Melissa

Europe Specialist

I was born in Austria and have spent most of my life as an expat, across continental Europe, Cuba, Chile and Mexico, before settling in the UK. I studied Spanish and French at Cambridge University, which, after a couple of years spent living in Chile, influenced my decision to join Audley Travel as a Latin America specialist in 2016.

Since then, I have traveled to as far-flung destinations as Antarctica before joining the Europe team to specialise in Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece. Having visited (and eaten my way through!) all of these countries with Audley as well as independently, it's very clear to me the value Audley brings both in terms of the experience and the insider knowledge, even in places closer to home. In my opinion, all four countries sum up what’s best about continental Europe in different ways, and I love introducing them to my clients the Audley way!

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I recommend visiting - Puglia, Italy

Italy's home of olive oil, Puglia is also fascinating and beautiful as well as showing a more authentic side of Italy. You can visit the stunning UNESCO (and one of the world's oldest inhabited towns) Matera, beautiful beaches and rocky escarpments, as well as doing all the wine and olive oil tasting you like! It draws fewer crowds than most of the hotspots too, which makes cycling and hiking trips much more relaxed. You will taste incredible local food here too, not yet catering to larger numbers, so meals are long but incredibly fulfilling. What's not to like?

I recommend staying at - NÓS Hotel & Villas, Greece

Deluxe

As soon as you walk into the hotel, a beautiful feeling of serenity and relaxation wraps around you as if you've just entered a spa. The views, the hotel style and the friendliness of the staff all compete for your attention but nothing is overbearing. It's the ultimate place to chill out after a long day; adults-only and with panoramic sea views from everywhere (including the outdoor gym and infinity pool), every whim is catered to. It may be isolated on a mountain top looking out over Sifnos and the surrounding islands, but restaurants and beaches are a short hike or shuttle away. You'll probably not want to leave this peaceful haven.

I'll never forget when…

The Amalfi Coast is known for its sheer beauty and if you like to get out and about in nature, the Path of the Gods hike shows off the best of it! It winds up and down coastal cliffs, but the path is wide and well traversed, and around every corner is a new opportunity for a stunning photo. You'll also pass local farms, lemon orchards, and through mountain villages enveloped in passing clouds. It's a photographer's dream. After the hike you will sit down for a big lunch complete with wines and olive oil, overlooking the sea. A perfect finish and well-deserved.