Perched atop the stark white cliffs of Pamukkale lies Hierapolis — an ancient city that's as rich in history as it is in thermal springs. Once a Phrygian cult centre and later a flourishing Greek city, Hierapolis boasts a well-preserved amphitheatre, an array of atmospheric ruins, and the famed Sacred Pool, a thermally heated delight where you can immerse yourself amidst submerged Roman columns, scattered by an ancient earthquake. Just a stone's throw away, the terraces of Pamukkale steal the show. These gleaming white formations, made of travertine — a sedimentary rock deposited by the mineral-rich hot waters — give the town its name, meaning 'Cotton Castle'. With temperatures ranging from 35°C to a steamy 100°C, these hot springs have been creating an expanding landscape of terraces for centuries, as calcium carbonate from the waters crystallises into the soft gel of travertine. Awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, Hierapolis and Pamukkale offer a unique fusion of cultural history and natural wonder that should not be missed.

This small chapel is the embodiment of a centuries-old urban legend. It is said that the cliff-side abbey was built after an unknown horse rider galloped up the Old San Juan street and fell off the edge. It has been restored several times but still proudly shows signs of its age.

What could be more romantic than travelling through the snowy landscapes on a horse-drawn sleigh? Five coaching families organise these excursions. This is a great way to get about and take in the stunning scenery, and can be fun for all the family. Rides can vary from one hour to three hours and are priced accordingly.

Located along the Cascade Mountains, the Deschutes National Forest provides stunning natural beauty, especially around the Jack Lake campground, where the Three Sisters and Jefferson mountains create a breathtaking backdrop. It covers nearly 1.6 million acres and offers year-round recreation, making it one of the most popular forests in the Pacific Northwest.