Adventure

The colossal peaks of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau dominated the Interlaken-Jungfrau region, which has been at the centre of skiing and mountaineering for more than 200 years.  The 4,158m-high Jungfrau was first climbed in 1811, which kick-started tourism in the Swiss Alps.  Almost 150 years on, Heinrich Harrer released The White Spider, his legendary book describing the first successful ascent, in 1938, of the North Face of the Eiger – nicknamed ‘Mordwand’ or ‘death wall’.  Sir Arnold Lunn organised the first ski slalom race in the village of Mürren in 1922, while the first men’s World Cup do

Daylight hours might be scarce and temperatures below freezing, but when Stockholm puts on her white winter coat, the whole city glitters more than Tinseltown itself, transforming into a magical winter wonderland.  The capital of Sweden spans 14 islands, and although you may not have time to visit them all, you can easily do a bit of island hopping on foot or via public transport while soaking up the spectacular views of bridges, waterways, and the medieval Old Town.  Besides marvelling at its snow-covered beauty, here are the top five reasons to visit Stockholm in winter.

The stunning Valais region has more than 40 ski areas and 2,500km of slopes; of 45 mighty summits above 4,000m, including the famous, pyramid-shaped Matterhorn; of glorious panaromic views; of 50 grape varieties (best enjoyed chilled in a glass on one of the region’s many sun terraces) and one UNESCO World Heritage Site.  When the first thing you say about a Swiss ski region isn’t the fact that it’s probably the most snow-sure in a country pretty reliable for its snow, you know it’s got a whole lot more going for it.  Valais is one of the most spectacular ski regions in all of Europe.

Okay, so you’ve eaten the freshest fish in the beachside Taverners, you swam in sparkling blue sea, and you soaked up thousands of years of ancient history. But there’s heaps more to explore in Greece – especially when it comes to action and adventure.

Sure, you could sunbathe; but did you know you could ski? And do you know you can snorkel, but what about rock climbing to an ancient monist tree? No matter what type of adventure you’re after, you’ll find it in Greece. Here are some ideas…

The jewel of the Mediterranean, Malta combines a fascinating history, stunning landscapes, magnificent architecture and mouthwatering food.  300 days of sunshine, an alluring rugged landscape and fascinating cultural heritage, Malta is waiting to be explored.

And with winter temperatures of up to 17 degrees, you can stroll comfortably through the golden – huge capital, Valletta, centuries of history in the nearby towns and villages, savour the islands unique cuisine, and enjoy cocktails with unparalleled views of the Mediterranean.

Beyond Greece’s whitewashed villages lies a whole world of history, Natural beauty and culture that just right for exploring.  Most of us will be Familiar with the stereotypical Greek island setting, with traditional stone buildings going against an azure sky. And wow this beautiful backdrop is very loved for a reason, there is a whole different side to this patient, mythical land that you might not have seen it.  Here are just a few of the under the radar activities you could get up to…

The ski area of Arosa Lenzerheide comprises two resorts linked by the Urdenbahn – a cable car that was installed in 2014, creating a whole new world of winter opportunities.  Skiers can now get from the Hörnli in Arosa to the Urdenfüggli in Lenzerheide via a five-minute ride over the Urdental valley.

While still not exactly mainstream, Montenegro certainly isn’t under the radar – the tiny Balkan country is popular with yacht owners and moneyed Russians seeking sunshine.  Between the mountains and pretty coastline are eminently walkable walled towns and fortresses, along with upmarket hotels, and places to moor all those yachts.  The high-end marina Porto Montenegro, in Tivat, for example, opened in 2016, touted as the ‘new Monaco’, offering plenty of boutiques, restaurants and bars to satisfy the wealthy clientele.  But Montenegro is far more than just another Med hotspot for the super-

In search of this promised slice of heaven, we've meandered off the path from the pretty village of Ai Nikitas on the west coast of the island of Lefkada into thick scrub. Scratched and sweaty, we poke our heads through a clearing and the 1km-long, sandy and almost deserted beach of Kathisma appears like a mirage.  "Rebecca, this is the best beach in the world," implores Anthi. That's a pretty rich claim to make to an Australian, but I dare not doubt her. This petite but fiery Greek is frighteningly proud.

On the French and Swiss border, in the shadow of Mount Blanc, the Portes du Soleil ski area attracts skiers and boarders (and hardy sledding fans) who come for the thousands of kilometres of runs on offer between December and April, and the chance to ski in two countries on the same day.