Even though life can get us down sometimes, it’s important to remember that the world is still filled with mystery and magic. That is certainly apparent in Europe, a continent made up of countries with vastly different cultures.
Throughout this part of the world, there are places that fill even the most jaded visitor with child-like wonder. Adults should try to spend some of their time looking for magic in the world, and these are a few great places to start.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Located in the district of Ansbach of Mittelfranken, this stunning German town has been inhabited for a long time. Some scholars have even stated that it may have been settled by the Celts prior to the 1st century A.D. But that’s not the history tourists stop by for.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber has a shockingly well-preserved and maintained medieval old town. Walking through it is like traveling back in time to another bygone era. Well, without all of the horrifying issues that came with living in that era.
Hallerbos, Belgium
As a general rule, forests can be mystical, wonderous places. And there are more than a few throughout Europe that certainly qualify in those categories. But Hallerbros in Belgium is still unique even in this continent but is a forest with a rough history.
Much of the old growth was taken down in World War I, though a 20-year reforestation process started in 1930. And for a few weeks each year, the forest floor is covered by a magnificent carpet of bluebells. Tourists flock to the site to experience this all too brief bloom.
Casa do Penedo, Portugal
When you translate Casa do Penedo into English, you start to get an idea of what makes this place interesting. The House of the Rock can be found in northern Portugal, though its incredibly unique design and structure would make it stand out anywhere.
Much of the walls, foundation, and ceiling are comprised of four massive boulders. It actually used to serve as a summer home for its owners, though it has since been transformed into a small museum. This spot is certainly spectacular to marvel at in an already incredible country.
Krzywy Domek, Poland
Who says Poland isn’t home to some of the classic whimsy to be found in this part of Europe? The Krzywy Domek is a prime example of the side of Poland that too many people miss out on. And it’s certainly going to awaken the free spirit in you.
The design of this incredibly unique building was reputedly inspired by the work of Jan Marcin Szancer and Per Dahlberg. That being said, anyone who knows the work of Dr. Seuss will immediately feel a sense of deja vu from this place.
Casa Batlló, Spain
In the center of Barcelona rests one of the more interesting renovation projects ever to take place. Originally built in 1877, the renowned Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi was brought in to do a complete remodel in 1904. And there have been other subsequent remodels since then.
Regardless, Gaudi’s brilliance continues to shine through in most of the details. His Art Nouveau style continues to define the home and is an example of his creativity. It’s almost impossible to go to Casa Batlló and not be inspired on some level.