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multinationalist · 2 years ago

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Romantic Retreats: The Best Areas to Stay in Portugal for Couples

Exploring the Most Romantic Places to Stay in Portugal for Couples

Have you ever dreamt of whisking away with your sweetheart to a far-off land where romance is in the air and breathtaking scenery surrounds you at every turn? Well, pack your bags and get ready to jet off to Portugal, the ultimate destination for couples seeking a romantic retreat. From fairytale castles to serene islands to idyllic beaches, Portugal has it all when it comes to kindling the flames of love. So, leave the everyday grind behind, grab your partner's hand, and let's explore the best areas to stay in Portugal for couples. It's time to turn your love story into a fairy tale adventure!

Factors to Consider for Couples:

When planning a romantic getaway, couples have a lot to think about. After all, it's not just about booking a hotel and packing your bags. There are several factors that play into choosing the perfect travel destination that will make your trip truly memorable. Here are some factors that couples typically consider when picking a destination for their romantic retreat: Romance: The key ingredient for any romantic getaway is, of course, romance! Couples look for destinations that exude a romantic ambiance, with beautiful landscapes, picturesque settings, and charming attractions that create a dreamy atmosphere for love to flourish. Privacy: Privacy is also crucial for couples seeking an intimate escape. Whether it's a secluded beach, a private villa, or a cozy cabin in the woods, couples want a destination that offers them the peace and privacy to connect and bond without distractions. Ambiance: The overall ambiance of a destination sets the tone for a romantic getaway. Couples look for places with a romantic vibe, where they can indulge in candlelit dinners, stroll through quaint streets hand-in-hand, and create unforgettable memories in a truly special atmosphere. Activities: A romantic getaway is not just about cuddling up in a hotel room. Couples also want to engage in activities that they can enjoy together. Whether it's hiking, wine tasting, stargazing, or exploring local culture, a destination with ample activities adds an extra spark to the trip. Now that we know what factors to consider, let's dive into the best areas to stay in Portugal for couples and see how they measure up on these criteria.

Best Areas to Stay in Portugal for Couples:

1. Sintra: Where Fairy Tales Come True Nestled in the lush hills of the Serra de Sintra, this magical town is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its romantic ambiance and breathtaking landscapes. With its fairytale-like castles, palaces, and gardens, Sintra has captivated the hearts of travelers for centuries. Some must-visit attractions in Sintra include: - Pena Palace: This colorful palace perched on a hilltop is a true architectural marvel, with its mix of Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance styles. Its vibrant colors and intricate details make it a perfect backdrop for romantic photos. - Quinta da Regaleira: This mystical estate features a romantic palace, enchanting gardens, and underground tunnels that add an air of mystery to your visit. Couples can explore the hidden caves, grottos, and secret passages together, making it a unique and memorable experience. - Monserrate Palace: This exotic palace boasts a blend of Indian, Moorish, and Gothic styles, and is surrounded by lush gardens with a romantic ambiance. It's a perfect spot for a romantic picnic or a leisurely stroll. Aside from its stunning landmarks, Sintra also offers luxury hotels and boutique accommodations that cater to couples. From charming guesthouses to elegant hotels, you'll find plenty of options for a romantic stay in this fairytale town.

Fun Fact: Sintra was a favorite summer retreat for Portuguese royalty, and its romantic allure has also inspired famous writers such as Lord Byron and Hans Christian Andersen. 2. Sao Miguel, Azores: A Serene Retreat for Lovebirds Sao Miguel, the largest island in the Azores archipelago, is a hidden gem that offers a serene and secluded getaway for couples. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Sao Miguel is a paradise for nature lovers. Some romantic experiences you can enjoy in Sao Miguel include: - Hot Springs: Sao Miguel is home to several natural hot springs, known as "caldeiras," where you can relax and unwind in the mineral-rich waters. The Terra Nostra Garden in Furnas is a popular spot, with its thermal pool surrounded by lush botanical gardens, creating a romantic and rejuvenating atmosphere. - Lakes: Sao Miguel is dotted with beautiful lakes, such as Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, offering stunning views and peaceful surroundings. You can take a romantic stroll along the lake shores, or even rent a canoe or a paddleboat for a romantic adventure on the water. - Hiking: Sao Miguel offers plenty of scenic hiking trails, including trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints and secluded spots. You can embark on a romantic hike hand in hand, exploring the island's lush green landscapes and discovering hidden gems together. - Stargazing: Sao Miguel has minimal light pollution, making it a perfect destination for stargazing. Imagine cuddling up with your loved one under a blanket of stars, as you marvel at the night sky and create unforgettable memories. When it comes to accommodations, Sao Miguel offers cozy guest houses and intimate lodges that provide a romantic atmosphere, with their rustic charm and personalized service.

Fun Fact: Sao Miguel is also known as the "Green Island" due to its lush landscapes and vibrant flora, creating a romantic setting for couples to connect with nature and each other. 3. Madeira Island: Where Romance Meets Idyllic Beauty Madeira Island, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Atlantic," is a romantic haven with its stunning landscapes and idyllic beauty. Some romantic experiences you can enjoy in Madeira include: - Levada Walks: Madeira is famous for its levadas, which are narrow irrigation channels that crisscross the island and offer scenic walking trails. You and your loved one can embark on a leisurely levada walk hand in hand, surrounded by the lush greenery, colorful flowers, and the sound of flowing water. It's a perfect way to connect with nature and each other in a romantic setting. - Romantic Sunset Cruises: Madeira's coastline is dotted with picturesque cliffs and secluded coves, making it a perfect destination for a romantic sunset cruise. You can set sail on a private yacht or a traditional wooden boat, and watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the sea and creating a romantic atmosphere. - Wine Tasting: Madeira is known for its delicious fortified wine, and you can embark on a romantic wine tasting journey together. Visit the vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and sample different varieties of Madeira wine, while enjoying the panoramic views of the island's landscapes. - Flower Gardens: Madeira is also known as the "Island of Flowers" due to its colorful and diverse flora. You can visit the island's beautiful gardens, such as the Monte Palace Tropical Garden and the Botanical Garden, which offer romantic settings with their lush landscapes, exotic flowers, and serene atmosphere. - Romantic Dining: Madeira offers a plethora of cozy and intimate restaurants where you can enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner with your loved one. Indulge in the local cuisine, with its fresh seafood, exotic fruits, and sweet desserts, while enjoying the ambiance of a romantic setting. Madeira also offers a range of romantic accommodations, from luxury hotels with ocean views to quaint guesthouses tucked away in the mountains, providing a perfect setting for a romantic getaway.

Fun Fact: Madeira Island is known for its annual Flower Festival, where the streets are adorned with colorful flower carpets and floral displays, creating a romantic and festive atmosphere. In conclusion, Portugal offers a plethora of romantic destinations for couples to create unforgettable memories together. From the fairytale-like town of Sintra, to the serene and secluded Sao Miguel in the Azores, and the idyllic beauty of Madeira Island, each destination offers its own unique charm, with stunning landscapes, romantic activities, and cozy accommodations. Whether you're exploring historic castles, relaxing in hot springs, hiking through lush green landscapes, or simply enjoying a romantic dinner, Portugal has something to offer for every couple seeking a romantic getaway. Read the full article

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europetraveltips · 3 years ago

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THE 6 BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN EUROPE IN 2021

Anticipating how travel will glance in 2021 is a waste of time. However, what's without a doubt is that this year has hit the delight business hard: the meaningful ventures, the mother and-pop organizations, individuals doing things right. So going in 2021 will not simply be an opportunity to reconnect with ourselves and feel the buzz of showing up in another spot and another headspace, alive to additional opportunities. As it were, it will be our opportunity to decide in favor of the sort of world we need to live in: one of maintainable organizations, environments and networks, instead of people gazing into the seductively empty bereft of a cell phone screen. It will likewise be an opportunity for a considerable lot of us to recall that we live in a mainland that is one of the extraordinary interwoven designs mankind and topography. Here's the place where we'll be going in Europe in 2021, and it feels progressively basic that we as a whole get out and do likewise – and make a decision in favor of euphoria. For more future motivation, look at our manual for the best occasion objections for 2021 and the best UK objections to visit in 2021.

6. THE AZORES

With the conceivable exemption of Iceland, no place in Europe does land dramatization very like the Azores – the Hawaii of the mid-Atlantic, with thickly forested islands bordered by rough precipices that appear to emerge from the nothingness like goliath green knees from an early stage shower. The archipelago, 950 miles from the bank of parent country Portugal, is a position of volcanic cavities, sulphuric natural aquifers, penetrating whales and surf breaks ignored by epic stacks. The archipelago of biospheres and marine stores has likewise been a calm paragon of practical the travel industry, a kind of European response to Costa Rica.

There are ships and little planes to islands like Faial, Pico and São Jorge, yet the majority of the activity occurs on Sao Miguel, which is all around loaded with great spots to remain. The exemplary twofold header is to put in a couple of evenings each at two sister inns: the Azor, with fresh mod-store calculation and a roof pool ignoring the harbor in the principle town of Ponta Delgada; and the Furnas Boutique Hotel up in the mud-percolating volcanic focal point of the island, where the superstar is the dark stone, Japanese-style warm pool.

In Vila Franca do Campo, the whale-watching and plunging area of interest thirty minutes along the south coast from Ponta Delgada, Convento de São Francisco is a 10-room shop in an exquisitely stark seventeenth century religious circle. Different features incorporate the Sete Cidades Lake Lodge, a progression of wood lodges on a kayak prepared lake in the wild north-west; and the Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach resort , a position of low-threw substantial innovation ignoring a long surf sea shore on the north coast.

By need, the food is consistently locavore, from the islands' popular cheeses to uncommon however delightful fish, for example, wreckfish and blue-mouth rockfish, and cozido das Furnas, a seven-meat stew slow-prepared in Furnas' volcanic earth. This is an immortal kind of spot; a profound nature escape, which feels about directly in 2021.

5. DUBROVNIK AND ITS SURROUNDS, CROATIA

Dubrovnik might be a little overwhelmed with Game Of Thrones sightseers, yet there's constantly been a sure wizardry to this limestone fortification on the Adriatic. Also, what's regularly neglected is the thing that an extraordinary beginning stage it is intended for a legitimate experience. Toward the south, it's not exactly an hour's drive past the languid harbor towns of the Dubrovnik Riviera to Montenegro – a country which has step by step been rediscovering its post-war magic, particularly with the impending appearance of a biophilic-innovator inn from Janu, Aman's new more youthful sister brand. Toward the north, it's under three hours to Mostar, an impeccable Bosnian town of fairylit millhouse cafés and Ottoman stone scaffolds, not a long way from the Kravice cascades, with a turquoise swimmable tidal pond encompassed by Niagara-like falls.

