The summer holidays in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) are a highlight for pupils and families in Germany every year. After a challenging school year, everyone is looking forward to the break. Let your mind wander for six weeks and enjoy the warm season. But what activities and experiences are there during the Summer holidays NRW 2023? What can you do as a family? What options do students have on vacation? In this article, I will introduce you to the best excursion destinations, events and leisure activities. There is something for everyone, whether it’s adventure, recreation or culture. Grab a soft drink and get inspired!
The land of unlimited opportunities … to go on holiday
The region offers a variety of activities where everyone gets their money’s worth. Families with children can visit amusement parks such as Phantasialand or Movie Park Germany, for example. For animal lovers, the Cologne Zoo or the Allwetterzoo in Münster are a good animal destination. Summer brings high temperatures and this is ideal for a trip to a water park. Nowhere else is summer as cool as in North Rhine-Westphalia. The Aquapark Oberhausen offers you a swimming pool under a glass roof with a giant slide. In summer, the glass dome opens, like a space telescope. Unique! NRW offers many options to combine fresh air and adventure. Outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling or canoeing are good opportunities to enjoy nature with the family.
The summer holidays should be well planned
Graffiti on the wall of the Cologne Zoo, Image: Christian Mueller / shutterstock
In all activities with the family, planning is important. Especially in amusement parks, you should plan enough time to enjoy the excursion without stress. You should also check the travel options and opening hours so that there are no nasty surprises. Especially for outdoor day trips, the weather also plays a major role. When it comes to outdoor activities, you should rather focus on the children. For example, some hiking routes are not suitable for children. Breaks are also important on all excursions. A visit to the zoo in particular quickly tires the legs and then a bench comes in handy. And how nice is it to have a small snack then? Food and drink should not be missing and should be taken into account, especially on hiking tours. Are you a student and want to travel with your family? Super! As a student in NRW, you will have certain advantages.
Students also benefit from the holidays
There are also many opportunities for students to relax and gain new experiences during the summer holidays. Student discounts at theme parks, museums and cultural festivals make these activities particularly attractive. Student festivals also offer a varied programme of music, culture and sports. A road trip through NRW or a trip to a neighboring country are quite possible during the holidays. Many students also use the summer holidays to complete an internship and thus gain their first professional experience.
Which excursion destinations in NRW are interesting for students? Here you will find 12 possibilities.
NRW therefore offers a variety of opportunities for families and students. The summer holidays can be made meaningful and varied. It is important to plan the summer holidays. The best thing to do is to sit down at a table as a family and discuss your holiday wishes. Whether adventure or relaxation, young and old will get their money’s worth – promised!
Kalambaka is a small town in the Thessaly region of Greece, best known as the starting point for visiting the famous Meteora monasteries. The city is located at the foot of the Meteora Rocks, which are among the most impressive natural beauties in Greece. The rocks are known for their unique monasteries built on their peaks, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
History of the Meteora Monasteries
The history of the Meteora monasteries dates back to the 14th century, when monks began to live in the caves of the rocks. Over the years, more and more monasteries were built on the rocks, until eventually there were six main monasteries. The monasteries played an important role in the history of Greece and were threatened by various conquerors and wars over the centuries. Today, the monasteries are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attract thousands of visitors from all over the world every year.
Visit to the Meteora monasteries
Meteora Monasteries, Image: Zebra Studio / shutterstock
There are several ways to visit the Meteora monasteries. Most visitors choose a guided tour, which usually includes a visit to two to three monasteries. The tours can be booked in Kalambaka and are a great way to learn more about the history and importance of the monasteries. Alternatively, visitors can also get to the monasteries individually by car or on foot.
The monasteries are not open to everyone, and visitors must follow certain dress codes. Women must cover shoulders and knees, and men must wear long pants. The monasteries have different opening hours and entrance fees, and it is advisable to research in advance which monasteries you want to visit.
Kalambaka itself is also worth a visit. The town has a charming old town with traditional Greek houses and narrow streets. There are many restaurants and cafes serving traditional Greek cuisine, as well as shops selling local products.
Result
Kalambaka and the Meteora monasteries are a must-see for every visitor to Greece. The impressive rocks and monasteries offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture. Visitors should plan enough time to visit the monasteries at their leisure and also to explore the city of Kalambaka.
