enchanting

A content creator duo, who focus on travel and lifestyle, have revealed a location which has one of the ‘best Christmas markets in Europe’ – and you’ve probably never even heard of it before

It’s that time of year when people are busy looking for somewhere with a magical Christmas market to visit, and if you’re searching for somewhere new this festive season, then you may want to listen up.

A content creator duo, who focus on travel and lifestyle, have revealed a location which has one of the ‘best Christmas markets in Italy‘ – and you’ve probably never even heard of it before. Trento’s Christmas market takes place in the city of Trento, in the region of Trentino in Northern Italy. The market, which was first established in 1993, features numerous wooden huts and stalls as well as two main squares: Piazza Fiera and Piazza Mostra in the historic centre.

Talking about the European market, couple Francesca & Tommaso, also known as @takemyhearteverywhere on TikTok, told their 153,000 followers: “You’ve probably never heard of Trento’s Christmas markets — but they’re among the most magical in Italy.

“This small Alpine city turns into a winter postcard every year, with traditional wooden stalls, twinkling lights and snowy mountains in the background.”

They revealed that Piazza Fiera is the main square where you can find the food, crafts, and festive lights. Meanwhile, Piazza Mostra is “more intimate” and focused on handmade gifts and decorations.

Those planning to visit the market can do so from November 21, with it running until January 6. Opening hours are 10am-8pm daily, while the food area is open until 9pm on a Friday and Saturday.

Sharing their tips, the couple named their “must-try” products as vin brulé, tortel di patate and canederli, strudel.

They also praised the market for being “one of the greenest: in Europe, with it being plastic-free and powered by renewables.

As well as the information, the couple shared a video montage of the market, as they held up cream-topped hot chocolates, showed off the adorable market stalls and tasty food on offer and gave a glimpse of Santa, the big wheel and the train at the market.

People were loving the travel tip, with the post racking up more than 19,000 likes.

One person exclaimed: “Oh wow,” after watching the clip, while another said it looked like it was ‘straight out of a Christmas movie”.

A third chimed in: “Wow, this looks like a Christmas wonderland.”

While a fourth agreed: “This looks so magical!”

How can you get there?

Those planning to visit Trento can fly into a nearby airport such as Verona Villafranca Airport (VRN), with the flight taking just two hours form London and costing as little as £40 for a return.

From Verona airport, visitors can take a train to Trento, which takes around 1 hour 20 minutes, with the market a 5/10 minute walk from the station.

Train and coach journeys are also available, however these take far longer and can range from 13-29 hours each way.

The village of Tintern in Monmouthshire, Wales, is a traveller favourite and is known for the majestic ruined abbey that sits in the centre of the village

Wales is renowned for its picturesque villages and breathtaking landscapes, but there’s one Welsh village that stands out from the rest.

Tintern, nestled in the heart of the stunning Wye Valley and hugging the west bank of the River Wye in Monmouthshire, is a sight to behold. The village is famed for its awe-inspiring ruined abbey, which sits majestically at its centre, making it a favourite among travellers.

The modern-day Tintern we see today is the result of two historically rich villages merging – Chapel Hill, forming the southern end, and Tintern Parva, making up the northern end. Since 1976, it has been a designated Conservation Area and underwent a name change in 2022 from Tintern to Wye Valley, along with some boundary alterations.

Despite its small size, Tintern holds immense historical significance. The star attraction is undoubtedly Tintern Abbey, a shining beacon in the celebrated Wye Valley.

Its stunning gothic architecture, complete with pointed arches, lancet windows, and ribbed vaults, leaves many visitors awestruck at first sight. Over the centuries, the magnificent ruins of this Cistercian monastery have enchanted visitors and inspired countless travellers, reports Wales Online.

Tintern, a village steeped in history and industrial heritage, has made its mark on the world in several significant ways. The Abbey Forge, nestled within this quaint village, is renowned as the birthplace of British brass production and was instrumental in pioneering wire manufacturing on an industrial scale.

Notably, it was here at Tintern’s Abbey Forge that the first transatlantic cable was crafted.

Today, Tintern serves as a popular destination for walkers and cycling enthusiasts, with numerous long-distance trails and circular routes either starting or passing through the village. A vast network of local footpaths crisscrosses the area, intersecting with two major long-distance paths: the Wye Valley Walk on the Welsh side and Offa’s Dyke path on the English side.

The charming St Mary the Virgin chapel on Chapel Hill is a favourite amongst tourists, and the village also boasts the award-winning Parva Farm Vineyard. Another must-visit spot in Tintern is the medieval church of St Michael in Tintern Parva.

Adding to the village’s attractions is the Tintern railway station, located just a mile’s walk above Tintern. Although passenger services ceased in 1959, the station remains operational as a bustling tourist centre.

As a dog-friendly village, visitors are welcome to bring their furry friends along when visiting any of Tintern’s numerous pubs and cafes, where they’re guaranteed a warm reception.

Getting to the village is straightforward, with the number 69 Wye Valley bus providing hourly services from both Monmouth and Chepstow.

