Tag Archives: Natural Beauty

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Enjoy These Outdoor Venues in Taiwan

While Taiwan may be most famous for its bustling cities and historic landmarks, it is also home to some incredible outdoor venues. From the Yangmingshan National Park to the tea-growing area of Maokong, these spots each showcase a unique side to the country.

Yangmingshan National Park in Taiwan

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Yangmingshan National Park
One of the most popular of Taiwan’s nine national parks, the Yangmingshan National Park can be found in between Taipei and New Taipei City, making it easy to access for those visiting the capital. The park is famous for its incredible natural beauty, as well as its rich biodiversity, and boasts everything from cherry blossoms to hot springs to hiking trails, and is even home to the Seven Star Mountain, which is the tallest dormant volcano in the country.

Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan

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Sun Moon Lake
Located in the foothills of Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range, Sun Moon Lake is the largest body of water in the country, and has also become quite the tourist attraction. The lake itself surrounds a small island called Lalu, with the east side of the lake resembling the sun, and the west side resembling the moon, which is how the lake acquired its name. There are several festivals held here throughout the year, and these always draw in the crowds, but, at other times, the lake is still worth visiting for its astounding natural beauty. The area around the lake is filled with criss-crossing hiking trails, making this the perfect spot for some outdoor adventure.

Tea and food overlooking Maokong hills

Maokong
Located near to the capital city, Maokong used to be the largest tea growing area in Taipei, and is a great place to go to learn more about the country’s tea culture. The area still produces tea, although not to the extent that it used to, and is famous for its tieguanyin tea, which can be sampled at one of the many local restaurants that you will find here. The area also features many intertwining footpaths and hiking trails, which visitors can use to explore the scenery, and, if you are visiting on a clear day, you will also be able to enjoy a stunning view of the entire city of Taipei.

Yehliu Geopark in Taiwan

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Yehliu Geopark
Yehliu is another area that can easily be visited from Taipei, and its geopark is an experience that should not be missed. The landscape here was created completely naturally, through a combination of wind and waves, as well as from the unique layer of the earth’s crust that rises up from beneath the ocean. With honeycomb formations, rocks that look like miniature volcanoes, and wave-cut platforms that jut out over the water, the landscape that you will see here is unlike anything that you will see elsewhere on the planet. There is only one trail to follow within the geopark, and this stretches out for 1.7 kilometres, but, since it is the only one here, it can get quite crowded, so try to plan your visit out of peak hours.

Many visitors to Taiwan do not realize just how rich the country is in nature and unique geological features. From the rock formations of the Yehliu Geopark to the hiking trails that surround the Sun Moon Lake, these outdoor venues are guaranteed to impress.

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Fall in Love with the Scenery at Big Cottonwood Canyon

donut falls

Located in the Wasatch Range, Big Cottonwood Canyon is just 12 miles from Salt Lake City, and consists of 15 miles of incredible natural beauty. From hidden waterfalls to secluded caves, it is all-too-easy to fall in love with the incredible scenery that surrounds you at Big Cottonwood Canyon.

Donut Falls Hiking Trail
The Donut Falls hiking trail is one that is extremely popular with families, as it makes for the perfect introduction when it comes to taking children out on their first hike. Being just a three and a half mile round trip, this is an easy trail, especially since the path is wide with only a slight gain in elevation.

Desolation Lake
Desolation Lake features alpine terrain at its finest, with everything from pine and aspen trees to wildflowers to lush, open meadows and, of course, a serene lake. The only way to access the lake is by a hiking trail, but this is a well-maintained one, making the journey easy. Once at the lake, there is so much nature to explore, so be sure to bring along a few snacks, so that you can happily spend a few hours here.

Ledgemere Cave
Ledgemere Cave is located right at the Ledgemere Picnic Area, meaning that no hiking is needed to access it. However, the entrance to the cave is quite small, which is why many people tend to miss it. Once inside, the cave is large enough for an adult to stand up in, with a natural path that runs for about 75 yards before plunging into complete darkness, meaning that you will need to bring along a flashlight if you want to explore the whole cave.

Silver Lake
Located right at the top of Big Cottonwood Canyon, at the Brighton Ski Resort, Silver Lake is a beautiful place for a leisurely stroll. There is a boardwalk around the lake that is perfect for this, and you are likely to also spot some native wildlife, such as the moose that live here.

