June 21, 2016

5 Breathtaking Castles To See In Europe

Castles aren’t just something you read about in fairytales. There are a number of ancient castles still standing all around the world. Some of the most stunning castles can be found in Europe. These castles create an enchanting sense of mystery, sometimes appearing eery and other times appearing romantic. If you’re traveling through Europe, you will definitely want to see some of these astounding castles.

1) Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland

The Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most iconic castles in Europe, and once you’re struck by its historical beauty, you’ll see why. If you’re a movie buff, you’ll recognize this castle from its numerous appearances in movies, such as the original Highlander. If you’re a history buff, you’re more likely to be interested in Eilean Donan’s fascinating past. This castle was the key site during the 1719 Jacobite Rising. Regardless of what it is that catches your eye about this castle, you are sure to be in awe. The castle is surrounded by a mountain range filled with greenery.

2) Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

With more than 1.3 million people visiting annually in recent years, Neuschwanstein Castle is Europe’s most visited castle. If you’re on a day trip to nearby Munich, it is convenient to swing by this castle, and you certainly won’t regret it. The castle is absolutely breathtaking, as are the natural surroundings. Make sure that while you visit, you take time to take an off-site walk on the nearby trails in order to see some incredible views. For bike-riding travelers, there is also the option to take bike tours.

3) Chateau de Versailles, France

Brimming with beauty, history and greenery, the Chateau de Versailles is a must-see. From its beginnings as a hunting lodge to its peak as a royal court of France under Louis XIV, the Chateau de Versailles is truly awe-inspiring. This is one of the grandest royal residences in the world and cannot be overlooked. If you’re in Paris, you absolutely need to take a day trip to Versailles so that you can explore the lush gardens and gilded halls.

4) Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Edinburgh Castle is an example of a fully restored medieval fortress. This beautiful castle sits atop an extinct volcano called Castle Rock, towering over Scotland’s capital city. The architecture of the building itself is just as spellbinding as the structure that it is sitting upon. Built in the 12th century, Edinburgh Castle has passed hands between the Scots and the English a number of times. Now, it is open to the public for tours and events throughout the entire year.

5) Hunyad Castle, Romania

The Hunyad Castle, also known as the Corvin Castle, is a Gothic-Renaissance building that was fully restored after decades of being neglected. This castle once imprisoned Vlad the Impaler, and this historical event would later be Bram Stoker’s inspiration for Dracula. While the castle may have a somewhat grim history, it has a vibrant appearance, with multi-colored roofs, towers, and stone carvings. Some argue that the building is not entirely authentic, since modern architects may have projected their own interpretation onto the reconstruction of the castle. However, the end result is a truly spectacular castle that is worth the visit.

Europe is filled with a rich and fascinating history. The proof is in the historical, awe-inspiring castles found throughout several European cities.

May 19, 2016

Juliana Buhring’s Cycling Saga

Juliana Buhring is a woman of the world. Her mother is German and her father is Welsh; and Juliana herself was born in Greece, raised in countries all over Africa, Europe, and Asia, and now lives in Italy. As the author of two books and an endurance cyclist, one would expect that she has been leading the strenuous life since she could walk, but that is not at all the case.

The subject of her latest book The Road I Ride, is the record-breaking journey she took four years ago, when she became the fastest woman to circumnavigate the globe on a bicycle. But her journey wasn’t born out of competitive spirit— it was a way to deal with pain and loss.

Two years before her two-wheeled travels, her boyfriend was killed by a crocodile in a kayaking accident. Grief can be overwhelming, and while some people seem to come to a standstill when dealing with emotional pain, Juliana had to literally get moving in order to get away from it all. So, she took up cycling. In an interview with the Telegraph she reveals that she wasn’t much of a cycler to begin with, but found that “The physical act of moving anywhere away from where I was, already felt better.” What started as a way to deal with her loss turned into a new passion, and before long the nascent endurance cyclist was determined to set the aforementioned record.

Most people thought her crazy for making the attempt, but she finished nonetheless. In the interview she speaks about her travels, noting the goodness that courses through so many people. When she was hungry, people would offer her food. When she was tired, someone would offer a bed. And even in the face of danger, there was someone willing to go out of their way and assure her safety.

