The Great Lakes USA is the largest expanse of freshwater in the world with a unique and diverse landscape. This region which is the size of continental Europe includes the U.S. states of Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania.

The five Great Lakes – Lake Superior, Huron, Ontario, Erie and Michigan – are surrounded by a total of 10,000 miles of shoreline and contain more than a fifth of the world’s freshwater surface. They boast a fascinating maritime history that is best explored by ship. The Great Lakes region is home to big cosmopolitan cities, sweeping landscapes, diverse culture and small lakeside communities.

Lakeside you’ll find stretches of sandy beach, lighthouses perched on craggy coves, rolling dunes and a swathe of offshore islands. Away from the water, the landscape is just as full of surprises away, with cow-speckled farmland in Wisconsin; Amish communities dotting the horizon in Ohio; and moose wandering the dense forest of Minnesota’s Upper Peninsula.

If the city is more your scene, then don’t forget to explore the region’s big entertaining cities. Chicago has a standout skyline of modern skyscrapers, and is the place to head for amazing architecture, superb art, first-class shopping and a buzzing night scene. Milwaukee has a long brewing tradition and is perfect for beer fans but also comes complete with interesting museums and sandy beaches. And Detroit’s famous love affair with the motorcar and Motown music speak for themselves.

This heartland of America has a wealth of natural beauty and an intriguing history.