All about travel

Riva del Garda on Lake Garda

Italy

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

Riva del Garda is a popular holiday resort on the northern shore of Lake Garda in Italy. This is largely due to the unique location of the village: located directly on the lake, surrounded by impressive high mountains. In addition, there is the engaging mentality of the locals, which is a mixture of Italian lightness and Austrian down-to-earthness.

Although Riva has only about 16,000 inhabitants, the town is the second largest town on Lake Garda. Holidaymakers will find numerous sports and excursion opportunities, interesting cultural offers and various events throughout the year.

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Interesting facts from the history of Riva

Riva del Garda has only been part of Italy since 1919, until then Riva was part of the Austro-Hungarian Kingdom. During this time, the city was considered the fortress of the kingdom. Accordingly, it was fiercely fought over and destroyed in the 1st World War.
In 1888, the Austrian physician Christoph von Hartungen founded a sanatorium in Riva on the basis of homeopathy, which quickly became extremely popular with celebrities such as the Manns, Franz Kafka, Sigmund Freud and Rudolf Steiner.

How to reach Riva del Garda

By car, take the A222 Brennero motorway south to the “Rovereto Sud – Lago di Garda Nord” exit. From the toll booth, take the SS240 state road and follow it to the town of Nago. There you will find a roundabout where you take the Torbole exit. In Torbole you will find another roundabout, which you leave by taking the exit to Riva. After about 2 km on this road, you will pass through a road tunnel that will take you directly to the entrance to Riva.

It is easier to travel by train, even if Riva itself no longer has an active train station. Take the train to Rovereto, 20 km away. From there, a regular bus runs to Riva.

The nearest international airport is in Verona. There you can take the bus to the train station or take a rental car.

Find suitable accommodation in Riva del Garda

Although the town is relatively small, you have a large selection of hotels of all price ranges, both directly in the town centre and just outside Riva and therefore quietly located.

If you prefer a holiday apartment or holiday home, you also have a wide choice in Riva del Garda. The offer ranges from luxurious accommodation in old villas to functionally furnished apartments. In many of these accommodations, your pets are also welcome, but please inquire beforehand. You will also find barrier-free holiday homes or apartments in Riva.

Beaches in Riva del Garda

You will look in vain for sandy beaches here. However, there are two beautiful pebble beaches, Spiaggia dei Pini and Spiaggia Sabbioni, with very good infrastructure – sunbathing lawn, supervised bathing facilities, toilets and showers as well as a beach bar. These beaches stretch along the northern shore of the lake, parallel to a shore cycle path. They can be reached on foot from the old town in 5 minutes. A sailing school rents boats, canoes and SUPs. However, dogs are not allowed there.

Attractions in Riva

Torre Apponale, Riva del Garda — Torre Apponale, the landmark of Riva del Garda, Image: saiko3p / shutterstock

The landmark of the city is the 34 m high Torre Apponale, which dates back to the 13th century.

Originally built in the 12th century, the city fortress of La Rocca was built directly on the lakeshore. In the 19th century, the Austrians rebuilt it and used it as barracks. Today it is home to the Alto Garda Museum. This museum houses the three permanent exhibitions: Landscape Painting on Lake Garda, Archaeology and Rooms of History of Riva del Garda and the Lower Sarca Valley.

From the outside, the 17th-century church dell’ Inviolata looks rather inconspicuous. It was built by an unknown Portuguese architect. Inside, it is lavishly decorated with frescoes, stucco, gilding and marble.

A walk along the lakeside promenade with its numerous shops, restaurants and café should definitely be part of your holiday programme.

Probably the most beautiful square in the old town, Piazza III. It is surrounded by arcades, directly on the lake. Around the square are three historic palazzi from the 14. or 15th century.

Attractions around Riva del Garda

Riva del Garda, Lake Garda — Lake Garda near Riva del Garda, Image: pointbreak / shutterstock

North of Riva is the 100 m high Varone waterfall. There, in an imposing erosion gorge, the water plunges to the ground at breathtaking speed.

The Sentiero della Pace leads to Monte Brione, a curiously shaped rock that separates Riva from the neighboring town of Torbole. On this mountain plateau lies an old fortress from Austrian times. In addition, you have a fantastic view over Lake Garda from there. There is both a very nice, well-marked hiking trail and a paved bike path to get there.

About 200 m above Riva, on Monte Rocchetta, the remains of the Venetian fortress Bastione are enthroned. Since 2020, you can reach it with a panoramic elevator.
The Ponale Road is a beautiful cycling and hiking trail on the northern shore of Lake Garda. The road connection between Riva and the Ledro Valley, built in the middle of the 19th century, was carved into the rock of the cliffs above Riva. Today, it may only be used by bicycles and pedestrians. The route from Riva to Lake Ledro takes about 1.5 hours by bike.

Sports facilities in Riva del Garda and surroundings

Due to the reliable winds, Lake Garda offers ideal conditions for sailors and surfers. The imposing mountain landscape around the lake attracts climbers and mountain bikers in summer and skiers in winter.

Korčula, as the greenest island in Dalmatia, is said to have been the birthplace of Marco Polo

Croatia

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

0

Korčula, as the greenest island in Dalmatia, is said to have been the birthplace of Marco Polo

The current 16,000 inhabitants are proud of their green and scenic home of Korčula anyway. Korčula is thus the most populous island in the Croatian Adriatic after Krk. But the fact that the family of the famous explorer and world traveler Marco Polo may have come from there and that he may have been born there in the middle of the 13th century still makes the hearts of the islanders beat faster today. It is disputed among historians whether the alleged birthplace in the 5,500-inhabitant town of Korčula in the east of the island actually housed the cradle of the seafarer and trader.