Wasatch Crest Trail
The Wasatch Crest Trail is a mountain biking trail that is actually a 20 mile section of the Great Western Trail, which runs 3000 miles from Canada all the way to Mexico. This is a trail that really captures the essence of mountain biking, and, when you can tear your eyes away from the track in front of you, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the magnificent alpine architecture that your surroundings boast.

The S-Curves
The S-Curves are a section of south-facing cliffs that are a popular rock climbing spot. There are a number of bolted routes to choose from here, each of which will provide you with one-of-a-kind views of Big Cottonwood Canyon. Within the S-Curves is an area known as The Piles, which is a small, scenic canyon that has a gurgling stream running through it, making it the perfect area to explore on a scorching hot day.

There are so many different parts to Big Cottonwood Canyon that are worth exploring, from the hiking trails meandering through the wilderness to the vast, alpine lakes. With so much natural beauty all around you, this is an area that you are bound to want to return to, time and time again.

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A Tourist’s Guide to Montserrat

Montserrat Monastery

Located 50 kilometers northwest of Barcelona, Montserrat is not just a spectacular rugged mountain range, but is also a spiritual destination. Home to Benedictine monastery and miles of serene walking trails, it is no surprise that Montserrat is a popular day-trip destination for those visiting Barcelona.

Traveling to Montserrat
Montserrat is best visited from Barcelona, and easily accessed by train, bus and car. For those taking the train, once you reach Montserrat-Aeri, you will then be able to choose between taking a funicular or a cable car up to the monastery, although the majority would agree that the cable car offers a much more scenic journey.

Black Madonna and the Monastery
Montserrat has always been a popular pilgrimage spot, and is home to the Black Madonna, a wooden statue that was found in 880 AD, glowing at the back of a cave. Legends states that when attempts were made to move the statue away from the mountain, it became impossibly heavy, and so a chapel was built around it. The monastery, which is home today to several Benedictine monks, was then later established in 1409. When visiting the Black Madonna, keep in mind that this is the most revered relic in Catalonia, so expect to spend some time waiting in a line.

Montserrat Museum
The Montserrat Museum is another popular stop on the mountain, and while you may not expect much from a museum with such an out-of-the-way location, it actually contains some seriously impressive art. The displays feature pieces by Catalan masters, with some of the highlights being the artwork by Dali, Miro and Picasso.

Walking Trails
There are numerous walking trails crisscrossing around Montserrat, with one of the most popular starting at the Funicular Sant Joan, from where you can walk to Sant Jeroni, the highest point on Montserrat. The hike between Sant Jeroni and the monastery takes about two to three hours, offering panoramic views over the local landscape, and while all of the main trails are quite well-marked, picking up a trail map from the information desk is still advised.

Dining
If you are visiting Montserrat on a day-trip, then you can either bring your own lunch, or dine at one of the venues on the mountain. The two formal restaurants to be found here at Restaurant Montserrat and Restaurant Abat Cisneros, but there are also two canteen-style venues for those who want a quick and casual bite. Montserrat is incredibly beautiful, and if you are visiting on a pleasant day, it could be worth visiting the small supermarket, as well as the nearby market stalls, to pick up a few items for a picnic on the mountain.

Montserrat is a destination that holds a special place in the heart of many Catalans, and is worth a visit if you want to experience a unique spiritual side to the region. From the scenic cable car ride at the start of the day, to a picnic lunch overlooking the mountain’s rocky landscape, to a visit to the Montserrat Museum to view some world-class art, a day spent in Montserrat promises to be a fascinating one.

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Touring Russia By Train

Train station, Russia

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Being the largest nation in the world, each region of Russia offers quite a different travel experience, with landscapes ranging from snow-capped peaks to sub-tropical beaches. For this reason, if you really want to experience the authentic heart and soul of Russia, touring multiple spots in the country is always going to be worthwhile. While train travel may not give you as much flexibility as driving, it is extremely more convenient, and will enable you to see some of the very best that Russia has to offer.

Trans-Siberian Railway
The Trans-Siberian Railroad is a historic one, having been built between 1890 and 1916, and holds the record for being the longest railway in the world. It takes passengers from one end of Russia to the other, with the total journey taking a week, and that is not including time for stopping off and exploring each destination along the way. Crossing seven different time zones, this is truly the best way to tour Russia by train, and while you may not have the time to thoroughly explore each stop, there are some that you definitely should not miss.

