Lakes

The picture-perfect village of Beddgelert in the heart of Eryri/Snowdonia National Park is a hidden gem that’s well worth a visit – and it’s even home to some Welsh myths and legends

Tucked away within the stunning Eryri/Snowdonia National Park sits the enchanting village of Beddgelert.

Whilst countless tourists speed past en route to conquer Mount Snowdon, this postcard-perfect settlement deserves a proper visit.

Embraced by sweeping emerald valleys, meandering waterways and framed by towering peaks, Beddgelert conceals centuries of fascinating heritage and serves as home to captivating Welsh folklore.

The stone-constructed village spans a gurgling brook and serves as an ideal base for discovering the area’s walking routes and pathways, from the Aberglaslyn Pass southward, Nant Gwyan eastward, or tackling Snowdon northward.

The Beddgelert website emphasises the local landscape shouldn’t be overlooked, saying: “Wooded vales, rocky slopes and mountain lakes fill the surrounding countryside.”, reports the Express.

“And what a countryside it is, with scenery, activities, attractions, history and culture for all.”

Welsh tourism specialists confirm “everyone loves Beddgelert”, with its mythical roots enhancing its appeal further.

Beddgelert’s name translates to “Gelert’s grave”, linking the settlement to the medieval tale of Llywelyn the Great and his loyal dog Gelert.

Legend tells how Llywelyn came home to discover his infant gone and Gelert bloodied around the muzzle.

Believing Gelert had harmed his child, Llywelyn slayed his faithful companion. Only moments later, he heard his child’s cry and found them safe and sound, next to a slain wolf that Gelert had bravely defended the child from.

Overcome with grief and regret for killing his faithful dog, Llywelyn held a grand funeral for Gelert in the village.

A tomb was built for the heroic dog by a local landlord in the 18th century, with a walk and trail offering a splendid way to discover the village and its surrounding hills.

Once you’ve returned, the quaint yet welcoming village offers plenty of activities to keep you entertained, whether it’s snuggling up in one of the hotels, B&Bs, or guesthouses or spending the afternoon by a fire at a local pub.

Despite its legendary status, Beddgelert remains a small hamlet, home to fewer than 500 residents, but it is brimming with warmth and charm.

Its cobbled streets, medieval stone cottages, and pubs transport you back to a storybook setting, making it an ideal autumn destination, with Fine Country event naming it as one of the UK’s “prettiest autumn villages”.

For a unique perspective on the village’s history, the nearby Sygun Copper Mine is worth a visit. Copper has been mined in the Snowdon valleys for centuries, with some sources even dating it back to Roman times.

But for a glimpse into its more recent past, Beddgelert is also situated on the historic Welsh Highland Railway, which runs from Caernarfon to Porthmadog.

Queenstown is the most tranquil destination in the world, thanks to its low levels of noise and light pollution, cleanliness rating and quality of green spaces

If you’re seeking a holiday where tranquillity, breath aking scenery and utter relaxation are the order of the day, then one destination should be at the top of your list.

Tucked away on the other side of the globe, nestled between the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wakatipu and the majestic Southern Alps, is the New Zealand city of Queenstown. Recently crowned the most serene spot on earth by TravelBag, this enchanting city is a pristine paradise waiting to be discovered.

It offers an unspoilt environment that encourages you to truly unwind, disconnect, and immerse yourself in nature.

The travel experts analysed 26 locations to identify the most peaceful, using key indicators such as noise and light pollution, cleanliness, and the quality of green spaces, with Queenstown emerging victorious.

Queenstown scored an impressive cleanliness rating of 91.7, outshining all other destinations, and a high green space quality score of 94.4.

With relatively low traffic congestion and minimal light pollution, Queenstown is an ideal location for stargazing, reports the Express.

It’s also a fantastic destination to visit throughout the year.

During the winter months, visitors can enjoy superb ski fields and cosy eateries, while the summer sees the city transform into a sun-drenched haven boasting numerous hiking and biking trails, as well as stunning swimming spots.

For thrill-seekers, there’s bungee jumping, ziplines and paragliding.

And for those who prefer a more tranquil experience, there are hot pools with breathtaking views over the alps, as well as spas and wellness centres.

