In the historic towns of Berat and Gjirokastër, centuries of history are woven into everyday life. White Ottoman-era houses climb the hillsides, cobbled streets wind through old neighbourhoods and traditional bazaars continue to welcome visitors much as they have for generations.

Known as the "City of a Thousand Windows", Berat is one of Albania's most iconic destinations, while Gjirokastër captivates with its distinctive stone architecture and rich cultural heritage. Both cities have earned UNESCO World Heritage status, preserving a remarkable chapter of the country's past.

Beyond the architecture, Albania's hospitality is reflected in its cuisine. Regional recipes, local wines and seasonal ingredients remain an important part of the experience, offering visitors a genuine taste of the country's traditions.

A journey through Berat and Gjirokastër reveals a side of Europe where history, culture and daily life remain closely connected.

#VisitAlbania #Berat #Gjirokaster #UNESCO #AlbanianCuisine #CulturalTravel #HiddenEurope

From iconic landmarks and royal traditions to vibrant cities and picturesque countryside, the United Kingdom offers a journey through history, culture and modern elegance. The images capture some of Britain's most recognisable symbols, including the famous red telephone box, Big Ben, Tower Bridge and the bustling streets of London.

Whether you're exploring historic castles, wandering through charming villages or experiencing world-class shopping and theatre in the capital, the UK delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn. From afternoon tea and traditional pubs to royal palaces and cultural treasures, every corner tells a story.

Experience the grandeur of British heritage through royal landmarks, centuries-old traditions and renowned museums. Enjoy a West End show, browse luxury boutiques in Mayfair, discover local markets and savour classic dishes like fish and chips, Sunday roast and afternoon tea.

For an elegant London stay, The Clermont London, Charing Cross offers a perfect blend of Victorian charm and modern comfort. Ideally located near Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden and the River Thames, it provides easy access to many of London's most famous attractions.

📍 Recognisable landmarks

• Big Ben
• Palace of Westminster
• Tower Bridge
• Buckingham Palace
• Piccadilly Circus
• Covent Garden

#VisitBritain #LondonLife #UKTravel #HistoricBritain #TravelInspiration

🌿 Spring transforms Andorra into one of the quietest mountain escapes in the Pyrenees.

As the last snow slowly disappears from the peaks, valleys begin turning green again and mountain roads reopen towards hidden lakes, panoramic viewpoints and scenic hiking trails. Villages like Ordino, Llorts and El Serrat reveal a slower rhythm shaped by stone houses, wooden balconies and centuries-old mountain traditions.

The CG-3 road through the Ordino Valley remains one of the most scenic drives in the country, winding between pine forests, alpine rivers and peaceful valleys filled with wildflowers. Further into the mountains, places like Sorteny Nature Park offer hiking trails surrounded by untouched Pyrenean landscapes and fresh mountain air.

Beyond its landscapes, Andorra is also known for its quieter wellness atmosphere. Thermal spas hidden between the mountains create the perfect setting to unwind after long walks, scenic drives and days spent exploring the Pyrenees.

Ask the map for scenic routes, hidden villages & hiking trails.

#Andorra #Pyrenees #Ordino #MountainEscape #ScenicRoads #NatureTravel #HiddenEurope #SlowTravel #LesCouleursDuMonde

Warning for Drivers Traveling to France This Summer: Environmental Sticker Still Required

Motorists traveling to or through France this summer should be aware that the country’s low-emission zone rules are still in force. Despite earlier political plans to abolish them, drivers still need a valid Crit’Air environmental sticker to enter many major French cities.

Last month, the French parliament voted in favor of removing the so-called “Zones à Faibles Émissions” (ZFE), arguing that the system unfairly penalizes families who cannot afford newer vehicles. The proposal was strongly supported by right-wing and far-right parties.

However, the Constitutional Council of France has now overturned that decision. The judges did not reject the abolition itself, but ruled that the amendment had no sufficient legal connection to the broader simplification law in which it had been included.

As a result, the low-emission zones remain active for now in cities such as Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Montpellier and Lille.

The Crit’Air sticker classifies vehicles according to their pollution levels. Electric vehicles receive category 0, while older diesel cars fall into the highest-polluting categories. Depending on local air quality conditions, certain vehicles may be temporarily or permanently banned from entering specific urban areas.

