Beautiful Places in Europe | Travel Guides & Hidden Gems

Nestled in the peaceful countryside of Westerlo, Belgium, Tongerlo Abbey is a serene and spiritual retreat with centuries of rich history. Founded in 1128 by Giselbert of Kasterlee, the abbey was established in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary and has remained a place of reflection, devotion, and cultural significance for nearly nine centuries. Stroll Through History, Free of Charge Tongerlo Abbey offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a working Premonstratensian abbey, completely free of charge. You’re welcome to wander the tranquil grounds, admire the historic architecture, and gain insight into the monastic way of life. A small on-site museum tells the story of the abbey’s spiritual and historical journey through the ages. A Unique Leonardo da Vinci Connection What sets Tongerlo Abbey apart from other monastic sites is its remarkable connection to Leonardo da Vinci. In 1545, the abbey acquired a 16th-century oil-on-canvas copy of da Vinci’s iconic Last Supper. This c...

The Our Lady Tree (Onze Lieve Vrouwe Beuk) in Lummen, Belgium, is one of the most remarkable natural monuments in the country. Crowned Belgian Tree of the Year 2018, this impressive red beech tree stands proudly behind the Chapel of Our Lady of the Beech Tree. With an estimated age of 150 years, a diameter of nearly 4.5 meters, and a height of 26 meters, the Our Lady Tree is both a natural wonder and a cultural landmark. A Symbol of Heritage In 2019, the Our Lady Tree represented Belgium in the European Tree of the Year contest. This international competition celebrates ancient trees, highlighting their importance as symbols of history, culture, and biodiversity. The tree’s location next to the chapel gives it special spiritual and cultural meaning, attracting both pilgrims and nature lovers. Why Visit the Our Lady Tree? See Belgium’s Tree of the Year 2018 A beautiful natural landmark for photography Combine with a visit to the nearby Chapel of Our Lady of the Beech Tree Learn ab...

If you're planning a trip to Gdańsk, make sure to visit one of Poland’s most impactful museums, the European Solidarity Centre (Europejskie Centrum Solidarności). This award-winning institution is dedicated to the history of Solidarność (Solidarity), the groundbreaking trade union that helped end communism in Central and Eastern Europe. The European Solidarity Centre is an absolute must-see in Gdańsk. What Is Solidarność? Solidarność was the first independent trade union in the Eastern Bloc, founded in 1980 at the Lenin Shipyard in Gdańsk. It quickly grew into a nationwide movement, sparking change across the region. At the heart of the movement was Lech Wałęsa, a shipyard electrician who later became Poland’s first freely-elected president in over 60 years. The movement was central to toppling communist rule in Poland and inspired pro-democracy efforts across Europe. Inside the European Solidarity Centre The European Solidarity Centre is much more than a museum. The buildin...

The Efteling is the largest theme park in the Netherlands and one of the best in Europe. The park is well know for bringing fairytales to live in sculptures and scenes. You can find a total of 29 fairytales in the fairytale Forest, a must-see when visiting the Efteling. Divided into five themed areas, the park has everything for the whole family. The little ones will find something in all areas, the daredevils will definitely have a great time in the Ruigrijk. Here you can find the wildest rollercoasters like the Baron 1898, the Phyton and the wooden rollercoaster Joris en de Draak. One of the best family attractions is Symbolica, an amazing ride into magical rooms. During the winter months the Efteling is transformed into a winter wonderland. With bonfires to warm up, an ice rink, cross-country skiing and lots of lights and winter treats. The Winter Efteling season ends January 31. One of the highlights when it gets dark is the water show Aquanura. This spectacular show is the p...

Looking for a unique hiking experience that combines stunning alpine views, history, and a path to Germany’s most iconic castles? The Dreiländereck in Pinswang, Austria is the perfect destination. Located atop the Schwarzenberg Mountain (1,200 m), this historic tripoint marks where, in the year 1800, the borders of the County of Tyrol, the Prince-Bishopric of Augsburg, and the Electorate of Bavaria once met. Scenic Hiking and Cycling Route in Pinswang The well-marked trail to the summit of Schwarzenberg is popular among hikers and cyclists. Begin your journey at the Hotel Gutshof zum Schluxen in Pinswang, a perfect starting point with nearby parking and accommodation. As you ascend, enjoy breathtaking views over Pinswang, Füssen, and the Lech River in Germany. Extend Your Hike to Neuschwanstein Castle For an unforgettable day trip, take the Fürstenweg-Königsschlössern trail halfway up the mountain. This 8 km scenic route leads to Schwangau, where you'll encounter the fairytale ...