Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their most memorable discoveries from their journeys.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after arriving, one visitor pondered about their choice. But the early suspicions quickly faded upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement presents more than a swim. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and stone-paved alleys filled with busy seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town provide delicious pastries and drinks with warm service.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed venue promises immense fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, with a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to create dance floor. Open until the early hours, the bar at times features live bands, ensuring a memorable experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a serene escape. Visitors may walk to the peak of a hill and go up a large wooden platform for magnificent panoramas over lush landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. Lemko culture can be felt through traditional restaurants serving substantial dishes and traditional music. A gallery celebrates the work of a noted folk artist, and the main area boasts a number of medicinal water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful choice. With multiple wonderful pristine shores, its lively town center thrives in the evenings with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location provided a genuine experience at a a quarter of the price. A hotel featured easy access to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great day trip from a nearby city. However, the route is reportedly threatened of shutting down. The ride passes over spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Travelers are advised to experience this picturesque line soon.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is beautiful, featuring shores, forests, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is without charge, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can stroll for miles along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This undiscovered world boasts sweeping views, seals in the water, and an array of birds. The trail follows along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where remains of ships are visible. A hike can start at a ancient place of worship, among the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Shut during the colder months, it typically opens in late spring. The journey involves numerous switchbacks to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent views. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also presents the chance for seeing animals, adding to the remarkable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a vibrant metropolis transports travelers to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, explorers stroll along quiet roads featuring historic houses. The pace is slow, with time broken by local cats and chances to stare back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is usually accompanied by thoughts for a future return to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a archive that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses numerous of magnificent books, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition includes gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
