Jebel Akhdar is a mountain range known for its maze of river valleys and its fertile terraces, where fruits such as apricots and pomegranates flourish. Nearby stands Jebel Shams, the highest peak in Oman, rising to 3,018 metres. It has a second summit, and both can be explored via the W4 Trail. While much of the trek is manageable, there are stretches where route markings disappear for long distances, making it suitable only for experienced hikers. There are several excellent hotels and resorts in the area, offering accommodation, breathtaking views, and warm Omani hospitality. However, dining options are limited, so it’s a good idea to bring your own food and snacks for the day.

Just outside the city lies Monte do Gozo, the place where pilgrims could first catch a glimpse of their final destination, the spires of the Cathedral. Needless to stay, the views of the city from up here are remarkable, and the significance of the hill makes it an important visit in Santiago.

A day trip from Madrid offers the perfect excuse to step back in time, and few places capture Spain’s medieval legacy quite like Ávila and Salamanca, both proudly listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Your adventure begins in Ávila, a walled city that appears lifted straight from the pages of a history book. Its imposing stone ramparts, punctuated by 88 defensive towers, encircle a beautifully preserved old town. Step inside and you’ll find Romanesque gems such as the Ávila Cathedral, part fortress and part place of worship, as well as the Basilica of San Vicente, famed for its architecture and colourful stonework. Ávila sits just over 100 kilometres from Madrid, and you can easily reach it by train or coach, both options run frequently throughout the day. From Ávila, continue west to the golden-hued city of Salamanca, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities. Its nickname, La Dorada, The Golden City, comes from the glow of its sandstone buildings, especially beautiful at sunset. Wander across the Plaza Mayor, often hailed as Spain’s finest square, then lose yourself among the cloisters, libraries and carvings of the historic university quarter. While Salamanca is delightful by day, it truly comes alive at night, its tapas bars and buzzing student energy make it tempting to extend your stay beyond a day trip.

The City of Culture of Galicia is a hub of culture located to the southeast of Santiago de Compostela where you can find numerous stages, exhibits and museums with ever-changing shows, performances and displays of the best of contemporary art and culture in Galicia.