From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their most memorable finds from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor questioned about their decision. But the early suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This delightful town offers more than swimming. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled alleys housing busy places to eat. Concrete jumping points make the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Local spots offer crisp pastries and refreshments with warm welcome.
Retro Sounds in Germany's Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club is great enjoyment. The ambiance is terrific, featuring a DJ using exclusively records. Chairs and tables are sometimes cleared to create dance floor. Operating late, the bar sometimes features live music, guaranteeing a memorable night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful retreat. Guests may walk to the top of a slope and climb a giant wooden platform for breathtaking panoramas over green landscapes. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional dining with hearty dishes and folk music. A gallery displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the town centre boasts multiple mineral water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful choice. With multiple beautiful pristine beaches, its vibrant centre comes alive in the evenings with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a genuine experience at a much lower of the price. A hotel featured easy access to the beach and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect journey from a nearby city. But, this service is reportedly under threat of closure. The journey features breathtaking bridges around the town of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are advised to experience this picturesque line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable attractions and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, characterized by shores, forests, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and subsequently attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This undiscovered world provides wide-open views, seals in the water, and an array of birds. The coast path meanders along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where remains of old vessels can be seen. A hike can commence at a ancient church, one of the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt mountain road. Closed during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The journey involves many turns to climb the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, offering excellent views. Travelers can reach a mountain lake, sometimes ringed with snow, directly. The journey also offers the potential for spotting bears, enhancing the remarkable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a vibrant city transports visitors to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors meander along tree-lined lanes flanked by grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, frequently interrupted by friendly felines and opportunities to stare back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is often spent planning ideas for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of ancient volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display showcases gorgeous old cartography and
