Starting with a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a forgotten mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their standout discoveries from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their selection. Yet the initial suspicions rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This charming settlement presents more than swimming. Guests may meander through ornate piazzas and narrow alleys filled with busy eateries. Concrete diving platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Local spots provide flaky pastries and refreshments with genuine hospitality.
Retro Tunes in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed venue is great enjoyment. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ playing only vinyl records. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to create dancing. Operating late into the night, the bar occasionally has live music, making for a fantastic experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a peaceful escape. Guests are able to climb to the top of a slope and ascend a giant twisting lookout for magnificent views over green landscapes. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage is on display through traditional restaurants with hearty fare and folk music. A museum celebrates the work of a prolific folk artist, and the central spa has a number of spring taps to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. Boasting multiple stunning sandy beaches, its lively centre is active every night with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location provided a genuine experience at a a quarter of the price. The lodging provided direct a path to the beach and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from the region. But, the route is reportedly at risk of shutting down. The trip features spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are advised to ride this special railway before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost built by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can hike for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This secret landscape provides sweeping views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path winds along marshes flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of ships lie. A hike can commence at a ancient place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually opens in early summer. The journey features numerous switchbacks to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, often covered in snow, without a cable car. The drive also includes the opportunity for spotting bears, completing the memorable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A quick journey from a major city transports travelers to a peaceful island. As the day ends, the city chaos dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, visitors meander along historic lanes featuring grand mansions. The pace is leisurely, with time paused by friendly cats and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is usually filled with thoughts for a next visit to this special sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
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 collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of magnificent books, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition includes exquisite 16th-century maps and