Delphi is an ancient city in Greece known for its historical ruins and unique location on the slope of Mount Parnassus. For centuries, the area has been a destination for travelers who appreciate the beauty and significance of the ancient world.
The sights of Delphi
The ancient ruins of Delphi were declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987 and are one of Greece’s most recognizable landmarks. Here, visitors will find the famous Oracle of Delphi, which was considered a sacred place by the ancient Greeks. The Oracle of Delphi was known for its prophecies and was considered an important source for decisions in the ancient world. Today, visitors can tour the remains of the oracle and experience the history and significance of this sacred place.
In addition to the oracle, there are also many other sights in Delphi. The Temple of Apollo is a particularly impressive structure that delights visitors for its historical significance and architectural beauty. The Ancient Agora and Theatre of Delphi are other impressive examples of ancient architecture that can be admired here.
Theater of Delphi, Image: Anastasios71 / shutterstock
The landscape around Delphi is also a highlight for travelers. The city is located on the slope of Mount Parnassus and offers breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can hike through the slopes and valleys and explore the spectacular scenery.
The city of Delphi offers a variety of accommodations, including hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. There is also a good selection of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy Greek specialties. A visit to Delphi is an unforgettable experience for anyone who appreciates ancient Greek history and culture.
Facts about Delphi
Delphi was one of the most important places in ancient Greece and was considered the center of the world. The Temple of Apollo was the most important temple in Delphi and was the seat of the oracle.
The Oracle of Delphi was an institution founded in the 8th century BC and active until the 4th century AD. It was known for its prophecies and was consulted by many important figures in the ancient world.
The ancient ruins of Delphi were discovered in the 19th century and have since been restored and preserved. They are now a major tourist attraction, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
Delphi is known for its architectural marvels, including the Temple of Apollo, the Theater of Delphi, and the Stadium. The Temple of Apollo is one of the most famous examples of ancient Greek architecture and is considered one of the most beautiful structures in all of Greece.
The city of Delphi is located at an altitude of about 600 meters on the slope of Mount Parnassus and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The area is known for its lush vegetation, picturesque villages, and unique wildlife.
Delphi hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, theatrical performances, and art exhibitions. Visitors can also take guided tours of the ancient ruins and learn about the history and significance of this fascinating place.
Delphi is also a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. There are many hiking trails around the city that lead through the spectacular scenery and offer breathtaking views.
The city is easily accessible from Athens and offers easy access to other parts of Greece. There is also a good selection of accommodation, restaurants, and cafes in Delphi that allow visitors to have a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
Since 2011, the Dutch airline KLM has been offering a daily flight to the island of Bonaire. Before that, the airport of the capital Kralendijk, which means coral dike, was mainly used for stopovers to and from South America and was only served three times a week.
The island, which belongs to the so-called ABC Islands (formerly the Netherlands Antilles) (Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao), can refer to a long-back, albeit not glorious, history. The indigenous people are the Arawak, who still make up a large part of the population today. It also follows that the language used in the main is the “Papiamentu”. However, there are no communication difficulties because of this. Because in addition to Dutch, sufficient English is also spoken. It is assumed that the Arawak settled on Bonaire from other islands.
Flamingos on the beach are part of the image of Bonaire, Image: dipard.photography / shutterstock
In the 15th century, the Spanish invaded the island. But since they did not find any other important natural treasures for them apart from salt lakes, they soon left the island again. The French who followed them behaved in the same way. In the following little more than 50 years, the island was mainly used to station prisoners on it, who were mainly employed in mining salt.
The quite large wild donkey herds, which can be spotted especially in the north of the island, probably date back to this time. It was the Dutch who then took the island under their flag. Since the vote in 2011, Bonaire has been counted as a “public body and special community” and as such has been included under Dutch custody.
From a constitutional point of view, the island sees itself as a solitarily administered community, which is administered by nine elders, who make decisions according to the majority principle. This “corps” is also responsible for the execution of the decisions. The council has to deal mainly with nature conservation, compliance with the applicable regulations and the safety of people and nature. It is also a paradise for “politicians”.
Bonaire one of the last paradises?
