There are few places in the world (and believe me – I have been traveling a long time) that don't need a story to tell you how good it is. Sometimes pictures are all you need. And Padaste Manor on Muhu Island in Estonia is one of those places. One that I had wanted to visit for 12 years, and it was worth the wait.

You may ask – what is there to do? Spa lovers – this spa is a must. I have visited so many of them, but this just blew my mind with its simplicity, yet intricacy. One of the few spa experiences I will remember. The back massage – with just the right pressure and such a gentle touch – was one that knocked me down, so that I did not even want to lie down in a water bed. Also, the wood burning sauna with the most delectable rowanberry and cranberry scrub (I thought maybe I could eat it) was a thing to enjoy.

And then there was Restaurant Alexander. Open from breakfast until dinner with freshly baked bread, local produce, champagne, an excellent wine selection, and a great staff.

And yes – did I tell you about the manor house and farm house we stayed in? The manor house is what started the Padaste Manor story 15 years ago (originally built in the 15th century), but the farm house is what the story is about in my case. Located just a few steps from the main house, this is an oasis in the middle of nowhere. An oasis that just will not let me go, even in my dreams. A place to enjoy your morning coffee with a view of the sea. A place to order room service (a rare thing for me) with a great selection of cheeses and a good and juicy club sandwich, which you can enjoy on the terrace. A place to boil a cup of tea and enjoy it on the second floor terrace or on the veranda. And a place to snuggle up by the fireplace on a rainy day. A place where so much just happens, which is all you need.