Tintern Abbey

By the 18th century, Tintern Abbey had already become a must-see attraction as part of the Wye Tour along the river – and for good reason.

Most notably, Tintern Abbey inspired poems by literary giants such as William Wordsworth and Alfred Lord Tennyson, and was even the subject of breathtaking paintings by artist JMW Turner.

Tintern Abbey was first established on May 9, 1131, during the reign of King Henry I, by Walter de Clare alongside the river. The abbey was the second Cistercian foundation in Britain (following Waverley Abbey) and the first in Wales.

Initially, the abbey was simply a complex of timber buildings. However, between 1270 and 1301, it underwent reconstruction and was completely rebuilt.

The current remains at Tintern Abbey are a mix of architectural works spanning several centuries and its present-day remnants reflect this diverse architectural history. Once it was rebuilt, around four hundred monks, who originally came from a daughter house of Cîteaux in France, lived in the complex.

For four centuries, Tintern Abbey was a powerhouse in the local economy, with its land divided into farming units or granges. The locals worked the land and served the abbey and its many visitors, making it an integral part of Tintern village’s history and culture.

However, the abbey ceased operations following the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1536. In a more recent development, Cadw took over the management of Tintern Abbey in 1984.

By the late 18th century, tourism had begun to flourish in the Wye Valley, with many visitors travelling along the river to see the abbey and other scenic spots in the famous region. The poet William Wordsworth was one such visitor in 1798, and he wrote the well-known Lines Written a Few Miles above Tintern Abbey during his visit.

The construction of the turnpike road (now known as the A466) through the valley in 1829, followed by the arrival of the Wye Valley Railway in the 1870s, led to a significant increase in visitor numbers. This established tourism as the bedrock of Tintern’s economy, a legacy that continues to this day.

Today, Tintern Abbey attracts approximately 70,000 visitors each year, who travel from near and far to marvel at the stunning beauty of the historic abbey.

The popular woodland has proven a hit with visitors, who said it “belongs on every UK travel bucket list”

A “fairytale” woodland in the UK has been hailed as a “must-see” by visitors. Nestled in the Forest of Dean, the tranquil spot is celebrated for its “enchanting” atmosphere and has featured in a range of films, including Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

Puzzlewood, situated in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, has been dubbed an “enchanting forest” by those who have lauded its picturesque views. While it’s a well-known treasure among locals, Puzzlewood offers a serene escape for those from further afield.

The TikTok account @adventureamore1 posted a video highlighting the beauty of the woodland. The caption read: Step into one of the UK’s most magical forests…Puzzlewood, located in the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, is one of the most enchanting woodland experiences in England.

“Known for its twisted ancient trees, moss-covered rocks, winding pathways, and hidden bridges, this fairytale-like forest has inspired filmmakers and writers from around the world. It has been featured in blockbuster productions such as Star Wars, Doctor Who, and Merlin, making it a must-visit destination for film fans and nature lovers alike.

“Exploring Puzzlewood feels like walking through a real-life fantasy world. The forest is a natural labyrinth where every turn reveals something new — gnarled roots forming tunnels, shafts of sunlight streaming through the canopy, and secret paths that spark the imagination. Perfect for photographers, couples, families, and adventure seekers, Puzzlewood is one of the most unique outdoor attractions in the UK.

“If you’re looking for magical things to do in Gloucestershire or planning a Forest of Dean day trip, Puzzlewood is an unforgettable experience that belongs on every UK travel bucket list.”

In the footage, the TikToker added: “It’s hard to believe that this isn’t even the best bit of the walk, check this out. This enchanted forest is like stepping into a real life fantasy and was even the inspiration for the Lord of the Rings’ Middle Earth. Located in Gloucestershire, this is Puzzlewood. GL1 8QB.”

The clip proved popular, amassing 84k views and over 1,600 likes, sparking a range of comments from eager viewers. One viewer commented: “I’m so lucky to live very close to here and in the Forest of Dean, such a magical place.”

A second wrote: “This place is like out of a fantasy world.” A third added: “Been twice as my sister lives near it, beautiful place love it.”

The praise continued, with one person writing: “Less than an hour away from me, it’s stunning, the little farm and play area and shop are cutesy too.” A second said: “Wow serene” and a third added: “Looks absolutely amazing.”

Puzzlewood is less than a mile south of Coleford in the Forest of Dean. Visitors are advised to head to Coleford and follow the brown tourist signs for Puzzlewood. The postcode for Puzzlewood is GL16 8QB. For those travelling by train, the nearest railway stations are Lydney, Chepstow and Gloucester, though there are no taxi ranks at Lydney and Chepstow stations. Ordering a taxi in advance is recommended.

Puzzlewood is open from 10am every day in September and October, with last entry at 4pm. In November, the woodland is only open on Saturday, Sunday and Monday, from 10am, with last entry at 3pm.

Visitors are required to pay an entry fee; adults £9.90, children £8.50, children aged 2 and under are free. Adult concessions are priced at £8.90, while child concessions are £7.50.