Lago di Braies/Pragser Wildsee, South Tyrol, Italy ...

High scores show the quality that’s available from a red grape that’s widely grown in central Europe but still little seen or known further afield

Staying in Europe’s longest hotel in the pretty mountain town of Szczyrk is a wonderful way to discover Poland’s food culture and unspoiled landscapes, says Helena Lang

Tallinn’s coastline has long been shaking off its industrial look – the former militarised zone of Paljassaare Peninsula, for example, is now a forest-bathing and wild-swimming haven. Go 20 minutes ou

Blessed with perfect growing conditions and a proud culinary tradition, Croatia’s abundant north-western peninsula promises rich pickings for gastronomes, says Ben Olsen

From coastal salt pans to Alpine lakes, Slovenia defies its size to reveal remarkable traditions and a nature-first way of life