Yet, the alternate approach is offshore, towards the vehicle free, tumbledown Elaphiti islands of Koločep, Sipan and Lopud, handily came to by neighborhood ships. The one to visit in 2021 is Lopud, an island of Renaissance-time stone houses, outlandish gardens and demolished fortifications. Its Franciscan religious community is presently open as the five-suite Lopud 1483, following a meticulous 20-year redesign by Swiss workmanship supporter and donor Francesca Thyssen-Bornemisza. She and her family have filled the 5,000-square-meter religious community with Renaissance and contemporary workmanship, a Franciscan drug store and a reflection garden planned by an Arctic shaman, while protecting the unpleasant plasterwork and patina of the antiquated cloister.

4. SKÅNE, SWEDEN

Sweden's southernmost region infrequently gets the inclusion it merits – in huge part in light of the fact that such a lot of buzz is drawn across the Øresund Bridge from Malmö to Copenhagen. Yet, Skåne is certainly worth investigating, from the interwoven appeal of the city to the lakes, wineries and Nantucket-esque clapboard waterfront towns of the rich open country, frequently alluded to as Sweden's larder.

Malmö has large numbers of the things making it work that have put Copenhagen and Amsterdam on each most-liveable rundown going: youthful, bikeable, streaked with trenches and substantial espresso joints, yet additionally home to a wonderfully saved Dutch-Renaissance old town. However it stays more blended than the disobediently elegant Danish city across the water, particularly in regions like Möllevången, a refined, multicultural piece of town referred to local people as Falafel City. Furthermore, Sweden's generally loosened up Covid-19 guidelines have implied that hip locavore frequents, for example, Bastard, Vollmers and the Höganäs Saluhall food corridor, just as zero-squander lunch most loved Restaurang Spill, have clutched their magic heading into 2021.

A sample of Skåne produce is a decent antecedent to an excursion to the open country: regardless of whether south to the sea shore hovels and marram-grass rises of the Skanör-Falsterbo promontory, or north to the clapboard coastline town of Mölle, where the Grand Hôtel Mölle remarkably investigates the stone sea shore and the wild Kullaberg Nature Reserve, with its porpoises and beacon climbs. Past Mölle, Båstad is another exemplary coastline town, with a customary kallbadhus (cold washing house) spa toward the finish of a wooden dock, having a place with the legacy splashed Hotel Skansen. All over the area, which is by and large calmer than the Stockholm archipelago, there's a relaxed feeling of provenance at spots, for example, at the zero-squander Hörte Brygga in the south-west, with its superb water-side nursery in the mid year. Like an European response to New England, this is the most polished of breaks.

3. SALENTO, ITALY

For a genuine Italian break in 2021, we'll head right to the lower part of its heel. Habitually under-staffed as the nation's response to Cornwall, on its own hot recurrence, the Salento district offers an unpleasant cut rendition of the best of Italy – from the nearly Caribbean west coast to the plunging bluffs of the west coast; from Brindisi down to southernmost Santa Maria di Leuca through the florid dream of Lecce, all beasts and limestone sections. This is a dry, ochre-toned place where there is olive forests and precipice hopping kids, too drowsy to even consider having a very remarkable scene. The cucina povera will in general be plain and unfussy: take the shockingly awesome gnummareddi, or sheep offal rolls, served in the walled garden at A Casa Tu Martinu in Taviano; or the barbecued bream at Lo Scalo, incorporated into the bluffs at Marina di Novaglie, and run by the Longo family for 50 years.

In any case, a progression of little savvy stays have increased the game here as of late. For example, the nine-room Palazzo Daniele in Gagliano del Capo, a nineteenth century apartment given a rich mod-devout makeover by hotelier Gabriele Salini – where travel disruptor Thierry Teyssier dispatched his 700,000 Heures 'fleeting inn' idea. Or on the other hand Masseria Canali, a low-threw, seven-room estate of curves and collectibles west of Brindisi, which opened for takeovers this late spring with a pool deserving of A Bigger Splash.

2. TIMIȘOARA, ROMANIA

This western Romanian city is regularly alluded to as Little Vienna, with its stupendous Habsburg Secessionist structures and roundabout downtown area. In truth, it's not as glossily refined as the Austrian capital, however that is the point. Indeed, even in its stupendous focus, the primary spot in Europe to have electric streetlamps, Timișoara doesn't feel like a scam. Also, as other Romanian urban communities, including Cluj-Napoca and Sibiu, there's a discernible feeling of energetic good faith in this understudy town. A large number of the city's foundations have the vibe of somebody's parlor – like Scârț Loc Lejer, a bric-a-brac bar possessed by a craftsman's group, with a congested nursery, a bordering theater and a gallery of Communist commercialization in the cellar. Somewhere else, there are hopping club evenings at underground Database and practices at the graffiti'd Aethernativ Café, with faint echoes of early Noughties Berlin.

There are celebrations in Timișoara for everything from world music to film, Romany workmanship and jazz, the last of which has consistently been enormous here, in any event, when Ceaușescu pushed it underground. The National Opera House has drama and expressive dance works of art, with tickets at the cost of an IPA in London, and the craftsmanship goes from a road workmanship display in a street passage to the Muzeul de Arta's assortment of wry pictures by Corneliu Baba. All of which drove it to be named European Capital of Culture for 2021, an assignment which might get pushed back a couple of years in the wake of Covid-19. Name or not, this is a legitimate city of culture, and definitely worth a city break.

1. CHANIA, CRETE, GREECE

While its Ottoman-affected harbor and spaghetti bowl of cobble-stoned roads are gently delightful, Chania is sneaking up all of a sudden with regards to its food. From basic ocean side bistros to lovely Cretan high end food, this city on the north-west shore of the Greek island has a select yet rapidly growing scene that is tricking in master palates.

#europe #europe travel #europe trip

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traveltales16 · 3 years ago

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A trip to an island destination- The Azores.

Every time I plan for a trip, I look for the most unique places on Earth. Travelling has no ends and no barriers. One can visit whichever destinations they like the most. From the day I have started to plan my trips, I have spent days looking for that one unique destination. In the past, I was more attracted to cities and hence use to go on a trip to some or other famous cities of the world.

But this time I found the most heavenly yet different and unique destination called "The Azores". When I told my family that I am going for a trip to this destination with my friends, they didn't even know that there is any such place too. I was very excited to explore this place as I read a lot about it and it was no less than heaven on earth.

After getting done with all the bookings, I and my friends boarded our flight to the "Ponta Delgada Airport". Our hotel was not very far away from the airport. So, we reached the hotel in no time.

I choose the best hotel in The Azores, named "Acores Atlantico". This was the best place to have a very comfortable stay at this destination. Though this isn't the only accommodation when you are at this destination. There are many other hotels too where an individual can stay-

· Azor Hotel

· Sao Miguel Park Hotel

· Pedras do Mar Resort & Spa

· Hotel Talisman

· Azores Royal Garden Hotel

· Hotel Marina Atlantico

From the hotel, we headed to eat something as we could not eat anything earlier. I have some of the best restaurants on my list by now of this destination. The names of those destinations are the following-

· Vale das Furnas

· AssociaçãoAgrícola de São Miguel

· Alcides

· ManéCigano

· A Tasca

On the next day of the trip, we went whale watching. This was such an amazing and new experience for me and my all friends. This was one of the reasons why I chose this destination, as I could experience the most unique things here.

Where else in the world would I be able to experience whale watching? Along with the whales, we spotted some dolphins too.

"SeteCidades" was another place that we explored. This was such a picturesque place. This was a place that had a blue and green lake. There were hiking trails too where we experienced hiking too. Along with hiking, we clicked so many pictures here as the views of this place were so amazing. After this, we were back to our hotel room.

On the next, we went diving. I was very nervous and scared about this one. But then I realized I cannot miss this activity when I am at this destination. I have never seen such amazing sea life anywhere else. We came across so many sea creatures like fishes, sharks, octopuses, turtles, mobulas. "Pico Mountain" was our last spot at this destination. This was the highest mountain peak of Portugal. And the views from the top of this mountain peak were so magical.

From this place, we came back to the mountain peak. And we had to pack all other things as we had to catch our flight back. We made United Airlines Reservations for our way back home. We made the reservation for this airline for both ways and had the most amazing trip.

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our21stcenturyodyssey · 7 years ago

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Azorean Amore

Itinerary:

May 18, Thursday: Fly to Lisbon, Portugal

May 19, Friday: Explore Lisbon

May 20, Saturday: Explore Belem and fly to Sao Miguel, Azores

May 21-24, Sunday-Wednesday: Explore island of Sao Miguel

Day 1 – Sete Cidades and surrounds; Ponta de Ferraria

Day 2 – Whale watching, Sanguinho hike, Furnas

Day 3 – Vila Franca do Campo, Gorreana Tea Plantation

Day 4 – Lago do Congro, Lago do Fogo, Caldeira Velha

May 25, Thursday: Fly back to Lisbon, drive to Sintra and Evora

May 26, Friday: Tour Evora, Obidos and overnight in Nazare

May 27, Saturday: Tour Alcobaca, Batalha and Fatima and overnight in Coimbra

May 28, Sunday: Tour Coimbra and drive back to Lisbon

May 29, Monday: Fly back to US

Dates: May 18-29, 2017

Our Odyssey:

After our whirlwind day and a half in Lisbon, we flew to the Azores on Saturday afternoon. It was about a 3 hour flight west from Lisbon – back towards the US – so it feels much like you’re leaving Portugal altogether. The Azores are one of the only remaining areas claimed during Portugal’s age of exploration that is still part of Portugal today. Today they are an autonomous region that is still technically Portugal but largely independent. And very remote. The cluster of islands don’t really have much else around their space in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

I hadn’t even heard of the Azores (beyond just a general knowledge that a place of this name existed somewhere in the world) before starting to research our Portuguese honeymoon plans. I came across a few blog posts about the amazing nature views, hiking and slow pace of life on the islands and decided to fit it into our plans. After all, Tim and I have loved every remote nature experience we’ve had – from Antarctica, to Svalbard, to Tasmania.