Coral reef on Bonaire, Image: John A. Anderson / shutterstock
In fact, it seems that the island does not have much to offer except for herds of donkeys, iguanas and flamingos, both of which are mainly in the much greener and richer north of the island. This is precisely what makes the island in the Caribbean so appealing. The construction of large hotel complexes was prohibited when the marine researcher Hans Hass saw the vulnerability and natural sensitivity under danger if tourism were to be approved to an excessive extent.
Which is why the northwestern part of the island, the “Washington-Slaagbai National Park”, was built and strict guidelines were imposed on the so-called rest of the island regarding the construction of hotel complexes.
In fact, this approach proved to be a blessing for the nature and population of the island, which has just 18,000 inhabitants. Last but not least, the fact that mass tourism can be kept within limits, no other economic achievements have taken place, except for the fact that many bed and breakfasts have been established, which know how to cater for 50,000 divers and other water sports fans, has saved the island from damage. For example, Bonaire was named the 4th bestdiving area on earth by Forbes Traveller.
Flamingos and other birds of paradise
In addition to the national park located in the northwest of Bonaire, there are two large inland lakes in the north and south of the island. Every year, huge flocks of flamingos gather on it, for which mud nests have been set up here for breeding. A sight that is worth the journey alone.
But Bonaire also serves many other species, especially from the bird world a paradisiacal home. The bird population has settled mainly away from the trade winds that prevail in the northwest of the island. Here, the coast is mainly characterized by rugged rocks. In between, however, as if nature were also concerned about the well-being of swimmers, there are sandy wide bays that invite you to snorkel.
Surfers from all over the world use it. The special clarity and purity of the water and the accompanying underwater fauna and flora, which are unparalleled in their biodiversity, should not go unmentioned. It also seems to be a paradise for the ubiquitous columnar and candelabra cacti, which thrive here as tall as a man and provide shelter for many bird species.
Bonaire – an island of a different kind
If you are looking for variety, discos and other “necessary” entertainment, you will certainly be in the wrong place on Bonaire. Here the visitor has to be satisfied with the two local radio stations that can be received via medium wave. Which does anything but detract from the island in its amazing naturalness.
Instead, the island, where you pay with US dollars despite your Dutch affiliation, offers an almost breathtaking and at the same time paradisiacal tranquility, which is made even more attractive by its natural biodiversity. If you are not afraid of the relatively long journey and are looking for pure nature in all its freshness and purity, you will find what you are looking for on Bonaire.
Sights on Bonaire
Kralendijk
The promenade of Kralendijk, the capital of Bonaire, Image: byvalet / shutterstock
Kralendijk is the capital of Bonaire and also the most important port on the island. If you arrive on a cruise ship, you will meet several shops and tour operators when you leave the ship. This is also where Bonaire’s airport, Flamingo International Airport, is located, which is quite small.
The architecture of the island is very similar to that of Curaçao, very colorful and with Dutch influences. In the capital, you should definitely go shopping, because the shops offer different products for every taste and are tax-free.
Salt Flats
It is not every day to see landscapes colored pink by the sea and salt. This is the case on Bonaire and even if you are not allowed to visit the salt factory, it is still allowed to take photos. This factory has been in existence for more than 350 years. Right next to the salt flats, you can see the beautiful pink waters, which perfectly match the flamingos in the area. From the city center it is about 20 minutes to get there, and the scenery is really breathtaking, it looks like something out of a fairy tale.
The Marine Park of Bonaire
This was proclaimed around the island and designated Bonaire National Marine Park . Rigorous nature conservation policy ensures that the reefs that have built up around the island, home to all kinds of species, can continue to live here protected and safe in the future.
Slave huts
These huts were built in 1850, during the time of slavery, and served as accommodation for the slaves who worked in the salt flats to collect and transport salt, one of Bonaire’s most important export products. These huts served as a place to sleep and to store personal belongings. Every Friday afternoon, the slaves emigrated seven hours from Rincon to spend the weekend with their families, returning on Sunday.
Willemstoren Lighthouse
This 23-meter-high lighthouse was built in 1837, is now decommissioned and stands near Atlantis Beach, practically in the middle of nowhere. In the area, you can only occasionally see a flamingo on the road or wild donkeys.
