Alsters Herrgård, a mere 8 kilometres east of Karlstad, holds the legacy of the beloved Swedish poet Gustaf Fröding, who was born here in 1860. Delve into the poet's life through guided tours, where anecdotes and poems bring his history to life. The restaurant, set in a period manor, serves home-cooked meals, while the café beckons with delightful homemade pastries. The estate's verdant park provides a panoramic view of Vänern, complemented by a play forest for children. In the east wing, there's a gallery and shop while in the west wing, local handicrafts from all over Värmland are sold.

The Calico Museum of Textiles houses a remarkable and unique collection of exquisite Indian textiles, with some pieces dating back as far as five centuries. Visitors are often astounded by the intricate craftsmanship and the historical value of these textiles. The museum offers guided tours, and booking in advance is essential as visits are typically scheduled by appointment only.

Fira’s the main hub of the island—busy, a bit chaotic in peak season, but a good base if you want everything within reach. It’s where you’ll find most of the museums (the Museum of Prehistoric Thera is the one to prioritise), plus loads of shops, cafés, and bars. If you’re using the bus to get around, this is where they all connect. It’s also a decent spot for watching the caldera without Oia’s crowds.

The road across the Datça peninsula has stunning scenery, with steep mountains, ravines and flat countryside. Datça is an attractive village about 90 kilometres west of Marmaris. From Körmen, just north of Datça, there are boats to the port city of Bodrum. At the Saturday market in Datça you will find food, household utensils, beautiful tablecloths and clothes. You can reach it with local transportation.