Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their choice. But the first suspicions soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque settlement presents more than a swim. Visitors can wander through ornate public squares and stone-paved alleys lined with bustling eateries. Concrete jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town provide crisp pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Classic Tunes in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club is a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning just records. Chairs and tables are often cleared to create dance floor. Open late, the bar at times features live music, ensuring a memorable evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene retreat. Guests may walk to the peak of a hill and climb a tall spiral lookout for stunning vistas over verdant fields. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. Lemko culture can be felt through traditional dining offering hearty food and music. A museum celebrates the work of a prolific folk artist, and the central spa has a number of mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant discovery. Featuring several stunning pristine shores, its bustling centre comes alive in the evenings with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location offered a genuine experience at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation featured direct access to the beach and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great excursion from the region. However, this line is potentially at risk of shutting down. The ride passes over breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Visitors are urged to ride this unique railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, featuring shores, woods, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century naval base established by Russia and then destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This secret landscape offers sweeping vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of wildlife. The trail meanders along estuarine next to an estuary, where wrecks of boats can be seen. A walk can commence at a ancient church, one of the oldest in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved route. Closed during the colder months, it typically opens in June. The trip features many switchbacks to navigate the steep southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, directly. The journey also presents the chance for seeing animals, completing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A quick journey from a major city takes travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along quiet lanes featuring grand mansions. The feel is leisurely, often interrupted by local cats and chances to gaze back at the far-off city. The trip home is often filled with plans for a next visit to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Located behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds thousands of magnificent volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition showcases gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