However, since Korčula was one of the possessions of the Republic of Venice at that time, it cannot be completely ruled out. In addition to the Romanesque-Gothic St. Mark’s Cathedral, built from the 14th to the 19th century, the massive and well-preserved city fortifications and the former Venetian governor’s palace, the building is one of the most famous and most visited sights in the city.

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The best way to explore the densely overgrown and wooded island is on foot

The dense and dark forests, mainly of pines and cypresses, which gave the almost 280 km² island the ancient Greek name “Black Corfu” (Melaina Korkyra) in antiquity, have been cut down on a large scale since the Middle Ages for house and ship building, but still shape the appearance, especially in the west. In general, the island with its lush vegetation is a real hiker’s paradise. Especially in the still mild spring, the numerous well-developed and picturesque routes through fields, pastures, meadows and vineyards are ideal for extended tours. Among the most beautiful hiking destinations are the hills of Veliki Hom and Sveti Stas near Zrnovo, the routes from Korcula town via Dracevica to Gornje Blato and Lumbarda as well as those to the mountain Sveti Ilija on the opposite peninsula of Peljesac around the villages of Viganj, Zukovac, Bilopolje and Orebic. As part of the excursion, you can also visit a Franciscan monastery from 1470 and a maritime museum with many historical paintings and other relics.

The sea and the numerous beaches are always just a stone’s throw away

Korcula Town — Korcula town and marina with sailboats, Image: Dreamer4787 / shutterstock

Korčula has many romantic swimming spots and beaches with crystal clear waters in hidden and secluded small bays along its coast, which are fantastic for a long day at the sea with family and friends. The mostly rocky, stony and sandy beaches extend mainly over the eastern part of the island. The most popular sections in midsummer include the sandy beach Vela Przina in Lumbarda and the pebble beach Pupnatska Luka near Korčula Town. Other well-visited beaches with offers for water sports and gastronomy in and around the main town of the island are the beach Banje east of the centre, the beach Luka Korculanska, the bathing area Mandrac at the Maksimilijan Vanka museum, the small beach Ispod Duvana with a view of the old town, the beach Puntin not far from the harbour, the beach Spomenik near Plokata and the beach in Sveti Nikola with ladders for access to the sea. Around the small town of Lumbarda, which is also known nationwide for its local white wine “Grk”, southeast of Korčula town, are the sandy or rocky beaches of Vela Przina, Bilin Zal, Tatinja, Lenga and Raznjic, which are equally worth a trip.

Water sports and active sports holidays are possible almost everywhere on Korčula

Due to its ideal geographical location on the Peljesac Strait near Viganj, with the Mistral wind that blows reliably there almost all year round, surfing is an extremely popular sport in the waters off Korčula. This is why the World Championships took place here in 1989 and the European Windsurfing Championships in 1990. The Windsurfing Department of the Faculty of Sport and Physical Education of the University of Zagreb has been training regularly on the island since 1981.

The above-mentioned Mistral also makes the island a famous sailor’s paradise: boat and boat rentals as well as sailing schools are available, for example, at the “Oreb Club Sailing & Windsurfing School Center” in Korčula Town and in Lumbarda. The locals have been making a living from fishing for thousands of years, so it is not surprising that hobby and deep-sea anglers also get their money’s worth here on holiday. The local fishing club KANJAC organizes a big fishing competition every year on July 27th, in which guests and visitors can also participate and win great prizes. Fishing equipment such as bait, floats, hooks, rods and traps are available at a fishing shop right in the centre of Korčula Town, where trips with local fishermen to the surrounding waters are also arranged.

Explore even the most remote corners of the island by rental car or bike

In addition to the most touristy resorts of Korčula Town, Lumbarda and Vela Luka, where most of the accommodation of all categories and classes are located, there are many other smaller towns on the island that are worth seeing and are ideal for excursions by car or bike. The small and cozy village of Zrnovo is known for its ancient cypresses, terraced vineyards and olive groves, as well as stone houses, bell towers and churches. The bays of Orlandusa, Pavja Luka and Rasohatica are within easy walking distance. The fishing village of Racisce in one of the northern bays has only about 500 inhabitants, in the two bays Vaja and Samograd there are prehistoric caves. Pupnat is the oldest settlement on the island with well-preserved architecture, and Pupnatska Luka Bay is home to one of the most beautiful pebble beaches on the island. In the villages of Cara and Smokvica the famous white wines “Posip” and “Rukatac” are produced, good bathing opportunities are offered by the local bays Zavalatica and Zitna.

Santa Margherita Ligure: the pearl of Liguria

Italy

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Santa Margherita Ligure: the pearl of Liguria

Santa Margherita Ligure is a small town in northern Italy with just under 10,000 inhabitants. Nevertheless, Santa Margherita Ligure is a true pearl. The city, which is only 35 kilometres from the metropolis of Genoa , has such picturesque architecture that Italian feature films and series have been filmed here again and again since the 1960s. Santa Margherita Ligure is nestled in a beautiful bay. In the typical Italian city centre, villas and palazzi are lined up next to each other. In between, there are numerous bars, cafés and restaurants serving up genuine Ligurian specialties. For example, you can taste fresh seafood and fish, torta di riso or the Ligurian flatbread farinata, made with chickpea flour. Here you can live Dolce Vita in its purest form.

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A tour of the centre of Santa Margherita Ligure

the bay of Paraggi, Santa Margherita Ligure — The bay of Paraggi, Image: katatonia82 / shutterstock

The best way to start your visit to Santa Margherita Ligure is with a walking tour through the idyllic and historic centre of the old town. Santa Margherita Ligure is so small that you can do without public transport here – everything can be reached on foot without any problems. Near the town’s marina, you can first visit the Santa Margherita Ligure statue, which represents Saint Margherita, after whom the small town was named. Right next door you pass the city beaches of Santa Margherita Ligure, Bagni Vicini and Bagni Pagana, where you can relax wonderfully. Right behind it is the Chiesa di Santa Margherita, the Catholic basilica of the city.

