From a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a overlooked mountain train line in France, visitors revealed their standout finds from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor questioned about their choice. But the first doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This charming town presents more than swimming. Guests are able to stroll through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled alleys housing vibrant eateries. Concrete platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Places in town offer delicious pastries and beverages with friendly welcome.
Retro Tunes in Berlin
For fans of classic rock, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ playing just records. Chairs and tables are often moved to make space to dance. Open late into the night, the bar at times hosts live bands, ensuring a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a serene retreat. Travelers are able to climb to the top of a slope and ascend a tall twisting platform for magnificent views over green fields. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Their culture can be experienced through traditional dining offering robust fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned painter, and the central spa boasts a number of spring water sources to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful discovery. Boasting three wonderful white sand beaches, its bustling centre is active every night with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot provided a local experience at a fraction of the cost. The lodging offered easy access to the beach and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect journey from nearby cities. However, the route is potentially at risk of closure. The trip features breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are urged to see this special railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is striking, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost established by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the site is free, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
It is possible to hike for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This undiscovered world offers expansive vistas, seals in the water, and an abundance of birds. The trail follows along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of ships can be seen. A journey can commence at a 7th-century church, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in early summer. The journey involves numerous bends to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking vistas. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, by car. The journey also offers the opportunity for seeing animals, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short journey from a bustling metropolis transports travelers to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along tree-lined lanes featuring grand mansions. The rhythm is leisurely, frequently interrupted by resident cats and moments to stare back at the distant mainland. The trip home is usually filled with ideas for a future return to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses numerous of ancient volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The display includes exquisite old maps and
