If you dream of wandering through places that are so pretty they almost don’t feel real, you’ll love the opportunity to discover fairy tale Europe. From castles and canals to fortresses and stories from the past, there are some places in Europe that offer an almost mythical experience which needs to be seen to be believed.
Here, we share some of our favourite fairy tale holiday destinations in Europe which are certainly worth a visit.
Explore beautiful Dinant
A holiday destination that has been increasing in popularity over recent years, the Belgian city of Dinant is located just over three hours from Calais port by car. Set in a cliff face on on the beautiful Meuse River, Dinant is full of colourful buildings, romantic towers draped with ivy, lovely fortresses, and castles with drawbridges, making this the perfect place to discover fairy tale Europe.
For added romance, hire a boat and see the city from the water, or take a cable car up to the Citadel of Dinant which offers amazing views and plenty of photo opportunities. Just outside of the city, you’ll find Walzin Castle which is also worth a visit. With its horseshoe tower and location above the River Lesse, this castle certainly looks like it belongs in the pages of a storybook.
If you want to feel like royalty during your holiday, treat yourself to a day in the Bains de Dinant – a wonderful spa which offers panoramic views over the city. With a pool, sauna, and spa treatments to enjoy, you’re sure to feel relaxed, pampered, and ready for more exploring!
Discover the past in Giethoorn
The reason that Giethoorn belongs in a fairy tale is that a trip here gives you the chance to visit the past. Due to its almost completely car-free roads, picturesque canals, charming wooden bridges, and a postman that delivers mail by boat, Giethoorn truly feels like another world. This does mean that you’ll need to leave your car on the outskirts after the 2 hour 20 minute drive from Rotterdam port, but you can walk among thatched cottages, take to the water by boat, or cycle past stunning flowers that give the village an unmatched vibrancy.
Giethoorn is the perfect place to unwind as it boasts a very relaxing atmosphere. With less than 3000 residents, and the lack of cars of course, it’s hard to imagine anything being rushed or stressful here. We suggest taking your time to discover all that the village, known as the ‘Venice of the Netherlands’, has to offer on a 2 hour boat tour before settling down for something to eat at one of the waterside restaurants.
Continue the fairy tale with a wander around the Museum Giethoorn ‘t Olde Maat Uus. This museum is home to tales and artefacts that explore the village’s history and, although little has changed, it’s interesting to read the personal stories of past inhabitants. You’ll also be able to see a number of artworks inspired by the village, some of which are over 100 years old.
Marvel at whimsical Colmar
Drive for around 6 and a half hours from Calais port and you’ll find the fairy tale town of Colmar. Located in the Alsace region of France (where Beauty and the Beast was set), this town offers a wonderful blend of French and German cultures that make it unlike anywhere else. The cobbled streets and pretty canals are lined with adorable 14th century half-timbered houses in a range of pastel colours, with shutters and blooming flower boxes, making this a truly magical place to be.
Colmar’s pedestrianised centre makes it very easy to walk or cycle around, and you can opt to take a self-guided walking tour or a boat ride to ensure that you see all of the highlights. Two of the town’s top sights are its 13th century churches, and you’re sure to be impressed by their striking architecture. You’ll also love browsing in Colmar’s selection of independent shops and boutiques which offer a range of French and German treats.
When it comes to meal times, Colmar has plenty to offer due to its selection of waterfront restaurants. Eating out here can be a little pricey, so you might like to visit the covered market where you can pick up local breakfast items and picnic supplies which you’re sure to enjoy just as much. Don’t forget to visit a bakery where you can purchase some delicious French pastries too!
With so many stunning places to explore, take the opportunity to discover fairy tale Europe by booking your ferry crossing today.