Foreign drivers, including tourists from neighboring European countries, can also face fines if they enter a restricted zone without the required sticker. French authorities increasingly cooperate with other European countries to enforce cross-border license plate checks.

The system remains highly controversial in France. Critics argue that low-income households are disproportionately affected because they are less likely to afford electric or hybrid vehicles. Environmental groups, however, point to the severe public health impact of air pollution. According to Santé Publique France, poor air quality contributes to around 40,000 deaths annually in France.

Environmental organization Respire welcomed the Constitutional Council’s decision, calling it “a victory for public health.”

For travelers, the message is simple: if you are driving to France this summer, make sure your vehicle has a valid Crit’Air sticker before entering major cities.

NEWS - 31.05.2026

NEWS - 31.05.2026

Braking for Spain’s New “Super Speed Cameras” Is Becoming Useless

Drivers heading to Spain this summer may want to think twice before speeding. The country is rolling out a new generation of advanced laser speed cameras capable of detecting speeding vehicles from up to 200 meters away — long before most drivers even notice them.

According to traffic expert José Eugenio Naranjo, traditional last-second braking tactics will no longer work. “If you see the camera, you are already too late,” he explained in an interview with COPE.

The new systems use sophisticated 3D lidar technology that creates a real-time three-dimensional image of traffic. Unlike older cameras that measured speed at a single point, these devices analyze vehicle movement, size and type across multiple lanes simultaneously. Cars, trucks and motorcycles can all be identified more accurately, including motorcycles that were previously harder to detect with older systems.

Another major improvement is the ability to monitor several vehicles at once, even in difficult conditions such as smoke, dirt or heavy traffic. Instead of relying on a simple laser beam, the cameras generate a detailed “point cloud” that tracks movement both horizontally and vertically.

But the technology is not only about issuing fines. Spain’s traffic authority, the Dirección General de Tráfico, says the systems are also designed to improve road safety by detecting accidents, stopped vehicles and dangerous traffic situations in real time.

For many motorists, however, the biggest change is psychological. Drivers who previously relied on spotting a speed camera at the last moment and braking suddenly will no longer have that opportunity. With the new systems already measuring speed from far away, the violation may already be recorded before the driver even reacts.

In Bilbao, colorful urban murals rise beside contemporary buildings while the Guggenheim reflects the city’s creative transformation along the river. Beyond the museums and architecture, the Basque atmosphere continues through vineyard landscapes, sculptural wineries and one of Europe’s most celebrated food cultures.

Pintxos bars overflow late into the evening, local markets shape daily life and even the countryside feels artistic — from avant-garde wine estates hidden between the hills to unexpected public art scattered throughout the region.

The Basque Country moves effortlessly between modern creativity and deep-rooted traditions.

Ask the map for architecture spots, vineyard routes, hidden art locations and local food experiences across the Basque Country.

#BasqueCountry #Bilbao #ArtAndCulture #NorthernSpain #Pintxos #WineRoutes #HiddenEurope #SlowTravel #LesCouleursDuMonde

Iriarte Jauregia feels more like a private retreat than a traditional hotel.

Set inside a carefully restored 17th-century Basque palace, the hotel blends historic stone architecture with quiet contemporary interiors overlooking forests, valleys and rural landscapes of Gipuzkoa. The atmosphere is calm, intimate and deeply connected to nature.

Days here move slowly:
breakfast on the terrace surrounded by misty hills, long countryside drives through the Basque region and evenings shaped by refined local gastronomy inside the palace restaurant. The hotel’s Bailara restaurant offers a seasonal tasting experience inspired by nature and Basque cuisine.

Located between San Sebastián and the quieter inland valleys, Iriarte Jauregia reveals one of the most peaceful sides of the Basque Country — where forests, mountains and historic villages define the rhythm of travel.

Book your stay with Hotel.eu

#BasqueCountry #IriarteJauregia #SlowTravel #BoutiqueHotel #HiddenEurope #BasqueCountryside #LuxuryEscape #LesCouleursDuMonde

Rising from the Atlantic Ocean like a forgotten island, Gaztelugatxe feels almost unreal.