If you fancy visiting this stunning location and experiencing all it has to offer, bear in mind that it is somewhat off the beaten track.

A flight from the UK to Queenstown takes approximately 25 hours, but departures are available daily.

If you’re after a winter getaway, the optimal time to travel is between June and August, whereas for a summer holiday, December through to February is the best period to visit.

Laguna Verde in Bolivia is a breathtaking natural wonder, but the emerald-green waters of the lake hide a deadly secret – it is one of the most poisonous lakes in the world

Nestled amidst the rugged landscapes of Bolivia, Laguna Verde is a captivating sight to behold. However, beneath its enchanting emerald-green waters lies a lethal secret – it’s one of the most toxic lakes in the world. Situated at the base of the majestic Licancabur volcano within the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve, this remarkable lake resides over 4,300 meters above sea level.

The lake is heavily polluted with high levels of arsenic, copper, and other minerals, creating an environment too hostile for life to thrive. The distinctive green tint of the lake is attributed to the high concentration of dissolved copper which, when combined with arsenic, makes the water highly poisonous.

Yet, despite its perilous nature, Laguna Verde continues to attract adrenaline junkies and photographers, lured by its alien-like landscape. Depending on wind conditions and mineral disturbances in the water, the lake’s ethereal colour oscillates between shades of turquoise and deep green.

The lake’s toxicity stems from natural geological processes. Beneath Licancabur, volcanic activity has resulted in mineral-rich deposits leaking into the lake, forming a deadly mix of arsenic, lead, and sulphur, reports the Daily Star.

These harmful elements inhibit the growth of any substantial aquatic life. Even birds, commonly seen wading in Andean lakes, steer clear of Laguna Verde’s waters.

Scientists have been studying the lake’s harsh environment to gain insights into how life could survive in similar conditions elsewhere, such as on Mars.

The region’s extreme climate, high UV radiation and unique chemical composition offer invaluable knowledge for astrobiologists researching alien environments.

Despite Laguna Verde’s dangers, it continues to attract travellers who journey through Bolivia’s remote Altiplano region to marvel at its captivating colours.

Visitors are urged to appreciate the lake from a safe distance as contact with the water can be dangerous. The high altitude also presents risks, with many tourists suffering from altitude sickness if they’re not properly acclimatised.

Bolivia is a land of towering heights, holding the title for the highest country in South America and boasting the world’s highest capital city, La Paz, with about a third of the nation nestled within the Andes Mountains.

Licancabur Volcano, straddling the Bolivia-Chile border, is topped by a 400-500 metre wide summit crater. It’s considered potentially active, but SERNAGEOMIN rates it as low-risk and ranked it as the 68th most dangerous volcano in Chile in 2023.

Several crew members of two Victory Cruise Lines vessels have been removed by US Customs and Border Protection officers.

Thirteen staff members from two ships were rounded up and removed last week in Detroit during planned calls.

Five were taken from Victory II and another eight from Victory I two days later.

The cruise line says the crew gained the necessary approvals to work onboard the ships at the start of their contracts.

Like most cruise lines, the company uses a third party staffing agency which takes care of staff vetting and work visas.

It hasn’t been disclosed exactly why they were removed.

Victory Cruise Lines says it is working with federal authorities.

“A limited number of Victory Cruise Lines crew were recently removed from Victory I and Victory II by U.S. Customs and Border Protection,” Victory chairman John Waggoner confirmed.

“We are actively cooperating with federal authorities to clarify the circumstances, and my priority is always our crew and the experience for our guests.”

A beautiful lake in Europe is worth adding to your travel wishlist thanks to its crystal waters and gorgeous surroundings complete with storybook-worthy villages

“You’re not doing it right if you don’t fall off,” yells our wetsuit-clad instructor from across one of Austria’s clearest lakes. Still wary of tumbling headfirst off the paddleboard into the depths of Lake Fuschl, in SalzburgerLand, I edge one foot out first and try to straighten up jelly-like legs as the board bobs up and down on waves beneath.

Once upright and successfully pulling the paddle through the water, silence falls on the crystal-clear lake, giving way to moments of peace and stunning 360 degree views. A few hundred yards off land, we’re surrounded by cloudless, azure skies and turquoise water so pure we’re told you can drink it.