We landed mid-afternoon into the Sao Miguel airport. Being short on time, we chose this island as our home base for the five nights we would be there since it is the largest in the Azores, had cheap-ish direct flights from Lisbon, and had the most information available online in terms of planning a visit. Before heading to our Airbnb, on the central south coast of the island, we headed west in our rental car to Sete Cidades.

Sete Cidades is a beautiful lake nestled within the volcanic hills of the western part of the island, and is probably the most prolific site of the island – this is what is shown in tourist ads and postcards. However, it is very difficult to get a good view of it; not because of a lake of vista points (there are many right along the road), but because of the crazy weather the Azores are prone to. Basically, Sete Cidades sits in a cloud most of the time, so chances are, when you go to visit it, you will only see fog. And this was the case for our afternoon visit, despite relatively sunny and clear skies at lower elevations. The drive out of the way was not for naught, however, since we got to experience driving through the veritable cloud forest surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and the bright pink flowers typical of the Azores, as well as find an old abandoned hotel that I’d heard was great for exploring (though not technically encouraged).

Cloud view of Sete Cidades – not exactly inspiring

Super creepy abandoned hotel – very inspiring!

It was just 30 minutes to our Airbnb in the town of Ribeira Das Tainhas. Driving through the towns of Sao Miguel really makes you feel like you’ve gone back in time. The roads are all super narrow (not designed for cars), so for two cars to pass each other, they are literally mere inches away. Combined with hills and curves and it makes for pretty crazy driving. When we got to our place, our host came outside to greet us and show us around. We had the lower level of the house, which was fully equipped with bedrooms, a bathroom, living room, dining room and kitchen. The home sat on the top of a hill, with a sloping corn field separating it from the rocky shore, a perfect example of how dramatic the topography of the island is. All across the island, the terrain is hilly and the hills are steep. It resembled a landscape out of a Dr. Seuss book (oh, the places you’ll go…). As it turns out, the Azores are actually the tops of the tallest mountain chain in the world. It’s just that the base of these volcanic mountains sit on the ocean floor.

Sao Miguel’s bright pink flowers shine bright even in the fog

Enamored with our home for the next 5 nights, we settled in and got to bed.

The next day, we woke up leisurely and explored the grounds around our place. Our door opened up to a large terraced yard overlooking the cornfield and the ocean. A makeshift path through the cornfield led us down to the ocean where waves crashed against rocks where local fishermen balanced with their lines cast. Oh and also to our private natural swimming hole and patio. The water was way too cold to jump in, but the fact that this perfect little spot exists made my heart happy.

Inside of our Airbnb – cute and cozy!

The view from our backyard

Our coastal farmhouse!

Since it was a clear day, we decided to try our luck at a better view of Sete Cidades. We packed some sandwiches and headed out to the same spot we stopped at the evening prior. We were delighted to see that the clouds had lifted and the sun was shining down onto the view that the island is best known for. What makes this lake so unique is that it appears as though it is two lakes, one green and one blue – but it is actually just one, and the variation and color is an illusion that comes from a strip of land between the two sections and the reflection of the different types of foliage on either side. Crazy!

Sete Cidades on a clear day – much better!!

As with many beautiful things in nature, there is also a bit of folklore around this lake. In this old tale, a grumpy widower King, who was obsessed with his daughter, forbade his daughter from talking with anyone other than him. Not wanting to live in such captivity, she managed to escape into the local hills while the king slept after his lunch. It was on one such escapade that she met a young shepherd. They continued to meet and fell in love. The boy proposed to her, and they excitedly returned to the castle to speak with the King to ask his permission. Of course, he angrily refused and forbade his daughter from ever seeing the boy again. The princess and the shepherd cried all afternoon and their tears formed the twin lakes – one green, the color of the princess’ eyes, and one blue, the color of the shepherd’s.

Green on one side, blue on the other

We took some pictures at the Miradouro do Rei (viewpoint) and then walked over to the abandoned hotel that had beckoned to us the night before. The Hotel Monte Palace was built in the 1980s to draw tourists to the scenic lake, but it turns out no one really wants to spend their vacation clouded in fog so after only a little over a year of being in operation, it closed its doors. Now, it stands abandoned and accessible to anyone bold enough to venture into its empty courtyards, hallways and rooms. We loved exploring the creepy remains of the luxury resort with its peeling wallpaper, graffiti and blocked-off elevator shafts. I’d never been anywhere like it before in my life – a place so large, so decadent and so empty and decrepit.

Exploring the old hotel

Abandoned lobby

There was something hauntingly beautiful about the hotel’s raw decay

But on a clear day, the view from the rooftop was pretty darn good

After we had our fill of this probably-haunted venue, we made our way to the Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, where we had read there was an amazing view over other volcanic lakes. After a wrong turn (we almost drove up a dirt walking trail on a hill because our driving instructions said to follow a dirt road, and only turned back when it was clear our little car wasn’t going to make it), we made it to the correct parking area. After a short hike up a steep trail, we arrived at quite possibly the most magical view on the island. Overlooking two volcanic lakes and their surrounding hills, the view somehow manages to create an explosion of color with a very small palate of blues, greens and browns. Inexplicably, the scene captures the rainbow and conjures up a feeling of traveling on the yellow brick road to Oz. It was, simply, a perfect spot.

Boca do Inferno viewpoint is a fantastic spot for a picnic and a picture.

These lakes are actually calderas of volcanoes – whoa!

After eating sandwiches Tim had packed for us, we pulled ourselves away from the magic and headed back to the car to make our way to the Ponta de Ferraria. I’ve mentioned a few times now that the island is highly volcanic, and thus is very geothermal. Ponta de Ferraria is one of the more unique spots on the island for experiencing Sao Miguel’s thermal waters, because the hot springs flow out into the ocean. This creates a mix of hot and cold water, swirling around you as the waves bring in cold ocean water into the small swimming cove, then, as the waves pull away, leave hot water from the springs among the rocks. This was a really interesting place to swim, though not exactly relaxing – the waves were pretty rough so we had to hold ourselves in place using the ropes that served as the boundary between the swimming hole and the ocean. After about an hour we climbed out and dried off on the hot rocks above, then made our way back towards our home.

Path leading down to the Ponta de Ferraria hot springs

Our hostess had informed us of a grocery store nearby so we had done a bit of grocery shopping to be able to cook dinner and make sandwiches every day. We also stocked up on port wine (both red and white!) now that we knew how much we liked it! When Tim and I cook on the road, it’s typically one of a few things: 1. burgers and fried potatoes 2. some kind of stir fry 3. some kind of pasta 4. some kind of leftover stir fry mixed with some kind of pasta. Normally, we are very successful with these basic staples because you can pretty readily identify the ingredients in a grocery store in any country without needing to know the language. This got us into a bit of trouble later in the week, which I will come back to…

Ponta de Ferraria – where hot springs and the ocean meet

The next day we were up fairly early as we had booked a whale watching tour from Vila Franca. The Azores are known for their fantastic cetacean viewing opportunities. While we did not see any whales, we did see many bottlenose and risso’s dolphins, the latter of which I’d never seen before! We also saw a few Portuguese man o’wars which were exciting to observe floating by, so innocent-seeming. Before returning to the shore, our boat took us around the Vila Franca Islet, a small, circular rocky island just off shore that is popular for summer sunbathing.

Dolphin spotted by a fishing boat

Portuguese man-o-war. More than a bubble, less than a jellyfish.

Our tour wrapped up just before lunch so we headed back to the house to eat and then set out by car to a trailhead in the town of Faial de Terra for the Sanguinho hike. The 4.5 km trail meanders uphill by farms and through forest to the waterfall Salto do Prego. On the way up, we ran into a rooster trotting down a side path towards the main trail. We stopped to watch him for a few minutes and take pictures (as tourists who find free-roaming chickens to be a novelty are wont to do). To our surprise, two hens then came marching down the trail to join him. Could this be a chicken love triangle? We took some more pictures of our cute new friends and set off on our way down the trail. We thought we were leaving them behind, but when we turned around, our trail buddies were prancing along behind us, seemingly eager to keep up. What were these chickens doing?? Were they seriously hiking this trail with us? They continued on right at our heels for 15 minutes or so before we had to cross over a small stream. That was the end of the road for our little pals, who turned around and went back to doing chicken things.

Our new friends

Just me and my crew #squadgoals

Soon we reached the waterfall, hidden deep and secluded in the forest. We stopped here for a break and enjoyed the solitude of the place, the sound of crashing water, and the humble vibrancy of the lush green foliage around us.

Salto do Prego

The hike out of the forest took us a different way than how we’d come, this time bringing us to an abandoned old village of fairytale-perfect cottages. Apparently the village is being restored, though I am inclined to think they should keep it exactly as is – the air of mystery shrouding the rooftops sits like a fog over these empty homes, and I can’t help but think something precious would be lost if they revived the village.

In the old town of Sanguinho

The hike down

After our hike we carried on to the town of Furnas, which we had driven by to get to Faial de Terra. Furnas, like its name suggests, is known for its many hot springs, geysers and fumaroles. It also smells like rotten eggs, which is expected in such a geothermally active area. We walked around to see the geysers and then decided to reward ourselves after our hike with a dip in the hot springs at the Parque Terra Nostra, a resort in Furnas with a large hot pool, a few smaller ones and many walking paths through their gardens. The temperature of the larger pool is very inviting, but the mud brown color of the water is less so. Even so, this place has become known for the dirty color of their water, in a good way, and it doesn’t seem to deter anyone (including us!). We swam around the waters, stood under the water spouts delivering fresh hot water and generally relaxed for about an hour. We then checked out the smaller pools, which had clearer (and warmer) water, and a bit more privacy and comfortable seating areas. We ended our visit with a walk around the gardens to cool off followed by dinner at their restaurant.

Bubbling hot springs in Furnas – don’t swim in this

The golden (?) waters of Parque Terra Nostre – swim in this!

While pricey, dinner was absolutely worth it. We even had a stew that was cooked underground by the heat from the hot springs.

Furnas stew – cooked underground!

That night we were exhausted from our busy day, so it was a good thing we didn’t have much planned aside from relaxing for our third full day on the island.

We slept in the next morning and leisurely made plans for the day – which included stopping by a famous chapel and then touring a tea plantation.