This church was built in the 17th century in the Baroque style. The foundation stone for the current church was laid in 1658, but on the same ground on which the Chiesa di Santa Margherita can be found today, a church had stood since the 13th century, which was later replaced by the new Baroque building. The interior of the Chiesa di Santa Margherita is richly furnished with sacred art treasures. Especially the choir vault, which dates from the 19th century, is well worth seeing. After visiting the basilica, you will stroll for a while through the narrow and winding streets of the city and witness pure Italian everyday life before continuing to Villa Durazzo, which is only a short walk away. Villa Durazzo was built in 1678.

Visitors can now visit the magnificently landscaped botanical garden of Villa Durazzo, as well as the interiors richly decorated with antique furniture and objets d’art. It is also worth visiting the Museo V. G. Rossi. From the park of the museum, dedicated to the writer Vittorio Giovanni Rossi, there are wonderful panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding mountains. In the Museo V. G. Rossi itself, there are mainly paintings and memorabilia of the namesake. Finally, you can stop at one of the numerous bars around Piazza Martiri della Libertà, from where you can take in the colourful life around you. In addition, you can also take a close look at the traditional Ligurian cobblestones of Liguria, called Risseu. It is worth taking a look at the ground, because Risseu was only used in the small towns of the region to pave the paths.

The Castle of Santa Margherita Ligure

Furthermore, it is worth taking a detour to the castle of Santa Margherita Ligure, which is located quite centrally in the middle of the city. The castle of Santa Margherita Ligure was built around 1550. Originally, it was intended to protect the city from pirates who might invade from the sea. Over the years, it has unfortunately fallen into disrepair and was trapped in a kind of Sleeping Beauty slumber for some time. At the turn of the millennium, however, the city invested a lot of money in the restoration of the castle of Santa Margherita Ligure. Now it shines in a whole new splendour and often serves as an event and exhibition venue.

A trip to nearby Portofino

Portofino, Italy — Portofino, Image: Anton_Ivanov / shutterstock

The beautiful town of Portofino is just a few kilometres from Santa Margherita Ligure. The best way to reach it is by boat. Excursions and private trips are offered in large numbers from Santa Margherita Ligure. The village of Portofino became famous for its striking architecture. Here, the houses shine in many bright colors, pastel colors predominate on the facades of the houses. During a walk through the city, you can take in this sea of colour to take effect on you. In the center of the city is Piazza Martiri dell’Olivetta. Under shady arcades, you can relax and drink a coffee or eat an ice cream.

In any case, you should also visit the Brown Castle, which was built in the 12th century. The Brown Castle also served to protect the city from pirates at the time. As the building is elevated on a hill, which in turn is positioned on a headland directly by the sea, the easy climb to the castle offers a magnificent panoramic view over the city, the coast and out to the Ligurian Sea. From there, a path surrounded by trees and shrubs leads to the Punta del Capo lighthouse, located on the southernmost tip of the Portofino headland. The view over the turquoise-blue sea from here is simply breathtaking and is enchantingly romantic, especially in the evening hours, when the sun sets over the Ligurian Sea.

The most beautiful sights in Barcelona

Spain

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

0

The Catalan city of Barcelona has become one of the most popular destinations for city trips in Europe over the past twenty years. With its unique architectural charm, wonderful and hearty Spanish cuisine, and a variety of attractions, the city invites you to do more than just a simple weekend trip. While you can certainly stroll effortlessly for days through the beautiful shopping streets, the beach or the cafes and tapas bars of Barcelona, you will certainly want to discover one or the other sight. Both culturally and historically, there are a few things on offer in the city.

Our tip: Join one of the 10 best free walking tours of Barcelona and only pay the amount you want to pay from the end.

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1. The Sagrada Familia Church

What once began as a private project has developed into the unofficial landmark of the city over the decades. The still unfinished church, designed by Gaudí and built by him alone in the first few years, has now been under construction for over 140 years. With its many towers, neo-Gothic architecture, and curious history, the church has become one of Barcelona’s most popular attractions. If the city’s plans go according to plan, the landmark should finally be completed by 2026. However, the building can already be admired not only from the outside, but also offers a variety of interesting guided tours that deal with the history of the building and the city.

Casa Milà & Casa Batlló

Another building by Gaudi, who architecturally shaped the city like no other person. At the request of an eccentric widow, the structure was designed and built on the corner of Passeig de Gràcia, and in the first few months of work on the façade was reminiscent of a quarry – the reason for its nickname in the Spanish language. Today, the building with its modernist furnishings can be visited and especially from the roof terrace you have a great overview of the city. If you haven’t had enough of Gaudi’s talent, Casa Batlló is another work in Barcelona that attracts attention above all with its colorful windows and special shapes.

3. La Rambla / The Ramblas

The heart of Barcelona is La Rambla. Hardly any other place is so closely associated with the vibrant life in the Catalan metropolis and nowhere else will you find so many people. The avenue leads down to the port of Barcelona and has a lot to offer from shops to cafes, tapas bars and restaurants of different price ranges. Above all, however, it is the street musicians, the artists and the many small sights for the eye that make a visit to the lifeline of Barcelona so appealing. Hardly anywhere else can you get such an insight into what Barcelona stands for and is appreciated today.

