Are you a myths and legends enthusiast? Over the centuries, Europe's become home to a number of mythical and mystical creatures. From Scandinavian trolls and the fabled Count Dracula to Ireland's enduring leprechauns and the ancient Greek mythology. If the supernatural dimension intrigues you, there are quite a few trips to choose with a ‘legendary’ twist… Here are five of the best active trips to heighten your senses and discover the unknown:

Count Dracula

Visit Dracula's Bran Castle in Romania, Transylvania 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 lived in the decaying Bran castle in the Carpathian Mountains, a mysterious yet spectacular land.

• Visit the Bran Castle

Explore the mysterious yet spectacular land that surrounds Count Dracula’s decaying castle in the Carpathian Mountains.  

Leprechauns

Looking down on Glendalough along the Wicklow Way, perhaps you may spot a leprechaun in One of Ireland's most enduring myths, the legend of the leprechaun can be traced back to eighth-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!

• Visit Ireland

Trolls

Trace the history of trolls in Iceland Iceland's ‘Land of Fire and Ice’ trolls play a big part in the folklore that has shaped the beliefs of modern-day Icelanders. According to the legend, at one time, Iceland was densely populated with trolls, creatures of fierce temper that lived in or around mountains. If you're curious to get a glimpse of how the hidden people lived, head to the Icelandic Wonders museum dedicated to trolls and elves!

• Visit Iceland

Nessie

Mysterious Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands Scottish Highlands, 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. The area is dotted with centuries-old forts and castles - silent witnesses 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 soared since it was first brought to the world’s attention in 1933.

• Visit the Scottish Highlands

12 Greek Gods

Discover the mythical Mount Olympus in Greece Mount Olympus In Greek mythology, 12 gods and goddesses lived, held thrones, and presided over every aspect of human life from atop the highest then-known mountain, the mythical Mount Olympus (thus also known as the Olympians). Led by Zeus, the Olympians ruled after the overthrow of the Titans and are all related in some way. The Romans later adopted most of these Greek gods and goddesses but with new names.

• Visit Mount Olympus

For more active and ‘legendary’ holiday ideas in Europe have a look at the complete overview of UTracks trips or get in touch with our teams via phone or email.