Blue Lagoon, Comino, Malta by Simon

A Short History of Comino

The name Comino derives from the cumin seed, which was once prolific on the small island. Most notably, from today’s age to centuries ago, Malta has always been best known for its isolation and tranquillity. For prolonged sections of its history, Comino has either been sparsely populated, privately owned or been completely vacant. During the Roman Times, it was mostly inhabited by farmers, but in the Middle Ages and with the rise in sea faring vessels, Comino became a popular hideout for pirates and looters. This was due to Comino’s rugged coastline, which ran jagged with sheer limestone cliffs, providing the ideal coverage for rouge ships. Comino’s many caves and coves were also used by pirates to ambush unsuspecting ships sailing between the islands of Malta and Gozo.

Comino’s early history is also linked to knights. It was used as the hunting ground for the Knights of Malta and in the 16th and 17th century, it became a place of exile for wayward knights, who were given the tedious task of guarding St. Mary’s tower. The tower was built in the 15th century to help spot invasions and to also deter pirates from hiding on the island.

Comino Caves, Malta by Simon

Tourist Attractions

Malta only has a handful of permanent residents and the majority of people on the island are just temporary visitors, who stay over at one of the Comino hotels. Large sections of the island are cornered off as a bird sanctuary and nature reserve, making Comino a haven for wildlife. Because of its tranquillity and crystal clear waters, Comino is an excellent diving spot, although some of the waters are restricted. The most popular attraction is the Blue Lagoon, a postcard bay that boasts crystal clear waters and a stretch of smooth, white sand. It’s visited by tourists on a daily basis and is popular with swimmers, snorkelers and divers. Because of its spectacular beauty, Comino has appeared in many films, notably Troy and The Count of Monte Cristo.

Penny Munroe is an avid writer in travel news and tips. Articles include travelling safety tips to outlining the beautiful holidays Malta offer.

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Vila Vella

Tossa del Mar’s Vila Vella (old town) is one of the most striking sights in this part of the world. Standing 70 metres above sea level and offering great views of the rugged coastline that gives the area its name, it is the best preserved walled city along this coastline. The city dates back to the 12th century but the fortifications continued to be extended until the late 14th century. This area also offers access to other interesting sights, including the ruin of the the Sant Vicenc old Gothic cathedral, the 14th century governor’s house which now houses the Municipal Museum, and the lighthouse. This area is well worth a visit.

Vila Vella, Tossa de Mar, Spain / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Alex Alishevskikh

Dali Museum

If you’re visiting this part of the world, don’t miss the chance to see the Portlligat House-museum where Salvador Dali lived and worked from 1930 to 1982. It started as a fisherman’s hut, but Dali extended it over the years. Now, it’s more like a labyrinth with surprising objects around every corner. Even if you’ve already visited one of the other Dali museums at Figueres and Pubol, this is a must for Dali fans.

Santa Clotilde Gardens

If enjoying nature is your thing, then you will love the Santa Clotilde Gardens. Like many Costa Brava sights, this garden is perched on a rocky hillside with amazing views of the sea and coastline. This is a beautiful Italian-Renaissance style garden which means plenty of sculptures and fountains to accompany the flowers and plants. The gardens provide a relaxing, enjoyable interlude for sun-seekers and when you’re done, head down to the small shingle beach at Fenals – it’s beautiful!

Catalunya Lloret de Mar – Jardins de santa clotilde, Spain / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Jaume Meneses

Medieval Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is a great place to explore the mediaeval period, which was very important to the region’s history. Of particular note are La Bisbal, which boasts a city centre castle, Toroella de Montgri, which has medieval ramparts (and a summer music festival to boot) and the mediaeval village of Ulla, but there are many more – any drive in this part of the world will bring you to one.

Toroella de Montgri, Spain / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Jos Dielis

To go even further back in the region’s history, check out the Iberian settlement on Sant Andreu mound just past Ullastret. You can see signs of how the inhabitants lived in the 7th century and explore the period further in the Ullastret Archaeological Museum.

There’s so much to see in this part of the world that this is only a short introduction. You’ll soon be able to add some favourite Costa Brava attractions of your own.

Ready to see the Costa Brava? Marian Jaime recommends Suntransfers’ taxis from Barcelona Airport to start your holiday right!

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Taking a road trip is one of the best ways to explore Europe, as there are so many stunning vistas which can be viewed by car as you make your way through this diverse landscape. The size and proximity of the different nations of Europe means that you can be in a totally different country in a matter of hours. From the rugged coastline of Scotland to the snowy mountains of Germany to the sun soaked villages of Italy, here are a few of the best road trips to enjoy throughout Europe.