Vladimir and Suzdal
Vladimir and Suzdal are both easily accessible by the Trans-Siberian Railway, and are two towns that are a part of Russia’s Golden Ring. Steeped in history and culture, these two towns are a must-see if you are going to be touring Russia.

Tomsk, Russia

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Tomsk
Tomsk is a quaint university town, packed with gorgeous wooden architecture, and makes for a refreshing change from the larger cities that the Trans-Siberian Railway stops at. Its intellectual but laid-back atmosphere sets it apart from other Siberian destinations, and, if you decide to stay the night, you will be pleasantly surprised at the range of classy restaurants, bars and clubs that you will find here.

Ulan-Ude
The capital of the Buryatia Republic, Ulan-Ude is home to the famous Ivolginsky Datsan Monastery, which is the centre of Russian Buddhism. Due to this, it is quite different from other parts of Russia, which are mostly Christian or atheist, and has a strong sense of spirituality and calmness.

Lake Baikal, Russia

Lake Baikal
Set within some of the most beautiful countryside in the world is Lake Baikal, which, having been formed around 50 million years ago, is the oldest lake in the world. Being 1637 metres deep, Lake Baikal holds about 20% of the world’s non-frozen fresh water, and, due to the natural filtering processes that occur within the lake, it is completely clear and safe to drink. This area is filled with so much natural beauty that it is often a stop that people stay for a couple of days to explore, making the most of the outdoor activities available, from trekking to boating to diving.

Many people that visit Russia for the first time tend to stick to the larger, well-known cities, such as Moscow or St. Petersburg, and while these destinations are no doubt exciting, you need to experience more of the country in order to gain a well-rounded insight into Russia. From the spirituality of Ulan-Ude to the stunning natural beauty of Lake Baikal, taking the Trans-Siberian Railway through Russia will expose you to some extraordinary parts of the country that you may have otherwise missed.

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Great Beaches in the Middle East

 

Jumeirah Beach Hotel

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The Middle East is home to some of the finest beaches in the world, but, due to political reasons, beach tourism is often not promoted heavily in many areas. Nevertheless, each of these beaches are truly spectacular in their own right, and are well worth considering for your next beach vacation.

Beit Yanai Beach, Israel
Considered to be one of the best beaches in Israel, Beit Yanai Beach is located about a 20-minute drive from Tel Aviv. Since the beach is run and managed by the Israel Parks and Nature Authority, it is extremely clean, relatively quiet, and has some great facilities. Since the beach is not protected from the sea, it often experiences massive waves, making it a popular spot for surfing and kitesurfing.

Khor Kalba Beach, Sharjah, UAE
The beach at Khor Kalba is extremely hidden and tucked away, but this is a large part of its charm. What it lacks in amenities, it makes up for in privacy, seclusion and incredible natural beauty. From the surrounding mangroves to the nesting turtles, Khor Kalba in itself is an important nature reserve, and the beach is a fine example of a conservation success. The waters here are calm, and if you want the utmost in serenity, it is best to pay the beach a visit during the weekdays.

Mughsayl Beach, Oman

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Mughsayl Beach, Oman
Oman boasts about 1000 miles of coastline, many parts of which are just simply breathtaking. Hidden away in southern Oman, Mughsayl Beach offers quite a diverse experience, depending on when in the year you visit it. In the summertime, it is reminiscent of a tropical Caribbean island, with coconut groves and banana plantations lining the pristine sand, while in the winter months, giant waves crash into the cliffs, with water exploding out of blow holes dotted along the coastline. The beach is situated about 40 kilometers from Salahah, and is easy to access.

Naqoura, Lebanon
Situated in the south of Lebanon, Naqoura is a small city that boasts an expansive, and extremely clean, beach. Unlike many of the other beaches in Lebanon, this one is free of beach resorts, large crowds and noisy bars, giving you the opportunity to hear the sound of the waves crashing onto the sand, and the breeze rustling through the trees in the forest behind the beach. To access the beach, visitors need to cross a beautiful orchard, which also serves as a turtle reserve, and is home to a number of other wildlife species too. Rumour has it that developers are interested in Naqoura’s beach, so if you want to experience this untouched slice of paradise, now is the time to visit.

While the Middle East may not immediately spring to mind when planning a beach vacation, there is no denying that the beaches found in this part of the world are extremely underrated. From the sandy coconut groves of Oman to the abundant wildlife in Naqoura, these are all considered to be some of the finest beaches that the Middle East has to offer.

