Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their most memorable finds from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor wondered about their choice. However the first suspicions quickly faded upon entering Piran. This charming town offers more than swimming. Tourists are able to stroll through ornate piazzas and narrow alleys housing busy places to eat. Man-made jumping points render the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Nearby establishments offer flaky pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.
Vintage Music in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized music bar offers a lot of fun. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ using exclusively records. Furniture are often cleared to allow for dance floor. Operating late into the night, the bar occasionally has live bands, ensuring a great evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a quiet retreat. Travelers can hike to the peak of a ski run and go up a giant twisting viewing tower for stunning panoramas over green landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Their culture is on display through traditional cuisine offering hearty food and music. A gallery displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area boasts multiple medicinal taps to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful find. Featuring several stunning white sand coastlines, its bustling centre is active in the evenings with residents. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. A hotel featured direct access to the beach and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from nearby cities. But, the route is potentially under threat of being closed. The ride includes breathtaking stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to experience this unique railway soon.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is striking, with coastline, forests, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund marks a historical fortress built by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is without charge, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to walk for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another person. This hidden area provides expansive vistas, marine life offshore, and an abundance of wildlife. The trail follows along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels lie. A journey can start at a ancient chapel, reportedly the most ancient in England, and end in a charming town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt road. Closed during winter, it usually reopens in June. The trip requires constant switchbacks to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the opportunity for spotting bears, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A quick ferry ride from a bustling city takes visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the evening approaches, the urban energy is replaced for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, visitors meander along tree-lined lanes featuring grand mansions. The pace is relaxed, frequently paused by friendly felines and chances to stare back at the distant mainland. The trip home is often filled with plans for a future return to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Located behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses numerous of magnificent tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display features detailed old cartography and