The first thing you should know about the Vila Franca do Campo chapel is that it is easy to see up on the hilltop overlooking the town, but very hard to drive to. Google Maps has no clue how to get there and will send you in crazy directions if you take its word for it. We eventually made a turn on to a street that had a decrepit sign pointing the way and followed the makeshift markers up to the chapel. The second thing you should know is that it was built on this hard to reach spot because it is believed to be the site of a miracle. The third thing you should know is that you really won’t find much more information about it than that. There isn’t really anything online, and the plaque at the church just explains the story around the miracle.

The legend of the chapel

What I can tell you, though, is that this is the prettiest chapel I’ve ever seen. Perfectly symmetrical stairs lead up to the chapel entrance, and every few steps it levels off at a small terrace with a blue and white tiled image depicting the story. Set among the rolling hills of the island with a view overlooking the town below and the ocean beyond, it is supremely picturesque.

View from atop the chapel steps

Beautiful Chapel of Our Lady Peace in Vila Franca do Campo

After visiting the chapel we drove north on the island to the only tea plantation in Europe – Gorreana Tea Plantation. Visitors can freely roam the production and packing areas as well as the fields of tea plants via a walking trail. The scenic path goes through the rows of tea, up hills and down, with views across the plantation and the ocean. They also give away free samples of their black and green teas, which you can sip while observing the staff manually picking out the tea leaves – I was surprised by the amount of work done by hand here.

Sorting tea at Gorreana Tea Plantation

Tea fields

Walking among the tea leaves

We had an awesome time exploring Europe’s only tea plantation!

That night Tim and I planned a delicious pasta meal. We bought a red sauce at the store and had lots of veggies and cheeses to accompany our meal. While we were cooking everything, we tasted the sauce we had bought. It was oddly pungent and sharp – not like a tomato sauce we’d had before. But, we figured, with the cheese and pasta and veggies it would probably be fine. So we combined everything in the bowl and set it to simmer. Maybe some of the kick would cook off, we thought. We gave the pasta another taste. We both tried to convince ourselves it wasn’t so bad, until finally I said, “I cannot eat this – but I think we can save it.” I put the pasta dish into a colander and ran it under water until all the sauce was washed off, while Tim got his shoes on to drive back to the store to buy actual tomato sauce. In the end our meal was delicious, but it goes to show that when you’re grocery shopping in a foreign country, you may accidentally end up with unfamiliar ingredients you don’t like very much. We still don’t know what kind of sauce that was – maybe an onion, garlic paprika sauce? In any case, if you travel to Portugal and the Azores and plan to make pasta, be mindful of what sauce you get!

That night after our satisfying meal and some port wine (our evening tradition at this point), we got to bed. While reading on my tablet, I saw a black shape scurry across the bedding between my face and my tablet screen. I leapt out of bed yelling that I saw something, still not sure what it was or if it had only been my imagination. Then I saw him on the bed – a house centipede. I dare you to Google Image it, and then imagine my terror at being in bed with one. Tim squashed him (sorry little guy), but I was too shook up to comfortably crawl back into bed. I paced around the house in anxiety, not wanting to be startled by such a creature again. The good news is there are harmless animals, and we read that they tend to come into the house via drains, so we plugged all the drains in the bathroom and shut the door, hoping this would keep any more from coming in. Reluctantly we got back to bed.

The next morning, we wrote our Airbnb host to let her know about the bug. We realized she probably couldn’t really do anything about it and accepted that this is just the price you pay for remote island life, but figured if she had any ideas, we’d be all for them!

This was our last day on the island as we’d be flying back to Lisbon early the next morning, and the theme for the day was lakes and hot springs! We started with a visit to Lagoa do Congro, which sits nestled among a forest, reflecting the vibrant green of the leaves in its waters. I’ve never seen such a perfectly green-looking lake.

Lagoa do Congro – so much green!

And a hint of blue in the shade 🙂

Then, a bit of a drive away, we visited Lagoa do Fogo, which sits among the island’s dramatic hills. On a clear day, from the viewpoints overlooking the lake, you can see the ocean on either side of you as you look to the north and the south parts of the island. The view is simply awe-inspiring and we spent about an hour just sitting at the top of one of the hills resting and eating lunch. We also had one hilarious attempt at a selfie using the self-timer on Tim’s camera that resulted in a very silly sequence of 4 photos in which we initially were not prepared, then angled wrong, then the camera tipped over, and lastly we just couldn’t stop laughing.

Not ready

Bad angle

Camera fell over

Couldn’t stop laughing

We finally got our crap together and managed a decent photo

Our next stop was my least favorite thing on the whole island – the Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeiros. It’s a park with some short trails and around a hydroelectric facility and some waterfalls. It’s “fine” – but very small, not very natural and nothing to go out of your way for, in my opinion. Shockingly, one travel blogger I’d read had said this was one of her favorite places in all of the Azores.

Afterwards we ventured to the Caldeira Velha, a very natural and almost prehistoric-feeling hot springs spa. The spa is really more of a lush garden with a few hot pools and walking trails. It’s truly beautiful and very relaxing to be in an environment that didn’t feel built up or altered for commercial purposes.

Caldeira Velha

We ended our day laying out at the private swimming hole at our Airbnb. It was still too cold to swim, but laying there with the waves crashing on the rocks around us felt like such a perfect way to end our Azorean adventure. We spent the evening unwinding and repacking, gearing up for our road trip around Portugal that we’d start the next day!

Our swimming hole

Best Airbnb ever (minus the weird bug thing)

Honeymooning 🙂

Azorean Amore Itinerary: May 18, Thursday: Fly to Lisbon, Portugal May 19, Friday: Explore Lisbon May 20, Saturday: Explore Belem and fly to Sao Miguel, Azores…

#azores #europe #honeymoon #portugal #travel

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garoupasinn · 11 months ago

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When planning a trip, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing where to stay. With so many options available, it can be hard to know which hotel is right for you. There are many reasons to choose the Sao Miguel best hotels. The location is excellent, the views are stunning, and the amenities are top-notch. You'll also enjoy being close to all the activities in the city. Book now!

#Best hotels in sao miguel azores #Hotels in sao miguel azores #sao miguel best hotels

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garoupas-inn · 1 year ago

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Sao Miguel is the largest and most populous island of the Azores. It is known for its lush vegetation, stunning lakes, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and horseback riding through the island’s many trails. There are also several beaches where you can relax and enjoy the incredible views. Enjoy and explore this magical land now just by travel to sao miguel azores. visit www.garoupas-inn.com

#best places to stay sao miguel azores #travel to sao miguel azores #hotels in sao miguel azores

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pescart · 5 years ago

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Furnas in Sao Miguel Island - Azores - is home to one of the best open air hotspring in the archipelago. This huge hot vulcanic water pool is inside the park of Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, and especially beautiful at night, where you could have the whole place almost for yourself! In my case, for taking some amazing night shots! . . . . . . . . . . . #visitazores #azores #terranostragardenhotel #azoreanhospitality #bensaudehotelscollection #earthfocus #earthofficial #ig_masterpiece #landscape_captures #landscape_specialist #landscapestyles_gf #landscapelover #landscapephotomag #nakedplanet #splendid_earth #travelphotography #travellingthroughtheworld #doyoutravel #welltravelled #furnas #hotsprings #luxuryhotel #besthotel #wanderlust #hotel #iamatraveler #yourshotphotographer (presso Terra Nostra Garden Hotel Furnas) https://www.instagram.com/p/B3HyyS3ISu2/?igshid=gmvoa05wau9m

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worldhotelvideo · 6 years ago

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#Sao Miguel Park Hotel in Ponta Delgada #Portugal (Europe). The best of Sao Miguel Park Hotel

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savetopnow · 7 years ago

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2018-03-28 01 TRAVEL now

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eat-travel-live-repeat · 4 years ago

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In the Post-Pandemic World, Road Trips are going to be the trend and definitely going to take prominence over other kind of trips, specially in Europe. Not only does it give you more control of who you are getting in contact with, road trips give you plenty of freedom to experience any destination at your own pace.

Now that Europe has started to open its borders, it only makes sense to pick up your car, or rent one and go on an epic road trip. This post is a curation of 20 of the Most Scenic Road Trips in Europe, including road trips in the Scottish highlands, Western Fjords, Faroe Islands, along the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland, the Golden Circle in Iceland, among others, that have been recommended by travellers and road trippers themselves.

These European Road Trips have been listed on the basis of the total distance they cover, with the least distance of only 30 odd kms to as much as 2500 odd kms.Thats the beauty of road tripping in Europe. Some are short distances involving only a few hours drive, while other are spanning over a couple of days but cover a lot of amazing pit stops, while driving only few hours a day.

Just to warn you, it’s a long post, so if you are a bit short on hand at the moment, make sure to Pin this post, and Bookmark it for a leisure and detailed read.

Pin Me!

20 Best and Most Scenic Road Trips in Europe

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The Alsace Road Trip | France

Distance: 30 kms / 19 miles

Duration: 5 Days

Starting point: Colmar

Destination: Ribeauvillé

The Alsace is home to the best vineyards in France and fairytale-like Beauty and the Beast villages. Two perfect ingredients for one of the most scenic road trips in Europe! As this trip only covers about 30 kilometers, you could already explore the area in two days. But I’d recommend planning at least five to a week for your Alsace road trip.

Start your road trip in Colmar, one of the bigger cities in the area with charming timbered houses. Spend at least a day exploring town.

Head north to the village of Kaysersberg, located in a valley between the Voges mountains. One of the best photo spots in the picturesque town is the small bridge in the town center. Another highlight is walking around the vineyards and the old castle. The castle tower is still intact and you can climb up for splendid views.

Your next stop is small Riquewihr, a famous tourist magnet despite its size. Arrive early to avoid the crowds and walk around the cute streets with timbered houses, imagining yourself in either a Beauty and the Beast film set or the Middle Ages.

Continue your Alsace road trip to Ribeauvillé and spend at least a day to enjoy the old town and hike in the area. The town itself is charming and very picturesque with its traditional timbered houses, cobbled streets and flower baskets at every bridge and street lamp. One of the highlights though is a hike to the three castle ruins on the hill next to Ribeauvillé, offering beautiful views of the historic town and the surrounding vineyards.

Recommended by Maartje & Sebastiaan from The Orange Backpack

Wine Route | Germany

Distance: 85 kms / 53 miles

Duration: 1 Day

Starting point: Bockenheim

Destination: Schweigen-Rechtenbach

The wine route in Germany is one of the most beautiful road trips that one can take when traveling through Europe.