4. Port Vell – the port of Barcelona

If you have arrived at the end of the Ramblas, you will find yourself directly in the beautiful port of Barcelona. For centuries, it was the center of the flourishing economy of the metropolis in the Middle Ages and even today there are various sights for visitors to find here. In addition to the fishermen, who still sell their goods directly in a remote part of the port, the largest shopping centre in the city is also located here. Above all, however, you can stroll along the coastline and let the sea work its magic on you. A long walk along the harbour should definitely become part of your own experience of Barcelona – it is still one of the most beautiful parts of the city.

5. Barcelona Beach

With all the sights and cultural and architectural sights of the city, it is sometimes easy to forget that Barcelona also has some beautiful city beaches to offer. The most popular specimen is located in Barceloneta and offers the right base for an excursion for the whole family. Not only can you plunge into the waters here, but there are also various restaurants and activities that invite you to sit back and enjoy your time on the beach. Just right if you need a break from the vibrant life of the city.

6. Barri Gòtic – the Gothic Quarter

Getting around the historic district of Barcelona — On the road in the historic district of Barcelona, Image: puyalroyo / shutterstock

If you want to take a long look at historic Barcelona, you should take the time to explore the city’s Gothic Quarter. The high lords lived here as early as the Middle Ages. In addition to the narrow streets between the historic buildings, there are rows of ruins that date back to Roman times. Next to palaces and the cathedral of Barcelona once lived the nobles who decided the fate of Aragon, the former kingdom. Only here do you really get an insight into how the city behaved in the Middle Ages and how people lived here. This is an easy way to spend a whole day in Barcelona.

7. Picasso Museum Barcelona

The Museum of Picasso is representative of various museums that are located in the city of Barcelona. While this is about the works of an artist who is closely connected to the city, Barcelona is home to various art museums, galleries and art galleries. In addition, the museums offer a deep insight into the history of the city, explain the culture of the Catalans or deal with the port. If you want to take the time to visit only the most important and impressive museums in the city, you should plan a few days.

The Halligen – storm-swept islands in the Wadden Sea

Germany

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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The Halligen – storm-swept islands in the Wadden Sea

Ten flat islands in the North Sea, which are flooded at high tide and are grouped in a circle around the island of Pellworm – these are the Halligen. They are called Gröde, Hooge, Langeneß, Nordstrandischmoor, Oland, Habel, Hamburger Hallig, Norderoog, Süderoog and Südfall. Five of the ten Halligen are permanently inhabited. The houses on the Halligen stand on artificially raised terps that protrude from the wild North Sea at high tide. There are no dikes. There is no fresh water on the Halligen, but an interesting flora adapted to the salty sea water.

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Geography, formation and nature

Geologically, the Halligen are very young and once formed on silted or flooded marshland. In the past, they often changed shape, some disappeared and others, such as the Hamburg Hallig, merged with the mainland. Floods repeatedly caused changes to the coastline. Due to sediment deposits, some Halligen even enlarged. However, maps have only been available since 1700. The flora and fauna are represented by the Hallig lilac flower, the sea beach plantain, ringed geese and many other species.

Places of interest on the Halligen

On the road on Hallig Langeneß, Image: tourpics_net / shutterstock

The unpredictable forces of nature and the way they are dealt with probably attract most guests to the Halligen, but the Halligen also offer some cultural sights. The pretty Hallig churches in particular are definitely worth a visit. These are located on the Halligen Hooge, Oland, Langeneß and Gröde.
Among the museums on Langeneß are the “Captain Tadsen Museum” and the cozy “Friesenstube”. Highlights on the Hallig Hooge are the local history museum, an old Frisian living room with interesting finds and the so-called Königspesel, a Frisian parlour that vividly conveys the living culture of the seafarers with its faience.

In addition, the Mensch & Watt experience centre on the Hallig Hooge provides exciting insights into the diverse relationships between man and nature on the Halligen. Highlights are the tidal aquarium and the mudflat workshop.

In the storm surge cinema, visitors are shown a typical country underwater on a large screen. Langeneß has the exhibition room of the Wadden Sea Conservation Station on the Rixwarft, where visitors can get an idea of the nature and culture on the Halligen in two exhibitions and guided tours during the summer season. There is another exhibition room on the Peterswarft. Here, the plants of the salt marshes and the bird life are the focus. But the challenges for the Halligen due to climate change are also discussed.

The replica of a sailing cart and a post windmill on the Ketelswarft Captain Tadsen Museum also attract interested parties.

Wadden hikes

Various mudflat hikes are offered, including one from the mainland to Hallig Oland, another to Gröde and another from Hallig Hooge to Japsand. Usually a visit to a Hallig church and of course a terp is included in the program. The duration is six to seven hours, but shorter mudflat walks with a duration of about two hours are also on offer. A total of 3200 animal species live in the Wadden Sea, 250 of them in the salt marshes. There are over 60 species of fish in the water. Countless mussels, snails, small crabs and of course the famous lugworm can be observed during a mudflat hike. The experienced mudflat guides provide informative insights into the Wadden Sea ecosystem and have all kinds of stories and anecdotes in their luggage. For young and older guests alike, a mudflat hike is a highlight during a stay on the Halligen. Visitors’ favourites are seals and grey seals, which are mainly found on the offshore sandbanks.

Life on the Halligen

View of Hallig Südfall, Image: bluecrayola / shutterstock

The Halligen have been continuously inhabited since the Viking Age. At that time, Frisians who came from the area of the mouth of the Rhine settled here. From the very beginning, the terps served as protection against flooding. On the upper floor, all houses have had their own shelter since the huge storm surge of 1962. Today, about 230 people live on the Halligen, mainly from tourism as the most important source of income. In addition, agriculture with its focus on livestock farming still plays a certain role.

