From a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked alpine train line in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable encounters from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after arriving, one visitor wondered about their decision. But the first doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement presents more than swimming. Tourists are able to stroll through ornate public squares and stone-paved passageways housing bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Local spots offer flaky pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Retro Music in Berlin
For lovers of classic rock, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized venue is a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, featuring a DJ playing exclusively records. Chairs and tables are routinely cleared to allow for dance floor. Open late into the night, the bar at times has live bands, guaranteeing a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a quiet retreat. Visitors may walk to the top of a hill and climb a tall twisting lookout for breathtaking views over green landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional dining offering robust food and music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a prolific folk artist, and the central spa features a number of medicinal taps to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. Boasting multiple stunning white sand coastlines, its bustling center is active nightly with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a more authentic feel at a much lower of the price. Accommodation provided direct entry to the beach and a stylish but welcoming environment.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from the region. But, this line is reportedly threatened of closure. The trip includes spectacular bridges around the town of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Tourists are encouraged to see this unique line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is accessible by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is beautiful, with rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for miles along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This secret area boasts expansive vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of birds. The coast path meanders along marshes bordering an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A walk can start at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the earliest in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The drive features numerous bends to climb the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible views. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, often covered in snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the potential for wildlife sightings, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a major city transports people to a peaceful island. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, visitors meander along tree-lined lanes flanked by grand mansions. The feel is leisurely, often interrupted by resident felines and chances to gaze back at the distant city. The return journey is often accompanied by plans for a next visit to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Located behind a Gothic church is a library that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of rare books, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
