From a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a little-known mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable finds from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their decision. But the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This charming town provides more than swimming. Tourists can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and stone-paved passageways lined with busy seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Local spots offer flaky pastries and refreshments with friendly welcome.
Retro Tunes in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized music bar promises great enjoyment. The vibe is fabulous, featuring a DJ playing exclusively records. Furniture are sometimes cleared to make dance floor. Open late into the night, the bar at times has live music, ensuring a great evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a quiet retreat. Travelers may walk to the peak of a ski run and climb a tall spiral viewing tower for stunning views over verdant landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture can be felt through rustic cuisine with hearty food and music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned naive artist, and the central spa features a number of spring taps to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. Featuring several stunning sandy coastlines, its lively centre comes alive nightly with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location provided a more authentic atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation offered easy a path to the sea and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from nearby cities. Yet, this service is reportedly threatened of closure. The journey features breathtaking viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are urged to experience this picturesque line before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is reachable by ferry from several countries. The landscape is attractive, characterized by coastline, forests, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is complimentary, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
It is possible to hike for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This hidden world offers wide-open vistas, marine life offshore, and an array of birdlife. The path meanders along marshes next to an river mouth, where remnants of ships can be seen. A journey can begin at a 7th-century chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved mountain road. Shut during winter, it typically opens in late spring. The trip requires numerous bends to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering excellent vistas. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, often covered in snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the opportunity for seeing animals, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a bustling city takes visitors to a car-free island. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined lanes lined with beautiful homes. The pace is leisurely, often paused by local felines and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The return journey is often spent planning thoughts for a future return to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a historic church is a archive that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses a vast collection of ancient books, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes gorgeous old cartography and