Donkey sanctuary
Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire is committed to ensuring a safe life for all donkeys on Bonaire. It also provides islanders, schools, and tourists with knowledge about the habitat of this beautiful animal, which has a close history with humans. Currently, more than 600 donkeys are housed there. They are provided with food, drinking water and medicine and enjoy plenty of space and freedom.
Washington Slagbaai National Park
This park is located on the northern tip of Bonaire. It consists of two former plantations, one Washington and the other Slagbaai. These are very extensive and have a total area of about 14,000 hectares. In the past, charcoal, aloe products, dividivi pods and goats as well as salt were grown and refined here for sale to Curaçao and Europe.
The best beaches on Bonaire
Sorobon: To the east of Bonaire, in the bay of Lac, Sorobon beach is the best recommendation. Sorobon’s private beach has shaded cabanas and sun loungers, and the site offers water sports rentals. The warm, shallow water is the perfect place for the whole family and for windsurfers.
Coco Beach: Mostly visited by locals, many snorkel here because of the crystal clear waters and low waves. Coco Beach Bonaire is a relatively new beach club (2016) located on a beautiful sandy beach just outside the center of Kralendijk, next to the Spice Beach Club, on the site where the Sunset Beach Resort used to stand.
Atlantis Beach: The ideal beach for windsurfers because it is so windy. There is a large windsurfing school that rents equipment for the day. The beach is very close to the slave huts, so your beach trip can be combined with a visit to the historic site.
Diving on Bonaire
Bonaire has perhaps the most colorful dive sites in the Caribbean. With about 470 species of fish, you’ll see all the colors of the rainbow here. Bonaire also stands out because there is almost no current in the waters off the island. For this reason, Bonaire is one of the best dive sites in the world to learn to dive, but also to deepen your acquired knowledge. Visitors to Bonaire can choose between boat diving and shore diving. Most hotels score with their own natural house reefs, which are directly accessible from the beach. Most of the diving around Bonaire takes place on the west coast. Advanced divers should explore the dive sites at the northern and southern tip. Although it is a small island, the sea will enchant you with its turquoise to deep blue tones.
Useful Facts
Language: The most widely spoken languages on Bonaire are Papiamentu, Dutch, and Spanish, with only the first two being official languages.
Climate: The dry season lasts from February to July and the rainy season from October to December. The average temperature is 29°C.
Currency: US Dollar ($)
Easy to get around the island: Golf cart rentals, minibuses and getting around Kralendijk on foot are easy.
Flights: The most common routes are with Copa with a connection in Panama or with American airlines with a connection in New York to the Antilles.
The most beautiful beaches on Bonaire
Sorobon Beach – Known for its shallow, turquoise waters, this beach in Lac Bay is a popular spot for snorkeling and windsurfing.
Klein Bonaire – A small island accessible only by boat, it offers an unspoiled natural environment and breathtaking snorkeling opportunities.
Pink Beach – Named for the pink sand made up of crushed coral, this beach is a unique place to enjoy the beauty of Bonaire.
Bachelor’s Beach – A quiet and secluded beach known for its clear waters and the many fish that can be spotted while snorkeling.
Te Amo Beach – A popular spot for divers known for its large number of colorful corals and fish.
Donkey Beach – Another secluded beach that offers great views of the ocean and is a great place to relax and snorkel.
Andrea I and II Beach – Located in the south of Bonaire, these beaches are quiet and peaceful and offer a great opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Bonaire.
Arachova is a charming mountain village in Greece, known for its picturesque streets and traditional stone houses. It is located at an altitude of 968 meters at the foot of the Parnassos Mountains, about 160 km northwest of Athens.
The village has a long history and was founded in the 10th century. It was an important trading place and was known for its craftsmanship, especially its carpets and weavings. Today, Arachova is a popular destination for its natural beauty, traditional architecture, and the many outdoor activities it offers.
The main street of Arachova is paved with stones and lined with cafes, restaurants and shops selling handmade products such as leather goods, jewellery and hand-woven carpets. The narrow streets are adorned with blooming bougainvillea, jasmine and roses, which give the village a picturesque and romantic charm.
