From a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known mountain train line in France, visitors disclosed their most unforgettable discoveries from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after arriving, an explorer pondered about their selection. But the early doubts soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town offers more than swimming. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated public squares and stone-paved alleys lined with bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points render the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Nearby establishments offer crisp pastries and drinks with friendly welcome.
Classic Music in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized club offers a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, featuring a DJ playing just records. Furniture are sometimes pushed aside to make space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar at times has live bands, making for a great experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a peaceful getaway. Visitors are able to climb to the top of a slope and go up a giant spiral lookout for stunning views over green landscapes. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture is on display through rustic cuisine serving hearty fare and folk music. A museum displays the work of a renowned naive artist, and the main area has several mineral taps to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. Boasting several wonderful white sand coastlines, its lively town center is active nightly with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a genuine feel at a fraction of the cost. A hotel provided easy access to the sea and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb excursion from a nearby city. Yet, this line is potentially under threat of shutting down. The journey features spectacular bridges around the town of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Travelers are advised to experience this unique railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is beautiful, with shores, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base established by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can walk for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This hidden area boasts sweeping vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birds. The coast path meanders along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where remains of boats can be seen. A walk can commence at a very old church, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in early summer. The trip requires many bends to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent views. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, directly. The route also includes the opportunity for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable experience.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a bustling metropolis transports travelers to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, guests walk along quiet lanes flanked by grand mansions. The pace is leisurely, with time broken by local felines and chances to stare back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is usually accompanied by ideas for a comeback to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Located behind a Gothic building is a archive that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of rare tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection includes exquisite old maps and
