Long the home of Portugal’s monarchs, Sintra is a magnificent town of marvelous historic mansions, all set against the backdrop of lush hills. Sintra’s many castles include the Palácio Nacional de Sintra (a main abode of Portuguese royalty until the early 20th century), the hilltop and storybook Palácio da Pena, Quinta de Regaleira (incorporating several architectural styles and with gorgeous surrounding gardens), the Castelo dos Mouros (Moorish Castle), and the Palácio de Monserrate.

Local legend claims that Freeport was the birthplace of Maine, the decision to separate from Massachusetts having been made in a local tavern way back in 1789. Whether this is truth or folklore, Freeport has much more to offer, including South Freeport, a historic harbourfront village offering up a fresh catch every day. Nearby Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park and the Mast Landing Audubon Sanctuary provide nature trails with scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean over the rocky shores of Maine.

Lynchburg, Virginia, in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, has had a prosperous history, serving as a center of trade, the home of numerous notable personages, and the site of the official end of the Civil War. Visit Appomattox Court House, where Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Ulysses S. Grant. The house and gardens of Harlem Renaissance poet Anne Spencer, the landmarked Old City Cemetery and Thomas Jefferson's retreat at Poplar Forest are also open for tours.