A weekend trip to Ghent is simply not complete without a visit to the mysterious ‘Castle of the Counts’. This important sight in Ghent is a castle with a very turbulent past, closely intertwined with the complex—often stormy—political and social history of the city. It is the only remaining mediaeval castle with a moat and largely intact defence system in Flanders. Your visit to the Castle of the Counts will give you a complete picture of heraldic culture in the 12th century. The gatehouse, ramparts, keep, count’s residence and stables are open to visitors. Be sure to go up the long spiral staircase to the museum of torture devices on the top floor of the Castle of the Counts. Here, you will find a unique collection of instruments for torture and coercion, as well as a collection of weapons. The Castle of the Counts also hosts all kinds of cultural activities, events and activities, for example during the Ghent Festivities. It is also a popular place to get married for Ghent’s locals. Let’s not forget the time the Castle of the Counts was occupied by protesting students in 1949! Explore the castle during your weekend trip in Ghent and find out all about the ‘Battle of the Castle of the Counts’. The keep, symbol of the Counts’ power Go back in time inside this majestic fortress. Its history goes back to the time of the Roman occupation, when there was already a settlement on a sand bank by the River Lys. After a brief period of Viking plundering, the Counts of Flanders converted the earlier wooden constructions into a keep (living quarters) in the Middle Ages, with ramparts built entirely of stone, replete with 24 towers. The imposing building with its military architecture was a symbol of the Counts’ power in the turbulent city of Ghent. Do you want to dig deep into the history of Ghent? This is where you need to be. Ghent, full of charming history and modern vibrancy.

Considered one of the most beautiful golf courses in the world, Le Golf de Sperone comprises 75 hectares of lush greenery on a cliff beside the turquoise Mediterranean Sea. This eighteen-hole golf course attracts golfers from across the globe not only for its beauty, but also for the demanding challenge it presents, especially at hole 16 where golfers must start by driving the ball over the sea to a cliff on the other side. Get some hot tips from pro Marc Aurele Simonpietri who expertly guides players through the course.

Easter is always a good time of year to visit Bonifacio due to all of the religious ceremonies and processions taking place during this pentecostal period of celebration. These events organised by the church brotherhood include Medieval chants, pagan rites and the 'Procession of the Five' in which the five confraternities of Corsica march together through the city carrying lanterns and holy effigies, dolling out blessings on their merry way.

With its honey-coloured stone houses and winding streets, Gordes is a quaint village that attracts numerous tourists seeking to experience the beauty and charm of the French countryside. The village is situated on a hilltop, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, which includes vineyards and lavender fields, providing a truly idyllic experience for visitors. Gordes is also home to several historic landmarks, including the 12th-century castle that dominates the village skyline, and the 18th-century Sénanque Abbey, which is still inhabited by Cistercian monks.