Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain train line in France, explorers have shared their standout discoveries from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after getting off the bus, one visitor pondered about their decision. However the initial doubts quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque town presents more than a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through beautiful piazzas and narrow passageways lined with vibrant eateries. Man-made platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots offer crisp pastries and refreshments with friendly hospitality.
Retro Music in Germany's Capital
For fans of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized venue promises great enjoyment. The ambiance is fabulous, featuring a DJ spinning only vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to create dance floor. Open late, the bar at times has live music, guaranteeing a great evening.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a peaceful retreat. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a hill and climb a large wooden lookout for breathtaking views over green fields. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Lemko culture can be felt through rustic restaurants offering substantial dishes and traditional music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a prolific naive artist, and the town centre features a number of mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant find. Boasting three stunning pristine coastlines, its bustling center thrives nightly with families. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location provided a local atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. The lodging featured convenient entry to the sea and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb day trip from a nearby city. Yet, this service is potentially under threat of closure. The journey passes over photogenic stone arches around the town of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to ride this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to stroll for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another person. This undiscovered area offers expansive vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birds. The coast path winds along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of boats can be seen. A journey can start at a very old place of worship, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a charming coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Closed during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The drive features constant turns to ascend the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, providing incredible vistas. Travelers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The route also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A brief journey from a bustling city takes visitors to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, guests walk along historic lanes lined with grand mansions. The feel is leisurely, often paused by resident felines and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is usually filled with ideas for a next visit to this incredible sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a 14th-century church is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of ancient volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition features detailed old cartography and