A narrow stone bridge connects the Basque coastline to the tiny rocky islet, where winding stairs slowly climb towards a solitary chapel overlooking the sea. Waves crash against the cliffs below while panoramic ocean views stretch endlessly across the northern coast of Spain.

The atmosphere here feels both cinematic and deeply connected to Basque history — wild ocean landscapes, dramatic rock formations and coastal paths shaped by wind and salt air.

Whether arriving at sunrise, during golden hour or beneath mist rolling in from the Atlantic, Gaztelugatxe reveals one of the most breathtaking coastal landscapes in the Basque Country.

#Gaztelugatxe #BasqueCountry #NorthernSpain #AtlanticCoast #HiddenEurope #ScenicViews #SlowTravel #CoastalEscape #LesCouleursDuMonde

Hidden behind a quiet garden in the heart of Biarritz, Hôtel de Silhouette blends Basque elegance with a slower coastal atmosphere.

Set between the Atlantic Ocean and the lively streets of the old town, the hotel combines historic architecture, contemporary interiors and peaceful terraces surrounded by greenery — a rare calm escape within one of the Basque Coast’s most vibrant destinations.

Mornings begin with soft ocean light filtering through the city while evenings slowly shift towards wine bars, seafood dinners and sunset walks along the coastline of Biarritz.

The atmosphere feels refined yet deeply connected to the relaxed rhythm of the Basque Country:
stone streets, ocean air and understated luxury hidden behind historic façades.

Discover this stay on Hotel.eu

#Biarritz #HotelDeSilhouette #BasqueCountry #AtlanticCoast #SlowTravel #HiddenEurope #BoutiqueHotel #FrenchBasque #LesCouleursDuMonde

San Sebastián. Elegant coastal living with one of the strongest food cultures in Europe.

Curved bays, Belle Époque architecture and golden beaches give the city a cinematic atmosphere, while hidden pintxos bars and late evenings filled with local wine shape its slower Basque rhythm. From the lively streets of the Old Town to the panoramic views above La Concha Bay, San Sebastián moves effortlessly between refined and relaxed.

Days here begin beside the Atlantic Ocean and slowly unfold through seafood lunches, coastal walks and sunset light reflecting across the bay.

Beyond its beauty, the city is deeply connected to Basque identity — a place where gastronomy, ocean culture and tradition still define everyday life.

Ask the map for hidden pintxos bars, scenic coastal walks and panoramic viewpoints around San Sebastián.

#SanSebastian #BasqueCountry #NorthernSpain #Pintxos #SlowTravel #HiddenEurope #CoastalEscape #LesCouleursDuMonde

Uylenburg is located in the Dutch countryside near Delft, surrounded by water, fields and small walking paths that immediately create a quieter atmosphere compared to staying in the city itself.

The property feels more like a rural retreat than a standard hotel stay. Rooms and lodges are spread across the area which gives more privacy and space throughout your stay.

One of the strongest points here is the setting. Mornings are calm, with views over the landscape and very little noise except nature around you. It works especially well for slow weekends, cycling trips or short escapes from busy city life.

Despite the quiet location, Delft and Rotterdam are still easy to reach, making it possible to combine countryside relaxation with city visits during the day.

Cycling through the surrounding nature, visiting Delft’s historic center and enjoying long outdoor breakfasts or dinners in the warmer months.

This stay is ideal if you prefer open space, nature and a slower pace instead of a busy hotel environment.

You can check and book this stay on book.hotel.eu and you can also find it in the latest magazine

#netherlands #countrysidestay #delft #slowtravel #weekendescape #hotelbooking

Kasteel van Nieuwland is located in a quiet green setting in Belgium, surrounded by gardens and nature, while still being easily accessible for a short getaway or event stay.

The hotel combines the atmosphere of a classic manor house with comfortable rooms and elegant common spaces. Inside you will find warm interiors, traditional details and a calm atmosphere that fits perfectly with slower weekends away.

One of the highlights is the garden terrace. During warmer months this becomes the center of the stay, whether for breakfast, lunch or an evening drink surrounded by greenery.

The property is also well suited for weddings, private celebrations and business events thanks to its spacious layout and peaceful location.

