I have to say I enjoy this game a lot...
My char is lvl 15 now and I've explored the world quite a bit. I've got one-two side-quests, however, where I have no idea how to proceed.
1. can't find the South pass leading to the old mine (Traces) -- I will keep searching though.
2. ruins of Isela -- no idea how to "activate" the gate upstairs -- the one with two skeletons hanging on both sides, in the large chamber. I sniffed every nook and cranny searching for a hidden switch. I left, returned after a long while, searched again to no avail. Any hint?