Dreamstime.com

Bright blue flowers in the foreground with the stone buildings of Castello Aragonese surrounded by bright blue water in the middle ground

Castello Aragonese, Italy: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on January 28, 2021. Posted in Adventure, Inspiration, Italy.

Suspended between air and sea, Castello Aragonese is a city in the sea. Sitting atop a volcanic rocky islet protruding from the northern end of the Gulf of Naples, the Aragonese Castle offers incredible views of the island of Ischia, as well as a cultural and historical perspective of rebirth.

Take the Path of the Sun along the rim of the islet and follow it through rich vegetation of olive trees, pomegranates, prickly pears and figs, for a panoramic view of nearby islands. Next, visit the Church of Saint Maria Dell Grazie, or the Church of the Madonna Della Libera for a spiritual experience above the sparkling aquamarine waters. From there, head to the House of the Sun, where remnants of homes dating to various eras are preserved as valuable architectural structures.

© Marius Dorin Balate | Dreamstime.com

Originally built in 474BC by Hiero I of Syracuse, the castle was built as a military point to monitor enemy fleets. Over the centuries, the islet was captured and recaptured by Parthenopeans, Romans, pirates, the British, as well as the French, until it was sold to a private owner, the Mattera Family in 1912. The Mattera Family still owns the property and has revitalized the islet, bringing together the history, culture, and art of the castle.

Over 25 centuries, the Aragonese Castle has been home to convents, churches, prisons, and lush gardens; it is now building on that history as a sought out spot for globe trotters and locals alike. From rooftop restaurants to summer concerts, theatrical performances, and film festivals, there is no shortage of entertainment within Castello Aragonese.

Featured image: © Marius Dorin Balate | Dreamstime.com

Where Can I Travel to Now?

Written by Iulian Milcomete on January 25, 2021. Posted in Inspiration, Travel Tips.

Baby, it’s cold outside! And while we’re all kind of bored of being inside, you may be asking yourself, “Where can I travel to now?” As a matter of fact, there are some pretty good options! Three of our all time favorite Caribbean islands are open to American visitors with a negative Covid test at either end of your trip. They each have slightly different regulations which we can help you navigate. But the good news is that you can still have some wonderful experiences – snorkeling, scuba diving, jungle hiking, ATV tours, cycling, fine dining – and all three have a complimentary kids’ club.

While we’re better known for our expertise in Europe, we’ve been sending clients to the Caribbean for years, with great success!

By booking with WAC Travel you will receive the full VIP treatment – free room upgrade subject to availability, complimentary breakfast, $100 resort credit, early check-in and late check-out. Each island has a different personality, activities, and scenery as described below – if you are finding it too hard to make a decision, let’s hop on a call to discuss.

© Belmond

1) Belmond Cap Juluca, Anguilla

Fresh from a $121 million renovation, and newly acquired by Louis Vuitton, Belmond Cap Juluca may be the jewel in the crown of the Caribbean. The accommodations are all spread out along the pristine powder white sand beach. From sailing lessons to kayaking through hidden coves and bays, there’s no end of thrilling things to do in Anguilla.

© Viceroy

2) Viceroy Sugar Beach, St Lucia

Set amidst more than 100 acres of tropical rainforest, and nestled between the majestic Pitons – the Viceroy Sugar Beach has a sensational location. There are two sandy beaches, a spa with tree house treatment rooms, a full PADI dive facility, and superb waterfront dining. Rooms have a private plunge pool, and activities include hiking the Pitons, and ATV rides through the jungle.

© The Shore Club

3) The Shore Club, Turks & Caicos

Defined by a spirit of relaxation and adventure, The Shore Club is set on Long Bay Beach, a stunning, secluded beach minutes away from Provo’s town center. An indulgent spa, four pools, three restaurants, luxurious accommodations, and breathtaking views elevate the resort experience. Guests are also free to explore the islands’ restaurants and beaches, or partake in snorkeling and scuba diving trips.

