European Flying Adventure
Have you ever dreamed of soaring above Europe’s majestic landscapes, uncovering hidden treasures, and diving deep into its rich cultural tapestry? A Flying Adventure offers a unique way to explore, blending breathtaking aerial journeys with immersive local experiences. In Spring 2024, one of our dear clients embarked on an unforgettable Flying Adventure, taking him and his wife across Greece and Romania with memorable stops in Austria, Slovenia, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Poland, Czechia, and the Netherlands. Let’s take a closer look at their extraordinary journey and discover what makes a Flying Adventure truly special.
The Adventure begins in Amsterdam
Every Flying Adventure starts with a warm welcome and a seamless transition into European charm. Our clients landed in Amsterdam, where they took the day to adjust to the time zone. A scenic canal cruise aboard a historic saloon boat and a visit to the Rijksmuseum allowed them to ease into the journey while soaking up the city’s vibrant culture. The day concluded with an elegant onboard dinner, providing a glimpse into the unforgettable experiences awaiting them. The following day, they headed to Teuge Airport, home of the Bluetail Flight Experience Center, to meet their Cirrus aircraftand for a European airspace training with our experienced Bluetail safety pilot.
From the Alps to the Aegean
With training complete, the adventure truly took flight. Their first flight leg brought them to the Alps, where they enjoyed some spectacular mountain flying – soaring along mountains and soaking up the snowy peaks in the distance.
Next, they flew over iconic European landmarks: Neuschwanstein Castle, the Dolomites, and Venice, with the final stop for the day being the picturesque village of Piran. Nestled on Slovenia’s stunning Adriatic coast, Piran enchants visitors with its Venetian-style architecture, vibrant sunsets, and the irresistible charm of its narrow cobblestone streets. The next day, our guests continued their Adventure to Greece, with a brief lunch stop overlooking Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia, before flying to Crete. One of the highlights of this unique trip was the opportunity to participate in the Great Friday Easter celebrations—a deeply moving experience filled with flowers, candlelit processions, and local traditions.
Immersed in Greek Culture
Crete offered a mix of rugged beauty and rich culture. Our clients explored the island’s countryside, visiting remote villages, avocado farms, and orange groves. They dined on homemade Cretan delicacies in a family-run taverna before witnessing the Great Saturday midnight celebration, where fireworks and candlelit traditions brought Orthodox Easter to life.
The adventure continued with a visit to the island of Rhodes, that captivates visitors with its golden beaches, medieval Old Town steeped in history, and the sunlit allure of its ancient ruins and crystal-clear Aegean waters. The night was spent in a delightful boutique hotel nestled within a beautifully preserved medieval building.
Up next was Santorini, known for its iconic white-washed buildings and azure domes. A leisurely lunch and breathtaking views made for perfect photo opportunities. In Athens, they dove into ancient Greek history with a guided tour of the Acropolis and a visit to Michelin-starred restaurant The Zillers, offering spectacular views of the Acropolis at night.
Exploring Eastern Europe’s Hidden Gems
After Greece, the journey transitioned to Eastern Europe. In Sofia, Bulgaria, they visited the UNESCO-listed Boyana Church and explored the city’s architectural highlights, including the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the Rotunda of St. George. Sofia’s blend of history and charm proved to be a delightful surprise.
Romania was next, offering a deep dive into Transylvanian legends and countryside traditions. Highlights included a private tour of the Gothic Corvin Castle, a visit to Bran Castle—popularly associated with Dracula—and exploring fortified churches. In the picturesque village of Viscri, they experienced rural life through a horse-cart ride, a traditional blacksmith demonstration, and a home-cooked meal. In both Sibiu and Brașov, the nights were spent in enchanting boutique hotels, each housed in beautifully restored historic establishments that echoed the charm of Romania’s medieval past.
Maramureș and Beyond
Further north, in Maramureș, our travellers discovered this timeless region where wooden churches, traditional villages, and ancient customs create a living tapestry of history. Surrounded by the breathtaking Carpathian Mountains, it offers a rare glimpse into a world untouched by modernity. Hands-on workshops in wood carving and rug weaving offered an intimate connection with local crafts. Visits to the historic Bârsana Monastery and water mills of Sârbi completed their journey through this enchanting region.
A scenic flight over the Tatra Mountains on the Slovak-Polish border provided a breathtaking view of nature’s grandeur. The adventure then shifted westward to the charming spa town of Karlovy Vary in Czechia. Known for its pastel-colored houses and mineral springs, it was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the journey during a delicious lunch.
Unforgettable Memories
As their Flying Adventure drew to a close, our clients returned to Amsterdam to bid farewell to Europe. Their journey had been nothing short of magical, blending aerial exploration with cultural immersion in a way few other experiences can offer.
Here’s what our clients had to say about their experience: “The Bluetail Aviation team was fantastic, from our first interaction, throughout our European sojourn, to follow-up communications after returning home. I cannot recommend them highly enough.”
A Flying Adventure is not just a vacation; it is a deeply personal and enriching journey that connects you to Europe’s diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and timeless history. From medieval castles and hidden villages to iconic landmarks and local traditions, this is a travel experience unlike any other.
Do you wish to read more about this meticulously crafted itinerary? Click here to read the full article published in the COPA magazine.
Your Turn to Take Flight
Are you ready to embark on your own Flying Adventure? Whether you dream of exploring the sun-kissed Caribbeanislands, uncovering Southern Africa’s secrets, or enjoying the charm of Europe’s historic cities, we will craft a journey tailored to your dreams. Let us turn your wanderlust into reality—one unforgettable flight at a time.