Rooms are classic and comfortable with soft tones and large windows overlooking the gardens.

This is a good choice if you are looking for a quiet countryside stay with a more timeless and elegant atmosphere.

You can check and book this stay on book.hotel.eu and you can also find it in the latest magazine

#belgium #castlehotel #countrysidestay #boutiquehotel #weekendaway #hotelbooking

Hotel Le Colline is located just outside San Gimignano in Tuscany, surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills. It is a small, countryside stay focused on views and a relaxed pace.

The location is ideal if you want to explore Tuscany by car. San Gimignano is only a few minutes away, while Siena and Florence are both possible for day trips.

Rooms are simple and traditional with countryside views. This is not a design hotel, but a comfortable base where the focus is on the setting rather than the interiors.

Breakfast is served with local products and is best enjoyed outside when the weather allows. In the evening, you are close to agriturismos and small restaurants where you can try regional dishes and wines.

The main reason to stay here is the landscape. Vineyards, cypress trees and open views are everywhere, making it a good choice if you want a quieter alternative to staying in busy towns.

Best for a slow travel trip where you combine short drives, local food and time outdoors.

You can check and book this stay on book.hotel.eu

#tuscany #sangimignano #italytravel #countrysidestay

Torralbenc is a restored finca in Menorca, located in the countryside just a short drive from the coast. It is a quiet, design-focused stay rather than a typical beach resort.

The property is spread across several traditional white buildings with views over open land and the sea in the distance. The setting feels private and calm, which is one of the main reasons people book here.

Rooms are minimal and spacious with natural materials, soft tones and large windows. Many have terraces or outdoor areas, which makes it easy to spend time outside without leaving your room.

There is a pool overlooking the landscape, a small wellness area and a restaurant that focuses on local ingredients and simple Mediterranean dishes. Breakfast and dinner are usually part of the daily rhythm here rather than something you rush through.

You will need a car if you stay here. Beaches like Cala en Porter or Binibèquer are within a short drive, as well as Mahón for restaurants and shops.

This is a stay for slowing down, not for nightlife or busy schedules.

You can check and book this stay on book.hotel.eu

#menorca #torralbenc #boutiquehotel #smallluxuryhotels #mediterraneanstay #hotelbooking

Scherpenheuvel-Zichem is a destination where history, nature and local traditions come together in a unique way. The region has been known for centuries as an important pilgrimage site, with the iconic Basilica of Scherpenheuvel at its heart. Each year, visitors from across the country come here to light a candle or take part in traditional processions, with the month of May being especially popular.

Beyond its religious significance, the area offers plenty of opportunities to relax and explore. The landscape is defined by rolling hills, woodlands and the winding Demer River, making it an ideal destination for walking and cycling. A wide network of routes allows you to discover both well-known landmarks and hidden gems at your own pace.

The region also offers a variety of local culinary experiences. From enjoying a classic ice cream in Averbode to tasting regional delicacies and artisanal products, there is always something to discover. Cosy terraces and local spots add to the welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you visit for a day trip or a longer stay, Scherpenheuvel-Zichem offers a well-balanced experience where culture, nature and relaxation come together. It is a place where traditions are still alive and where every visit brings something new.

👉 You can read the full article in our magazine

🌐 More info: visit.scherpenheuvel-zichem.be

#belgiumtravel #visitflanders #scherpenheuvel #natureandculture #hiddenbelgium

The Regent Boutique Hotel & Spa is located just outside the historic center of San Marino, offering views over the surrounding hills and countryside.

The location is practical if you want to explore the old town without staying directly in the busiest area. You can reach the main sights within a short drive while still enjoying a quieter setting.

Rooms are modern and comfortable with a simple design. Many offer views, which adds to the overall experience, especially in the morning or evening.

The spa is one of the main features. It includes a pool, sauna and wellness treatments, making it a good option if you want to combine sightseeing with relaxation.

Breakfast is served on-site and the hotel also has a restaurant, so you have the option to stay in after a day of exploring.

This is a good choice if you want a mix of city access and a more relaxed hotel environment.

