It was above all Archduke Ferdinand II (1529–1595) who proved to be a significant patron of the arts by converting Ambras Castle into a splendid Renaissance residence for his wife Philippine Welser. Located on a hill to the south of Innsbruck, Schloss Ambras is still home to extensive collections of art and curiosities which rank until today among Europe’s most beautiful ‘curiosity chambers’.

Sailing in St Barts unlocks the island’s coastline from a fresh perspective, with catamaran and motorboat charters available for half-day excursions or week-long adventures. Anchor off secluded Colombier Beach, picnic on Pinel Island, or enjoy chef-prepared meals aboard as the sun dips below the horizon. The island’s competitive sailing calendar peaks with spring regattas like the St Barth Bucket (March) and Les Voiles de St Barth (April), while November’s Cata Cup draws kitesurfing catamaran racers. Whether piloting your own yacht or chartering a crewed vessel, St Barts’ sheltered bays and trade winds cater to every nautical ambition.

If you have a passion for history, a visit to the Völkerschlachtdenkmal is a must. The impressive monument was erected in 1913, as a memorial to the 500,000 people who fought and the 120,000 people who lost their lives in the Battle of the Nations exactly 100 years earlier in 1813.

Basilica di San Lorenzo Maggiore is an extraordinary building complex that mixes Gothic and Baroque architecture and dates back to the end of the 13th century. Every Christmas, a life-size nativity scene is set up inside the church. A museum occupies three floors above the courtyard and exhibits historic items from the monastery as well as archaeological remains.