Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked alpine train line in France, travelers have shared their most unforgettable encounters from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Right after stepping off the bus, a traveler wondered about their selection. But the initial hesitations quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful town offers beyond just a swim. Guests can wander through beautiful piazzas and narrow passageways housing busy seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Places in town serve up delicious pastries and refreshments with friendly service.
Vintage Music in Germany's Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul music, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized music bar offers a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, with a DJ playing only vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely moved to make dance floor. Open late into the night, the bar at times has live bands, guaranteeing a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Crossing into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a serene retreat. Visitors are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and climb a tall spiral platform for breathtaking views over green pastures. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Their culture can be felt through traditional restaurants serving hearty food and folk music. A gallery displays the work of a noted folk artist, and the main area features a number of spring water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent find. Boasting three wonderful pristine shores, its vibrant town center is active in the evenings with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town provided a more authentic atmosphere at a fraction of the price. Accommodation featured direct entry to the sea and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great day trip from nearby cities. However, this line is said to be at risk of being closed. The journey includes breathtaking viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Tourists are advised to experience this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable sites and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is beautiful, with rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost established by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is complimentary, with a charge for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to walk for miles along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This undiscovered landscape offers wide-open views, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birds. The path meanders along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where remains of old vessels can be seen. A hike can begin at a very old church, among the most ancient in England, and conclude in a charming town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The journey requires numerous switchbacks to climb the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, offering excellent vistas. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the opportunity for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief boat trip from a vibrant metropolis takes people to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors stroll along quiet roads flanked by beautiful homes. The feel is leisurely, with time interrupted by resident felines and opportunities to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is often spent planning thoughts for a next visit to this special retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a historic building is a archive that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of ancient books, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition includes exquisite old maps and