Featured image: © Vadim Nefedov | Dreamstime.com

Young couple looking out over the white-washed buildings along the caldera in Oia, Santorini, one of the most popular Greece honeymoon destinations

3 Greece Honeymoon Destinations

Written by Iulian Milcomete on January 25, 2021. Posted in Greece, Inspiration.

Since the days where offerings were made to Aphrodite and Eros, Greece has been a haven of romance. Couples have long flocked to this magnetic land to celebrate their marriages, and with good reason. With endless fabulous Greece honeymoon destinations, the issue lies less in finding somewhere desirable and more in narrowing down your options. Sticking to only one or two regions can help, so here we’ve listed a few of our favorite spots to cozy up with your new spouse.

© Emicristea | Dreamstime.com

1) Cyclades Islands

Hallmarked by dazzling sunsets over white-washed architecture, the Cyclades Islands have long been one of the most world-renowned Greece honeymoon destinations. These islands are less about hopping from one tour to another to sightsee, and more about taking in the scenery immediately around you.

Toast to your marriage while overlooking the caldera of Santorini and continue celebrating amidst the energetic nightlife of Mykonos. Or charter a boat for the day and familiarize yourself with the Aegean Sea by cruising along its waves or diving right in. Round out your time in the Cyclades with less-frequented islands like Naxos and Paros. While they may not have the blue domes or windmills of Santorini and Mykonos, the streets of Naxos and Paros still have that uniquely Cycladic charm and their sandy beaches are perfect for lounging on the beach together in peaceful quiet.

© Constantinos Kollias | Unsplash

2) Ancient Greece

For history buffs, Ancient Greece is home to a wide array of must-visit destinations. Athens alone is an archaeological wonder, with the Parthenon looming over the city atop the Acropolis leading down into various agoras, temples, and museums throughout the city. While many couples simply use Athens as a stopover to reach their island honeymoon, there’s a lot of merit to be had in venturing further into Greece’s mainland.

Even those who couldn’t care less about ancient history will fall in love with all that Ancient Greece has to offer. This kind of honeymoon may not tend as heavily toward golden coastlines, but there is certainly no lack of stunning scenery, from the monasteries perched in the cliffs of Meteora to the mystical ruins of Delphi. But if some time spent lounging on a beach is a necessity for you, consider Nafplion, often dubbed the most romantic destination in Greece, where massive fortresses and a charming Old Town don’t lie too far from beaches beloved by weekending Athenians.

3) Ionian Islands

If one of your ideal Greece honeymoon destinations consists of waterfront relaxation but you’re looking for something different from the Cyclades, the Ionian Islands serve as a wonderful, and less traveled, alternative. Gorgeous beaches are a staple of all the islands, but each has something different to offer, and it’s merely a matter of combining the ones that best meet your needs.

Discover a unique shipwreck on Zakynthos, stroll hand in hand through the cosmopolitan streets of Corfu, enjoy romantic dinners along the seafront of Lefkada, or delve into the mythological origins of Ithaca, Odysseus’s home. If getting as far off the grid as possible is your priority, the islands of Kythira and Meganisi are a little more of a hassle to reach, but for this reason see almost no tourist traffic, even in high season.

Water leading into a cave in the Villa of Tiberius in Italy

Villa of Tiberius, Italy: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on January 25, 2021. Posted in Adventure, Inspiration, Italy.

Just outside of quaint coastal town Sperlonga in Italy, you’ll find the Villa of Tiberius: a series of terraces facing the sea, and home to an ancient Roman sea grotto and the spectacular Sperlonga sculptures. With an archaeological museum on site, visitors can learn about the history and art of the excavation site, before heading down to the water to explore the ruins.

On the edge of the Pontine Marshes, the town of Spelunca (Latin for cave) was only known for the grotto located on its shore. It grew in significance only when a luxurious villa was built and owned, along with the cave, by Tiberius (emperor between 14 to 37 AD). Along with creating magnificent fish ponds and terraces to overlook the landscape and sea, Tiberius decorated the grotto with expensive sculptures, busts, and statues from well known artists of the time. The giant works of art depict tales of Odysseus, mythical king of Ithaca and his journeys, triumphs, and adventurous character.

