lithuania

Lithuania has a history full of occupations—from German states, through Poland and the Soviet Union, until it finally regained independence in 1990. Infinite stretches of beautiful coast, sun-dappled ancient forests, gleaming lakes and wide rivers make this tiny country a paradise for outdoor lovers. While its importance as a former centre of European Jewish history, rich cultural and artistic scenes, design-heavy cities and culinary landscape adds an entirely different layer. The capital, Vilnius, is an immaculate city with green spaces, historic churches and a beguiling UNESCO-listed Old Town. Just outside the capital is Trakai Island Castle—a medieval palace set in the middle of a lake—while farther afield lie the city of Kaunas, the spell-binding Curonian Spit and Žemaitija National Park.