From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their standout discoveries from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after arriving, one visitor wondered about their selection. However the initial doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This picturesque settlement offers more than a swim. Tourists may meander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and cobbled lanes filled with busy places to eat. Concrete platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town offer delicious pastries and refreshments with genuine welcome.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of classic rock, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized venue is immense fun. The vibe is fantastic, complete with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl records. Chairs and tables are sometimes cleared to allow for space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar at times features performances, making for a memorable night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a serene getaway. Travelers are able to climb to the top of a ski run and go up a large spiral lookout for stunning panoramas over lush pastures. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through rustic cuisine offering substantial fare and music. A gallery displays the work of a noted painter, and the main area features a number of medicinal water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent discovery. Boasting three wonderful sandy coastlines, its lively centre thrives in the evenings with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot delivered a local experience at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation featured easy entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect day trip from a nearby city. However, this service is said to be threatened of closure. The trip passes over spectacular bridges around the area of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are advised to ride this unique railway while they can.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is striking, featuring shores, forests, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is complimentary, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another person. This hidden area offers sweeping vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The path meanders along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where remnants of ships can be seen. A walk can start at a ancient place of worship, among the oldest in England, and end in a pretty town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The trip requires numerous switchbacks to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The journey also presents the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief journey from a vibrant metropolis takes visitors to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests meander along tree-lined roads flanked by historic houses. The rhythm is leisurely, with time interrupted by local cats and chances to look back at the distant mainland. The ferry back is usually spent planning plans for a next visit to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains a vast collection of rare books, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection includes gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