A smaller part of the population works for coastal protection at the Office for Rural Areas of the State of Schleswig-Holstein. Individual people are employed as teachers and pastors. In addition, NABU and WWF maintain stations with employees on the Halligen.

For a long time, electricity was generated by windmills and generators, but until the 1960s it still happened that Hallig residents did not have secure access to electricity. In the meantime, there are power cables to the mainland that guarantee a continuous power supply.

For a long time, the inhabitants were dependent on the collection of rainwater in cisterns for the water supply. A distinction was made between service water for humans and for livestock. The latter was stored in a water pit at the highest point of the terp. Longer dry seasons or the salinization of drinking water were constantly in the room as dangers. Fresh water then only came to the Halligen by ship. Similar to electricity generation, water pipelines to the mainland have been built since the 1960s. The uninhabited Halligen, on the other hand, still have no fresh water pipe.

Since the 1990s, the Hallig residents have also had Internet access. In the meantime, efforts are being made to get a fiber optic connection. Modernity has found its way into the stormy island world. Smaller grocery stores are available on Hooge and Langeneß for daily shopping, otherwise food is delivered by ship. There are certain delivery days for this purpose.

Nursing stations are owned by the Halligen Hooge and Langeneß. Of course, Hallig schools are not missing either, even if the number of teachers and pupils remains very manageable. The relationship between teacher and student is very close, there are even school classes that consist of only one student. But the funding is all the better.

Coastal protection, flooding and the current situation

In 1825, the great Hallig flood swallowed up all but the Halligen, which still exist today. A large loss of land was the result. Due to Lahnungen and stone layers, the area of the Halligen is even increasing today. However, the heights of storm surges continue to rise, especially in times of climate change, and require regular adjustments. In this way, the terps were further raised and fortified. Together with the Hallig residents, all inhabited terps are to be raised. The North Frisian outer sands of Japsand, Norderoogsand and Süderoogsand also contribute to the protection of the Halligen. However, it is still called land under, especially in the winter months. Up to 20 times a year, the sea floods the Halligen. Last but not least, the floods promote natural growth and ensure salinity.

Festivals and traditions

The festivals and traditions on the Halligen include the Biike brennen, the ringed goose days and the traditional costume summer. The Biike brennen heralds the end of winter and, like everywhere else in northern Germany, is a great spectacle. They celebrate and drink together. The Brent Goose Days are all about nature conservation and bird watching, when huge flocks of Brent Geese stop off on the lush green Hallig meadows. At the Trachtensommer, more than twenty traditional costume groups from the Halligen and the mainland dance together on the meadow of the Hanswarft. In addition, the women serve culinary delicacies. The character of the festival remained very familiar. Other festivals on the Halligen are the museum market with an open day in the Hallig Museum on Hooge, the lock festival with sailing regatta and the winter market on Langeneß

Headphones Bluetooth

Technology on the road

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

0

When it comes to buying a reliable and portable pair of headphones, we should add that choosing the right one for everyday use has become a daunting task. There are so many excellent options on the market, but no particular product can beat the level of Soundcore headphones. The excellent isolation of these headphones with clear sound quality gives you an unforgettable experience when listening to music and much more.

In addition, Soundcore headphones offer excellent connectivity and no installment payments are required. Just get the product out of the box and start having more fun in your life. Some models offer you additional features such as AI assistants that allow the user to control the system settings with their voice.

You can get any type of headphones in the store, but the main thing depends on your budget. Well, the Soundcore brand is at your disposal with amazing options that are really affordable. So, it’s the perfect time to look at these reliable options to get a better understanding.

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The most sophisticated models of Soundcore headphones:

The best way to buy a product is to compare it with other models and determine the advantage points. When it comes to Soundcore products, there is undoubtedly a wide range of earbuds waiting for you. All you need is all headphone bluetooth models to make a lifelong investment. Well, we’ve just put together a list of some worthwhile headphones:

Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro:

Multiple supporting features.
EQ and ANC adjustment.

First of all, the Liberty 3 Pro headphones are the flagship of the brand and the manufacturing team is trying to pack all the wonderful musical features into the system. You can enjoy tons of customization flexibility with pretty strong performance. The presence of IPX4 in the system makes it a waterproof set and still costs a fraction of the cost of the competition. We claim that it is an ideal choice for athletics and bassheads.

Soundcore Life A3i:

IPX5 waterproof system.
Comfortable to wear for hours.

Undoubtedly, A3i wins the competition in the industry with some amazing features and functions. The set’s extensive app support works wonders in improving noise levels. When it comes to the price, we add that it is really affordable because you will never be able to enjoy such brilliant features with this budget. The bean-like shape of these buds fits perfectly in your ears and you can buy them in any size depending on your needs.

Soundcore Life Q35:

Bluetooth 5 with LDAC support.
Provides easy pairing of multiple devices.

Doesn’t it seem like a dream to enjoy every lyric of the music when you’re somewhere away from the crowd? This is where Soundcore makes your dream come true by making Life Q35, as it can get you where you want to go. The ANC performance is really impressive and the long battery life will surely capture your heart. In addition, there are several travel features with intensive customization that make it a flagship of the present.

What else Soundcore Headphones offer:

Wireless headphones are becoming increasingly popular among youngsters as they offer unlimited benefits for everyone. Let’s take a look at these pros.

More comfortable to carry.
No need for cables to connect them.
Exceptional functionality.
Highly portable and provides comfort for the ears.
Provides flexibility and freedom.

Bluetooth Speaker

Technology on the road

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

0

Speakers are often used in parties, home theaters, small gatherings, and more. Loudspeakers have been of great importance in the music industry from the very beginning and still no other instrument can meet the demand for loudspeakers. For this reason, they are often used everywhere, as they offer many advantages. Although there are two types of speakers: wired and wireless, wireless speakers are gaining traction in the industry because they provide an unforgettable music experience wherever they go.