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Taal Lake and Volcano Island Tours

Taal Lake and Volcano Island

Situated on the Philippine island of Luzon, in the province of Batangas, Taal Lake is a haven of greenery and serenity, and is actually a crater lake that fills the caldera of a prehistoric volcano. After this caldera was formed around 500,000 years ago, the subsequent volcanic eruptions later created another volcanic island within Taal Lake itself, and was named Volcano Island. While Taal Volcano may be the smallest active volcano in the world, its unique location, being situated on an island that is within a lake that is on another island, makes it quite the geological wonder, attracting thousands of visitors each and every year.

Filipino Travel Center
The Filipino Travel Center offers private tours of Volcano Island, picking up guests from Metro Manila in a luxury minibus before making the two-hour journey to Tagaytay Ridge. Here, you will be able to enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Taal Lake, Taal Island and Mount Macolod, before heading down to the shores of the lake to hop on to a motorized outrigger. The 30-minute boat ride takes you to the Volcano Island village of Talisay, and, from here, you will begin your trek up towards the volcano’s rim. The hike itself lasts for about 45 minutes and is considered to be one of the easiest hikes in the Philippines, making it accessible to those of all abilities. After taking in your stunning views of Crater Lake and its surroundings, you will then head back to the mainland, stopping off at the Taal Yacht Club for a watersports session before being driven back to Metro Manila.

GetYourGuide
GetYourGuide is a company that offers an eight-hour adventure across Taal Lake and Volcano Island. Just like the tour mentioned above from the Filipino Travel Center, you will be driven from Manila to Tagaytay City, after which you will board a boat and be taken for a hike up the volcano. By the sulfuric lake, there are a number of rental companies where you can rent a kayak, banana boat or paraw, to see the caldera from a unique perspective. For those who want even more of an unforgettable experience, GetYourGuide also gives their guests the opportunity to enjoy a horseback ride among Taal’s basalt rocks, and you can even ride all the way up the trail to the top of the volcano if you so desire. In addition to seeing the lake and the volcano, this tour also includes a visit to the Caleruega Church, the Palace in the Sky park, which was built for president Marcos, and a mushroom burger factory that is located in Tagaytay City.

No matter which tour you opt for, you will still be able to witness the splendid views from Volcano Island, which are considered to be some of the most scenic in the Philippines. The natural surroundings here are filled with layers of complexity that have built up over thousands of years, and this is most definitely a trip worth taking if you are ever in Manila, or elsewhere in the Philippines.

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Planning Your British Columbia Hiking Trip

West Coast Trail, British Columbia

With over 850 parks and protected areas all around British Columbia, there are hundreds of different hiking trails to be found. While day hikes are always enjoyable, planning your trip around a longer hike will not only give you a much greater sense of accomplishment when completed, but will also enable you to see more of the stunning natural beauty that British Columbia has to offer.

Sunshine Coast Trail
Stretching out for 180 kilometers through alpine meadows and around sparkling lakes, the Sunshine Coast Trail is the longest hut-to-hut trail in Canada and takes around a week to ten days to complete. While it is possible to camp along the way, the huts, along with B&Bs, provide plenty of other options for those who do not wish to camp, and there are even a few hotels to be found around Powell River. From standing above the clouds at the Tin Hat Mountain Summit to the crystal clear waters of Elk Lake, the Sunshine Coast Trail is not as difficult as some of the other longer hikes in British Columbia, but definitely provides some truly unforgettable moments.

West Coast Trail
Found on southern Vancouver Island, the world-famous West Coast Trail attracts hikers from all over the globe and is a trail that would be well worth planning a hiking trip for. Open from May to September, the West Coast Trail is 75 kilometers long and usually takes somewhere between five to seven days to complete. This is a trail for the more experienced hikers out there, as there are a number of challenging areas, from climbing ladders and steep slopes, using cable cars and wading through strong rivers. Weather conditions here are also extremely unpredictable, but for those hikers that do decide to embark upon this adventure, they will be rewarded with extraordinary sights of Canada’s natural wilderness, and will experience a part of the world that has only been seen by the most intrepid of travelers.

