Split – a Song of Fantasy and Fact

Split is without any doubt one of the most magical cities we’ve visited. No wonder they chose the UNESCO World Heritage classed Diocletian’s Palace – the historical nucleus of Split – as filming location for Game of Thrones. The Roman and medieval ambiance is evident everywhere you turn.

Here are the best places to discover the Game of Thrones sites in Split and beyond – and where you can learn more about its fascinating history.

Touring the Ardennes on Bike

The Ardennes is one of the best places to go bikepacking in northern France.

The unspoiled nature, picturesque villages and rich gastronomy makes it a perfect destination for cyclists and foodies alike.

Jasper Pryor takes us on board his bicycle and shows us the abundance of Ardennes in the autumn: from an oversupply of ceps, just waiting to be turned into a homemade cep carbonara, to the freshly baked croissants from the local boulangerie, and all without us having to break a sweat.

Motovun – Moviestar among Istria Hilltowns

Motovun is a picture perfect hilltown, nestled in the Tuscany-looking landscape of northern Istria.

While Central Istria took us by surprise with its many picturesque hilltowns adorning the beautiful, undulating hills, the hilltop village of Motovun is no stranger to fame.

Many consider Motovun the most beautiful of the Istria hill towns, and we’re inclined to agree with them. Here’s why:

Adventure abounds in Austria’s Tyrol region

In the middle of Europe, the mountainous Austria is a land of milk and honey for outdoor enthusiasts.

Especially the region of Tyrol impresses with its mighty mountains, where you can ski on an icy glacier, hike the peaks of Zillertal and explore icy caves – all within a distance of 20 kilometers.

Follow Matt Johanson as he takes us with him on his Austrian adventure

Echoes of Knights in Rhodes Town

The medieval streets of Rhodes Old Town echo of a time when the Knights Hospitaller ruled the island of Rhodes.

The Order of the Knights of St. John shaped the old town, that rightfully earned the designation as a UNESCO World Heritage in 1988.

Follow in the Footsteps of the Knights Hospitaller as Jocelyn Garwood discovers Rhodes’ fascinating history and captures its beauty on camera.

Grožnjan – The Artist Hilltown of Istria

Many of the hill towns of Istria are the prettiest when approaching them. They crown the hills with their medieval walls and pencil shaped clock towers, looking like a finger stating: “Here we are. We conquered this hilltop.”

Grožnjan is more than pretty on the outside, it’s an artist colony inside as well. Despite its relatively small size, you can both get lost in its labyrinthical cobbled streets and enjoy gorgeous views of the hilly landscape of Central Istria.

Rioja is more than wine

La Rioja – Wine and So Much More

If you go to La Rioja region of Northern Spain for the wine, you certainly won’t be disappointed. If you go for the food that’s terrific also, but there is so much more to La Rioja, including charming medieval villages, cathedrals, castles and dolmens.

Follow Jerry Olivas and his wife as they discover the many attractions of the region.