With the advanced technology, speakers become lighter and smaller. These facts highlight the portability of wireless speakers and vice versa. Many brands compete, but Soundcore has built a strong base in the musical instrument industry. The brand’s speakers also add to their conviviality factor, as they don’t require any additional cables and installation procedures.

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Are Soundcore speakers worth it?

It’s a million-dollar question of buyers whether or not Soundcore speakers are ideal to use? To answer them, we have compiled all the important information. From the very beginning, the brand manages to maintain a good reputation, and there are thousands of buyers who are satisfied with the brand’s products.

If you want to check the collection for yourself, just tap on bluetooth speakers and discover the wide range of portable speakers now. Each model is worth every penny in terms of features and functionality. To know the basic details of Bluetooth speakers, keep reading the article as we have discussed some premium models there.

Anker Soundcore 3:

Surprisingly, the battery life is impressive.
Different EQ modes.

What more do you need when Soundcore offers you the chance to get a signature Bluetooth speaker at a bargain price? All you need is a budget of €55.99 to get your hands on the most portable and lightweight speaker. According to the latest research, it’s clear that Soundcore 3 gives you everything you could want. The 24-hour battery life of the system is really impressive and that is the main advantage of the speaker. The water resistance has been raised to the level of IPX7, which leads to a huge demand for the speaker among buyers.

Anker Soundcore Flare 2:

The soundstage is perfectly done.
Multi-colored lights bring fun to party time.

Colorful lights always work wonders when it comes to enhancing the atmosphere of parties. Well, the construction of Soundcore Flare 2 also includes multi-colored lights that prove to be fair for music. Vocals and lead instruments are present in the system, which play an important role in improving the sound quality. To adjust the sound quality to your preferences, the system has several graphic EQs. Most importantly, you can pair the speaker with other instruments to amplify the sound level over a large or noisy area.

Soundcore Flare-Mini:

Wireless 360 degree Bluetooth speaker.
Waterproof and dustproof.
Perfect beach companion.

As we know, Soundcore specializes in creating high-quality speakers and headphones with creative, outstanding designs. Just like other models, Flare Mini promises clear sound quality in all conditions. It is precisely because of the creative design of the speaker that it has become a huge hit in the industry.

The system delivers 360-degree music along with the party LED lights. According to the latest study, the system offers more battery life to keep the party going. It’s the mini version of a flare speaker with the same construction of dark gray surroundings.

The most popular attractions in Spain

Spain

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

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Spain is one of the most popular travel destinations for Germans. In addition to the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands, the country also has some great destinations to offer on the mainland. Below you will find a selection of the most popular sights in Spain.

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Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the top destinations in Spain. The capital of Catalonia has two of the most visited sights in the country, the Sagrada Familia and the Parc Güell. The Sagrada Familia remains unfinished to this day and represents the main work of Antoni Gaudí in the style of Modernisme, the Catalan form of Art Nouveau. The “Sermon of Stone” fascinates with its differently designed facades and towers as well as the light-flooded interior. Gaudí was inspired by motifs from nature during the construction and most recently lived on the construction site itself.

Alhambra in Granada

Alhambra, Granada, Andalusia — The Alhambra, Image: Shchipkova Elena / shutterstock

The Alhambra towers high above Granada as a landmark and symbol of Andalusia’s Moorish heritage. For centuries, it was the seat of the Moorish Caliphate in the south of today’s Spain. The Alhambra complex is made up of the Generalife, the summer palace outside the fortress walls, the medina, the Nasrid palaces and the Alcazaba, i.e. the citadel. The most famous part, however, is the Löwenhof with the Löwenbrunnen. Later, the palace of Charles V was added, for which parts of the Nasrid palaces were demolished. With the construction of the Alhambra in the 13. and It began in the 14th century under the first Nasrid sultan, but the origins of the castle go back even further.

Insider tip: Camino del Rey in Andalusia

Camino del Rey, Andalusia – The former via ferrata is now a secured hiking trail and leads at a height of 100 meters through gorges up to 200 meters deep. On the way you pass a narrow stone bridge and a waterfall. Due to the restoration, the via ferrata has largely lost its original character, but is now safe to walk on after prior registration. The Camino del Rey once served as a small supply route and connected the weir on the Gaitanejo with the hydroelectric power plant at the El Chorro waterfall. The canyon through which the path winds was created by the Guadalhorce River and passes through limestone and dolomite rock.

Royal Palace in Madrid

Royal Palace, Madrid — The Palacio Real (Royal Palace), Image: Rudy Balasko / shutterstock

A representative symbol of power in the centre of the Spanish capital is the imposing Royal Palace, the largest of its kind in Europe. It comprises about 2000 halls, rooms and cabinets, but a total of more than 3400 rooms on an area of 135,000 square meters. Several architectural styles, including Baroque and Classicism, meet in the interior. Among the most important interiors are the State Room, the Gallery of Mirrors and the Throne Room. Nor is there a richly decorated castle chapel. Parts of the Palacio Real are open to visitors.

Toledo Cathedral

Toledo Cathedral is one of the largest and most beautiful churches in Spain. As is so often the case, it was built over a mosque. The foundation stone was laid in 1226. In total, the completion took over 200 years. Inside, the artistically designed and filigree main altar attracts everyone’s attention. No less impressive is the choir stalls with organ.

