From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their standout discoveries from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their decision. However the early doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming town provides beyond just swimming. Guests are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and narrow lanes lined with vibrant places to eat. Man-made platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Local spots serve up delicious pastries and refreshments with friendly welcome.
Retro Music in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed venue offers a lot of fun. The vibe is fantastic, with a DJ using exclusively vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes moved to allow for dance floor. Open until the early hours, the bar at times has performances, making for a great evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a quiet getaway. Travelers are able to climb to the peak of a ski run and go up a giant spiral platform for breathtaking panoramas over lush fields. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture is on display through rustic restaurants offering robust fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a noted painter, and the central spa boasts several mineral water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful find. Featuring multiple beautiful pristine beaches, its vibrant town center comes alive in the evenings with families. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a more authentic experience at a much lower of the price. A hotel provided easy a path to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from a nearby city. Yet, this service is potentially under threat of shutting down. The journey features photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Tourists are advised to ride this special line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, characterized by rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to walk for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This secret area offers wide-open views, seals offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The coast path follows along salt marsh next to an estuary, where remnants of ships are visible. A journey can start at a very old church, reportedly the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Shut during winter, it usually opens in late spring. The drive requires constant bends to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the potential for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A quick journey from a bustling metropolis takes visitors to a car-free island. As the day ends, the city chaos fades for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, guests stroll along quiet streets flanked by historic houses. The rhythm is relaxed, frequently paused by friendly felines and opportunities to look back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is usually filled with ideas for a next visit to this special retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Located behind a historic church is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses a vast collection of ancient books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display showcases gorgeous 16th-century maps and
