Few places evoke the spirit of the Scottish highlands as poignantly as Dunnottar Castle, a ruined fortress perched atop rugged rocky cliffs overlooking the North Sea, just 3 kilometres away from the town of Stonehaven. The buildings that remain date from the 15th and 16th centuries, and the combination of ruins and setting make for a memorable feeling and experience.

At the summit of this 15th-century castle lies the world-famous Blarney Stone. Legend has it that those who kiss the stone will receive "The Gift of the Gab" — eloquence and charm. The lesser-known Poison Garden features a collection of deadly and dangerous plants from around the world, while the Rock Close and numerous outdoor statues and artworks inspire a broader view of history. You'll also stumble upon a fern garden with the atmosphere of a tropical jungle deep in the woods. The castle is a short bus journey or drive from Cork City and one of Ireland's most iconic landmarks.

The Utah Olympic Park featured the 2002 Olympic Winter Games as a prime competition venue: the Park held Nordic jumping, bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton. Now there are nearly 400 acres of sporting facilities and visitor areas that can accommodate over 300,000 people. Watch athletes in training; explore the Alf Engen Ski History Museum and 2002 Eccles Winter Olympic Museum; daily guided tours of the Olympic competition sites; public bobsled rides starting in December; and chair lifts to the K120 Ski Jump’s summit.