From a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain railway in France, visitors revealed their most unforgettable finds from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after arriving, an explorer questioned about their decision. Yet the first suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement presents beyond just a swim. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and stone-paved lanes lined with vibrant places to eat. Man-made diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town provide crisp pastries and drinks with friendly service.
Retro Tunes in Berlin
For fans of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized music bar promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, featuring a DJ using only records. Chairs and tables are routinely moved to make dancing. Staying open late into the night, the bar at times features live bands, guaranteeing a memorable experience.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a serene escape. Travelers can hike to the peak of a hill and climb a large wooden lookout for magnificent panoramas over lush fields. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Lemko culture is on display through traditional cuisine offering hearty fare and folk music. A museum displays the work of a renowned painter, and the main area features several mineral taps to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant choice. Boasting multiple beautiful pristine coastlines, its vibrant town center comes alive in the evenings with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot delivered a local experience at a much lower of the price. Accommodation featured easy a path to the shore and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb journey from a nearby city. But, the route is reportedly threatened of closure. The ride includes spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to ride this unique railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is accessible by ferry from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is striking, with coastline, forests, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost built by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can hike for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This hidden world provides expansive vistas, seals offshore, and an abundance of birds. The path meanders along marshes bordering an river mouth, where remnants of boats can be seen. A walk can begin at a ancient church, one of the oldest in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive features numerous switchbacks to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent scenery. Visitors can access a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, by car. The drive also includes the potential for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A short boat trip from a vibrant city takes travelers to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, guests walk along quiet roads flanked by grand mansions. The pace is slow, often interrupted by friendly cats and chances to stare back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often accompanied by ideas for a future return to this special sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Located behind a 14th-century church is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds thousands of magnificent tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection features gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
