[Lifestyle] Ramble, amble and cycle: take in European culture on 10 stunning circular routes

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Ramble, amble and cycle: take in European culture on 10 stunning circular routes From beachside ambles to exciting city sights, on foot or by bike, here are 10 charming routes which conveniently start and finish in some of Europe’s most visited districts. Plus where to stam Amsterdam, The Netherlands: a ring of cultureThe route: Make like a local and hop on a bike for a cultural tour of this handsome city. Head for the Rijksmuseum, crossing several bridges en route and taking in the canal views. You’ll find a treasure trove of Dutch masters, from Rembrandt to Vermeer and Van Gogh. Cycle on to the vast green space of the pretty Vondelpark and enjoy the surroundings. Then make your way up through Jordaan, a picturesque neighbourhood with traditional narrow houses, cafes, restaurants and independent boutiques. On your way back to the hotel, check out the Oude Kerk, Amsterdam’s oldest building, founded in 1213 and completed in its recognisable form in 1306.Where to stay: Waldorf Astoria AmsterdamSet alongside the Herengracht canal, this hotel comprises six 17th- and 18th-century townhouses. It’s home to a Guerlain Spa, where after your exertions you can undergo a skin analysis and diagnosis to reveal your personal wellbeing profile. Then treat yourself to dinner at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Spectrum.Algarve, Portugal: a nature-focused loopThe route: Taking in beautiful beaches and pretty pine forests, you’ll start by making your way to Praiha Quinto do Lago, a sweeping stretch of golden sand, which is part of the popular Quinto do Lago resort. Soak up some rays, then head to the lush Ria Formosa national park, a maze of salt flats, marshes and wetlands, where you might spot herons and flamingos. Walk its easy four-mile Ludo hiking trail, before returning to the hotel.Where to stay: Conrad AlgarveThe five-star hotel at Quinta do Lago is home to the Conrad Spa, perfect for restoring body and mind – not to mention tired feet – after a hearty hike. As well as thermal pools, a Turkish hammam and a sauna, there are three swimming pools, a fitness centre and a series of yoga and wellness packages.Berlin, Germany: doing the history roundThe route: First head north to the Berlin Wall Memorial – a crucial part of the city’s history. What was once the border strip is now a place of remembrance, and gives moving insight into the former division between East and West. Then make your way down to the Reichstag building, seat of the German government, or Bundestag. Not far is the imposing Brandenburg Gate, a handsome, neo-classical monument topped with a sculpture of the goddess of peace. If the weather’s good, take a stroll around the Tiergarten, then head to lively Potsdamer Platz, home to the Panoramapunkt observation deck, where you’ll get great city-wide views. Afterwards, make for Checkpoint Charlie, the former crossing point between East and West Berlin, before returning to your hotel. Where to stay: Hilton BerlinAfter pounding the pavements, you’ll welcome a visit to the hotel health club and spa – indulge in a treatment, from a hot stone massage to a rasul mud bath, body wrap or scrub, or a revitalising facial. Its location in Mitte, Berlin’s central borough, offers proximity to the cathedrals of historic Gendarmenmarkt and Museum Island.

 

Link: https://www.theguardian.com/your-next-european-break-awaits/2023/may/02/ramble-amble-and-cycle-take-in-european-culture-on-10-stunning-circular-routes