dahtal michaels

a wonderful spot to become really Jurassic! we parked in the village car park and walked down, it's quite a steep walk but easier than the beach carparks, and there's toilets and card payment! make sure to wear sensible shoes and bring a hammer to break open any fossils you find!!

fascinating bit if history that's almost forgotten. there's an information board at one side of the site by the bridge that gives you a good idea of what you're looking at, and from there you can see the outline of the castle.

please, please, please visit this oft neglected gem! one of the wonders of the baroque era, this church is a wonderful example of baroque architecture. look out for the gorgeous courtyard with its alternating balustrade, and look up at the dome in the church, it is a masterpiece of curvaceous design!

try to pre book if you can, it's quicker to get in but please visit! the history of the castle is amazing, you walk through the mausoleum to get up to the castle on top, and the views are incredible. Great coffee shop, again with lovely views if you are lucky enough to bag a table next to an arrow slit! superb place!

we went at 1700, well after the tourist coaches had gone and there was no queue for entry, and although the dome wasn't open the basilica was less crowded. try to visit the grotto/crypt to see the tombs of past popes, it's interesting, and make sure to look out for the Swiss guard! amazing place, truly breathtaking!