From a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a little-known mountain train line in France, explorers have shared their most memorable finds from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their selection. Yet the first hesitations quickly faded upon entering Piran. This delightful town provides beyond just swimming. Guests may meander through ornate Venetian squares and cobbled lanes filled with vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Places in town offer flaky pastries and beverages with warm service.
Classic Tunes in Berlin
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed venue is great enjoyment. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning just records. Furniture are often cleared to allow for dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar sometimes has live bands, ensuring a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a serene getaway. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a slope and ascend a large spiral viewing tower for stunning panoramas over lush fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Their culture can be felt through traditional dining offering robust dishes and folk music. A gallery displays the work of a prolific folk artist, and the central spa features multiple spring water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. Featuring multiple stunning sandy beaches, its lively centre comes alive nightly with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town delivered a local feel at a much lower of the cost. A hotel provided direct entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great excursion from the region. However, this service is said to be under threat of being closed. The trip includes breathtaking bridges around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to ride this special line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost built by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for miles along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This undiscovered area offers wide-open views, seals offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail follows along marshes next to an river mouth, where remains of boats are visible. A walk can start at a very old church, reportedly the earliest in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt mountain road. Closed during winter, it usually opens in late spring. The journey features many switchbacks to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering excellent views. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, often covered in snow, directly. The drive also includes the opportunity for wildlife sightings, completing the remarkable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A quick boat trip from a major city takes travelers to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, visitors stroll along quiet streets lined with historic houses. The feel is slow, frequently broken by local felines and chances to look back at the skyline of the city. The return journey is usually accompanied by ideas for a comeback to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Tucked away behind a historic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses a vast collection of rare volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection showcases detailed Renaissance-era maps and