Cathedral of Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca, La Seu — La Seu, the impressive cathedral of Palma de Mallorca, Image: Boris Stroujko / shutterstock

The cathedral of Palma attracts countless visitors due to the unbridled popularity of Mallorca as a holiday island. Parts of the cathedral were designed by Antoni Gaudí. Inside, the unique lighting conditions that originate from the 61 stained glass windows are particularly fascinating. In addition, there are the rosettes at both ends of the nave. At Candlemas in February and on St. Martin’s Day in November, the rising sun shines directly through the rose window on the east side and is reflected on the opposite side. From the terraces on the roof of the cathedral, the rose windows can be inspected more closely. From here, the view sweeps far over the old town and bay of Palma.

Seville Cathedral with Giralda

Seville, the capital of Andalusia, ranks high among the most popular city destinations in Spain with its cathedral and old town. The Giralda, the tower of the immense Gothic cathedral, even became the landmark of the Andalusian metropolis. The high altar with altarpiece is covered all over with gold, but the chapels and frescoes in the cathedral are also worth seeing. The largest altarpiece in the world was built between 1482 and 1564 and measures 20 by 23 meters.

Mezquita of Córdoba

The Mezquita of Córdoba, which is one of the largest sacred buildings in the world, resembles an impenetrable forest of columns. In the 16th century, a Gothic nave was built into the huge mosque and the minaret was replaced by a bell tower. The Mezquita was the main mosque in Moorish Spain and has a floor area of 23,000 m². Construction began in the eighth century. In 1984, it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, along with the old town of Córdoba.

San Lorenzo de El Escorial near Madrid

Not far from Madrid , in the middle of the Sierra de Guadarrama, the famous palace and monastery complex rises as the largest Renaissance building in the world. The facades are surprisingly simple for such a symbol of power. Inside, there are 200 chambers, 3000 doors and 2673 windows, as well as 16 courtyards, 12 cloisters and 88 fountains. The historic library hall in particular is worth a longer look. In the Pantheon of Kings with several chapels, numerous Spanish kings and their entourage were buried.

Santiago

The Way of St. James, the most famous pilgrimage route, leads over a good 800 kilometers through northern Spain from the Pyrenees to Santiago de Compostela. On the way, you will pass such well-known cities as Pamplona, Burgos and León, but also magnificent natural landscapes. Every year, thousands of pilgrims walk the main route of the Camino de Santiago and spend the night in the pilgrims’ hostels that are provided. The current route was created during the 11th century and is signposted by the symbol of the scallop shell.

The most popular holiday destinations in the Netherlands

Netherlands

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

0

The most popular holiday destinations in the Netherlands

If you travel to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, you are spoilt for choice: exciting cities, fine sandy beaches, picturesque nature and multifaceted gastronomy. It is not for nothing that several thousand holidaymakers visit the neighbouring country in western Germany every year. The most popular holiday destinations are often only a few hours’ drive away from each other. Combining several excursion destinations is very easy in the most densely populated country in the EU. So now it’s just a matter of packing your bags and choosing one or more of the most popular holiday destinations in the Netherlands.

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Feel the vastness of the sea

Texel, Netherlands — Texel offers beautiful beaches and pure nature, Image: TasfotoNL / shutterstock

Beach lovers will get their money’s worth in Bergen aan Zee, on the island of Texel or in the seaside resort of Domburg, among other places. On the beautiful beaches there are different ways to enjoy the holiday season. Whether it’s a walk along the beach promenade, a hike through the dunes, a swim or a visit to museums or aquariums. A stay by the sea is also ideal for a relaxing holiday with your dog.

Bergen aan Zee is located in the province of North Holland and consists of two districts: Bergen and Bergen aan Zee. The place is known for its beautiful beaches and enchants visitors with artistic charm. Since the beginning of 1900, Bergen has been considered an artists’ village. In the summer months, arts and crafts markets take place there. In addition, the highest and widest dunes in Holland extend around Bergen aan Zee.

On the island of Texel, the largest and most versatile Wadden island in North Holland, visitors can expect unique nature areas, a 30-kilometre-long sandy beach and exciting activities. There are a total of seven villages on Texel, each of which is more magnificent than the last. While the bright red lighthouse in the north of Texel looks out to sea on three sides, treasures of beachcombers (Oudeschild), mudflat walks, the Ecomare Natural History Museum (De Koog) and other sights are waiting to be discovered and admired.

Domburg has the title “Healing seaside resort of Holland” and is considered the oldest seaside resort in the province of Zeeland. Those who spend their holidays there will be amazed by the wide, clean beaches, the healing sea water and the clean sea air. Domburg is also perfect for water sports enthusiasts. The beaches Badpaviljoen, Badstraat, Hoogduin and Noordduin offer optimal conditions for windsurfing, surfing and kitesurfing.

Combining culture and enjoyment

An unforgettable city trip awaits holidaymakers in Amsterdam, The Hague or Utrecht . In these places, city excursions can be combined well with nature, culture and shopping.

In Amsterdam, urban flair meets international charm. Historic buildings, narrow canals, famous museums and an exciting nightlife make the city one of the most popular destinations in the Netherlands. Whether by bike or on foot, whether from the observation deck (A’DAM Lookout) or on a canal cruise – the first impression of Amsterdam makes you want more. The cultural offerings range from the Van Gogh Museum to the Vondelpark, from the Royal Palace to the Hermitage Amsterdam and the Anne Frank House. Over 8000 buildings are listed in Amsterdam and give the city its special atmosphere. After a walk in the city centre, the food halls in Amsterdam’s west invite you to take a break. In the evening, numerous restaurants open their doors with international cuisine. Countless shopping opportunities round off your stay. In Amsterdam, visitors will find something for every taste, from rare antiques to extravagant clothing.

