Rural. Remote. Exposed. Forgotten. All words used to describe Donegal by locals themselves. As a foreigner in Ireland, though, I find they don’t paint the full picture. Donegal’s also majestic. Unspoiled. Wistful. Even melancholy. When I visited Ireland’s forgotten county on the northwest corner of the isle, I was met with unrelenting climate and terrain and enduring culture and traditions.
Tucked away in the northeastern corner of the Italian Alps lies the mountainous region known as “the Dolomites.” Some of this area was once part of Austria, and today the blend of cultures, languages, and lifestyles creates a beautiful melting pot of Alpine magic. I recently embarked on an epic 10-day trip to the region with my partner, which I’ve compiled into this detailed itinerary. From summiting peaks to admiring them from the sauna, we enjoyed a little bit of everything during this car-free summer trip to the Dolomites.
The Dolomites, part of the northeastern Italian Alps, are an impressive mountain range known for their world-renowned skiing. Plenty of people come here for the powder, but what if you don’t ski? Luckily, there are plenty of ways to have an epic experience, on the slopes or off, against the same stunning backdrop.
Is it possible to do the Dolomites in summer in less than a week? With an open mind and little hustle: yes, and this five-day itinerary lays out how to see the major attractions of the Dolomites in just five days without a car. Pack in a little bit of everything in just a few short days: hiking, history, food, culture, charming villages, larger towns, affordable rifugios, splurge stays, and a range of outdoor activities.
When it comes to places to stay in the Dolomites, the Ansitz Steinbock is a tough act to follow. In fact, after you stay in this historic manor, your check out will evoke feelings that your accommodation expectations might be unreasonably high for your next few trips – no matter where you go. That’s what happens when you experience the perfect blend of friendly familiarity and luxurious indulgence. The Ansitz Steinbock isn’t just a castle where you can wine, dine, and sleep, it’s where you can make yourself at home.
For travelers with an ear for classical music, the secret of Leipzig, Germany is already out. Today, the city is enjoying a cultural revitalization of its downtown and industrial districts that gives destinations like Berlin and Madrid a run for their money. Discover the highlights and can’t-miss sights, below!
Five interconnected skiing mountains. More than 70 miles of groomed slopes. Less than two flights away from most major US cities. Welcome to 3 Zinnen Dolomites, the place where the possibilities are as endless as the views.
For many enthusiastic travelers, European summer trips are well underway. However, we at Untraveled recommend taking a different approach to our sunny getaways. Why not forgo the crowded beaches of the French Riviera or the overpriced Amalfi Coast, and instead opt for a hidden gem tucked away in Southeast Europe: Albania.
If you’re looking for the best beaches in Europe, keep your eyes peeled for one thing: the Blue Flag. This international accreditation carries the seal of approval for cleanliness, conservation, and quality when it comes to the best beaches around the world. This short but sweet list of hand-picked locations is equal parts variety and consistency in visitor experience.
Unlike air travel with its chaotic security lines and trip-ruining delays, or driving with its parking challenges and navigation stress, train travel in Europe offers a uniquely relaxed way to witness the changing landscapes, architecture, and cultures as you cross borders. For the truly adventurous traveler, the flexibility of an interrail pass is unparalleled. Hop off a few stops early to explore a hidden gem town recommended by the friendly locals you met in the cafe car. Or reschedule your ticket and stay one night longer to buy a bit more time with that lovely person you locked eyes with across the market. While train travel is considered slow travel, it’s never time wasted.
Ireland’s rugged coastline provides the perfect habitat for one of the world’s most beloved seabirds – the Atlantic Puffin. Puffins in Ireland have become iconic symbols of the country’s diverse coastal wildlife. Unfortunately, climate change and habitat destruction threatens their existence. So while seeing puffins may be a bucket list item for many travelers, it’s important to observe them responsibly.
Solo travel as a woman can be freeing but also a little intimidating, especially if you’re heading somewhere remote. Few places in Ireland get more remote than County Kerry. I’m based in Dublin, but when presented with the opportunity to get out of the city for a long bank holiday weekend, I seized it. Full disclosure: this was my first road trip alone! Unless you count my dog, which I do, so it was a great starter solo trip – like traveling solo in light mode. Luckily, Kerry has everything you could ever want to do and more in Ireland, so I knew we’d be too busy to be lonely. Read on for my solo female traveler tips, things I’d do differently next time, and the full four-day road trip itinerary through Kerry, Ireland.
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PLUS discover the location of the hidden gem pictured below!
