From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked alpine railway in France, travelers disclosed their most memorable finds from their journeys.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. But the early hesitations rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful settlement presents beyond just a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved passageways lined with busy places to eat. Man-made diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Local spots offer crisp pastries and drinks with warm service.
Retro Tunes in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated club is a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, with a DJ using only vinyl. Furniture are sometimes cleared to allow for space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar sometimes has live music, guaranteeing a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a quiet retreat. Travelers can hike to the peak of a hill and ascend a giant wooden lookout for magnificent panoramas over lush fields. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional dining serving robust fare and music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa boasts multiple mineral water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant choice. Featuring three wonderful sandy beaches, its vibrant town center is active in the evenings with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a local experience at a fraction of the price. Accommodation provided convenient a path to the beach and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from a nearby city. However, this line is reportedly under threat of being closed. The journey features photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to see 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 strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is reachable by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, characterized by coastline, forests, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can hike for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This undiscovered world provides wide-open views, seals offshore, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path follows along estuarine bordering an estuary, where remains of ships can be seen. A walk can start at a very old place of worship, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Closed during winter, it usually reopens in June. The trip involves many switchbacks to climb the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible scenery. Travelers can access a mountain lake, often covered in snow, without a cable car. The journey also includes the opportunity for spotting bears, completing the memorable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A short boat trip from a bustling metropolis transports visitors to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers stroll along historic lanes featuring beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, frequently paused by resident felines and opportunities to stare back at the distant city. The ferry back is usually filled with plans for a comeback to this unique sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Located behind a historic church is a archive that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
