The impressive, enchanting shadow of the Alhambra casts a magical spell upon all those who pass through Granada. A city of legends, of travellers and pirates — lore comes to life in the warren of the Albayzin, and in the inescapable presence of the ancient Moorish castle, the famous Alhambra. The Sierra Nevada Mountains provide an impressive backdrop and add to the enchanting feel of this mysterious place.

Blessed with 26 white sandy beaches, a vast blue bay and many tranquil inlets, Port Stephens is an idyllic destination about 2.5 hours north of Sydney. With a marine park rich in diversity, the area is famous for its resident dolphins, crystal clear waters and towering sand dunes. Daily dolphin-watching cruises depart from Nelson Bay and the ocean is great for watching whales during their annual migration. Charming towns are framed by bushland, wetlands and volcanic peaks. Enjoy fresh seafood and local wines in delightful settings.

Olbia is the gateway to the pearly white beaches of Sardinia's northeast coast and the sparkling Costa Smeralda. This is where jet-setters, film stars and the ‘glitterati’ arrive to indulge in 'la dolce vita' Sardinian-style. With a Greek name meaning ‘happy’, Olbia used to be a little fishing village but has now grown to become Sardinia’s busiest ferry port, complete with an international airport and tourist amenities. The countryside is cloaked in aromatic wild herbs, the macchia, and the surrounding sea glows in every hue of electric blue, in a little known and exclusive place waiting to be discovered.

Dutch heritage is present in the town’s dairy farms, blueberry and strawberry fields, parks, museums, and its architecture. What makes Lynden such an attractive destination is also the alluring proximity to other points of interest, including Canada five miles north, county seat Bellingham 15 miles away, and half-an-hour’s drive from the Pacific Ocean. Skiers may be happy to know that the popular Mount Baker is only an hour away as well.

Washington’s mountains rise from the ground like the mighty, mythical gods of lore. Stretching upwards with little regard for the communities of people peppered around them, such grand indifference captures our imaginations and awe. We strive to scale and conquer them, to master their trails and hills, and their magnificence allows us to transcend who we are in some magical way. Grand Mound, Washington places you within reach of the state’s majestic mountains, and thus its main attractions.