European tourism Gardens of Eden no 16

Prizewinning community tourism in Malta, Luxembourg, Lithuania and Latvia

Isla (Senglea) (Malta)
Isla (Senglea)Isla (or Senglea) is the smallest of the Three Cities in the Cottonera, located in the south-east of Malta. This locality is one of the hidden jewels of the Maltese Islands, while also being one of the oldest cities, founded around the 16th century. It is indeed a gem enclosed by spectacular bastions, with commanding views still guarding the Grand Harbour as it did centuries ago.

It is a rather new peninsula, situated between Galley Port (or Dockyard Creek) on the Cospicua side and the French Creek. The city received its name Isla (meaning island) due to its unique geographic position, whereby it is nearly cut off from the mainland by two mountains the Mill Hill and the St. Julian’s Hill.

The city’s attractiveness is in its mild climate all year-round, friendly sea, a unique historical location and architectural monuments. Also, its historical heritage dates back to the times of the Knights of St. John, which makes it one of the most heavily fortified areas on the island. Strong religious influence is also felt around the city and finds its expression through numerous churches. One of the most famous churches is the Basilica of Our Lady of Victories, built to commemorate the great siege victory in 1581.

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The Nature Park of the Upper Sûre (Luxembourg)
Sûre is located in the North-Western part of Luxembourg close to the Belgian border. The countryside is marked by narrow, deep meadowed valleys and steep forested slopes, as well as a mosaic of fields on the high plateau of the Ardennes. At the heart of the park is the Upper Sûre Lake, the largest area of water in Luxembourg which provides 70% of the population with drinking water.

The surrounding countryside consists of wooded hills, streams and small villages. Water activities are allowed on most of the lake, and the rivers are popular among canoeists. There are several cycle routes, long and short distance walk paths around the villages

Consisting of plateaux’s, narrow valleys with wooded slopes, the lake of the Upper-Sûre dam, built in the late 1950’s to meet the country’s drinking water requirements, has since become one of the most coveted places to take a rest or a holiday, especially during the summer months.

A great way to discover the area is to make a boat-trip on the dammed lake Upper Sûre with a solar powered boat. While silently gliding over the water one not only gets an impression of the region's diverse flora and fauna, but also listens to its authentic sounds, such as the croaking of different frog species. Other examples of its staggering wildlife include the European otter, the black stork and the rare hazel grouse.

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Zarasai Region – Heavenly shore on Earth (Lithuania)
The Zarasai district is located in the north east of Lithuania borders with the Republic of Latvia and Belarus. It is famous for its beautiful lakes and forests, impressive diversity, uniqueness and flamboyance of its nature. Twisting and bending rivers, scattered blue lake patches, little green hills, peaceful woods, and scarcely populated areas are the miracles the region is spoilt with. The terrain of the region formed 16 thousand years ago, during the last glacial period. As the glacier was melting, the hills of the Aukštaičiai Upland, valleys and lakes were formed.

In this vast region, water activities reign supreme. Boating is a great way to explore the memorable landscape made of vast lakes and graceful streams. Tours of different durations and complexities are offered, but the most unique experience is designing your own trip from the 6000km water network.

Zarasai is not only special because of its marvelous nature it was also voted the cultural capital of Lithuania in 2008. Starting in early spring and going until late autumn, many interesting festivals take place. These events promote local talents, help preserve the ancestral traditions and bring together people from all over the country.

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JÅ«rmala (Latvia)
JÅ«rmala is the largest resort city in the Baltic States, located 25km away from Riga. It is known for its natural treasures – the mild climate, sea, healthy air, curative mud and mineral water. The main attraction of JÅ«rmala is the 32,8 km long white sandy beach which is surrounded by large pine forests and the river Lielupe.

Further, beaches of Majori and JaunÄ·emeri have received The Blue Flag – eco-label proving the best quality of water, infrastructure and safety in the beach area. What sets this destination apart from other beach destinations is the beautiful natural surroundings and unique wooden architecture of early 20th century that play an important role in preserving the local history and culture.

As a resort city of all seasons, Jūrmala offers a wide range of leisure activities. It is a perfect place not only for swimming or playing frisbee at the beach, but also for Nordic walking, kite surfing and windsurfing, water cycling and water motorcycling. Jūrmala is also known for its wide possibilities for active leisure in the nature. The Ķemeri National park is a paradise for birdwatchers. You can also go an interactive walk on the nature trails and visit the Open-air museum to try out the technique and methods of stranding a rope and some other handicraft activities.

Covered by white quartz sand, the long beach of JÅ«rmala is a great experience for the whole family. In the shores of Lielupe River there are several yacht-clubs where you can order boat or yacht trips in the river. On the beach you will find water bicycles, various water sports inventory, while for the adrenaline lovers there is a possibility to enjoy the kite-boarding or windsurfing on river or on the sea.

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Valere Tjolle
Valere is editor of the Sustainable Tourism Report Suite 2011 Special Offers HERE

See also:
NO 15http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148989.php
NO 14 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148859.php
NO 13 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148786.php
NO 12 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148671.php
NO 11http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148546.php
NO 10 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148482.php
NO 9 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148389.php
N0 8 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148290.php
No 7 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1148189.php
No 6http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147978.php
No 5 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147875.php
No 4 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147779.php
No 3http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147673.php
No 2 http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147583.php
No 1http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1147467.php