Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known mountain train line in France, explorers revealed their standout discoveries from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after getting off the bus, one visitor wondered about their choice. However the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement presents beyond just a swim. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and narrow passageways filled with bustling seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Nearby establishments offer flaky pastries and beverages with genuine hospitality.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed music bar is a lot of fun. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ playing just records. Chairs and tables are often moved to create dancing. Staying open until the early hours, the bar sometimes features live bands, making for a memorable night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a quiet getaway. Travelers may walk to the peak of a ski run and go up a large twisting viewing tower for magnificent vistas over green pastures. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture can be felt through rustic restaurants with substantial dishes and folk music. A gallery showcases the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre features multiple mineral water sources to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful choice. Featuring several wonderful sandy shores, its lively centre thrives in the evenings with locals. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a genuine feel at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation provided easy access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from nearby cities. However, this service is potentially threatened of closure. The trip includes photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Travelers are urged to ride this special railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is reachable by ferry from several countries. The countryside is attractive, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base established by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This secret landscape offers sweeping vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of birdlife. The path follows along estuarine next to an estuary, where wrecks of boats lie. A walk can begin at a ancient church, one of the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt route. Shut during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The trip involves constant turns to navigate the steep southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking views. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The drive also includes the opportunity for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A short journey from a major metropolis takes visitors to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, visitors meander along tree-lined roads flanked by beautiful homes. The feel is relaxed, frequently broken by resident felines and moments to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is often spent planning thoughts for a future return to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Housed behind a 14th-century church is a library that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition features gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
