VISBY

Visby is the capital of Gotland, Sweden's beautiful island, famous for its soft sandy beaches, sheer cliffs, distinctive grey sheep, and wild orchids (more than 35 varieties of them, at last count).

It also has a fascinating history, inhabited for more than 7,000 years and invaded by the Germans in the 13th century (who left behind some spectacular medieval churches) and then by the Danes, eventually becoming Swedish territory in the mid-17th century.

Visby, located on the northwest coast of Gotland, is the jewel in the island's crown and a testament to its rich history - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sweden's best-preserved medieval towns (complete with ancient walls).