Scotland’s Western Highlands

Start from the historic city of Edinburgh and take a 250 mile drive through winding roads and green countryside to the Isle of Skye. There are plenty of great historical sites to stop at on this scenic road trip, such as Linlithgow Place, Eilean Donan Castle, Stirling Castle, Wallace Monument and Fort William’s West Highland Museum. The scenery here is breathtakingly beautiful, from rolling hills to tranquil Lochs to rugged cliffs and rocky outcrops.

If you get hungry along the way you can stop and enjoy some fresh seafood along the coast, such as oysters, scallops and mussels. Keep your eyes peeled because out the window you could spot seals, otters, foxes, deer, and birds.

Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland, UK by the Starling 2011

The Alpine Road, Germany

This route starts at the island town of Lindau located on Lake Constance and will take you 300 miles along the edge of the Bavarian Alps. The route twists and turns through picturesque small towns and villages, green alpine meadows, ancient forests, snowy mountain peaks, and fairy-tale castles giving you a fantastic taste of classic European scenery.

Lindau harbor, Lake Constance, Germany by Cody

The Amalfi Coast Road, Italy

This is a stunning drive through one of the most beautiful areas of Europe. Mountains overlook the clear glistening blue sea and stone churches are perched on the hills above villages of brightly coloured houses. The road winds slowly around the coast and takes you through hidden coves and sun soaked lemon groves. Anywhere you stop you will be treated to rich and flavorful Mediterranean food and friendly smiles from the locals, as well as soft sandy beaches. Be sure to take it slow, as you will want to stop multiple times to take the camera out and capture the amazing view.

Amalfi coast, Italy by Jenny

The Transfagarasan Mountain Road, Romania

This road in the mountains of Romania is thought to be one of the most spectacular roads in the world. It is 56 miles long and runs through the Fagaras Mountains which are part of the Transylvanian Alps. Host Jeremy Clarkson of the television show Top Gear claims that the Transfagarasan is the best road in the world.

This windy mountain road is filled with hairpin turns and challenging twists, so the maximum speed is 25 miles per hour. The road is only open from June to October because in the winter it is blocked by snow. On the way, you can even stop at the castle of Vlad III the Impaler, whom Bram Stoker based the character of Dracula on. You can also see Balea Lake, which is a glacier lake with cold, clear, icy water surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks.

The Transfagarasan Mountain Road, Romania by Cristian Bortes

These are just a few of the most amazing road trips throughout Europe, but there are many more. Next time you have a weekend or a few days to get away, grab the steering wheel, put some music on the stereo and get out there on the open road!

Before you head out on the open road and enjoy one of these amazing European road trips, be sure to get some cheap car insurance so that you are protected no matter what happens along the way.

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Photo by admin – that’s me and my wife in Vulcano island : – )

It is not a secret that the Aeolian Islands are called the pearls of the Mediterranean. Surely you enchant their unique atmosphere, clear sea, white houses contrasting with the black volcanic beaches and agile life regardless of the presence of volcanoes. In the fertile areas off the coast of Sicily you admire growing vines, olive and fig trees in the wild mountainous inland countryside and smoking a volcano Mount Etna. In deep valleys you can see a beautiful cities with many ancient and Norman sites.

Due to its climate, beautiful landscape, exotic wildlife and beautiful coastline are Aeolian Islands looking forward a growing interest of tourists. They are suitable for lovers of nature and hiking, as well as for a sun worshippers and swimmers. Clean seawater and rugged coastline make these islands a paradise for divers and water sports operators.

Photo by admin

Geographical location of the Aeolian islands guarantees a subtropical climate. Average temperatures are acceptable due to fresh winds that pleasantly cool hot air from the sea and bring soothing moisture. In summer the temperature reaches around 35 °C, annual average temperature is 14 – 16 °C. An important climatic factor is the distribution of annual precipitation. Rainy seasons are mainly autumn and winter. Rain is usually rare in summer, it is usual that six months are totally without rain.

You can get to Lipari by a ferry from Sicily (a town Milazzo), where you can be transferred with your car. It is possible to move between islands by fast ships Aliscafo. The most popular type of accommodation on the Aeolian Islands are bungalows or apartments.

Aeolian islands offer really a lot. Certainly you should not miss the greatest attraction of the islands – a trip to the active volcano Stromboli. In 2000, the Aeolian Islands were included in the list of UNESCO’s cultural and natural heritage sites.

Photo by admin – Vulcano island

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