From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their standout finds from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, an explorer wondered about their choice. Yet the initial hesitations soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This delightful town offers more than a swim. Guests can wander through ornate piazzas and cobbled alleys lined with busy places to eat. Concrete platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Local spots serve up delicious pastries and beverages with warm service.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed club promises a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, with a DJ spinning just vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to create space to dance. Open late into the night, the bar occasionally has performances, guaranteeing a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a peaceful getaway. Visitors can hike to the top of a ski run and go up a large spiral lookout for magnificent vistas over lush fields. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage is on display through rustic cuisine with robust food and traditional music. A gallery showcases the work of a renowned painter, and the town centre has multiple spring water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful find. Featuring several beautiful sandy shores, its vibrant town center thrives nightly with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town offered a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. A hotel featured direct entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from nearby cities. However, the route is reportedly at risk of being closed. The journey includes photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Tourists are urged to experience this special line while they can.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can hike for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This undiscovered landscape boasts expansive vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail meanders along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where remains of ships lie. A journey can commence at a ancient church, one of the oldest in England, and end in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The journey involves constant bends to ascend the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, providing incredible views. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, directly. The drive also includes the chance for seeing animals, completing the memorable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A quick boat trip from a bustling city transports travelers to a car-free island. As the day ends, the city chaos dissipates for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, visitors stroll along historic roads flanked by grand mansions. The feel is slow, frequently paused by resident felines and opportunities to gaze back at the distant city. The ferry back is often filled with ideas for a comeback to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Housed behind a historic building is a library that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of magnificent books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition showcases detailed old maps and