Always a known villa, but whose whereabouts where unknown, the Villa of Tiberius was finally discovered in 1957 while some builders were constructing a coastal road near the site. After delicate reconstruction and preservation, the property is open to the public to explore. Wander down the hilly slope, past the Mediterranean vegetation, until you hit the imperial palace. Meander past the low walls, admire the view of the sea, and head in the direction of Odysseus’s cave. It still holds the history of emperor Tiberius and the tales of the great Odysseus.

Spinalonga, Greece: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on January 22, 2021. Posted in Adventure, Greece, Inspiration.

Right off the shore of north-eastern Crete, standing tall in the Gulf of Elounda, Spinalonga is a small, rugged islet that has earned the name “Island of the Outcasts,” due to its rocky past. With a difficult history, full of love and pain, Spinalonga is still a beautiful spot to learn, reflect, and explore.

As a natural protective barrier for the port of Elounda, Spinalonga was fortified by the Venetians in 1579 with a strong fortress sitting atop of ancient ruins. Attempting to ward off Ottoman pirates didn’t last long; the island fell to the Ottoman Turks in 1715. In 1904, the Cretans evicted the Turks, creating a space to keep the most vulnerable in society.

Perhaps the most well known portion of this small island’s history took place within 54 years; from 1903 to 1957, Spinalonga was used as a leper colony. While many of the people with leprosy lived in caves away from society, the Cretan government relocated over 400 leprosy-affected citizens to Spinalonga at a time. With poor living conditions, the colony residents had to fight for basic rights including ability to marry, open shops, and have access to a pathway beyond the fortress walls.

With a cure for leprosy developed in the early 1940s, it is curious that the island continued functioning as a colony until 1957. Although its story is hard to swallow, Spinalonga is continuing to tell it. Along with the warm breeze, the clear blue waters and spectacular views, Spinalonga also offers a story of pain, redemption, and beauty.

Back view of a man and a woman with their arms wrapped around each others' backs, looking out at the central pond of El Retiro park in Madrid, Spain

4 Spain Honeymoon Destinations

Written by Iulian Milcomete on January 19, 2021. Posted in Inspiration, Spain.

As a diverse landscape pulsing with sunshine and celebration, Spain is suited for the perfect trip to kick off the rest of your lives together. Whether the two of you wish to deepen your relationship through historical city tours and long hikes or oceanside lounging and wine tasting, you can’t go wrong with any combination of these Spain honeymoon destinations.

1) Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville

If your honeymoon is also your first time to Spain, consider a crash course in the country’s culture by visiting its three most popular cities; Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville. Each city offers top-notch cuisine and fascinating history, while also specializing in their own cultural cornerstones.

Barcelona caters to architecture aficionados with Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces, such as Parc Güell and La Sagrada Familia. Madrid has an abundance of museums for a visual art lovers to spend hours in, from the ubiquitous El Prado and Reina Sofia to lesser-known treasures like the Sorolla Museum. And for those enamored by Spain’s dance scene, look no further than Seville for inspiring flamenco performances or, if the two of you are feeling brave, lessons.

2) Basque Country

Meanwhile, Basque Country is one of those ideal Spain honeymoon destinations for the couple who would like to stray a little off the beaten path while still enjoying a taste of everything the country has to offer. Experience the pristine beaches of San Sebastián or tour Bilbao’s historical Casco Viejo. And to delve into cuisine, snack on the Basque version of tapas, pintxos, and take a day trip into the Rioja region to sample world-renowned wine.

This is also a bucket-list destination for many outdoorsy couples, with two routes of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage running through the region. You could simply spend a day on one of the trails, or you could really hammer in that new commitment to each other by hiking the five-day portion from San Sebastián to Bilbao.