One of the main attractions of Arachova is the Parnassos Ski Center, which is located just 10 km away. It is the largest ski resort in Greece and offers skiing opportunities for both beginners and advanced skiers. In summer, visitors can also enjoy hiking, climbing, mountain biking or horseback riding in the mountains.
Another highlight is the archaeological museum of Delphi, which is located near Arachova. Delphi is one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, visitors can admire the ruins of the Temple of Apollo and the ancient theater.
If you travel to Arachova, be sure to try the traditional food. The village is known for its local cuisine, especially its lamb that is raised in the region. A local speciality is also the Formaela cheese, which is made from sheep’s milk and has a unique, strong taste.
Arachova is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the beauty of nature. The village offers a unique combination of culture, history and nature that makes it an unforgettable destination. If you’re traveling to Greece , be sure to plan a visit to Arachova.
Patras is a port city in the west of Greece and is the third largest city in the country. It is the perfect destination for travelers who want to experience the beauty of the Greek coastal landscapes and the culture and history of Greece. Patras is also known as the host of the annual Carnival festivities, which are considered the largest in Greece.
Sights in Patras
One of the city’s landmarks is the impressive Rio-Antirrio Bridge, one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in the world, which spans the Gulf of Patras and connects the islands of the Ionian Sea to the mainland. The view from the bridge to the sea and the surrounding countryside is breathtaking and should not be missed on any trip to Patras.
Another highlight of the city is the Archaeological Museum of Patras, which houses a collection of artifacts and excavations from the ancient city of Patras and the surrounding area. Visitors can learn about the rich history of the region and admire the remains of temples, theaters, and other ancient buildings.
Carnival in Patras, Image: Aerial-motion / shutterstock
For nature lovers, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding countryside in Patras, including the beaches on the coast of the Gulf of Patras and the Panachaion mountain range, which rises to the west of the city. Hikers can hike here on well-marked trails and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
When it comes to nightlife, Patras has a lively bar and club scene that is concentrated in the area around the port. There is also a wide range of traditional taverns where you can enjoy the local cuisine and taste the wine from the region.
The Patras Carnival is another attraction that takes place every year in February and attracts visitors from all over the world. The festivities last for several weeks and include parades, music, dancing and fireworks. The highlight is the “Great Parade” on the last weekend of the carnival, where the streets are filled with people in colorful costumes and masks.
Patras is also an ideal base for exploring other parts of Greece. The city is a short drive from Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, and is also a good starting point for trips to the islands of the Ionian Sea.
Olympia, one of the most important places in Greek history and home of the Olympic Games. Located in the west of the Peloponnese peninsula, the city is famous for its ancient ruins, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural significance.
Olympia, Image: Mark and Anna Photography / shutterstock
The Olympic Games were first held in Olympia in 776 BC and were held every four years. The place was a religious center, and the games were part of a celebration in honor of the god Zeus. Today, visitors can tour the ancient ruins and feel the spirit of the ancient games. The Temple of Zeus, the Altis area and the ancient stadium are some of the main attractions.
In addition to the ruins, Olympia also offers stunning scenery that is perfect for hiking and exploring. The green hills, covered by cypress and olive trees, provide a picturesque backdrop for hiking and biking.
Another highlight of Olympia is the Archaeological Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts from ancient Greece, including statues and relics from the Olympic Games. The museum is a great addition to visiting the ancient ruins and gives visitors a deeper insight into the history of the Olympic Games.
Away from ancient history, Olympia also offers a variety of activities for visitors. The city has a number of restaurants where you can sample Greek cuisine, as well as bars and cafes where you can relax and soak up the atmosphere. The town is also an ideal base for trips to nearby beaches and other attractions in the region.
Epidaurus is an ancient city on the Peloponnese Peninsula in Greece, known for its impressive theater and sacred sanctuaries. This place was once the center of the cult of the god of healing, Asclepius, and was a popular destination for pilgrims in search of healing and well-being. Today, Epidaurus is an important archaeological site that attracts visitors from all over the world.
One of the most recognizable features of Epidaurus is the theater, which dates back to the 4th century BC and is considered one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in the world. The theatre is famous for its excellent acoustics and is often used for performances and concerts. An interesting fact about the acoustics of the theater is that even a whisper on stage can be clearly heard in the back seats.
