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Bucket-List Escapes for 2021: From Europe to the Middle East
With plans cancelled, events postponed, and more time spent at home, there has been ample time to pause and embrace a slower pace of life. With a vast number of hotels in stunning locations across Europe, Middle East, Eurasia and Africa, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts recognises the benefits of taking the time to appreciate a destination. The company has revealed five of its best European hotels to visit for a longer stay in 2021 where guests can maximise their time spent connecting with their surroundings by taking part in a host of mindful activities.
From exploring Europe’s largest continuous vineyard to wild swimming in an Alpine lake in Slovenia, here are just a few ideas to enjoy a slower holiday pace in 2021.
Ramada by Wyndham Podgorica, Montenegro – Discover Europe’s Largest Vineyard
Ramada by Wyndham launched a Discovering Red Programme in 2020, providing a series of experiences crafted by locals and designed to give guests an insight into local culture and cuisine. As part of the programme, guests staying at Ramada by Wyndham Podgorica can explore Plantaže Vineyard, Europe’s largest continuous vineyard spanning 5,700 hectares. Located only 10 minutes from Ramada by Wyndham Podgorica, guests will embark on a private tour of the Šipčanik winery where they will learn about the wine making process whilst taking in the stunning surroundings of nearby lakes and landscapes. After completing the tour guests can enjoy an intimate wine tasting in the comfort of the hotel’s Panorama restaurant.
Ramada by Wyndham Podgorica is perfectly situated for exploring all that the region has to offer including Skadar Lake National Park and the historical fishing settlement of Rijeka Crnojevica, whilst being within walking distance of all the city’s attractions.
Wyndham Grand Crete Mirabello Bay, Greece – Hiking through Eastern Crete’s Mountainous Region
Located on the eastern side of Crete, Wyndham Grand Crete Mirabello Bay offers magnificent views of the mountains meeting the Mediterranean Sea and a plethora of activities on its doorstep. For a truly memorable experience, guests can explore Agios Nikolaos on foot, offering plentiful hiking opportunities through charming villages, and stunning beaches. The mountainside paths open a world of over 6000 species of plants and flowers, 170 of which are endemic to Crete. The hotel is also a short boat ride away from Spinalonga island, the abandoned Greek island steeped in history and offering dramatic scenery. A visit to the island can be combined with an excursion that includes swimming and snorkelling around its coves.
The stunning coastal views of the Cretan Sea and the hillsides of Lassithi provide the perfect backdrop for the resort’s 311 guestrooms and bungalows. With two outdoor pools and one indoor pool, direct access to two of the region’s most popular beaches, and a pampering spa, guests will never want to leave the resort’s beautiful surroundings.
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Kranjska Gora, Slovenia – Wild Swimming in an Alpine Lake
Located at the foot of The Julian Alps, guests staying at Ramada Resort by Wyndham Kranjska Gora can visit Lake Jasna. Located just a 20-minute walk from the hotel, this small alpine lake with incredible mountain views offers wild swimming in the spring and summer months. After a day of swimming, guests can explore the area on two wheels with a variety of cycling trails easily accessible from the lake.
Ramada Resort by Wyndham Kranjska Gora offers a relaxing stay surrounded by Slovenia’s breath-taking scenery, with 118 comfortable rooms each with their own balcony.
Ramada by Wyndham Madrid Getafe, Spain – Marvel at Rare Rock Formations and Birds of Prey
Guests staying at Ramada by Wyndham Madrid Getafe can visit the natural geological feature of La Pedriza, located in Sierra de Guadarrama National Park just north of Madrid, known for its striking rock formations and vast network of hiking trails and climbing routes. The area offers plenty of bird spotting opportunities with the Griffon Vulture, Black Vulture, Iberian Magpie and the Spanish Eagle known to soar above its dramatic landscape.
Located in Getafe, 25 minutes from Madrid’s city centre and the city’s international airport, Ramada by Wyndham Madrid Getafe is conveniently located for exploring all the region has to offer and features 96 stylish guest rooms, along with a lobby bar and restaurant serving Mediterranean delicacies.