Her favorite places to cycle were in Turkey (“there are some really beautiful views when you begin climbing up some of the hills”) and the Pacific Northwest (all of the mountainous US National Parks are wonderful for cycling).

It’s an inspiring story, so be sure to read her book!

March 14, 2016

Explore Slovenia

Sometimes the best travel advice comes from informed word-of mouth sources. Sure, travel guides can be great, but there is a certain warmth that comes with getting a tip you may not find elsewhere.

Over at The Guardian, this what put into practice by compiling some of the best tips and hidden gems in the Central European country of Slovenia. The country, which is nestled between Italy and Croatia, has mountainous terrain and well-preserved medieval architecture. This combination makes it a must-see for nature-lovers and history buffs alike. Be sure to check out the article to see the beautiful images. In the meantime, here are some of the more notable entries.

Eat

The runaway tip from this list was President Tito’s Tearoom, located in the hills above Lake Bled. Once you get there, you may be so taken by the ambience that you forget to actually order any tea! The tearoom was a favorite of the first president of Yugoslavia, Josip Broz Tito, and has been fully restored to include the original furniture. It also offers sweeping views of the lake, where you can get a view of the Church of St. Martin, which is located on an island in its center! All of this makes your coffee or tea time that much more enjoyable.

If you are big on pastries and baked treats, one user suggests checking out the GP Trojane. Its most famous offering is the Trojane krof, a large jam-filled doughnut. The user also recommends getting soup with rezanci (a type of noodle) and local sausages.

Explore Outdoors

User cand882 stumbled upon Logarska Dolina Landscape Park by accident, but it quickly became one of her favorite parts of the trip. The lush yet mountainous park is located close to the Austrian border, and will provide hours of exploration. It provides beautiful opportunities for biking, and there is even a waterfall to see.

Train travel is one of the most underrated modes of exploring the picturesque countryside. In Slovenia, don’t shy away from it, and hop on the Bohinj railway for a trip to Nova Gorica. You’ll see the beautiful Italian and chug along the pristine Sava River.

Learn

Slovenia has a rich history, and travelers love exploring the past there. What better place to start than the Predjama Castle. Located in Postojna, the castle is a 13th century fortress built into the mouth of one of the village’s many caves. It is also famous for the Erazem Passage. Legend has it that a night once used that passage to smuggle supplies into the castle during a siege, and was able to hold out for one year and a day.

You can also check out the town of Radovljica, which is the site of an old medieval square and several museums that explore the country’s rich history and traditions.

November 20, 2015

5 Cities to Travel to this Autumn

Boston

What more can I say? The Boston Commons will burst into color during these autumn months. If you have a sweet tooth, grab a few friends and grab a cannoli at Mike’s Pastries before lounging on the sloping greens. Or depending on the time, you can go ice skating in Frog Pond! Also, be sure cross the river to check out the scenery in Cambridge, then grab a book from the Harvard Bookstore.

The Twin Cities

That’s Minneapolis and St. Paul for those who don’t know. Up there, winters are super harsh, so locals take advantage of Autumn like nowhere else. If you ever make it up to the North Star State, be sure to check out the September bike tour. They also host a marathon that is considered one of the most scenic athletic events.

Bruges

If you’ve ever seen In Bruges with Colin Farrell and Ralph Fiennes, there is no doubt that the thought “there is no way a city can be so scenic and gorgeous.” But the travelers of the world understand that Bruges doesn’t disappoint. History is around every corner, and is waiting to be explored during your visit. Trips to Discover shares that it’s the colors that really bring the city to life in the fall. Beautiful foliage is reflected in the city’s canal’s, making your Autumnal excursion one to remember.

Bridge of Orchy

Situated in the Scottish highlands, this town is the definition of fall. Cozy, quaint; bursting with lively fall colors and inspiring a general sense of warmth and intimate vibes. It’s magical— down for a hike in the mountains? Fancy a whiskey tasting at an old distillery? Or maybe you want to explore medieval castles? Bridge of Orchy has it all, and then some.

Paris

Of all cities in the world, no city attracts more tourists than Paris. Added bonus? Flights are cheaper during the peak travel period of mid-summer. Once there, cozy up in a cafe on the Champs-Élysées or take a contemplative stroll through the gothic Père Lachaise cemetery.

Carl Turnley Travel

Carl Turnley discusses his love of and experience with travel.

Tag: europe