In addition to the theatre, there is also the sanctuary of Asclepius, which served as a place of healing and regeneration. Here, pilgrims and patients in search of healing and relief from their suffering could find support. The sanctuary includes various temples, fountains, and baths, as well as a museum that explains the history and significance of the place in more detail.
Another attraction in Epidaurus is the Archaeological Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of artifacts from the region. Exhibits include sculptures, inscriptions, and relics from the sanctuary of Asclepius, as well as ancient weapons and everyday objects from the area.
Epidaurus is a wonderful place to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Greece. The scenery is breathtaking, providing an impressive backdrop to the ancient ruins and sights. It is a place where one can experience the past and the present while discovering the beauty and mysticism of Greek culture.
Those planning a visit should take time to explore the surrounding area and visit the nearby towns and villages. One of the most popular options is Nafplio, a beautiful coastal town with a rich history and a wealth of cultural activities.
Mycenae, a city on the Peloponnese Peninsula in Greece, is a place of great historical and archaeological importance. The city is known for its connection to ancient Greek mythology and its impressive ruins that attract visitors from all over the world.
Mycenae was founded in the 2nd millennium BC and developed into a thriving city during the 14th and 13th centuries BC. It was the center of the Mycenaean Empire, which was one of the most powerful forces in the Eastern Mediterranean at the time. The city also played an important role in Greek mythology and was the hometown of King Agamemnon, one of the main characters in Homer’s epic “The Iliad”.
Today, Mycenae is known for its archaeological remains, which are located on a hill near the modern city of Mycenae. The ruins include the remains of the city walls, the Tholos tombs and the famous Lion’s Gate. The Lion’s Gate is the symbol of the city and Mycenaean culture and depicts two lions standing upright and guarding the entrance to the city.
Acropolis of Mycenae
The Lion’s Gate, Image: Vineyard Perspective / shutterstock
One of the most impressive features of Mycenae is the Acropolis, which is located on the hill above the city. The Acropolis was the religious and political center of the city and contains remains of temples, palaces, and residential buildings. Visitors can explore the remains of the Palace of Agamemnon, which is said to have stood near the Lion’s Gate.
Another important attraction in Mycenae are the Tholos tombs, which originate from the 14th and 13th centuries BC. These tombs are impressive round buildings with a dome and were built for important personalities of the Mycenaean culture. The most famous of these tombs is the so-called Treasury of Atreus, which is considered one of the most impressive structures of Mycenaean architecture.
In addition to the archaeological remains, Mycenae also offers a picturesque setting surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. The city is close to the coast and offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the beaches and crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
The remains of the city and the mythological connections make Mycenae one of the most significant places in Greek history.
Just a short ferry ride from the south coast of England is the picturesque island paradise of the Isle of Wight. The Victorian monarch already fell in love with the island and had a holiday home built there to enjoy the relaxed island life.
Once part of the county of Hampshire, the island now has its own capital. But it is the authentic villages and the untouched nature that make a stay on the island an unforgettable experience. The Isle of Wight has been honoured as a unique part of England and a good half of the island’s landscape is considered particularly worthy of protection.
Especially the uniquely beautiful coastal landscape of the island makes it an attractive holiday destination. The varied coastal landscape includes some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Numerous bays and cliffs provide a coastal landscape that is worth exploring. Some of the most beautiful beach destinations on the island include Shanklin, Sandown and Ventnor. The harbour towns such as Cowes, Ryde and Bembridge are also particularly picturesque. A highlight of the coastal landscape are three rugged chalk cliffs. They were once the headland of the island, which was separated over the centuries. Today, “The Needles” are an eye-catcher and a popular photo motif.
Compton Bay and Yaverland Beach can also be mentioned as special highlights. If you enjoy a walk here, you can hope to come across dinosaur fossils. The high incidence of finds also gave the island the nickname “Dinosaur Island”.
Historical Traces & Sights
If you decide to visit the Isle of Wight as your holiday destination, you should take time to explore the island’s extraordinary historical sights. Among the interesting sights is Carisbrooke Castle.