# It is the oldest tourist route in Germany.

# The route covers 53 miles (85km), and is nearly 100 years old.

# While it can easily be done in 1 day, it is best to spend 1 week on the route.

To get the most out of the wine route that showcases stunning scenery, amazing wines and countryside and some seriously wonderful cities to stay in along the way, it is best to spend at least a week exploring the route. The route begins in Bockenheim and ends in Schweigen-Rechtenbach, right on the French border.

Some of the things to see on the route include Neustadt’s half timbered houses as well as Hambach Castle, the castle in Wachenheim, the wine gate in Schweigen-Rechtenbach and Bad Durkheim. When taking this route in the spring, summer or fall, there will be dozens of festivals and events in the towns and villages along the wine route as the warmer months are a popular time for wine and other festivals. On the route, tourists will see plenty of vineyards and over 100 wine communities, many of which will have unique and local wines for non-locals to try.

The best part? Wines are cheap and plentiful, making the wine route one of the best road trips in Europe.

Recommended by Diana from Travels In Poland

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Croatia to Montenegro Road Trip

Distance: 100 km / 62 miles

Duration: 2-3 hours

Starting point: Dubrovnik, Croatia

Destination: Kotor, Montenegro

There are lots of amazing road trips to take in Europe, from the highlands of Scotland to the scenic Peso da Regua in Portugal, but travellers should not miss out on a drive from Dubrovnik in Croatia down south to Kotor in Montenegro.

Dubrovnik is no stranger to many, being one of the filming locations of the worldwide hit Game of Thrones. It is here that you can set foot in a medieval walled city. Be sure to take the time to walk on its walls, and get amazing views out to the Adriatic Sea.

Starting off your road trip from here, it takes just under 2 hours to reach one of the best cities of Montenegro, Kotor. The overall driving distance is less than 100km, making for a smooth and pleasant drive.

The driving experience affords you multiple viewpoints, each unique on its own. This journey takes you along the coastline and passes through beautiful mountainscapes.

Less than 30 minutes into your drive, you will hit the border control where you enter Montenegro.

Tip: Ask a local about the best time to cross the border. As this is a popular day trip, traffic can build up quickly. Also make sure that your car rental company provides you with the ‘green card’, which is needed to enter Montenegro.

The typical route for this trip is to circumnavigate the Bay of Kotor and reach Kotor through the small town of Perast but go against the grain by hopping on to a vehicle ferry to cross the body of water instead. Kotor is an amazing destination that sits at the water’s edge. Enjoy the most stunning views of Bay of Kotor by climbing to a high point, and be sure to enjoy a fresh seafood dinner back in the Old Town.

Recommended by Shang from Zip Up And Go

Isle of Wight Coastal Road | Scotland

Distance: 113 kms / 70 miles

Duration: Around 1 hour

Starting point: Chale

Destination: Chale

Europe is an amazing continent to explore by car. With so many amazing scenic roads it’s not easy to find the most beautiful one. If you are visiting London or the south of England, you have to drive to the Isle of Wight. It is home to one of the most spectacular roads in Europe.

The A3055, known as Military Road, is a 10 miles long road on the south-western part of the island. It only takes 20 minutes to drive from Chale to Freshwater, but it will take you much longer with a few stops for short walks. The Military road is part of the Isle of Wight coastal road – a 70 miles loop around the island.

With a few amazing beaches like Ryde beach and unusual places like visiting the Garlic Farm and the Needles, there is so much to see while driving around the Isle of Wight.

It is recommended to book 2-3 days for the whole trip (depending on where you start your journey from). Book a hotel in Yarmouth in the western part of the island or Ryde on the east coast.

Recommended by Darek from Darek and Gosia

Road Trip in the Faroe Islands

Distance: 120 kms / 75 miles

Duration: 3 – 5 Days

Starting point: Vagar Island

Destination: Eysturoy

One of the best road trips to take in Europe is throughout the wondrous Faroe Islands. The Faroes are made up of 18 islands in between Iceland and Norway (north of Scotland) and the scenic opportunities will astound you.

A road trip throughout the Faroes is unlike anywhere else in that you will circle back and forth throughout the archipelago. There is even a ‘Buttercup’ road that is marked that showcases the highlights of the highway.

Before starting your road trip, you will want to be sure to have an account on Airbnb as that is the best way to find accommodation in villages in the Faroe Islands. There are many Airbnbs in the Faroe Islands that will offer you a diverse trip and a chance to stay in places that don’t have a hotel or alternative options.

It is best to start your road trip on Vagar island, home to Mulafossur and Sorvagsvatn (and the airport!). Depending on when you land, it is easiest just to grab a rental car and start exploring that island right away or you’ll have to pay a toll to cross back over.

From Vagar, head to the capital city of Torshavn where you will find many great places to stay. On the same island, you’ll have Fossa (the largest waterfall), Tjornuvik, Kirkjubour, Vestmanna, and Saksun, all worth exploring.

After a day or two on Streymoy, the best option is to head to Kalsoy island up north. This narrow island is only accessible by a ferry and you can drive from the port to Trollanes village, home of the Kallur Lighthouse. It is so remarkably beautiful that even the upcoming James Bond movie has scenes shot there!

When you’re done with Kalsoy, you can explore the northern islands of Kunoy, Vidoy, and Bordoy before heading to Eysturoy. On Eysturoy, you will find the most charming village in the Faroe Islands, Gjogv.

While this is the standard Faroe Islands road trip, there are many chances to deviate and create your own. The southern islands of Suduroy and Sandoy are fantastic off-the-path options. Nevertheless, a Faroe Islands road trip is outstanding and something everyone should experience!

Recommended by Megan C. Starr

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Azores Road Trip | Portugal

Distance: 150 kms / 93 miles

Duration: 3 Days

Starting point: Ponta Delgada

Destination: Furnas

The road trip in the Azores can be done on pretty much any island, but Sao Miguel offers a lot more to see than the rest. While on the road trip you will see lots of natural landmarks like lakes, hot springs, waterfalls, mesmerizing vistas and wild animals.

On the first day of your road trip, you can start by exploring the capital of the Azores – Ponta Delgada. It was one of the first cities inhabited on the islands, which makes it historically important. In particular, it is famous for its ancient buildings and fortresses, vast marinas and beautiful colourful streets. Then, in the early afternoon, you can head to the village of Sete Cidades. There you can climb to Boca do Inferno and enjoy a heavenly sunset of Lagoa Azul, Lagoa Verde and the Atlantic Ocean.

The next day you can continue your road trip to Lagoa do Fogo, or the Fire lake as the locals know it. It is set in the middle of the island just 20 minutes driving from the city of Lagoa. Lagoa do Fogo is the most beautiful lake on the islands but is usually covered in fog, thus it is best to check the forecast for the day before going there. After checking the beaches of Lagoa do Fogo you can head to the city of Villa Franca do Campo and climb up to its famous chapel – Our Lady of Peace. From there you can have the most incredible view over the islet of Vila Franca do Campo.

On the last day, continue to the city of Furnas known for its unique cuisine and hot geysers. There you can visit the lake of Furnas and it’s hot springs, where locals cook cozido – buckets of meat and veggies cooked in the hot ground. While in Furnas you can take a dip into the hot springs either at Terra Nostra or Dona Benija. Eventually, if you have some time left, head down to the Hot waterfall of Ribeira and explore Sao Miguel’s deepest tropical forests and the only hot waterfall!

If you plan to stay in Furnas some more, I would recommend checking Furnas Boutique Hotel which will make your wildest dreams come true!

Recommended by Alex from EarthOSea

Transfagarasan Highway | Romania

Distance: 160 km / 100 miles

Duration: 4-6 hours

Starting point: Bucharest

Destination: Sibiu

When in Romania, opt for travelling by road between Bucharest and Sibiu, since part of the route takes you on the Transfagarasan Highway, one of the most scenic roads in the world even dubbed so by Jeremy Clark of Top Gear.

It’s where a road crosses a major mountain pass to get through the Fagaras Mountain Range. You can expect plenty of hairpin turns winding like a large snake and revealing stunning views below. Small waterfalls and often streaks of snow accompany the serpentines, even in summer months.

On the highest point of the road, at the height of 2042 m, you’ll find a beautiful glacial lake called Balea. A chalet right by the lake provides accommodation too.

The whole distance between Bucharest and Sibiu takes 4 hours of driving time, but you’ll want to spend at least an hour taking breaks along the Transfagarasan Highway, which is open only from June till October. The 160km long distance can be traveled faster only when flying. Of the 160 km, 90 km is along the Transfagarasan Road.

Both Bucharest, the capital of Romania, and Sibiu, a cultural gem with Germanic influences, are well worth visiting. Spend at least two days in each city! I can recommend e.g. Continental Forum Hotel in Sibiu.

Recommended by Veronika Primm from Travel Geekery

Drive from Glasgow to Fort William | Scotland

Distance: 169 kms / 105 miles

Duration: 2-3 hours

Starting point: Glasgow

Destination: Fort William

The journey from Glasgow to Fort William boasts some of the Scottish Highlands most beautiful views and is the perfect road trip for nature lovers. While the drive only takes about 2.5 hours to cover the 105 miles between, it is worth taking longer to admire the sights along the way.

The drive from Glasgow to Fort Williams,not only is one of the most scenic road trips in Europe, but also makes for an amazing add on experience to this 7 Day Scotland Travel Itinerary.

The first stop is about 40 minutes outside Glasgow at Luss. A stroll down their beautiful pier will provide you with views of Loch Lomond and the Ben Lomond Mountain.

Continuing north on the A82 for another half hour to Inverarnan, the Drover’s Inn provides an excellent stop for lunch. This pub and hotel has been around for nearly 300 years and is supposedly home to several ghosts.

Just around the corner, the Falls of Falloch provide a short opportunity to walk off lunch and enjoy views of the 10m falls before continuing your journey.

Keep an eye out for the iconic Buachaille Etive Mor Mountain out your window as you pass through Glen Coe. There are numerous spots to pull over and take photos as you drive through the highland nature.

Just about 20 minutes from your final destination, you’ll reach Loch Linnhe, which provides scenic views across the water. Finally, you’ll reach Fort William, which is known as the gateway to Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest peak.

Nature is best experienced outdoors and Scotland allows wild camping, so bringing a tent and staying a night outside is highly recommended. If you’re expecting the classic Scottish rain or sleeping in the great outdoors isn’t your cup of tea, a glamping pod might be the perfect option for you – there are some near Loch Lomond, Glen Coe, and Loch Linnhe.

