

Standing deep in the German countryside for over 500 years, Heidelberg Castle was once home to the country's first university and is now part of the surrounding ecosystem. From toads swimming in the grounds' fountains to peregrine falcons nesting in the bell tower, tour a medieval mausoleum steeped in nature.
Standing deep in the German countryside for over 500 years, Heidelberg Castle was once home to the country's first university and is now part of the surrounding ecosystem. From toads swimming in the grounds' fountains to peregrine falcons nesting in the bell tower, tour a medieval mausoleum steeped in nature.
North of the Pyrenees stands the ancient Carcassonne, a stone fortress that's faced sieges, endured the brutality of the Spanish Inquisition, and thrived as a center of wealth during the salt trade a millennia ago. Today, it's a protected sanctuary and an avian paradise for robust avocets, exotic flamingos, and more.