So many old European cities are centered around bodies of water and often, it is rivers. A stroll along the Aare River in Bern, Switzerland does not disappoint. At 288 kilometers, it is the longest river entirely within Switzerland. In the summer, people do jump right in and float along with the currents either by swimming or by raft, seeing Old Town right above them. Those less inclined to get wet can simply take a stroll along the river, soaking in the views.
Read MoreThis old city wall with nine towers was build in the 13th century to protect the town. As the town grew, the wall also grew to about 800 meters and with more towers. It’s one of the best preserved defensive walls in Switzerland. Some of the towers are open and provide amazing views of the town and the lake. Others are still functioning, mostly as guild headquarters.
Read MoreLake Lucerne is one of nature’s elegant masterpieces. The lake is the fourth largest in the country and is an odd shape, touching four different valleys. The water is beautiful, clear, and oddly still, even as boats and animals ruffle the waters.
Read MoreThe Kapellbrücke, translated to Chapel Bridge, is a covered wooden footbridge that crosses over the River Reuss in a diagonal fashion and was built in 1333. It’s named after the nearby St. Peter’s Chapel and features unique artwork inside. It is the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe and the world’s oldest surviving truss bridge. Part of the bridge is the Wasserturm or water tower that pre-dates the bridge by 30 years.
Read MoreMeggenhorn Castle is a castle in Meggen, near Lucerne. Built in 1868 by Edouad Hofer-Grosjean, it is now considered a landmark and a Swiss heritage site of national significance. It offers viewpoints of Lake Lucerne and the Alps. The castle is for public access and private events, and they often have a robust list of events for tourists.
Read MoreThe Biosphere or La Biosphère de Montréal is a museum dedicated to the environment. It sits on Saint Helen’s Island which was home of the 1967 World Fair. Surrounded by lush greenery and miles of likely maple trees, the structure should be an anomaly, and yet blends into the sky. The airiness and the conservatory nature of the geodesic dome commemorates that which it tries to teach. Being one with the environment.
Read MoreParc du Mont-Royal is a green sanctuary right in the heart of the city. Offering sweeping views of the city’s skyline, the park is favored by tourists, joggers, cyclists, and the leisurely walker. The Mont Royal chalet offers public restrooms, a safe haven from winter winds, and occasional public programming. The Mont Royal Summit is the highest peak in the park and offers a great panoramic view. The Kondiaronk Belvedere offers iews of views of downtown Montréal, the St. Lawrence River and Monteregian Hills and is a crowd favorite.
Read MorePompeii was an ancient Roman city, most famous for being buried and preserved under ash in the wake of Mount Vesuvius’ fiery eruptions. Some sections were covered in ash up to twenty feet. The tragedy of the city and the people’s destruction is not forgotten, and the excavation and preservation of this marvelous place allows us to see a slice of ancient Roman life. Stroll along the streets at this UNESCO World Heritage Site and discover the pathways taken by both royal and commoners of the day.
Read MoreSorrento is a coastal town in southwest Italy. Its dramatic cliffs face the Bay of Naples. Its winding roads is full of vendors selling gelato, ceramics, woodwork, and the requisite tacky souvenirs. Limoncello — think alcoholic lemonade — is produced in Sorrento. Honeymooners walk underneath the afternoon sun. It is a slow town where meandering is encouraged and visitors can relish in the salt air and sea breeze.
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