Recommended by Graham Grieve from My Voyage Scotland

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Slovenia to Italy Road Trip

Distance: 195 km / 121 miles

Duration : 1 day

Starting point: Most na Soči, Slovenia

Destination: Laghi di Fusine, Italy

This road trip may easily become an adventure that lasts an entire day. The route is filled with stunning viewpoints, noteworthy stops, and jaw-dropping panoramas of the mountains.

The journey starts in Slovenia’s Most na Soči – a small and cozy town in Triglav National Park. From here, the route heads deeper into the mountains, and accompanying it for the first half of the mileage is the Soča river.

There are quite a few great stops worth making along the way: Tolmin Gorges with an easy and memorable hiking trail, Slap (waterfall) Kozak, and the highest waterfall in Slovenia, Boka.

A small town Bovec high in the mountains may be a good stop for lunch and some stretching. This town is also a gateway to many mountain activities, including canyoning, kayaking, hiking, and paragliding.

The second part of the road will be a bit more demanding as it runs through the Vrsič Pass. Built by the Russian POW, it is known for its 50 breathtaking hairpin turns. All of them are numbered. Hairpin #8 is famous for a lovely Russian Chapel. Hairpin #49 is the starting point of the great Triglav National Park hike to the top of the mountain.

Right after the pass, the route runs through Kranjska Gora, another lovely town perfect as the base for many adventures in the Triglav National Park, and finally leads to the stunning Laghi di Fusine in Tarvisio, Italy. These are two glacial lakes, Superiore and Inferiore, connected via an easy hiking trail and surrounded by the majestic mountain peaks.

Parking by the laghi is free, and next to the smaller lake, there is a cozy cafe Belvedere. From here, some other road trip suggestions are either back to Slovenia via the Mangart Saddle, or to Venice in Italy via route A23.

Recommended by Inessa and Natalie of Through a Travel Lens

The Golden Circle | Iceland

Distance: 305 kms / 190 miles

Duration: Day Trip

Starting point: Reykjavik

Destination: Reykjavik

Gulfoss Waterfall | Flickr | Giuseppe Milo

The Golden Circle in Iceland is the best day trip you can take from Reykjavik and one of the best sightseeing trips as well. This is an iconic Iceland itinerary and one of the most popular routes tourists take to experience the beauty of Iceland. The total distance covered is only 190 miles but believe me you will want to take a lot of stops along the way.

You can explore the Golden Circle in summer or winter and this popular driving route will take you through the southern portion of the island. On this route you will experience such iconic natural wonders of Iceland. You will go as far south as Selfoss and then you will head east all the way to Gullfoss before heading back west to Reykjavik with a few stops along the way.

Highlights:

Gullfoss Waterfall,

Geysir Geothermal Field,

Thingvellir National Park

See Icelandic Ponies

This is an easy drive and does not require a 4×4. Just remember to charge your camera the night before because there are so many photogenic stops along the Golden Circle.

Recommended by Nicole LaBarge

Causeway Coastal Route | Ireland

Distance: 322 kms / 200 miles

Duration: 2-3 days

Starting point: Belfast

Destination: Derry / Londonderry

Running along the north coast of Northern Ireland the Causeway Coastal Route is considered one of Europe’s best road trips. It showcases some of Northern Ireland’s most magnificent scenery and there is a huge variety to see and do along the route.

The Causeway Coastal Route’s most famous sight is the Giant’s Causeway where 40,000 interlocking columns are surrounded by ocean and basalt cliffs. Crossing the nearby Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is an adrenaline inducing experience with only a rugged rope bridge connecting the mainland to a tiny island.

Game of Thrones is one of the huge draws to the Causeway Coast and many filming locations are dotted throughout the area. Fans can visit the Dark Hedges, Ballintoy Harbour and Downhill strand to relive scenes from the iconic HBO series.

Other incredible sights include the medieval ruins of Dunluce Castle perched on the edge of jutting coastal cliffs and Rathlin Island, an untouched island with only 100 residents. A walk along the Fairhead Cliffs offers incredible views across the ocean while local cows sunbathing on the White Park Bay beach is an amusing sight. The famous Bushmills Whiskey distillery is another popular stop.

The entire Causeway Coastal Route covers less than 200 miles and can easily be explored in a weekend. The Roe Park Resort hotel or the Causeway Hotel are both great accommodation options for exploring the Causeway Coast.

Recommended by David from Your Ireland Vacation

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Drive from Porto to Lisbon | Portugal

Distance: 322 kms / 200 miles

Duration: 4-5 hours

Starting point: Porto

Destination: Lisbon

One of the most beautiful road trips you can take in Europe is the drive from Porto to Lisbon. There are multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites to be seen along the way, from the Douro Valley to Coimbra to the Convent of Christ Tomar. In addition, you can visit the modern-day pilgrimage in Fatima, see a bit of the Camino Portuguese, and appreciate the beauty of both Porto and Lisbon.

You can enjoy this road trip in three or four days, but ideally, you should take a week to ten days to get out and see everything. The longer you have, the more cities you will get to enjoy. If you just have four days, make sure to spend at least a half-day in Porto, the Douro Valley, Coimbra, Sintra, and Lisbon – recommended to be one of the best destinations in the world for Solo Travellers. However, if you have a week, you can add in Fatima and a handful of UNESCO sites in central Portugal.

If you were to just drive the route straight, it would only take three hours to cover the three hundred and twenty kilometers that separate the two cities. However, if you give yourself time to see more you will cover more distance because many of the best sites are a bit further inland.

Recommended by Stephanie Craig from History Fangirl

Romantic Road | Germany

Distance: 350 kms / 218 miles

Duration: 3 Days

Starting point: Würzburg

Destination: Füssen

Known as the old Roman trade route, the romantic road in Southern Germany leads over 350 kilometers (218 mi) from Würzburg to Füssen via the city of Munich and magnificent chocolate-box towns such as Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Augsburg, Landsberg, and Nördlingen. The name ‘Romantic Road’ or “Romantische Strasse” is deducted from the beautiful sights of charming Bavarian villages along the way and the postcard-worthy Neuschwanstein Castle, which most probably every seasoned traveler has seen in a tourist brochure of Germany at least once.

Based loosely on the old Roman route between a range of picturesque German towns from Würzburg to Füssen, Germany’s Romantic Road really does live up to its name. Taking you to the foothills of the majestic Bavarian Alps, it is particularly pretty in winter, with a dusting of snow bringing out the sheer beauty of the landscape. In addition, if you visit during winter, you will see very few other tourists.

The road is studded with plenty of worthy spots to stop at on your way down to Munich, revealing a wealth of European history, art, and culture. Arguably the main reason to drive the Romantic Road is Neuschwanstein Castle, the dream-like castle of Bavarian King Ludwig II that sits atop its rocky crest and forms a fitting marker for the end of one of the most scenic road trips in Europe.

For the average tourist, it is suggested to set aside at least 3 days for the Romantic Road. It’s just enough time to see all the highlights on the route. However, you can always extend the trip by a couple of days if you’d like to explore more villages on the way.

Recommended by Ivan from Mind The Travel

Andalucia Road Trip | Spain

Distance: 350 kms / 218 miles

Duration: 3 – 5 Days

Starting point: Seville

Destination: Granada

The road trip between the sultry Spanish cities of Seville, Cordoba and Granada, will take you through some of Spain’s most dramatic and picturesque landscapes. From wild mountains, to perfectly manicured grove upon grove of olive trees, a road trip in Andalucia is one of the best road trips in Spain.

This 350km trip will take 3 to 5 days, depending how much time you want in each city.

Visit Seville for the romantic ambiance and beautiful royal gardens, Cordoba for the magnificent Mezquita and Granada for the sublime Alhambra Palace.

In Seville, head for the Barrio Santa Cruz, the lively and central old Jewish quarter, where you’ll find a great street scene and delicious tapas. You’re close to the cathedral, Giralda tower, Royal Alcazar and Plaza de Espana here, the four must sees in Seville.

In Cordoba, head for the Mezquita (mosque-cathedral), one of the most dramatic in the world. The mix of Moorish and Renaissance architecture is sublime, the history fascinating and the warren of alleys surrounding it perfect for a lazy afternoon’s meandering.

In Granada, it’s all about the Alhambra Palace, a fabulous and fitting monument to Moorish architecture, and love. You will be enchanted by this beautiful palace with gorgeous gardens, which has been carefully restored over the centuries. Book well in advance though, it gets very busy in the summer with up to 6000 visitors a day.

For a true Spanish experience, stay in one of the many atmospheric Parador’s; hotels which were monasteries, palaces and castles before being converted. You’ll find historic settings and artefacts blended with contemporary extensions to suit the setting. Immersing yourself in the history of Spain has never been so easy!

Recommended by Izzy and Phil from The Gap Decaders

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Ancient East Road Trip | Ireland

Distance: 400 kms / 249 miles

Duration: 5 days

Starting point: Cobh, County Cork

Destination: Bray

Photo by Luke Myers, Creating Agency: Fáilte Ireland

The east coast of Ireland is home to many historical treasures, mythical ruins not to mention some of Ireland’s most stunning, if somewhat underrated, scenery. Regardless of when you travel to Ireland, this is an ideal area to explore if you want to be flexible with your road trip and visit lots of interesting sights along the way.

One very scenic route along this trail is the coastal route from Cobh in County Cork to Bray, just south of Dublin. It is best to plan at least five days for the 400 km route to ensure that you have enough time to take in all of the best sights.

One of these must visit locations is Spike Island. This 18th century prison fort was once one of the biggest prisons in the world and shipped a large number of convicts to the colonies. Don’t forget to walk around the star-shaped fort to get some unrivalled views of the harbour and the picturesque maritime town of Cobh. The short boat trip to the island is also highly enjoyable!

The Copper Coast UNESCO Geopark is also part of the route and it is worth taking the time to explore this very scenic, historical copper mining area. There are several great short walking routes which allow you to explore the unusual geology, rugged beaches, dolmens, promontory forts and ruins, including Dunhill Castle. It is an ideal location to explore by bike as well, with several recommended cycling routes.

As you follow your way up the east coast, another destination that should definitely be added to your itinerary is Hook Head Lighthouse, one of the oldest functioning lighthouses in the world.

If you fancy visiting some of the filming locations used in Brooklyn and Saving Private Ryan, check out the fabulous beaches of Ballinesker and Curracloe in Wexford.

