In 2022, I spent my summer months working at sea and visiting some of the most popular ports in the mediterranean, as well as a few less known ones. Whilst visiting; Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, Greece, Slovenia, Malta and Turkey, I have pinpointed my absolute favourite spots and activities to do!

Italy

I have visited many locations in Italy; Florence, Pisa, Rome, the lakes and other popular locations, but one of the favourite places I visited was little over an hour outside of Rome, and was a hidden beauty in the rural landscape. This was the civita of Bagnoregio. I took a tour to this once dying town on a hilltop and was blown away by its beauty and tranquility.

Thought of as one of the most prettiest villages in history, the town can be admired from a far distance as the long walk over the bridge takes you into this location that today has less than 20 residents. The town has long been the centre of conflicts, plagues, and natural disasters; serving as a castle, commune and village over a long history of over 2000 years.

Croatia

Croatia is rich in beautiful countryside and towns, and also benefits from the largest archipelago in the Adriatic Sea with over 700 islands.

Of the islands, that I have visited, Korčula is my favourite. This island is only 20 miles long but has a beautiful feel to it, and a great offering of beaches, fishing villages, vineyards, and forests. Of the main town, it boasts of medieval city walls, alleys and squares to explore, and great views of the harbour around it.

Of the mainland, Zadar is my top choice. As well as an interesting cultural and historic town centre, bustling with shopping and entertainment. Above all, I absolutely love how the town has been connected with the sea through their ‘sea organ‘! At first, I was confused about this and thought it may be an electronic recording by the sea edge, but actually it is the clever use of drilled holes in the ground that create sounds as air from the incoming waves drive underneath. From this spot, you can listen to the echoes of the waves as you walk down steps and take a dip. Be careful though, it can be slippery, I almost fell down on my way into the water! It was very refreshing though.

Slovenia

I had the great fortune of being able to visit Slovenia a few times on my travels, and found it to be a green and lush coastal haven with plenty to offer in terms of style, culture, good food, and history.

My favourite town to visit is Piran, this picturesque coastal town is built in a venetian style due to its italian influence, and has a colourful square that looks like it has been painted from a picture. You will also find a popular salt shop here where you can purchase products made from traditional mined slovenian salt.

France

For french locations I have two favourites, the beautiful village of Villefranche and also the island of Corsica. They are very different to one another, but I love them both.

Villefranche is a pretty little french village with a harbourfront, intricate little streets and cute bars and restaurants. I was able to relax in a little piece of france with my breads and cheeses and then swim in crystal clear waters.

In contrast, Corsica is one of the med’s biggest islands, and is part of the french territory, but is very rugged and green. In fact, about half of the island is left to nature and the local wildlife. I have enjoyed animal sanctuaries as well as adrenaline activities here such as canyoning. This involved me shooting down waterfalls, and abseiling down rockfaces, as well as jumping from ledges into deep water. Energetic stuff! This location is a popular choice for hikers and outdoor enthisiasts and I would defiiitely return.

Spain

There are so many wonderful places to visit in Spain, and it is absolutely one of my favourite countries. My choice for unique hidden gem would probably be the caves of drach. This is a large cave complex in Mallorca. When visiting the caves, you will arrive at an underwater lake where you can experience an amazing floating orchestra performance. This was very special.

Greece

When considering Greece, which has hundreds of islands as well as the mainland my preferences were constantly changing. For now, I choose Crete, specifically the town of Chania.

I only spent a day in Chania but it had such an authentic feeling in its architecture and culture. As I sat in a main square having lunch, I enjoyed beautiful views of the harbour and passing horse and carriages.

Malta

In Malta, Valletta is the place to be. The maltese people are lucky to have a vibrant city which has a mix of both old towns and new metropolitan areas. A stunning harbour and port, as well as picturesque beaches within driving distance. When I first visited Malta as a teenager, I thought it was a bit dry and boring but now I have spent a lot of time in Valletta, my views of this little island have changed dramatically, and I would happily return there.

Throughout the Summer, the Med is the leading holiday location and I felt lucky to be cruising through it. I love the crumbly old cities, the romantic languages and the smells and flavours of the fresh produce. Take me back to any of these destinations and I will be a happy woman!