From a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a forgotten alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their standout finds from their journeys.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after arriving, a traveler wondered about their decision. Yet the initial suspicions soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This charming town offers more than swimming. Tourists are able to stroll through beautiful piazzas and narrow alleys filled with vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Places in town serve up flaky pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Retro Tunes in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated club offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ spinning just records. Chairs and tables are routinely cleared to create dancing. Open until the early hours, the bar sometimes hosts live bands, guaranteeing a memorable experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a serene retreat. Visitors are able to climb to the peak of a ski run and climb a large wooden viewing tower for stunning views over verdant fields. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional dining offering hearty food and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a prolific painter, and the town centre boasts a number of medicinal water fountains to try.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. Featuring multiple beautiful sandy beaches, its lively centre is active in the evenings with families. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location provided a local atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. A hotel featured convenient entry to the sea and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from the region. Yet, this line is potentially threatened of shutting down. The journey features spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Travelers are advised to ride this unique line soon.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is reachable by boat from several countries. The countryside is beautiful, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is complimentary, with a ticket for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This hidden area boasts sweeping vistas, seals offshore, and an abundance of birds. The path winds along estuarine bordering an estuary, where wrecks of ships are visible. A hike can begin at a 7th-century chapel, among the earliest in England, and conclude in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Closed during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The journey involves many bends to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking views. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, directly. The route also includes the chance for spotting bears, adding to the memorable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a major city transports travelers to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, guests stroll along quiet roads lined with beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, frequently interrupted by local cats and chances to look back at the distant mainland. The return journey is usually spent planning ideas for a next visit to this special retreat.
Top Discovery: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a library that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses numerous of magnificent books, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection features exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
