Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a forgotten alpine railway in France, travelers have shared their most memorable finds from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after getting off the bus, one visitor wondered about their selection. But the initial hesitations soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque settlement presents beyond just swimming. Guests are able to stroll through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled alleys housing vibrant eateries. Man-made platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Local spots offer delicious pastries and refreshments with genuine service.
Classic Sounds in Germany's Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed club offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, featuring a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl records. Seating are sometimes cleared to allow for dancing. Operating late, the bar at times has performances, making for a great experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful retreat. Visitors can hike to the peak of a slope and climb a large spiral lookout for magnificent views over green pastures. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional restaurants with robust dishes and folk music. A gallery displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the town centre features multiple spring taps to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant discovery. With several wonderful pristine shores, its bustling town center comes alive in the evenings with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town offered a genuine atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. A hotel provided direct a path to the sea and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from nearby cities. But, the route is reportedly under threat of shutting down. The journey features spectacular viaducts around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Visitors are advised to ride this picturesque line soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is attractive, featuring coastline, forests, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress built by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is complimentary, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can stroll for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This secret area boasts sweeping views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail follows along salt marsh next to an estuary, where wrecks of ships lie. A journey can start at a 7th-century place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The drive requires numerous bends to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent views. Drivers can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The drive also includes the opportunity for spotting bears, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a major metropolis transports travelers to a peaceful island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, visitors walk along quiet roads lined with historic houses. The feel is slow, with time interrupted by resident cats and moments to gaze back at the distant city. The return journey is often filled with plans for a comeback to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a archive that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of magnificent volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
