From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain train line in France, travelers disclosed their most memorable discoveries from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after stepping off the bus, one visitor pondered about their choice. Yet the first suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement provides more than swimming. Guests are able to stroll through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled lanes filled with busy eateries. Concrete jumping points render the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots serve up delicious pastries and beverages with friendly service.
Vintage Tunes in The German Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club is immense fun. The vibe is fabulous, featuring a DJ using only vinyl records. Furniture are sometimes moved to allow for dance floor. Operating late into the night, the bar occasionally features performances, guaranteeing a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a serene retreat. Visitors can hike to the peak of a ski run and climb a tall spiral platform for breathtaking views over green pastures. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional restaurants offering robust dishes and music. A museum displays the work of a renowned painter, and the town centre features several spring water sources to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant choice. Boasting multiple stunning white sand shores, its lively town center is active every night with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town delivered a more authentic feel at a a quarter of the price. A hotel featured convenient a path to the shore and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect journey from the region. Yet, this line is said to be at risk of closure. The trip includes spectacular stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Tourists are urged to experience this unique railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is attractive, with rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to stroll for hours along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This hidden world provides expansive views, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birdlife. The path winds along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels are visible. A journey can start at a 7th-century place of worship, reportedly the oldest in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Closed during winter, it typically opens in June. The drive requires constant bends to ascend the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking vistas. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, by car. The route also includes the chance for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A brief journey from a major city transports people to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, visitors meander along tree-lined streets featuring grand mansions. The rhythm is slow, with time paused by resident felines and chances to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is often spent planning plans for a comeback to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Located behind a Gothic building is a archive that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds a vast collection of rare volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features gorgeous old maps and
