From a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a forgotten mountain train line in France, visitors disclosed their most memorable finds from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after arriving, one visitor wondered about their selection. But the initial hesitations soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque location presents beyond just swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through ornate piazzas and cobbled alleys housing busy seafood restaurants. Concrete jumping points make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Nearby establishments serve up delicious pastries and beverages with genuine welcome.
Vintage Sounds in Berlin
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized music bar is immense fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, complete with a DJ using exclusively records. Seating are often moved to create space to dance. Open late into the night, the bar sometimes features live bands, guaranteeing a memorable night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a serene getaway. Visitors may walk to the top of a hill and ascend a large spiral platform for stunning vistas over green pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be experienced through rustic restaurants with robust fare and folk music. A gallery showcases the work of a noted folk artist, and the central spa boasts a number of medicinal water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent find. Boasting several beautiful pristine beaches, its bustling center thrives nightly with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a more authentic feel at a a quarter of the cost. A hotel offered direct a path to the beach and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great excursion from a nearby city. But, this line is said to be under threat of closure. The ride passes over photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Travelers are encouraged to experience this unique line while they can.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The countryside is beautiful, with coastline, forests, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for miles along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This undiscovered world provides expansive vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birds. The path follows along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remains of ships lie. A walk can start at a very old place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and finish in a pretty town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it usually opens in early summer. The trip features numerous switchbacks to ascend the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Travelers can reach a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The journey also presents the opportunity for wildlife sightings, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A brief journey from a bustling city transports travelers to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, explorers stroll along historic lanes featuring beautiful homes. The feel is slow, often interrupted by resident felines and chances to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is often accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Located behind a Gothic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses numerous of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection includes detailed 16th-century cartography and