Only hours before our sun-soaked paddleboard lesson – plus a quick wild dip in the lake – we were hiking through mountains in bright white snow and stepping across tiny streams with makeshift walking poles.

As a nature lover who will always opt for the great outdoors over conventional city breaks, I jumped at the chance of a soul-­cleansing trip to sample some of the 500 lakes, 6,200 miles of hiking trails and 4,350 miles of biking trails the region has to offer.

Each day we enjoyed a daily dose of fresh alpine air, relaxed back at the spa and filled up on hearty meals of fresh local meat, cheese and fish. We experienced scenic lakeside walks at Lakes Fuschl and Wolfgangsee, tried out the “new way of life” in Austria on rented e-bikes, and explored villages that could be straight out of a fairy tale.

But I also found an unexpected love for the city of Mozart – Salzburg – as we spent hours strolling through charming streets, embracing its rich history and pretty domed buildings.

Where to stay and what to see

Part of the Marriott chain, the warmth and character of Arabella Jagdhof Resort am Fuschlsee, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, comes through its hunting-style decor, complete with antlers and fur.

My suite was so large, I opened two doors expecting to find the bedroom, only to discover a surprise walk-in wardrobe and large bathroom with his-and-hers sinks.

Each night after adventure-packed days in nature, I wound down at the hotel’s mood-lit pool and Jacuzzi. Worries melted away as I swam towards the rolling Austrian hills, visible through floor-to-ceiling windows. I decided, there and then, that spa hotels like this are an essential base for any Austrian holiday.

But the hotel’s position, nestled in a valley overlooking the mountains, is by far the highlight. I was blown away every time I sat on the terrace, tucking into chai puddings and smoked salmon from the extensive breakfast buffet. And only a short stride away from the hotel is the picturesque hiking trail around Lake Fuschl, which I would have made a morning-routine walk had we more time.

It’s worth taking a pit stop along the route at family-run bistro, Schloss Fuschl Fischerei, for delicious baps, or seasonal soup made from the lake’s very own catch of the day. “And if you’re too full, you can take the boat back across the lake,” laughs the fisherman’s wife.

Along with the boats, e-bikes are becoming an increasingly popular mode of transport to easily explore Austria’s hilly landscape. I’m new to them but as I try out a KTM e-ride from the hotel, I’m immediately converted. With an extra boost on every push, and peaceful cycle trails running from the hotel, I feel I could ride my way to our next stop of Salzburg 12 miles away.

As we arrive in our planned taxi, we quickly find there’s plenty to see and do in the city – likely too much to squeeze into one day. We managed to do a lot with a six-hour guided tour, strolling pristineand safe-feeling streets by foot. We also made the most of the free buses with a Salzburg Card, which gives access to public transport, discounts and entry to landmarks.

Among them is the impressive and unmissable Hellbrunn Palace, a short bus ride away from the centre. As we took a gentle audio-guided tour around the early baroque villa, I was truly left in awe.

The elaborate palace and its grounds were designed by Prince Archbishop Markus Sittikus to amuse, amaze and “trick” guests. But somehow, 400 years on, the world-famous landmark, with intricate details in every room and hydro-­powered surprises, is still doing just that.

We spent a day venturing 19 miles east to Wolfgangsee, trying out Austria’s steepest cog railway – running up the Schafberg mountain since 1893.

Due to the weather, we could only go halfway but travelling up in the train’s bright crimson carriages proves a delightful time warp through snow-covered mountains. Priced at around £40, it’s a costly experience, but well worth it for the panoramic views alone.

We’re told the lakes are so clear here in Wolfgangsee they are used as “reference points” for all of Europe, and their Christmas markets are second to none – I immediately want to book trips for both peak summer to swim and December for festivities.

Where to eat

From elegant, award-winning restaurants to hidden wooden huts tucked away in the mountains, SalzburgerLand is certainly not in short supply of mouthwatering food in beautiful surroundings.

On one end of the spectrum, you have the traditional, hearty Austrian dishes that will fill your belly with warmth after a long day hiking. And on the other, superb tasting menus showcase the region’s freshly caught fish or melt-in-your-mouth game.

