Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten alpine train line in France, travelers have shared their standout finds from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after stepping off the bus, a traveler questioned about their selection. But the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque settlement presents more than swimming. Tourists can wander through ornate public squares and narrow passageways lined with busy eateries. Man-made jumping points make the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town serve up flaky pastries and refreshments with warm welcome.
Classic Music in Berlin
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated club promises great enjoyment. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ spinning just vinyl records. Seating are sometimes cleared to allow for space to dance. Operating until the early hours, the bar sometimes features performances, making for a memorable experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a peaceful escape. Guests can hike to the summit of a hill and go up a large wooden platform for stunning vistas over lush landscapes. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional cuisine offering robust food and traditional music. A gallery showcases the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre has several spring water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful choice. Boasting multiple stunning pristine coastlines, its lively centre is active in the evenings with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location provided a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation offered easy entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb journey from the region. But, the route is said to be at risk of shutting down. The trip passes over spectacular stone arches around the town of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to experience this special railway soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is striking, with rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base established by Russia and subsequently attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the site is without charge, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This undiscovered landscape boasts sweeping vistas, seals in the water, and an abundance of birds. The trail follows along estuarine bordering an estuary, where remnants of ships are visible. A walk can begin at a ancient chapel, reportedly the earliest in England, and conclude in a charming town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in late spring. The journey requires many switchbacks to ascend the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible scenery. Travelers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often covered in snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the potential for seeing animals, completing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A brief journey from a major metropolis takes people to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, guests stroll along historic lanes flanked by grand mansions. The pace is leisurely, with time interrupted by local felines and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is usually spent planning plans for a next visit to this special place.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Tucked away behind a historic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses a vast collection of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
