Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked alpine train line in France, visitors have shared their most memorable discoveries from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after arriving, a traveler wondered about their decision. Yet the first hesitations quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town presents beyond just a swim. Tourists can wander through ornate public squares and cobbled alleys housing busy eateries. Man-made platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and beverages with friendly service.
Vintage Sounds in Germany's Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar promises immense fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, complete with a DJ playing only records. Furniture are routinely pushed aside to create dance floor. Staying open late, the bar occasionally has performances, making for a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a quiet getaway. Guests are able to climb to the top of a slope and climb a large twisting platform for magnificent panoramas over lush pastures. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be felt through rustic dining offering robust dishes and music. A museum showcases the work of a noted folk artist, and the main area features several medicinal water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent choice. Boasting three beautiful pristine beaches, its vibrant town center is active every night with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot provided a local atmosphere at a much lower of the cost. The lodging provided easy entry to the shore and a elegant and warm environment.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great excursion from a nearby city. But, this line is reportedly at risk of being closed. The journey features spectacular stone arches around the area of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Tourists are advised to experience this special railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is accessible by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is attractive, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund reveals a historical naval base established by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is without charge, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can walk for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This undiscovered world boasts expansive views, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birds. The coast path meanders along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remnants of boats can be seen. A journey can commence at a 7th-century place of worship, among the most ancient in England, and conclude in a pretty coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in June. The trip involves many bends to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible scenery. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a bustling city takes visitors to a peaceful island. As the day ends, the urban energy dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, guests stroll along tree-lined roads flanked by beautiful homes. The pace is slow, often paused by local cats and chances to stare back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is often accompanied by ideas for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Located behind a historic church is a collection that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains numerous of rare volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition includes gorgeous 16th-century maps and