The historic city of The Hague is located in South Holland, just six kilometres from the North Sea coast. This is where the royal family resides. The seat of parliament and government of the Netherlands is also located in The Hague. The city is home to magnificent art museums, royal palaces and architectural monuments, offers its visitors exclusive shopping experiences and even freshly caught fish from the North Sea. By tram, holidaymakers can reach Scheveningen or Kijkduin by the sea in just 20 minutes.

The student city of Utrecht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. In the heart of Utrecht is the cathedral with its 112-metre-high tower. The city has arisen around it. Utrecht has a car-free city centre. This is particularly suitable for relaxed walks, boat or kayak tours as well as shopping. The largest shopping arcade in Holland, Hoog Catharijne, is characterised by a wide variety of shops. In the streets “Lijnmarkt”, “Oude Gracht”, “Choorstraat”, “Oudkerkhof” and “Korte Minrebroederstraat”, shopping enthusiasts will also find a variety of shops for fashion, home or delicatessen.

Go on a journey through time

Holidaymakers can get an insight into the past in Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn.

In Zaanse Schans, pure idyll reigns. Anyone who arrives there feels like they are on a journey through time. An authentic village with small, typical Dutch houses, mills, a tin factory, a cheese and dairy farm and other craft guilds gives a good impression of life in the 17. and 18th century. Surrounded by blooming fields and curved bridges, the picturesque village invites its visitors to explore by boat. Zaanse Schans is located on the banks of the river Zaan.

The water village of Giethoorn is located in the Weerribben-Wieden National Park and is considered the Dutch Venice. There are no roads or cars in this place, but small waterways and over 170 wooden bridges. Giethoorn emerged from a peat cutter settlement. Peat extraction has led to the creation of ponds and lakes, while houses have been built on the islands in between. A round trip on a typical Giethoorn boat, the so-called “punter”, gives travelers a wonderful view of the beautiful farms from the 18. and 19th century.

Holidays on Ameland

Netherlands

PatrickJullien

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30. May 2025

0

Ameland is part of the West Frisian Islands and is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Netherlands. Not only the Dutch themselves are regularly drawn to the island for relaxation in nature, Germans also like to take advantage of the variety and combine a visit to the almost untouched nature of Ameland with a holiday in the northern part of the Netherlands. The island is also known for its youth camps. Thousands of children and young people, especially from North Rhine-Westphalia and Lower Saxony , flock to the camps on the island every summer – a tradition that has existed in this form for almost 100 years. But there is also plenty of reason for adults to visit the island.

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Ameland in the West Frisian Wadden Sea – Nature, Beach and Recreation

Ameland, Netherlands — In Ameland you can relax in harmony with nature, Image: Rudmer Zwerver / shutterstock

One of the reasons why Ameland is still one of the most popular islands in the North Sea today is nature. Even though infrastructure has been built up over the years for the many visitors and offers tourists an attractive holiday and excursion destination, the island is by and large still in its original state today. A varied nature is offered, which is suitable for a wide variety of requirements and activities. From swamplands to small forests to the impressive beach, visitors to the island take advantage of a variety of opportunities to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life on the mainland.

Of course, the approximately 27-kilometre-long sandy beach that stretches around the island needs a special mention. While some areas are designated as designated swimming zones, the beach also passes hiking trails that lead once around the island. These can be used on foot but of course also by bike and offer a great opportunity not only to take a long walk directly by the sea, but also to see a lot of the island.

Various tours to the Wadden Sea also start from Ameland. You can watch one or the other seal from the ship or learn more about the special nature of the Wadden Sea on a hike. The local guides will make sure that you can not only see the most beautiful parts of the island, but also that you are back at your accommodation safe and sound at the end of the day.

The most important sights of Ameland at a glance

On the island, nature is the star, so it is also the most important attraction. Between small forests and beautiful sandy beaches, however, there are one or two buildings that you should have seen during your visit to the island. After all, Ameland has been inhabited for many centuries and even though the great economic success and growth only came with tourism in the 20th century, many stories and legends still bear witness to the original life of the islanders. Whaling in particular played a role in history. If you want to learn a little more about Ameland, you can do so in various small museums. There you will not only learn more about the pirates who started from here, but also about whaling and coastal protection, which has played an important role on Ameland for a long time.

In addition to the museums, it is of course the famous lighthouse that attracts visitors. At over 60 metres, it is of course easily the tallest structure on the island and is considered one of the most powerful lighthouses on the North Sea coast. A walk up is possible and not only provides a great view over the entire island, but over large parts of the North Sea. With a bit of luck, you can even see Germany from here. So if you are not afraid of heights and dare to climb the steps, you should definitely take advantage of this opportunity.

If you want to see a little more of the history of Ameland, you will find some houses in the village centres on the island, whose history dates back to the 17th century. Corresponding tours of the island also give a little historical context here and are a great way to find out a little more about the holiday destination, especially in combination with a visit to one of the museums mentioned.

Arrival and accommodation on the island of Ameland

Arrival in Ameland — Image: emka74 / shutterstock

The journey to the island is possible by boat alone and here you are of course dependent on ebb and flow – accordingly you should inform yourself about the exact departure times of the ferries. On the island itself, the best way to get around is by bike to see as much as possible and to be flexible when travelling. If you plan to spend a little more time on Ameland, you should also deal with the different accommodation options at an early stage. Although the network of inns and hotels has been further expanded in recent years, the accommodation options are still limited and also popular. That is why it is important to reserve a room or holiday apartment for your stay on Ameland in good time.

Otherwise, the tourist infrastructure is developed in such a way that you can be supplied without any effort. Restaurants, supermarkets and cafes offer a great opportunity to relax after a long hike or simply to take in more of the special atmosphere of the island with a beer or wine in the evening.