From a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked alpine railway in France, travelers have shared their most memorable encounters from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. Yet the initial suspicions quickly faded upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement presents beyond just a swim. Tourists may meander through elaborately decorated public squares and narrow passageways housing busy places to eat. Man-made diving platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots serve up flaky pastries and drinks with warm service.
Retro Music in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and Motown, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized club promises a lot of fun. The atmosphere is terrific, with a DJ using exclusively records. Chairs and tables are sometimes cleared to allow for dancing. Open late, the bar sometimes hosts performances, guaranteeing a great night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a peaceful getaway. Travelers can hike to the top of a ski run and ascend a tall spiral platform for stunning vistas over verdant landscapes. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture can be felt through rustic restaurants with substantial food and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa features a number of medicinal water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful choice. With three wonderful white sand beaches, its lively center thrives every night with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location delivered a more authentic feel at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation offered convenient entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from nearby cities. But, this service is said to be under threat of closure. The trip passes over breathtaking viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Tourists are advised to ride this picturesque line before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by coastline, forests, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is complimentary, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can stroll for miles along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This hidden world offers wide-open views, seals in the water, and an profusion of birds. The trail winds along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels are visible. A walk can commence at a ancient church, reportedly the most ancient in England, and conclude in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt road. Closed during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The trip requires numerous switchbacks to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Travelers can access a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, directly. The journey also offers the chance for seeing animals, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A short journey from a vibrant city transports travelers to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle fades for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along tree-lined streets featuring grand mansions. The feel is leisurely, often broken by resident cats and opportunities to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The ferry back is often filled with ideas for a next visit to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Housed behind a 14th-century church is a archive that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses a vast collection of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases detailed 16th-century cartography and
