Named during the Tang Dynasty when Taoism was at its peak, Laoshan is one of those places that is as much about the views as it is about the history. The area is dotted with iconic sites like Laoshan Jufeng Peak, Liuqing River, Taiping Palace, Yangkou Beach, and the Nine Waters and Eighteen Pools — each offering a different slice of the region’s natural beauty. From rugged mountain peaks to serene beaches, Laoshan's landscapes are a traveller’s dream. If you're planning to explore, there are a few routes to choose from. The southern route covers the towering Jufeng Peak and the peaceful Taiping Palace. The eastern route takes you to Yangkou Beach and the Qipan Stone Area, while the central route is all about the lush Nine Waters and Eighteen Pools.

Moving away from the coast you can discover megalithic stone circles in the prehistoric remains honeycombing the woods and fields around Arzachena. The Nuraghe Albucciu, 2 kilometres southeast of Arzachena, is one of Gallura’s best preserved nuraghi. About 4 kilometres south of Arzachena lies Coddu Vecchiu, one of the island’s most complete 'giants’ tombs'. Nearby you can also find another giant's tomb, Tomba dei Giganti di Li Lolghi, and the Li Muri Necropolis. Regarded as Gallura’s finest example, the "Necropoli di Li Muri" is estimated to date back to 3,500 BC.

Standing defiantly on a small hill is the Holy Spirit Cathedral, one of the most instantly recognisable landmarks of Minsk. This two-towered Orthodox cathedral is situated in the Upper Town. It was once part of a Polish Bernadine convent. The monastery buildings nearby are now a music academy.