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They say you’ve never really seen Switzerland until you’ve visited the Swiss Alps. After all, half of the country is covered by the Alps. There’s no better way to journey through these majestic mountains than to take a drive through the Susten Pass. Located in the Swiss Alps itself, the Susten Pass connects the canton of Bern to the canton of Uri. Popular with tourists, this mountain pass promises stunning views of the Swiss Alps at every turn.
Do not miss: The Stein Glacier is a sight to behold. Unfortunately, due to global warming, the glacier has started to melt away, so it is best to catch it on your next trip to Switzerland before it is too late.
Showcasing many of Germany’s historical, natural and cultural features, the breathtaking Romantic Road is one of the most scenic routes in Germany. This 350-kilometre-long route is not named for being a destination for lovers, but rather for its breathtaking scenery, which inspired the writers during the Romantic Period.
Do not miss: The majestic Neuschwanstein Castle looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. King Ludwig II of Bavaria, who is sometimes called the Fairy Tale King, commissioned the castle as a tribute to the German composer, Richard Wagner.
Be stunned by the monasteries of Meteora that loom over both sides of the road as you make your journey down this route. The word meteora is Greek for ‘suspended in the air’, which is exactly what the monasteries look like as they sit atop the eroded sandstone towers.
Built in the 11th century, these monasteries harbour historical and cultural value to Greece, and have been included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. There were a total of 24 monasteries, but only six remain accessible to tourists. If you want to take a closer look at these architectural wonders, you can choose to hike up to the monasteries by foot.
Do not miss: The Great Meteoron Monastery is definitely the monastery to visit if you had to pick one out of the six. This monastery is the biggest, tallest and oldest, and serves as a museum, showcasing interesting religious artifacts.
This 50-kilometre-long coast is one of the most scenic coastal stretches in Italy. Be amazed by the terraced hillsides lined with colourful villages, pristine clear blue-green waters and lush greenery. The Amalfi Coast has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural significance.
Do not miss: Partially submerged by the sea, the Grotta Dello Smeralda (The Emerald Cave) is known to be illuminated by blue-green emerald lighting, creating an ethereal experience for all.
Occupying the southern side of Portugal, the Algarve is one of the top holiday destinations in the country. Take in the fabulous sea views and breathtaking coastal structures while enjoying the cool ocean breeze as you drive through Algarve. Algarve is also home to the world’s largest artificial underwater reef.
Do not miss: Head to the dramatic cliffs of Cabo de São Vicente, located in Sagres. Sunsets here are so magical, that the Romans called this place Promontorium Sacrum (Holy Promontory), believing that the sun sank hissing into the ocean here, marking the edge of the world.
Ready to embark on your own breathtaking journey in Europe? Caltex is giving you the opportunity to take off on an unforgettable European vacation for two from Insight Vacations with the Caltex 5-star Getaway promotion.
So how do you win this trip of a lifetime? Just pick up your 5-star Getaway Passport at any Caltex Service Station. Get a stamp with every $50 nett spend, and collect six stamps to complete your passport. Drop the completed passport into the lucky draw box at any Caltex Service Station for your chance to win. This contest closes on 31 August 2014. Terms and conditions apply.
Your great European escape awaits. So hurry, visit caltex.com.sg or check in-store for details.
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