Bartlett, New Hampshire is a small White Mountains town with a deep connection to outdoor adventure and quiet mountain charm. Founded in the late 18th century, Bartlett began as a logging and railroad hub, and remnants of that past still echo through its historic buildings and covered bridges. The Bartlett Roundhouse, a relic from the town’s railway days, now serves as a museum and reminder of how trains once connected this remote region to the rest of New England.
Ourika Valley lies south of Marrakesh in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains, following the Ourika River through a narrow valley of villages, orchards, terraced fields, and steep mountain slopes. The valley is known for its relatively cool climate and access to the Atlas foothills, making it a marked contrast to the dry plains around Marrakesh. Small settlements extend along the river and up the surrounding slopes, where traditional houses are often built from earth and stone.
Lucca, a Tuscan city surrounded by remarkably intact Renaissance walls, offers more than just postcard views. Known for its quiet streets and grand piazzas, Lucca stands apart with its circular street layout, still following the lines of a Roman amphitheater from centuries ago. The walls, now repurposed as a 4-kilometer tree-lined park, are a favorite route for locals and visitors who explore them on foot or by bike, passing old bastions and panoramic viewpoints along the way.
Ometepe is an island in southwestern Nicaragua, located in Lake Nicaragua and formed by two volcanoes joined by a narrow isthmus. Concepción rises on the northern side of the island, while Maderas occupies the southern section. The island includes the municipalities of Moyogalpa and Altagracia and has a landscape of farms, forests, wetlands, beaches, and rural communities.
Vágar is one of the western islands of the Faroe Islands and the main arrival point for many visitors, with the archipelago’s only airport located near Sørvágur. The island combines high mountains, freshwater lakes, steep sea cliffs, and small villages set along sheltered bays. Its landscape is particularly varied for its size, ranging from the agricultural fields around Miðvágur and Sandavágur to the rugged western coast near Bøur and Gásadalur.
Nestled along the fjord-studded coastline of Norway, Molde is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Often called the "City of Roses" for its flourishing gardens and floral displays, Molde offers visitors a stunning panorama of 222 mountain peaks visible from its scenic viewpoints, including the renowned Varden Viewpoint. This spot provides an unparalleled vista of the surrounding fjords and peaks, making it a must-see for any nature enthusiast.
Molde is also a gateway to the Atlantic Road, one of Norway's most scenic drives, which connects the mainland to a series of islands and offers stunning views of the turbulent ocean and picturesque landscapes. This engineering marvel is celebrated for its dramatic coastal scenery and is ideal for both leisurely drives and adventurous road trips. For those interested in maritime history, the Romsdal Museum offers a glimpse into the region’s past with exhibits on traditional Norwegian life and culture.
In addition to its natural and historical attractions, Molde boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The Molde International Jazz Festival is one of Norway’s largest jazz festivals and attracts musicians and visitors from around the globe every summer. The city also hosts a variety of events and activities year-round, including local markets and festivals that celebrate its rich heritage and artistic community.
Fun Fact: Molde is famous for its annual Molde Panorama, a 5-kilometer panoramic hike that offers spectacular views of the city and surrounding landscapes, making it a popular route for both locals and visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the region's natural splendor.
Other Popular Destinations in Norway
Bergen
Charming Bergen will sweep you away with its picturesque architecture and breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled between stunningly verdant mountains and the winding fjords of the North Sea, this scenic town will delight you at every turn.
Trondheim
Nestled along the Trondheim Fjord in central Norway, Trondheim offers a captivating blend of rich history and vibrant modern life. As Norway’s first capital, Trondheim boasts a legacy that includes the striking Nidaros Cathedral, an iconic landmark whose construction began in the 11th century.