Hi adventurers! Welcome back to Faraway Fable. To help you plan your next destination and find your perfect adventure, here’s a guide to my top five favorite destinations in Europe.
Germany
Okay this one you may have been able to guess, as I have a bit of a biased opinion from living here. However, Germany is a great destination for new travelers looking for a variety of adventures as well as families looking for an authentic travel experience with plenty of options for the little ones, making it one of my favorite destinations in Europe. But you might be asking, “Brooke can you be a little more specific, Germany is an entire country.” Yes, yes, I know. The recommendations are on their way.
If you could ask me only one place that you absolutely must visit when going to Germany, it would be the town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. For any adventurers with a passion for the outdoors, this town is for you. Located in the heart of the Bavarian Alps, the town is a Bavarian beauty rooted in deep German tradition. One of my favorite activities was hiking through Partnach Gorge. Winding through the rushing water towards the Zugspitze, I felt as if I’d stepped into another w
orld found only in my imagination. At the end of the gorge lies a beautiful river valley perfect for a nice family picnic on the rocky shore. But the adventures don’t stop there.
While in the breathtaking reach of the Zugspitze, I highly encourage you to take a cable car up one of the mountains. Though Zugspitze is the crown jewel, there are more budget friendly options such as Wankbahn that offer similar views of the rolling hills and quaint town below. Another way to see the awe of the mountains, that is admittedly a treat for the adrenaline-led adventurers, are the mountain coasters. While taking a peaceful chairlift up the mountain, there are options to rush down in one of Garmisch’s many mountain coasters, fun for the whole family.
Iceland
Calling all Game of Thrones lovers, this natural wonder is for you. A few years ago I had the pleasure of traveling to Reykjavik with my family, exploring the natural wonders of Iceland (admittedly, with a focus on filming locations from HBO’s fantasy classic Game of Thrones). But even if you aren’t a fan of the show, Reykjavik, Iceland still has something for you.
Though it may seem to be a tourist trap, make sure to visit Iceland’s Golden Circle. A route that travels through popular natural landmarks such as Gulfoss and Thingvellir, the Golden Circle tour is perfect way to see some of Iceland’s most iconic spaces. One of my favorite adventures had to be Glacier Bay, which is about a five hour drive from Reykjavik. Though that may seem quite far, much of Iceland’s wonders lie outside of the city, but the drives are scenic with plenty of fun attractions and eateries to experience along the way…all part of the Icelandic adventure. With options to view Glacier Bay from the shore or by boat, visitors will be amazed by the vibrant blue waters and stunning ice formations, making memories that will last a lifetime.
London, England
London will always be one of my favorite destinations to travel to, and I could talk about it for ages.
But, for the sake of the blog, I’ll give a quick highlight. A foodie and pop-culture paradise, London is a place for the arts to thrive, with destinations such as the famous West End, Royal Albert Hall, and Abbey Road Studios.
And though I am a
musical theatre lover to a fault, my favorite part of the city is the rich culture presented in the cuisine. My personal favorite, the steak and ale pie (fun fact, I did indeed ask for a steak and ale pie as opposed to a birthday cake one year – yes, they are that good). But meat pies are just a scratch on the surface of the rich cuisine, with classics such as fish and chips, bangers and mash, sticky toffee pudding, bubble and squeak, a full English breakfast, and toad-in-the-hole being must-eats.
And where to experience all these dishes and more you might ask? Well, one of my favorite activities to do in London just so happens to be exploring Borough market. With delicacies from all around the world, Borough Market is a great way to experience the global nature of London’s cuisines.
The Netherlands
Though most people probably think of Amsterdam when they hear of the Netherlands, my two favorite spots are outside of the city in Lisse and Landgraaf.
One of my first travel memories dates back to my family’s trip to Lisse to visit Keukenhof botanical gardens. Imagine fields of tulips, winding botanical designs, windmills, and tranquil lakes … that’s Keukenhof. Capturing the essence and beauty of the tulip, Keukenhof is the perfect family adventure to appreciate one of the Netherlands’ most beloved wonders.
Far more towards the pop-culture side of travel adventures lies my favorite activity in Landgraaf…the Pink Pop international music festival. Recently attending the festival this past summer, I was overwhelmed by the display of international talent, with artists including Ed Sheeran, Hozier, Sam Smith, and Greta van Fleet. For a music lover wanting a cultural experience that blends locals with adventurers from all around the world, Pink Pop is definitely top on the list.
Volterra, Italy
Italy will always be one of my favorite destinations. And though I’ve visited the classic cities that are often seen as tourist-towns, one of my favorite spots in Italy is the town of Volterra. Located in the Tuscan countryside, Volterra is a destination that overwhelms visitors with the rich history of Italy. While you’re there, be sure to visit the Roman theatre ruins as well as the charming town square that dates back to the 13th century.
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