Magnificently situated Urquhart Castle, on the banks of the Loch Ness
Halloween Inspired Walking Trips
Dracula and other myths and legends of Europe
European heritage is full of myths and legends. On the below trips you can search for leprechauns in Ireland, try to spot Nessie in Scotland, stalk the original Werewolf in France or follow Count Dracula’s footsteps and explore the mysterious yet spectacular land that surrounds its decaying castle in the Carpathian Mountains...
IRELAND | Leprechauns
One of Ireland’s most enduring myths, the legend of the leprechaun can be traced back to 8th century tales about water spirits called ‘luchorpán’ (meaning ‘small body’). Tiny but mischievous, the leprechaun is often depicted as an aged man in a red or green coat. According to traditional folklore, they are known to hide pots of gold at the end of a rainbow – so if you are lucky enough to find and capture one, you can barter his freedom for his treasure!
>> A Taste of the Wicklow Way. 5 day self guided walk. View trip details.
>> The Wicklow Way. 7 day self guided walk. View trip details.
>> The Wicklow Way. 9 day itinerary also available (view here).
>> View all active holidays in Ireland - click here.
SCOTLAND | Nessie
One of Scotland’s most enduring myths, the famous ‘Nessie’ (or Loch Ness Monster) resides in Loch Ness, the second largest loch in the Scottish Highlands, which is dotted with centuries-old forts and castles, a silent witness to the country’s turbulent past. Although evidence of its existence is anecdotal, with disputed photographic material and sonar readings, popular interest and belief in Nessie’s existence has soared since it was first brought to the world’s attention in 1933.
>> Great Glen Way. 8 day self guided walk. View trip details.
>> View all active holidays in Scotland - click here.
ROMANIA | Count Dracula
Immortalised by Bram Stoker in his 1897 gothic horror novel Dracula, the archetypal vampire was inspired by the 15th century Romanian general and Wallachian Prince Vlad III the Impaler, who was also known as Dracula. A Transylvanian nobleman, Count Dracula lives in a decaying castle in the Carpathian Mountains, a mysterious yet spectacular land, and exudes a veneer of aristocratic charm.
>> Transylvania Castles & Mountains. 6 day self guided walk. View trip details.
>> View all active holidays in Romania - click here.
FRANCE | Beast of Gévaudan (the original Werewolf)
In 18th century France, in the south central region of Gevaudan (now Lozere and Haute-Loire), an alleged wolf-dog hybrid terrorised the local community. This man-eating animal attacked an estimated 210 people, resulting in 113 deaths and 49 injuries. Victims were often killed by having their throats torn out. Fortunately the French kingdom spent a lot of resources to find the beast, with a hunter eventually slaying it with bullets forged from silver. This is said to inspire the legend of werewolves and how only silver bullets can be used against them.
>> The Way of St James – Le Puy to Aumont. 5 day self guided walk. Click for trip details.
>> View all active holidays in France - click here.
Have you been to any of these destinations already? What did you think? Let us know in the comments.