Much of northern Spain belongs to Castile-Leon, an autonomous region surrounded by mountains. Architectural gems like the Romanesque stonework of Segovia's city walls, the Gothic Burgos Cathedral and the dramatic Baroque square in Salamanca are complemented by the area's natural beauty. Parque Natural de las Hoces del Rio Duraton is marked with deep gorges and shelters many birds of prey, while Parque Natural del Lago de Sanabria y alrededores contains the largest glacier lagoon on the Iberian Peninsula.

Segovia is a picturesque old city with twisting alleyways, the highest concentration of Romanesque churches in all of Europe and pedestrian-only streets, all bordered by a medieval wall and two rivers. In 1985, this sleepy Castillan town was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO. One of the main tourist attractions is Alcázar, a royal palace built sometime around the 11th century where Queen Isabel agreed to fund Christopher Columbus’ exploration of the New World. The picturesque palace is said to be Walt Disney’s inspiration for Cinderella's Castle.

Known as Spain’s "golden city," Salamanca is rich in architectural, religious and gastronomic culture. Marvel at the La Casa de las Conchas (house of shells) and the 18th century Plaza Mayor, then pore over the fresh produce of the Central Market. Both the Old and New Cathedrals of Salamanca are celebrations of Renaissance and Gothic styles.

Encircled by some of the best-preserved defense walls in Europe, ancient Avila seems straight from the Castile region's medieval past. Nighttime illumination only adds to the allure of the turrets, fortified palaces, and cathedrals of this storybook World Heritage city.

The “smallest town” on earth, Durbuy, is just 2 hours from Brussels. With a population of 500, Durbury has maintained its charming medieval setting, another Belgium village to relax and enjoy the beauty of history. The city’s first castle was built around 889, awarded “city” status in 1331. Today its pedestrian streets are narrow, flowered and cobbled, winding between the old bluestone homes and buildings, attracting tourists to its shops, fine restaurants and hotels. In December, the streets are alive with Christmas markets. Adventurists can also kayak or raft the Ourthe River that passes through the city. Must-see Durbuy attractions include the Topiary Park, The Belvedere, The Confiturerie Saint-Amour, and with a last thirst-quenching stop at the Marckloff Brewery.

Glitzy Lech is one of Austria's most moneyed resort towns. Pricy, posh palaces abound, but this ostentatious, old-school winter wonderland has accommodation and a place on the pistes for all budgets. Popular since the 1920 and 1930s, this former farming town has managed to retain its original character and charm. Its somewhat isolated location forces an often tricky drive in inclement weather but also is part of what appeals to celebrity admirers. Nearest airports are Zurich and Innsbruck.

With a population of almost 300,000 in the city proper, Belfast has grown into a cosmopolitan destination and become a popular weekend break spot. With feelings of optimism and life pulsing through the city, Belfast makes for an energising getaway. It's never been easier to tour the city, thanks to a number of intriguing bus, taxi, boat and pedestrian options. Don't miss the Ulster Folk Museum or the Belfast Cathedral, and make sure to experience some of the award-winning restaurants, bars, clubs, galleries and theatres.

Clermont is a small city in Florida, west of Orlando. Clermont, which is known as the “gem of the hills,” is surrounded by gently sloping hills in an otherwise flat state. The historic downtown has not changes much in 50 years. Clermont is also home to one of the first constructed landmarks in Florida: the Citrus Tower. When you are settled into Clermont, plan a visit the Citrus Tower. It was built in 1956 on one of the highest hills in the area and serves as a monument to Florida’s citrus industry. It stands 226 feet high and has a glass-enclosed observation deck at the top. You can also visit the Showcase of Citrus to pick your own oranges or take an eco-tour in a giant swamp buggy and enjoy a glimpse into Florida’s past. The entire family will enjoy a perfect day in the citrus groves. When visiting Clermont, be sure to visit Revolution: The Off-Road Experience. It is a unique off-road motor and sports venue perfect for families staying in holiday rentals in the area. You can ride ATVs and dune buggies, water ski, or go bass fishing. In Clermont, you can hike, bike, go boating, or drop your line in a lake and wait for the fish to bite. Play a round of golf on one of the many world-class golf courses in the area. Lakeridge Winery is Florida’s largest premium winery and offers winery tours and wine tastings seven days a week. A visit to the President’s Hall of Fame, with wax figures and White House memorabilia, is a perfect afternoon trip. A short drive away from Clermont, is Disney World, Sea World, Universal Studios, and the bustling city of Orlando.