Perched on a hill overlooking the River Lee, in the heart of Shandon's Old Town, the 18th century St Anne's Church and Shandon Bells offer wonderful views of the city, as well as a chance to ring the bells for yourself.

Enthusiasts of traditional French architecture will be enthralled by the elegant houses in the La Vicomté district. The area is located close to the beach (Plage du Prieuré) and Dinard's most attractive park (Parc de Port Breton), both of which are attractive local sites.

Built between 527 and 565 AD at the foot of Mount Sinai for Emperor Justinian, this monastery later took its name from St Catherine of Alexandria, whose remains are said to rest here. It’s more fortress than church, with thick stone walls guarding the Church of the Transfiguration, the chapel of the Burning Bush, and a monks-only library packed with ancient manuscripts. Inside, you’ll find mosaics, religious ornaments, and some of the oldest illuminated manuscripts in the world on display. Outside, don’t miss Moses’ Well and the garden with centuries of history. The place is open most mornings but closed on Fridays, Sundays, and Orthodox feast days. Still active today, the monastery holds importance across Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, and continues its Greek Orthodox traditions uninterrupted.

Curling is a popular winter sport in the Twin Cities. Visit the St Paul Curling Club and watch how the players slide the hubcap-sized ‘puck’ down the ice, aiming for the target. While the intricacies of the game may seem a bit foreign at first, it’ll be a unique experience to see the ‘pitcher’ shouting at the ice brushes.