After a hike in Hintersee, we discovered a wooden hut called Gruberalm among the snow. There, we tucked into traditional Kasnocken, digging our forks into cheesy dumplings straight from a huge sharing pan, all washed down with homemade elderberry juice.

We also ate until we couldn’t eat any more in our very own intimate barbecue grill hut, rented for the evening in the garden of Hotel Jakob in quaint Fuschl.

Stepping over a peaceful stream to reach the snug pine cabin, we took our seats around the grill, basking in its warmth as we eyed up the plentiful stocks of meat, fish and sides to cook and devour as we pleased. Our cosy hut filled with the smell of charcoal steak and salmon as we told stories, took turns to cook and sipped endless wine in a circle around the fire. All topped off with a joyful double helping of apple strudel and a dollop of whipped cream.

As we made our way up to dinner on another evening, I saw the sun set over the rolling green fields of Thalgau and wondered how the day could get any better.

Then, imagine our delight at discovering our destination restaurant was secluded, located in the middle of a forest and at the foot of a hiking trail.

The charming, large wooden hut of Forsthaus Wartenfels appeared out of nowhere among a thicket of autumnal trees as hikers ventured down from their sunset walks. Inside, welcoming staff served up course after course of inspired, authentic dishes in an elegant setting, each more delicious than the next. Think flavoured butters, moreish sheep’s cheese starters, and tender veal on a bed of dumplings.

As we made our way back down from dinner, the clear night sky was peppered with bright stars. A full moon lit up silhouettes of the hills and I was reminded just how long Austria, with all its striking scenery, has been sitting on my bucket list. Luckily for me, SalzburgerLand, with all its spark and charm, was the perfect place to tick it off.

Book the holiday

Get there: British Airways flies from Gatwick to Salzburg starting at £56 one-way. Find out more at ba.com.

Stay there: Rooms at the Arabella Jagdhof Resort am Fuschlsee, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel in Fuschl, SalzburgerLand, start at around £213 B&B. Find out more at marriott.com.

Extras: Five Treasures ticket around £77 adult/£39 child (Schafbergbahn, Lake Wolfgang cruise, Monchberg Railway, Wasserspiegl, Monchsberg elevator). Find out more at 5schaetze.at.

You can also get further information at salzburgerland.com, wolfgangsee.at and fuschlsee.salzkammergut.at.

Aidan Zingg, a motocross prodigy who recently signed with Kawasaki’s prestigious Team Green program, died Saturday at age 16 from injuries sustained during the Mammoth Mountain MX event in Mammoth Lakes.

During a 250cc B class race, Zingg “went down in a corner,” according to industry website Dirtbikelover.com and was run over by other bikes.

Zingg, who grew up in Hemet before his family moved to the state of Washington, won the American Motorcyclist Assn. 2024 Amateur National Championship in Supermini 2, held at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tenn. He recently qualified for the championships for a seventh consecutive year.

Aidan’s sister Alex Zingg, 18, on Sunday posted a tribute to her brother.

“It’s been a day and I feel like it’s been a lifetime,” she wrote on Instagram. “My heart is completely broken. You used to joke that I was so old and that I’d die first, I would always joke that you were crazy and you’d be the first. Now I’m sitting here wishing with everything that I am that you were right so I’d never have to live a day without you.”

Zingg began racing in elementary school and soon dominated the 65cc, 85cc and Supermini classes. After signing with Kawasaki’s Team Green, he showed immense promise at the 250cc class. His other sponsors included Oakley, Bell, and Renthal.

“It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Kawasaki Team Green rider Aidan Zingg,” Kawasaki Racing posted on X. “Zingg’s dedication and kind demeanor will forever be remembered.”

Motocross journalist Donn Maeda was among those to pay tribute to Zingg on social media, writing that he was “one of those kids that made an impression on you from the moment you met him. I interviewed him for our race series years ago when he was on a 65 and when I asked him how long it’d be until he beat his dad [former racer Robert Zingg]. He smirked and said, ‘Soon, I’m sure.’

“After that, he always went out of his way to say hello, even recently when he grew into a fast big bike rider…. you know; the age when teens get cocky and cool. Not Aidan.”

Zingg’s last social media post came 10 days before his death. A joint Instagram post with MotoSport.com of Zingg racing read: “Remember the name… @aidanzingg.”