Mt. Edziza Plateau Traverse
Situated in northern British Columbia, the Mt. Edziza Plateau Traverse is an extremely challenging hike, and really gives hikers the opportunity to be at one with nature. Stretching out for about 75 kilometers, this trail takes around a week to ten days to complete and includes hiking to the top of a volcano. While hikers may not spot another human being for days, they will spot some of British Columbia’s magnificent native wildlife, from caribou trotting up a glacier to the bears and the wolves, although these animals are also a danger that hikers need to be aware of. While some may say that the Grand Canyon offers a sense of wonder that nowhere else can, those who have hiked the Mt. Edziza Plateau Traverse are all likely to disagree, as this trail always manages to provide the trip of a lifetime.

British Columbia is home to some of the most picturesque views in the world, and hiking through these is the best way to truly explore them. From the sandy beaches of the West Coast Trail to the dense forests of the Sunshine Coast Trail, these trails are all worth planning a hiking trip around.

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Kalaupapa National Historic Park

Kalaupapa Lookout

Located in Kalaupapa, on the island of Moloka’i, the Kalaupapa National Historic Park has had quite a dark role to play when it comes to the history of Hawaii. When Hansen’s Disease, otherwise known as leprosy, was introduced to the island in the 1830’s by foreign workers, Kalaupapa was designated as an isolation settlement, housing those who had been afflicted by the then-incurable disease. These historic settlements have been preserved throughout Kalaupapa National Historic Park, and, combined with the incredible natural beauty that the park boasts, it is a great destination at which to learn more about a turbulent time in Hawaii’s past.

Learning About Kalaupapa’s History
In order for the public to learn as much as possible about Kalaupapa’s sad past, Kalaupapa National Historic Park works hard to preserve all of their authentic historic features. From the buildings to the roads to the grave markers, the history that is still clearly visible throughout the park is definitely impressive. The park is also home to a museum collection that tells the story of the devastation that leprosy caused, with over 300,000 objects to depict this, including first-hand accounts from those who were directly affected by the disease. Kalaupapa is still home to a number of people who contracted leprosy, suffering for a while before they were eventually cured in later years.

Wildlife
Hawaii is the most isolated island chain in the world, and it is truly incredible to imagine how the islands slowly filled with animal life over the years, with creatures that were either drifted in by the sea or blown in by the wind. The islands of Hawaii are known for their natural diversity, with 95% of their native animals not being found anywhere else in the world. The isolation and seclusion of the Kalaupapa National Historic Park means that it provides a protective sanctuary for a vast array of wildlife, from rare tropical fish to endangered birds to colorful marine life.

Kalaupapa mule tour

Kalaupapa Mule Tour
One of the most popular ways to explore the Kalaupapa National Historic Park is on the back of a mule, with guided tours taking you to some of the highlights of the park. In addition to having the opportunity to ride down the highest sea cliffs in the world, visitors are able to experience and learn about the park’s history from a traditional, but unique, perspective.

Natural Beauty
For those that are interested in nature, there are a number of plant varieties in the Kalaupapa National Historic Park that promise to fascinate you, as well as areas of incredible natural beauty. From native palms to endangered grasses to lava tubes and caves to soaring sea cliffs, the natural beauty around the park is wonderfully diverse.

A small peninsula of lush land that is surrounded by steep cliffs, visitors can easily see why Kalaupapa was chosen as a quarantine area when leprosy became rampant in Hawaii. The park’s history, as well as its untouched natural beauty, which is perfectly reminiscent of Old Hawaii, serves as a significant reminder of some of the struggles that Hawaii has faced over the years, the effects of which still haunt the Kalaupapa National Historic Park today.

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Visit Hawaii’s Waterfalls

The islands of Hawaii are home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, and while it may seem easy to find one around just about every corner, there is no doubting that some are much more magnificent than others. From waterfalls that can only be reached via a challenging hike, to others that feature a serene and picturesque swimming hole, these are the Hawaiian waterfalls that you should definitely not miss out on.

Waimoku Falls Maui

Waimoku Falls, Maui
Situated on Maui, the Waimoku Falls can be found at the end of what is considered to be the best hike in Hawaii, otherwise known as the Pipiwai Trail. Since it lies in the Kipahulu District National Park, the surrounding areas are protected, meaning that this 400-foot waterfall flows throughout the year, and visitors are even able to enjoy a close-up view of its base. This stretch of the coastline is referred to as the Seven Sacred Pools, because further downstream there are many more waterfalls and swimming holes to be found, making this a fantastic location for those who want to explore a diverse range of falls.