You can check and book this stay on book.hotel.eu

#sanmarino #boutiquehotel #spastay #travelitaly

The Falkland Arms is located in Great Tew, a small village in the Cotswolds, about 15 minutes from Chipping Norton. It is a traditional English pub stay set in one of the most preserved villages in the area.

The building itself is a big part of the experience. Think stone walls, low ceilings, wooden beams and a classic countryside atmosphere. Rooms are all slightly different and keep that historic character rather than modern design.

Downstairs is a proper pub, which means you do not need to go anywhere else in the evening. Food is traditional British with seasonal ingredients and it is known as one of the better pub dining spots in the Cotswolds.

The location is quiet and rural. Great Tew is not a busy tourist village, so it feels more local and less crowded than places like Bourton-on-the-Water. You will need a car to explore the wider area.

Best for a countryside stay where you want a mix of walking, pub dinners and a slower pace.

You can check and book this stay on book.hotel.eu

#cotswolds #englandtravel #countrypub #boutiquehotel

Easter moments in Friesland

Spring in Friesland brings soft countryside scenes and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. From fresh mornings outdoors to simple moments in nature, it is a time to slow down and enjoy the season.

With new life all around and longer days ahead, Easter is the perfect moment to step outside and take it all in.

A calm and authentic side of the Netherlands.

#Easter #Friesland #Netherlands #SpringVibes #SlowTravel #countryside

Across Albania, thousands of concrete bunkers remain scattered along coastlines, hills and quiet countryside. Built during a different time, they stand as silent reminders of a past shaped by isolation and uncertainty.

Today, many of these structures have taken on new meanings — some abandoned, others transformed into museums like Bunk'Art, where history is preserved and shared.

It is this contrast that makes Albania so fascinating — a place where past and present exist side by side, and where even the most unexpected landmarks tell a story worth exploring.

Some places carry stories that are not immediately visible.

#albania #historytravel #bunkers #travelstories #exploremore

Estonia through its cities, coast and daily details.

In Pärnu, known as the summer capital, you find wide beaches, wooden villas and a slower rhythm focused on the sea. Boardwalks, dunes and small cafés define the coastline along the Baltic Sea.

Tallinn Old Town adds a different layer with medieval streets, towers and preserved architecture that reflect the country’s history.

Across Estonia, colourful wooden houses, local restaurants and small design-led spaces create a consistent atmosphere of simplicity and calm.

For a stay in Pärnu, Bob W Pärnu is a strong option. A five star stay with a central location, combining modern design with comfort and easy access to the beach and town.

The country combines coastal living, historic cities and nature, making it easy to move between different types of stays and experiences.

#estonia #parnu #tallinn #balticsea #europetravel #slowtravel #boutiquestays #nordicstyle

Moulin Bleu, Vézère Valley

A charming countryside stay in the heart of the Vézère Valley. Moulin Bleu offers a peaceful setting surrounded by nature, with classic French architecture, soft interiors and a relaxed atmosphere.

From bright, elegant rooms to a quiet garden with a pool, everything is designed for a comfortable and slow-paced stay. It is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Dordogne region.

Take your time to explore the surroundings, visit nearby villages or simply relax and enjoy the calm.

Discover your perfect stay here

#France #Dordogne #CountrysideStay #BoutiqueHotel #TravelFrance

Serbia Uncovered

Serbia is increasingly positioning itself as a destination for travelers looking for authenticity, culture and local experiences. From historic monasteries and fortresses to traditional crafts and gastronomy, the country offers a strong connection between past and present.

The images reflect key elements of Serbia’s identity: religious heritage, medieval architecture and everyday traditions that are still part of local life today.

Curious to learn more about Serbia’s vision for tourism and its role in Europe? You can read the full interview with Marija Labovic in Les Couleurs Magazine, February edition.

#Serbia #CulturalTravel #BalkanTravel #TravelEurope #AuthenticExperiences

Ultimate Switzerland Guide

Planning a trip to Switzerland? The Ultimate Switzerland Guide brings everything together in one place. From scenic road trips and mountain views to hiking routes and must-see spots, this guide helps you make the most of your journey.

Whether you are exploring alpine landscapes, discovering hidden viewpoints or planning your route through the country, it gives you clear and practical insights to travel with ease.

Available as a complete guide you can use anytime, anywhere.

