From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a little-known alpine train line in France, explorers have shared their most memorable discoveries from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, a traveler pondered about their choice. But the early hesitations rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This delightful town presents beyond just swimming. Tourists may meander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and cobbled lanes filled with busy eateries. Concrete jumping points turn the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Local spots provide delicious pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.
Vintage Sounds in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed music bar offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning just records. Seating are routinely moved to allow for dancing. Staying open until the early hours, the bar sometimes has live bands, making for a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a serene retreat. Guests can hike to the peak of a slope and go up a tall spiral viewing tower for breathtaking panoramas over lush pastures. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine serving substantial dishes and folk music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a noted painter, and the town centre boasts multiple mineral water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant find. Featuring multiple stunning white sand shores, its bustling town center is active every night with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a more authentic experience at a a quarter of the price. A hotel offered easy entry to the sea and a elegant and warm environment.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect day trip from a nearby city. However, this line is said to be threatened of closure. The trip passes over breathtaking viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Tourists are urged to see this unique line while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is striking, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This hidden landscape boasts wide-open vistas, seals in the water, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail follows along marshes bordering an estuary, where remains of boats can be seen. A journey can begin at a 7th-century place of worship, among the earliest in England, and conclude in a pretty town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in late spring. The drive features numerous bends to climb the steep southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, without a cable car. The drive also includes the opportunity for seeing animals, completing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A brief journey from a vibrant city takes visitors to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, visitors meander along tree-lined streets flanked by grand mansions. The pace is slow, often broken by local felines and chances to stare back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is usually filled with ideas for a comeback to this unique sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Located behind a historic building is a library that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses thousands of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection includes gorgeous old cartography and
