Lillehammer, nestled along the northern shores of Norway’s Lake Mjøsa and framed by pine-covered hills, is a town that blends natural beauty with cultural richness. Famous for hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics, Lillehammer has leveraged its global spotlight to cultivate attractions that celebrate both its sporting legacy and artistic heritage.
The 300 square mile Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is reached by taking the Georgeville turnoff at mile 65 of the Western Highway. After going through miles of tropical jungle you will be in a forest of tall pines growing amongst wildflowers and grasses. The area has whitewater rivers, waterfalls and cave systems.
Korčula, a jewel in Croatia's Adriatic Sea, invites visitors to immerse themselves in its rich history and stunning natural beauty. Often referred to as "Little Dubrovnik," the city boasts well-preserved medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and a fortified old town encircled by ancient walls.
Cong is a small village in western Ireland, set where the River Cong flows between Lough Corrib and Lough Mask. Its history is closely tied to monastic settlement, most notably Cong Abbey, founded in the 12th century and later shaped by Norman influence.
Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, has long served as a cultural and trade crossroads in the Andaman Sea. Centuries ago, it was a stopover for merchants trading tin, spices, and textiles, with influences from Chinese, Portuguese, Indian, and Malay travelers still reflected in the island’s architecture and cuisine. Inland, the Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary protects rainforest habitat home to gibbons, civets, and exotic birds.