DUBAI: Think you’ve seen it all? Been there, done that? Check this out then. The seven most sought-after European lake holidays from the travel portal Kiwi.com
Spiaggia Giamaica, Italy
Topping Kiwi’s list is Spiaggia Giamaica, also known as Jamaica beach, located at the very tip of the Sirmione peninsula and reaching out into the southern shore of Lake Garda. “It’s not so obvious to find but totally worth,” according to the travel site.
The beach itself is made of a large slab of white and smooth rock. It has a beautiful view of the lake and mountains on one side and the old village of Sirmione on the other.
Sirmione is a resort town known for its thermal baths and the medieval castle of Rocca Scaligera. The castle sits silently on the lake water and guards the old bridge, which is the only entrance into town.
Bled, Slovenia
Kiwi described this lake as “probably more famous than anything else in Slovenia.
“Anywhere you are around this lake, you’ll have a postcard view of Blejski otok which lies in the middle of Lake Bled.”
This small island is Bled’s true centerpiece, according to Kiwi. You can get there by different means but all of them involve getting into the water. Renting a rowboat will most likely cater to the most memorable experience.
Kerkini, Greece
Hiding in the shadow of the Belles mountain, the area has since the 1932 floods become a national park. Kerkini, according to Kiwi, might not be the typical sunbathing choice but minimal human intervention has attracted a wide variety of animals and vegetation.
“Wild willows and suspended water lilies stretch over thousands of hectares and provide a home to over 300 bird species. Some nest here while some only visit briefly to refresh themselves. Either way, you can spot pelicans and the pygmy cormorants,” the travel portal said.
Lake Annecy, France
Lake Annecy has a reputation of one of Europe’s cleanest. It’s also one of France’s largest lakes and visitors can find plenty to do around here, said Kiwi.
Thanks to its position at the foot of the Alps, you can enjoy some beautiful scenic sites and views along the lake.
“The main village of Annecy on the north shore is known as the Venice of the Alps. Its endless winding cobblestone pathways will have you roaming around until it’s time to taste some delicious local cuisine and fresh produce. Not tasting the local freshwater fish and sundry meals from the unique blend of French and Italian cuisines would be a culinary crime,” according to the travel site.
Balaton, Hungary
Lake Balaton is, according to Kiwi and most holidaymakers, is home to diverse landscapes featuring ancient fortresses, underwater caves, and historic towns.
Balaton is set in the midst of volcanic, mineral-rich hills. The mountainous area of the northern shore is covered with hundreds of vineyards giving a rustic feel to it. There are also plenty of hiking trails. As a contrast, the flatter southern shore is known for its resorts and historic sights.
The waters of the southern part of the lake are quite shallow compared to the northern bit containing some deeper beds. The average depth is just over three metres and it reaches a maximum of about 12 metres. Both sailing and windsurfing are at their finest here, alongside the more obvious swimming and sunbathing.
Saimaa, Finland
Finland’s biggest — Saimaa — should probably be on your list either way you go or swim. “Summers at the lake are relaxing, you can swim or ride a boat across the water and enjoy some island hopping as Saimaa has about 14,000 islands in total. On the way back to your campsite you can pick fresh berries and mushrooms and throw them on the grill together with muikku fish and other fresh local produce,” said Kiwi.
And there’s more: The nights are short since the sun only sets for a few hours and even then it never really goes too dark. Perhaps it’s the perfect moment to sit back, breathe in the fresh air and listen to the peaceful sounds of the Finnish forests.
Lake Brienz and Lake Thun in Switzerland
Travelling here is a package deal, said Kiwi, for you get two lakes for the price of one. Lake Brienz and Lake Thun sit right in the heart of the country with views over the snowy ridges of the Swiss Alps.
Only a tiny strip of land and the town of Interlaken connects the two lakes nowadays. Interlaken aptly translates as between lakes which is exactly where the town sits. And there are other charming small villages scattered around the lakes where you can enjoy local hospitality and a bite to eat.
There are a number of ways to experience both lakes to the maximum. A boat ride is certainly amongst the most popular and regular service across the lakes has been operating since 1839.