Carisbrook Castle
Carisbrook Castle, Image: paula french / shutterstock
The Norman castle complex Carisbrook Castle served as both a fortress and a prison. The most famous prisoner was imprisoned in the castle in the 12th century. It was none other than the English King Charles I. Today, a visit to the castle is worthwhile not only because of the historical background, but the castle serves as a museum that deals with the eventful history of the island.
Osborne House
Unlike King Charles I, Queen Victoria, who died in 1901, enjoyed her stay on the island off the south coast of England. She had a very special domicile built on the island with Osborne House . Her husband Prince Albert planned the country estate in the style of an Italian villa, which is still surrounded by beautiful gardens and extensive parks today. The imposing summer house gives fascinating insights into the life of the monarch, who once named the villa her favourite domicile and liked to retreat to the island.
Mottistone Gardens and Estate
Osborne House, Image: Richard Melichar / shutterstock
The historic property stretches from the sea to the tops of the hills. Among other things, you can not only enjoy nature here, but also burial mounds can be found on the extensive grounds. In addition, the Mottistone Manor is located here, which can only be visited from the outside, but blends magically into the grounds. In addition, there is The Shack, a small house that is used by architects as a drawing office in the summer months. The absolute highlight, however, are the gardens on the estate, because exotic plants thrive in them, there are olive groves and an organic vegetable garden is located directly at the old manor house Mottistone Manor.
Legendary Events
Isle of Wight Festival
Music fans are of course familiar with the Isle of Wight, as numerous music festivals take place on the island every year. The most famous festival is the Isle of Wight Festival, which has been taking place since 1968 and offers a four-day programme that inspires rock, pop and indie fans.
Isle of Wight Garlic Festival
With the Isle of Wight Garlic Festival, a somewhat different festival also takes place on the island. Here, everything revolves around garlic. Every summer, culinary delights are offered, from garlic sausage to garlic-flavored ice cream and garlic beer. But entertainment is also provided and so there are live performances by various bands as well as magic and stand shows, acrobatic performances and a children’s program.
Cowes Week
Another event is Cowes Week. This is a world-famous sailing regatta that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually in August. But the Admiral ́s Cup and the Commodores Cup also magically attract sailing enthusiasts.
Isle of Wight International Scooter Rally
The Isle of Wight International Scooter Rally is considered the largest of its kind. Thousands of vintage scooters cruise across the island. But not only the scooters themselves inspire, but also dealers are on site and a varied entertainment program including live bands is also provided at Sandown Airport.
The most beautiful beaches on the Isle of Wight
1. Sandown Beach: Golden Sands and Family Fun
Sandown Beach is a truly classic coastal town, perfect for families with its golden sands and shallow waters. The wide waterfront offers a selection of cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops that cater to all tastes. For the more adventurous, there are water sports such as kayaking and windsurfing. The beach is surrounded by an impressive bay and offers a magnificent view of the surrounding hills.
2. Compton Bay: Natural Beauty and Fossil Hunting
Compton Bay, Image: Travel Magazine Online
Compton Bay is a wild and pristine beach with a spectacular backdrop of red cliffs and golden sands. This beach is a paradise for nature lovers who like to take long walks and explore the impressive coastal landscape. Here you can also search for fossils, which are often exposed in the cliffs. The surf also attracts surfers who enjoy the waves in this remote location.
3. Shanklin Beach: Charm and Relaxation
Shanklin Beach is known for its quaint beach huts scattered along the waterfront. This charming place exudes a relaxed atmosphere and is perfect for relaxing in a deckchair and enjoying the day. The beach stretches along a sheltered bay and offers calm waters that invite you to swim. The surrounding gardens and walking paths also offer great opportunities to explore nature.
4. Ventnor Beach: Elegance and relaxation
Ventnor Beach impresses with its elegance and Victorian charm. The pebble beach stretches along a sheltered bay and offers clear, calm waters. The promenade is lined with blooming gardens that invite you to take a leisurely stroll. Nearby are cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy regional delicacies. The place exudes a relaxed atmosphere and is perfect for a romantic getaway.
5. Colwell Bay: Water Sports and Adventure
Colwell Bay is a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts. The shallow sandy beach and calm waters provide ideal conditions for activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking and swimming. The view of the sea is rounded off by the offshore rocks and the charm of the coastal town. The nearby cafes are the perfect place to refuel after a day of activities.
