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Cat Ekkelboom-WhiteExplorer

Cat is a British ex-pat living in the Alps. She is Europe's leading adventure elopement photographer at Wild Connections Photography, empowering couples to choose adventure and plan a wedding day that celebrates their love of the outdoors.

Lauterbrunnen is on most people's must-see list for Switzerland, which means it can get very busy. Does that mean you shouldn't visit? Absolutely NOT! It's such a pretty town! Go and see the famous Staubach waterfall and then take one of the cable cars or trains up to one of the villages, or travel further down the valley. Whatever you do, you'll be blown away by the incedible scenery.

If you passing through Liechtenstein, you should definitely stop off at Vaduz castle. The walk up to the castle is easy and you can see all the way to the end of the border from the top (which isn't that surprising since the country is so tiny haha).

You can't come to Bled and not do this hike. We got up early and came here before breakfast and the views were incredible. I highly recommend it.

Over the last few years, the hanging bridge near the Olpererhütte has become famous on social media. This once beautiful hike has now turned into a highway of underprepared hikers. Unfortunately, don't be surprised if you find yourselves waiting in line on the trails behind people hiking up in sandals who want to stand in line to get a photo on the bridge. Be prepared, dress appropriately for hiking in alpine terrain, take plenty of water, snacks and sun protection.

I'll always love Lago di Braies, but it's become such a tourist trap in the last few years that it really just feels like a theme park now more than a national park. If you want to visit, arrive early and try to visit on a weekday in the shoulder season if you want to avoid the crowds. The boathouse is open from May to October as long as the water level is high enough.

I've only done a few sections of this route but it was absolutely breathtaking. My favourite sections are definitely from Fanes to Nuvolau. Lagazuoi which is like a moon landscape which is pretty incredible.

Lofoten in summer is on everyone's bucket list but winter is definitely an amazing time to visit too. We visited last December and were blown away by how incredible the scenery was, even when the sun never rose above the horizon.

Hiking the Tre Cime circuit is one of the best day hikes in the Dolomites. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking and the hike is relatively easy for people with less hiking experience. Definitely something you should add to your Dolomites itinerary. I definitely recommend driving up the toll road and starting the loop at Rifugio Auronzo as early as possible to enjoy a full day in this amazing location. Or if your itinerary allows, stay overnight in one of the mountain huts to watch the amazing sunset and sunrise from up here (wild camping isn't allowed in the Dolomites so don't risk setting up tents up here if you don't want a hefty fine).

Lago di Braies is a Dolomites must-see. To really experience this beautiful spot, I highly recommend hiking the full circuit around the lake. Most of the crowds stick to the shoreline closest to the hotel and boathouse, so if you want to have a more intimate adventure, take the trail that loops around the lake. This easy hiking trail takes around 1 hour, although you'll probably find it'll take you longer as you'll almost certainly want to stop every few meters to take pictures.

Despite the huge crowds, you still can't come to the Dolomites and not visit Lago di Braies. Make sure to arrive early to avoid the largest crowds. Taking out a boat on the lake is a great way to get away from other people and enjoy floating around on the lake surrounded by towering mountains all around you.

No matter how short your stay is in Innsbruck, a trip up the Nordkette must be on the itinerary. From the very top station, the Hafelekar, you can hike up to the summit cross where you'll be rewarded with incredible views across the Inn valley on one side and the Karwendal National Park on the other. Disembark the lift at the Seegrube and explore the greener pastures where you'll often find mountain sheep and goats grazing in the summer. You can also get something to eat and drink at the restaurant there.

Bled is such a beautiful spot. It's definitely worth getting up early before all the crowds are up and about.