mark McAlpine

Hidden in the hills of the Italian Riviera, Dolceacqua, Italy’s Secret Underground Village, is a maze of stone bridges, tunnels, and castle ruins. Once powered by the salt trade, it’s a timeless place where history, art, and wine meet beneath ancient arches.

Ever wondered what it’s really like to climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa? From the famous “holding it up” photos below to the dizzying tilt you can feel at the top, this iconic tower is full of surprises. Join me as I take on all 294 steps, explore its history, and see the view that makes every wobbly moment worth it.

Episode 2 takes a gothic turn as I follow in Dracula’s footsteps. From a pint at the Green Dragon and a quirky shop wander, to climbing the 199 Steps, exploring St Mary’s graveyard, circling the Abbey ruins and descending the Donkey Road — this was a day tracing the darker side of Whitby.