Carlstadt is the city’s exquisite quarter of galleries and antique shops. Citadellstraße with its elegant stately residences from the 18th and 19th centuries and the flair of its streets almost unchanged since these days, seems to have escaped the passing of time. A more profound insight into Düsseldorf’s history can be gained at Stadtmuseum at the corner of Bäckerstraße and Berger Allee. Its cosy garden is treated as an insidertip! The Carlsplatz, and its lively food market open from Monday to Saturday. From here, take the attractive Bilker Straße for a visit to the Heinrich-Heine- Institute or proceed past the former residence of Robert and Clara Schumann to Bastionstraße, a must for every lover of antiques.

19 slopes, 6 lifts and 115 km of ski tracks gives you and your loved one a lovely and exciting winter experience. In addition to skiing, there is a wide variety of action-packed or relaxing activities for the whole family. Trail maps and piste maps are available at the Reception in Hyttan or at Säfsen Alpine.

A short drive north of the village of Palmeira on the island of Sal, a hidden gem awaits — a small inlet along the rocky coast unveils a natural wonder. At the opportune time, preferably in the morning, sunlight filters through a hole in the rocks, transforming the scene into a mesmerising display resembling a bright blue eye. The juxtaposition of the vibrant blue water and the frothy white waves crashing against jagged rocks creates a stunning spectacle. Just above this sight, there is a small swimming hole with calmer waters from which to enjoy it.

Pico do Fogo, Cape Verde's youngest and most active volcano, towers beautifully but menacingly over the island of Fogo. The mesmerising black volcanic soil is reminiscent of similar fiery peaks in Hawaii and Iceland and is used to grow coffee. A small community, Chã das Caldeiras, is precariously located in the caldera very near the peak, and adventurers can hike up the imposing 2,829 metres for unparalleled views of the island.