From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked alpine railway in France, visitors revealed their most memorable discoveries from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after stepping off the bus, one visitor wondered about their choice. But the initial hesitations soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This charming settlement offers beyond just a swim. Visitors can wander through beautiful piazzas and cobbled passageways lined with bustling places to eat. Concrete jumping points turn the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Nearby establishments offer crisp pastries and beverages with friendly welcome.
Retro Music in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated music bar offers a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, featuring a DJ playing exclusively records. Chairs and tables are routinely cleared to make space to dance. Open late, the bar sometimes hosts live music, making for a great night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene retreat. Visitors can hike to the summit of a ski run and climb a large spiral viewing tower for breathtaking views over lush landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Their culture can be experienced through traditional restaurants serving substantial dishes and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area features multiple medicinal water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent find. With three stunning white sand shores, its lively centre thrives in the evenings with residents. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location provided a genuine feel at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation offered convenient access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from the region. However, this line is reportedly under threat of being closed. The journey features spectacular stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to experience this picturesque line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The countryside is striking, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical fortress built by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is complimentary, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can walk for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This hidden landscape offers sweeping views, marine life offshore, and an array of birds. The trail winds along marshes flanking an estuary, where remains of ships are visible. A journey can commence at a 7th-century church, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt mountain road. Closed during winter, it usually opens in June. The drive features many switchbacks to ascend the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking views. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, directly. The journey also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a bustling city takes visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, guests meander along tree-lined streets lined with historic houses. The feel is relaxed, often paused by local cats and opportunities to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is often accompanied by ideas for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Top Discovery: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Housed behind a historic church is a archive that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of rare volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition includes detailed 16th-century maps and