Recommended by Emer and Nils from Let’s Go Ireland

Tuscany Road Trip | Italy

Distance: 400 kms / 249 miles

Duration: 10 days

Starting point: Florence

Destination: Florence

It’s hard to beat Tuscany in scenery and the region is perfect for a road trip. There are so many cute towns in Tuscany yet you find remote wine tasting opportunities in the middle of nowhere nestled between green hills far from the next village.

Start your 10 day trip in Florence. You should at least spend a day or two in the astounding capital of Tuscany. Make sure you cover at least the cathedral and don’t forget to climb to the top for spectacular views, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazzale Michelangelo for the best city views.

Continue the road trip to Pisa for the Pisa tower, stopping by the charming town of Lucca on the way. Stay the night in Pisa before you continue past Pontedera and then stay a night in Volterra. On the way to San Gimignano it’s perfect to stop by a wine farm. You can even stay a night or two so you can indulge in sweet, local wine before you explore the medieval towers of San Gimignano, Tuscany’s Manhattan.

Further, Monteriggioni is a perfect place for a stopover but if you want something bigger for the next nights, continue to Siena for the night where you can spend a couple of days drinking wine at the Piazza del Campo and wander through the old medieval city eating pizza and take pictures.

Before you return to Florence, make sure you stop by Arezzo, also a perfect place to spend the night. Once one of the most important Etruscan cities, rich in history and art, Arezzo easily captures one’s heart. Once back in Florence, splurge in ice cream and walk through the busy streets. If you have the time, check out more sights in this lovely, old city.

Recommended by Linn Haglund from Brainy Backpackers

London to Paris by Road

Distance: 482 kms / 300 miles

Duration: 6-7 hours

Starting point: London

Destination: Paris

Dover White Cliffs

We started our trip from London, heading towards the ferry crossing from Dover to Calais, and ended in Paris. You should give yourself approximately 6 hours of travel time, with the total trip being 300 miles. There are two great times to take the trip, the weeks leading up to Christmas and at the start of summer. Christmas is great because the streets of Paris are buzzing with beautiful lights and there’s lots of street markets happening. But wrap up because it can get very cold!

As you head out of London towards Dover, you must take a few moments to catch some pictures of the Dover White Cliffs. They are a famous UK landmark with a beautiful gleaming white reflecting off the chalk cliffs. Once you get to Calais port, you can drive non-stop to Paris, however you will pass through stunning fields of flowers on route if you take the slightly longer route. This is highly recommended as the white cliffs and these fields of flowers are the reason this road trip is stunning and one of the best and most scenic road trips in Europe, connecting two amazing cities which are world renowned for their culture.

There are many chic hotels around the Eiffel Tower, which are great for families who want to be able to walk to the landmark and enjoy the beautiful park and greenery that surrounds it.

Recommended by Manpreet Kaur from Hello Manpreet

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Transylvania Classic Road Trip | Romania

Distance: 500 km / 310 miles

Duration: 6 Days

Starting point: Sibiu

Destination: Brasov

Hunedoara Castle aka Corvin Castle Romania

The classic road trip in Transylvania includes some traditional villages, the best known cities of the region and landscapes that will amaze your eyes. Six days are enough to explore it.

Start your trip in Sibiu with a long walk in the old town. The next day head to Cluj Napoca, the largest city in Transylvania. On the way take a detour to visit one of Iconic Landmarks of Romania – Corvin castle, a beautiful medieval jewel and stop also in Alba Iulia, the white citadel.

You can dedicate your third day to Cluj Napoca for its old town, modern restaurants and a great botanical garden. If you like horror stories, just a few kilometers outside Cluj Napoca you can get lost in one of the most haunted places in the world: Hoia Baciu forest.

On the fourth day it’s time to head towards Targu Mures and discover its less known attractions. On the way, you must stop in Turda to enjoy a salt mine like an amusement park, Turda salt mine.

Your fifth day will take you to an UNESCO heritage site: the medieval citadel – Sighișoara, where you can enjoy colorful buildings and narrow streets.

On your last day of the road trip you can stop in Viscri, a traditional village connected with Prince Charles, Prince of Wales. The main attraction in this village is the white fortified church.

End your Transylvanian trip in Brasov, one of the most visited cities in Transylvania. The total tour is around 500 kilometers, but it is enough to fall in love with this region.

Recommended by Corina and Florin of Another Milestone

The Albania Road Trip

Distance: 500 kms / 310 miles

Duration: 7-10 Days

Starting point: Tirana

Destination: Tirana

Albania is still a relatively offbeat destination, but nonetheless offers some of the most scenic road trip routes in Europe. Car rental is affordable, distances are short, and as long as you learn to manage the traffic, self-driving in Albania is perfectly safe.

This Balkan nation is incredibly varied, from the Accursed mountains in the north to the Albanian Riviera along the Adriatic Coast and the rugged interior. In as little as 7-10 days you can see a good cross-section of the country. An ideal route is a loop starting and finishing in the capital, Tirana, taking in the centre of the country and the coast. This involves roughly 500km (or a total of 8 hours) of driving.

Start by soaking up modern-day Albanian culture and history in Tirana. Visit Bunk’Art (a museum housed in an old communist bunker) and go café-hopping in the colourful Blloku neighbourhood. From Tirana, head south to Berat and Gjirokaster, two historic cities in the interior, both with impressive castles and UNESCO World Heritage-Listed Old Towns. The famous Blue Eye, a scenic swimming hole, is a short drive from Gjirokaster.

From there, you can continue to Saranda on the coast. Himara to the north offers some of the country’s finest beaches and is less-touristy than the bigger coastal cities. Drive up the coast to finish in Tirana, perhaps with a quick detour to Kruje, another historic city, on the way. You can easily extend your road trip by continuing north to Shkoder and Theth, where you’ll find incredible alpine trekking.

Beautiful scenery at every turn paired with a fascinating history, good food and wine, and old-fashioned hospitality – a road trip in Albania is hard to beat.

Recommended by Emily from Wander-Lush

NC500 | Scotland

Distance: 830 kms / 516 miles

Duration: 7 Days

Starting point: Inverness

Destination: Inverness

If you’re looking for a spectacular road trip in Europe, look no further than the NC500 in Scotland.

This road is one of the most scenic road trips in Scotland– and for good reason. The scenery is some of the prettiest in the UK and you’ll discover all sorts of incredible places you never knew existed!

The NC500 begins in Inverness, although you can join and leave it anywhere. From Inverness, most people go clockwise, head through the Highlands, aiming (eventually) for Britain’s most northerly town- John O’Groats, (where you can take a day trip to Orkney) before heading south again to Inverness.

The route is fairly well signposted, although some of it is single track and very narrow. Be careful where you stop- you don’t want to block the road!

Highlights of the NC 500 include:

Inverness- the most northerly city in the UK

Smoo Cave

Clachtoll Beach

Kylesku Bridge

John o’Groats

The route is 516 miles, but the road is slow. Expect to stop often for vehicles coming the other way or for stray highland cows! We recommend at least a 7-day trip to really make the most of it. There are plenty of B & Bs and hotels on the route to enjoy as you stay.

Recommended by Kat from Wandering Bird

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Road Trip from Rome to Venice | Italy

Distance: 985 kms / 612 miles

Duration: 9 days

Starting point: Rome

Destination: Venice

Highlights of this road trip are the beautiful regions of Umbria and Tuscany and many of central and northern Italy’s major cities and sights.

After leaving Rome, a recommended first stop is Villa D’Este, famous for its fountain-filled gardens. The route then heads north and enters the lovely province of Umbria, with medieval hill towns, olive groves and vineyards. Spoleto, which has a famous aqueduct, is a good place to spend a night.

After leaving Spoleto the route continues past more hills topped with tiny medieval towns. One worth visiting is Spello. The next part of the trip turns off the main roads and dips through the hills and valleys of the Montefalco region, past farmlands and vineyards. This is the perfect area to visit a winery; many of them, such as Scacciadiavoli, have tours and tastings. Other highlights include Assisi, where the founder of the Franciscan order is buried, and an overnight stop in Perugia.

From Perugia, the route continues northeast through the Tuscan hills to Florence. Siena is a great place to break this leg of the trip. The town’s famous sloping scallop-shaped main square and Duomo are both worth visiting.

After spending several nights in Florence (AQA Palace is a recommended hotel), the road trip continues north to Verona. This part of the trip is mostly on major highways, but Parma makes a fascinating side trip. There are several small cheese-makers that are open for visitors to see Parmesan cheese being made. From there, the road passes through more farmland to Verona. A well-preserved Roman amphitheater is still used and summer performances of the opera Aida are an annual event.

It is then just a short jump to Venice, where highlights include St Mark’s Square and the duomo, taking a gondola ride and even learning to row a gondola.

Recommended by James Ian from Travel Collecting

Road Trip in the Western Fjords | Norway

Distance: 1000 kms / 622 miles

Duration: 5-14 days

Starting point: Stavenger

Destination: Kristaiansund

Western Norway is home to over 200 fjords created by a succession of Ice Ages. Its stunning coastline is interspersed with deep blue fjords, lush landscape and mighty glaciers.

Some of the most beautiful fjords include Lysefjord, Geirangerfjord Hardangerfjord, Nærøyfjord and Sognefjord. Due to their exceptional natural beauty both Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord make up the West Norwegian Fjords listing on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Hiking is also popular and the region has some amazing trails: Pulpit Rock, Flørli 4444, Kjerag, Trolltunga and the Romsdalseggen ridge are considered among some of Europe’s best hikes.

Other popular sites include Trollstigen, the UNESCO designated Urnes Stave Church, the Jostedalsbreen Glacier, Lake Loen and the Atlantic Road. Trollstigen, a winding road comprising hairpin bends, is known as the Troll Road due to the legend of trolls roaming in the mountains while the Atlantic Road, snaking over the Atlantic Ocean, is considered an exceptional engineering feat, and rightly one of the most epic road trips in Europe.

With most international visitors arriving via Oslo, it takes at least one day to make the drive south west to Stavanger or north west to Geirangerfjord to access the fjords.

A 2 week Norway itinerary will allow a meandering pace through the 1,000 kilometres of Norway’s western fjords covering Stavenger to Kristaiansund. For visitors with less time to explore it is still possible to see a variety of the highlights in 5 days although.