3) Balearic Islands

With the chaos of wedding planning behind you, take this time to let loose by spending days soaking up sun on sandy beaches and nights partying through gorgeous medieval streets in the Balearic Islands. While Spain’s countless festivals make the whole country vibrant year-round, Ibiza and Mallorca stand out as vibrant centers with frequent visits from high-profile celebrities giving it an exclusive vibe similar to that of France’s St. Tropez.

After you’ve had your fix of celebrating your marriage into the wee hours of the morning along the shores of those islands, unwind with laidback quality time together on the less-bustling Menorca or Formentera. The nightlife may not be as pulsing, but the coasts are equally beautiful and there are plenty of little gems to be uncovered.

4) Wine Country

For the couple that loves to sample new wines together, you could easily spend an entire honeymoon winding your way from the coasts to the mountains throughout Spain’s wine country. As one of the biggest producers of wine in the world, regions like Rioja and Priorat are essential to not only Spain’s economy, but also its culture. After all, this country is also the originator of dozens of wine cocktails, from sangria to tinto de verano (red wine mixed with lemon soda).

If red wine isn’t where your passions lie, consider the Rueda or Penedès regions, which specialize in white wine and cava (Spanish sparkling wine), respectively. Almost all of these regions lie incredibly close to major cities, allowing you to spend less time in transit and more time curled up together in unique winery hotels with a glass in hand and sprawling vineyards laid out before you.

© Lucianbolca | Dreamstime.com

1) Myrtos Beach – Kefalonia, Greece

© Tagstiles | Dreamstime.com

2) Scialara Beach – Puglia, Italy

© Daliu80 | Dreamstime.com

3) Praia do Camilo – Algarve, Portugal

© Toldiu74 | Dreamstime.com

4) Chia Beach – Sardinia, Italy

© Elgreko74 | Dreamstime.com

5) Voidokilia Beach – Peloponnese, Greece

© Thomas Dutour | Dreamstime.com

6) Playa de Ondarreta – San Sebastian, Spain

© Vitalii Mamchuk | Dreamstime.com

7) Balos Beach – Crete, Greece

© Pod666 | Dreamstime.com

8) Porthcurno Beach – Cornwall, United Kingdom

© Biletskiy | Dreamstime.com

9) Zlatni Rat – Brac, Croatia

© Eva Bocek | Dreamstime.com

10) Palombaggia – Corsica, France

Featured image: © Marius Dorin Balate | Dreamstime.com

© Scott Jones | Dreamstime.com

1) Mainland Dalmatia

© Xbrchx | Dreamstime.com

2) Dalmatian Islands

© Ribica | Dreamstime.com

3) Istria

Featured image: © Tommyandone | Dreamstime.com

Featured image: © Emicristea | Dreamstime.com

© Marius Dorin Balate | Dreamstime.com

Featured image: © Marius Dorin Balate | Dreamstime.com

© Belmond

1) Belmond Cap Juluca, Anguilla

© Viceroy

2) Viceroy Sugar Beach, St Lucia

© The Shore Club

3) The Shore Club, Turks & Caicos

Featured image: © Vadim Nefedov | Dreamstime.com

© Emicristea | Dreamstime.com

1) Cyclades Islands

© Constantinos Kollias | Unsplash

2) Ancient Greece

© Milosducati | Dreamstime.com

3) Ionian Islands

Featured image: © Santorines | Dreamstime.com

© Pavel068 | Dreamstime.com

© Stefano Valeri | Dreamstime.com

Featured image: © Pavel068 | Dreamstime.com

© Error 420 | Unsplash

Featured image: © Error 420 | Unsplash

© Massimo Santi | Dreamstime.com

1) Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville

© Alessandro Pires De Souza | Dreamstime.com

2) Basque Country

© Juan Moyano | Dreamstime.com

3) Balearic Islands

© Jorisvo | Dreamstime.com

4) Wine Country

Featured image: © Martinmark | Dreamstime.com