Featured in Les Couleurs du Monde Magazine, edition 02.

#Switzerland #TravelGuide #ExploreSwitzerland #RoadTrip #TravelPlanning

Discover Everyday Life in Serbia

A mix of local markets and traditional countryside living. At markets you can find products like dried peppers, garlic, nuts and homemade ajvar, which are typical across the country and part of daily cooking.

The rural house shown is a traditional style you can find in different regions such as Šumadija and western Serbia, though there is no clear landmark that identifies an exact location. These homes are often built with natural materials and surrounded by greenery.

Want to experience this yourself? Check out local market tours and tastings in Belgrade and beyond 

#Serbia #LocalLife #BalkanTravel #FoodCulture #TravelEurope

The best way to explore the Netherlands? By bike. 🚲

Cycling is part of everyday life in the Netherlands. From city streets to quiet countryside paths, everything is designed to be explored on two wheels.

Ride along canals, pass historic windmills and discover hidden villages at your own pace. It’s not just a way to get around, but a way to truly experience the country.

Simple, sustainable and uniquely Dutch — there’s no better way to explore.

Explore more with every ride, from hidden gems to iconic views.

#CyclingNetherlands #VisitNetherlands #BikeLife #DutchLifestyle #ExploreByBike

Spring in the Netherlands at its finest. 🌷

Endless fields of tulips stretch across the landscape, creating one of the most iconic views in the country. Around Lisse and the famous Keukenhof, vibrant colors take over the countryside each spring.

Cycle through the fields, stop for photos or simply take in the beauty of this seasonal spectacle. It’s a place where nature, tradition and color come together in a truly unique way.

A must-see experience that captures the essence of the Netherlands.

#TulipFields #VisitNetherlands #Keukenhof #SpringInHolland #FlowerFields

Living the Italian way. 🌿🍷

In the heart of Tuscany, life moves at a gentler pace. Under the shade of olive trees, long afternoons turn into golden evenings filled with simple pleasures, good food, local wine and meaningful moments.

From freshly picked olives to rustic outdoor tables, every detail reflects the beauty of living close to nature. It’s about enjoying, a true taste of the Italian dolce vita.

A place where time slows down and every moment feels just right. 

Experience it yourself — book a stay via book.hotel.eu.

#Tuscany #DolceVita #ItalyTravel #SlowLiving #CountrysideVibes

Rolling green hills, turquoise rivers and hidden cabins surrounded by forest capture the untouched beauty of Serbia’s countryside. Landscapes like these are often found in western Serbia around Tara National Park and along the winding Drina River, where nature feels peaceful, raw and quietly spectacular.

Walk through dense pine forests, discover panoramic viewpoints and stay in traditional mountain cabins overlooking the valleys. Serbia is perfect for travellers looking for authentic nature, slow moments and places that still feel undiscovered.

#Serbia #TaraNationalPark #DrinaRiver #VisitSerbia #HiddenEurope #NatureEscape #BalkanTravel #SlowTravel #ExploreEurope #TravelInspiration

Winter streets, pastel wooden houses and cosy cafés capture the everyday charm of Finland. These scenes are instantly recognisable as Porvoo Old Town, one of the country’s oldest and most beloved towns, known for its colourful façades, small boutiques and intimate cafés tucked along snowy streets.

Warm up with a coffee at local spots like Ani’s Café, wander past independent shops, and taste classic Finnish comfort food along the way. Finland in winter is quiet, welcoming and full of small moments that make you slow down and stay a little longer.

#Finland #Porvoo #PorvooOldTown #VisitFinland #NordicWinter #ScandinavianStyle #WinterTravel #SlowTravel #EverydayBeauty

Drive through the heart of Tuscany where rolling hills vineyards and endless rows of cypress trees define the landscape. This road is part of Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage area known for its iconic scenery and peaceful villages like Pienza, Montepulciano and Montalcino.

Explore small hill towns enjoy local wine and take your time on the winding country roads that make this region unforgettable. Italy here is about slow travel simple beauty and authentic experiences.

#Italy #Tuscany #ValdOrcia #VisitItaly #RoadTripEurope #HiddenGems #ExploreEurope #TravelInspiration #SlowTravel