Recommended by Elaine from The Whole World is a Playground

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The Wild Atlantic Way | Ireland

Distance: 2500 kms / 1554 miles

Duration: 7 days

Starting point: Derry

Destination: Kinsale

The Wild Atlantic Way is a 2,500 kilometre route along the west coast of Ireland. It is actually the longest defined coastal route in the world. Not bad for such a tiny country. The drive takes you along rugged cliffs, past beautiful beaches and through quaint little towns full of friendly locals. To make the most of this road trip it is recommended to take at least 1 week and you can easily spend a lot longer on this trip.

The route starts just outside of Derry and takes you up to Malin Head, the northernmost tip of the island before it winds its way West and South all the way to Kinsale on the South coast of Ireland. While most of the journey takes you through the emerald green countryside you will pass through Galway, one of the most popular and vibrant cities in the country.

The highlights of the trip include the sea cliffs at Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) and the Cliffs of Moher, Galway city and Mizen Head. There are also so many awesome hidden gems scattered throughout this road trip as well and the more time you are able to spend completing this road trip the more you will discover.

When deciding where to stay there are some main stops such as Sligo and Galway but the best places to stay for the rest of the route are generally in the smaller towns and villages. This will give you a chance to experience the real local culture and most importantly you will find plenty of authentic Irish pubs to enjoy a pint of Guinness.

Recommended by Luke from The Coastal Campaign

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Why You Should Skip Iceland And Go To These 9 Under-the-Radar Places

Interest in Greenland—which has been called the new Iceland—has been skyrocketing, thanks to Donald Trump and more. Here, icebergs float in a fjord with the Northern Lights overhead.

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Is Iceland on your bucket list? Probably. The land of fire and ice is a traveler favorite, thanks to its breathtaking natural wonders. But before you book your flights, consider this: According to reports, there are six tourists for every resident in Iceland, and last year, the country was named the second-worst place in the world for over-tourism. A local politician even recently complained about the number of tourists, comparing the country to Disneyland. And with the collapse of Wow Airlines, the era of super-cheap Iceland flights is over.

So where should you go instead? How about Greenland, which everyone is saying is the new Iceland. Or Portugal, which has also been called the new Iceland. Or Newfoundland, which has been dubbed—you guessed it—the new Iceland. Here, we’ve got nine under-the-radar places that are giving Iceland a run for its money.

READ MORE: “17 Things You Should Never Do In Europe”

Sailing through icebergs in East Greenland.

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1. Greenland

Who Called it the New Iceland: Matador Network, Afar, The Telegraph

Why Go There: With Donald Trump’s headline-making bid to buy the country of Greenland, travelers everywhere took note. Greenland’s tourism board reported an uptick in interest, and tour operators like Intrepid Travel—which just launched a new Greenland Expedition, its first dedicated tour of the country—reported a 237% spike in web traffic after the president’s remarks. But it hasn’t happened overnight. The JetBlue-backed Stride—the first marketplace for experiential travel packages planned by experts—says that interest in Greenland has grown almost 30% faster than Iceland in the last year. The appeals are obvious: Tourism is still in its infancy on the world’s largest island. Look for wild landscapes, towering icebergs, archeological finds, as well as a capital (Nuuk) filled with cool architecture, hip boutiques and gourmet restaurants.

How to See It: The boutique travel company 50 Degrees North specializes in the Nordic region and runs a number of escorted and independent tours throughout Greenland. Head to Disko Bay and see majestic icebergs floating in the fjord right outside town. Go glamping in a remote luxury camp, situated two hours by boat from the capital. Take a sailing expedition on sturdy Icelandic oak fishing boats in Scoresby Sund, a spectacular fjord.

A dramatic oceanside setting in Newfoundland.

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2. Newfoundland

Who Called it the New Iceland: CNN, Inside Hook, CBC

Why Go There: Travelers often overlook Newfoundland, the remote island 1,500 miles to the southwest of Iceland. But for those who set their sights on the Canadian natural wonder, most go for the stunning views of Western Brook Fjord (North America’s most remarkable fjord), year-round whale sightings and blue arctic icebergs that migrate every summer by the thousands down from Greenland to Newfoundland’s northern and eastern shores. And although it’s no Ring of Fire (Iceland’s famed roadway), a road trip along the Trans-Canada highway is a great way to get to Newfoundland’s coastal gems.

How to See It: The female-focused travel company Wild Women Expeditions runs two women-only trips to Newfoundland. On the Gros Morne Multi-Sport Adventure, you’ll walk on the Earth’s mantle, visit the fossils of Green Point and climb the second highest mountain in Newfoundland. The Icebergs and Arts Adventure includes a visit to a remote coast lined with 10,000-year-old icebergs and a stay in a hunting and fishing lodge complete with a wood-fired sauna and hot tub.

The aurora borealis above Pallas-Yllastunturi National Park in Lapland, Finland.

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3. Finland

Who Called it the New Iceland: PureWow, Vogue, My Domaine, The Active Times

Why Go There: More affordable than Iceland and with a flourishing design scene, Finland is covered in evergreen forests and dotted with 188,000 shimmering lakes. During the winter months, you can head to Lapland to see the Northern Lights and enjoy a traditional sauna experience. As with Icelandair, Finnair offers a layover program that lets flyers stop in Helsinki for up to five days before connecting to or from other European cities—for no additional airfare. And did we mention: Finland is also the happiest country in the world.

How to See It: On Intrepid Travel’s Finnish Lapland in Winter trip, you’ll ride on a dog sled, visit a local Finnish family’s farm and hear about their skills in reindeer herding skills and witness the aurora borealis, the best light show on Earth. In Finland, it’s worth staying up late to see the green lights dance in the northern sky.

Porto, a city on the edge of the Douro River in Portugal.

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4. Portugal

Who Called it the New Iceland: GQ, USA Today

Why Go There: The country is seeing a resurgence, coming back from the brink of bankruptcy in 2011. New local businesses, low taxes and an expanding arts scene are all contributing to a surge in tourism. You’ll want to indulge in sardines, Portugal’s main culinary delight, pastries and Port wine—the dessert wine named after the northern city of Porto. Another allure of Portugal: It’s one of the most affordable places in the world to live, so cheap you could quit your job, move here and retire early.

How to See It: Holland America Line offers a variety of cruises with stops in Portugal. You’ll be able to explore the cities and coast, but the best way to experience the country is with an architectural or culinary tour at your port, bookable through Holland America.

The landscape of Lagoa do Fogo, situated over an ancient crater on Sao Miguel Island in the Azores Islands.

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5. The Azores

Who Called it the New Iceland: Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, Bloomberg

Why Go There: An archipelago about 1,000 miles off the coast of Portugal, the Azores’ dramatic landscapes and still-wild islands are luring U.S. tourists. For adventure travelers, the Azores are a dream. After a five- to six-hour direct flight, you’ll arrive to a stunning backdrop for hiking, kayaking, canyoning, mountain biking, birding, whale watching and more.

How to See It: This is not a place for massive resorts. Instead, opt for one of the many new, design-forward hotels, such as Azor on São Miguel, the largest island in the chain. For something with a wellness focus, book a stay at Terra Nostra Garden & Hotel, set on an expansive botanical garden.

Disney Cruise Line’s Wonder, docked in Ketchikan, Alaska.

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6. Alaska

Who Called it the New Iceland: Dangerous Business

Why Go There: While Alaska might not exactly sound like a discovery, there’s much to discover in the Last Frontier. The vast wilderness and abundant wildlife attract visitors for good reason. Hike on Matanuska Glacier, one of over a thousand glaciers in the state, or head to Katmai National Park during salmon season to see grizzly bears in action.

How to See It: One of the most efficient ways to unearth Alaska is via the water. Board a Disney Cruise Line ship to the Last Frontier and be sure to enjoy some of the immersive port excursions, such as a helicopter ride to a remote glacier, a dog-sledding adventure in the Alaskan wilderness or a whale-watching cruise followed by a seafood feast in Juneau, a town that can only be reached by sea or air.

The Viking Sun in Eidfjord, Norway.

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7. Norway

Who Called it the New Iceland: The Active Times

Why Go There: In the 2019 World Happiness Report, Norway locks in at the third happiest country (behind Finland and Denmark). There’s something to be said for a peaceful lifestyle that’s full of outdoor adventure. Norway is also well-known as one of the best places to see the Northern Lights dazzle across the night sky.

How to See It: Visit Norway from the comfort of a Viking Ocean Cruise, a line of stylish ships line with uniquely Scandinavian touches, thanks to its Norwegian owners. You’ll have a front-row seat to the famous fjords and magnificent Norwegian coastline. The cruise line offers a variety of excursions to dive into the country’s rich culture and natural beauty, as well as its incredible food.

The still calm of the Sawtooths in Idaho.

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8. Idaho

Who Called it the New Iceland: Heart My Backpack

Why Go There: Americans won’t have to travel far to get a taste of Iceland right in their own backyard. Idaho is home to the largest roadless wilderness in the lower 48 states. From geysers to geothermal hot springs to mountains and canyons, Idaho offers a plethora of outdoor adventures amidst striking landscapes. Between natural vistas, you’ll also find storybook towns and ghost towns that will take you back in time.

How to See It: To see the breadth of the state’s diverse scenery, head out on a rafting vacation with Western River Expeditions, which has been putting people on the water since 1961. Western River offers a vast selection of Idaho rafting trips, from the deep alpine forested canyons of the Middle Fork of the Salmon River to the high desert canyons of the Lower Salmon River and Snake River through Hell’s Canyon.

The Faroe Islands’ dramatic coastline viewed from helicopter.

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9. The Faroe Islands

Who Called it the New Iceland: The Travel Channel, Family Traveller, Fathom, Elle Decor

Why Go There: Where the sheep outnumber the residents, visitors to the Faroe Islands will discover 18 rocky isles connected by tunnels, ferries and bridges 200 miles north of Scotland. Spend your days exploring the waterfalls, cliffs and hot springs and dining on fresh langoustine, straight from the Faroese fjords. To hop between islands, utilize the relatively inexpensive helicopter taxis. The government subsidizes rides, making a one-way fare just $25. Not bad for spectacular aerial views of the volcanic islands. Foodies are also flocking to the Faroe Islands to experience Koks, a remote, Michelin-starred restaurant.

How to See It: Wilderness Travel, which is known for its immersive itineraries and top-notch trip leaders, offers a hiking trip in the Faroe Islands and a European cruise that stops at this remote archipelago. Look for mountain walks on emerald moorlands, explorations of traditional villages and visits to see seabird colonies perched on near-vertical volcanic cliffs.

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