Among these are Thuringia in Germany, Lisse in the Netherlands, Kvarner Islands in Croatia, and Cabo de Gata in Spain.
Also known as the cultural heart of Germany, the state of Thuringia offers an unrivalled mix of culture, nature, sport, art, natural heritage and picturesque beauty.
Visitors are always delighted by the over 400 romantic castles, UNESCO World Heritage sites and ancient forests that also contain spectacular sections of the famous, 700 year old Rennsteig hiking trail.
Thuringia is an ideal destination for hikers and cyclists, with a total of 16,000km of hiking trails and 1,700km of long-distance cycling trails running through its forests, towns and along its river valleys. While cycling or walking, visitors are likely to spot more than one ancient castle or fortress dotted throughout the historic towns making up this state. Several romantic outdoor spa resorts offer those in need of pampering a chance to make the most of the local natural remedies.
Those visiting the Netherlands can stop in the little town of Lisse - particularly during spring time, which begins in March and lasts until August. One of the most popular attractions in Lisse is Keukenhof, fondly known to locals as the Garden of Europe.
This beautiful site is also known as one of the world's largest flower gardens with approximately seven million flower bulbs planted annually. Travellers are invited to celebrate nature at its best during the annual flower parade, Bollenstreek Bloemencorso, which takes place in Lisse's main streets each April.
Those who favour history can visit Huys Dever, a restored castle tower from the 14th century, as well as join the medieval fantasy festival at Castle Keukenhof each August when locals celebrate the beginning of the harvest with several folk bands, special games, local markets and workshops.
Those set on living the island life could pay a visit to the Kvarner Island in Croatia - also known as the Gulf of Kvarner. Protected by three vast mountain ranges, with a climate that allows diverse vegetation, these islands are a definite must-see for nature lovers. There are four islands protecting the coast of the Gulf of Kvarner: Krk, Cres, Losinj & Rab.
With age old sites like a 16th century castle and clock tower that shows 24 hours and a cathedral built in 1188, the island has a rich historical story to tell. While the island of Krk is the most visited, the Cres, Losinj and Rab islands offer secluded beaches, for those wanting to withdraw from society and enjoy the serenity of breaking waves and pristine nature.
Along the coastal strip of Playa de San Miguel, several little villages dot the shoreline offering a number of hotels and restaurants along the beach. Between these rustic Spanish villages, tourists are likely to get everything they want from Cabo de Gata.
This strip of beach along the shoreline is filled with the ecological wealth and beauty of the Mediterranean. Cabo de Gata has a small fishing village, which abides by strong fishing traditions - villagers keep old fishing boats along the coast as 'living museums' for tourists.