Akaka Falls, Big Island

Akaka Falls, Big Island
The Akaka Falls is probably the most well-known waterfall on Big Island, and since it receives between 130 to 200 inches of rainfall each year, its constant gushing never disappoints. Measuring just over 440 feet, the Akaka Falls may look just like those hard-to-reach waterfalls that can be found in deep valleys, but this one is easily accessible, giving visitors the opportunity to view a type of waterfall that they may not have otherwise been lucky enough to see.

Hanakapi'ai Falls in Kauai

Hanakapi’ai Falls, Kauai
The area of coastline that houses the Hanakapi’ai Falls is considered to be one of the most picturesque on all of the Hawaiian islands, making it well worth a visit. In order to reach this towering waterfall, a day hike is needed, and although the actual hike may be quite slippery and challenging at times, it runs through lush jungles and areas of immense natural beauty, with the dramatic waterfall at the end making the hike most definitely worthwhile.

Rainbow Falls, Big Island

Rainbow Falls, Big Island
Cascading down 80 feet, the Rainbow Falls are set in a cove that is surrounded by lush, tropical jungle, providing the perfect photo opportunity, as well as a sense of excitement for history buffs, as the cove is said to be where King Kamehameha buried his father’s body. Since the Rainbow Falls tumble down onto Wailuku River, which is the longest river in the state, this is another waterfall that flows year-round, and, being so accessible, should most definitely make it onto your waterfall to-do list.

Hawaii’s natural beauty has earned the islands a reputation all over the world, with visitors traveling from just about every continent to check out some of the world-famous waterfalls that can be found here. From the convenience of the Rainbow Falls on Big Island to the jaw-dropping beauty of the Hanakapi’ai Falls, no matter how many of Hawaii’s waterfalls you are able to explore, their captivating pull will keep you wanting to return for more.

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Top European Destinations

Canal in Venice, Italy.

When it comes to top European destinations, the more influential cities, such as Paris, London and Rome, immediately come to mind. However, today OROGOLD wants to bring your attention to other European regions that are more up and coming, or simply underrated, but still definitely deserve the title of being a top European destination.

Bordeaux region, France

Bordeaux, France
Although many may be well-acquainted with the wines, fewer are familiar with the region of Bordeaux, a port city in the south-west of France. Not only is Bordeaux one of the France’s most elegant cities, and one that modern Paris has been based on, but the whole city is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is the perfect place to soak up some French culture. Of course, being a legendary wine growing region, no visit to Bordeaux is complete without a tour of some of the vineyards, and a leisurely wine tasting session. In addition to this, Bordeaux is surrounded by the largest pine forest in Europe, and is also near to fantastic beaches and the Pyrenean ski slopes, making it ideal as a year-round destination.

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Bosnia and Herzegovina
One of the most underrated countries in Europe, Bosnia and Herzegovina has suffered through turbulent times, with many reminders still around of the war that ended in 1995. However, the country is looking to the future, and its doors are once again wide open to tourism. Visitors to Bosnia and Herzegovina are able to step back in time, to a country where things move at a slower pace, neighbourhoods grow their own food, and everybody seems to know each other. In terms of natural beauty, the country has it all, with enchanting forests that are home to wolves and other wild animals, a pristine coastline, and some of Europe’s finest picturesque landscapes.

Old Cathedral, Cadiz, Spain.

Cadiz, Spain
A port city located in the south-west of Spain, Cadiz is packed with Spanish history and culture. Narrow streets wind their way around plazas, historic monuments and churches, whose rooftops sparkle in the Andalucian sun, with the most magnificent of them all being the baroque/neo-classical cathedral – truly an impressive architectural creation. History buffs will also revel in the ancient Roman theatre, said to have been built around 1 B.C, but only discovered in 1980. Cadiz is also known for its Carnival, and all year round visitors can enjoy rehearsals, competitions and street performances. A short boat ride away from the city, you will find El Puerto de Santa Maria, a quaint seaside town that forms part of the Sherry Triangle. If you decide to visit a sherry bodega and take a guided tour with a tasting, OROGOLD recommends requesting fino, a light, delicate and dry sherry.

Europe is full of amazing history, with each country having a deep-rooted sense of heritage and culture. Whether you choose to visit the sherry bodegas of Cadiz, the wild forests of Bosnia and Herzegovina, or the elegant French city of Bordeaux, OROGOLD is sure that you will love our top European destinations.