From a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a little-known mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their standout finds from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after arriving, one visitor wondered about their selection. But the first doubts soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful location provides more than swimming. Guests can wander through beautiful public squares and cobbled passageways housing busy places to eat. Concrete platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and drinks with genuine hospitality.
Vintage Sounds in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, 1960s pop, and Motown, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated venue is immense fun. The vibe is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning only vinyl records. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to create dance floor. Open late, the bar sometimes has live music, ensuring a great evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene retreat. Visitors can hike to the peak of a slope and go up a tall spiral lookout for magnificent views over verdant pastures. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic cuisine serving substantial fare and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa boasts several spring taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful find. Featuring three wonderful sandy beaches, its vibrant centre is active in the evenings with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location offered a more authentic atmosphere at a much lower of the price. A hotel offered convenient access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great journey from the region. Yet, the route is said to be under threat of shutting down. The journey includes breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Travelers are urged to ride this picturesque railway soon.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is attractive, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost constructed by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the remains is complimentary, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can walk for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This hidden landscape boasts wide-open views, seals offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The path winds along marshes next to an river mouth, where remnants of boats are visible. A walk can commence at a 7th-century place of worship, reportedly the most ancient in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The journey requires constant bends to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Visitors can access a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, without a cable car. The drive also presents the chance for seeing animals, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a major metropolis transports travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, guests walk along quiet streets flanked by grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, with time interrupted by resident felines and moments to look back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is often spent planning ideas for a comeback to this special retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Housed behind a historic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition features exquisite old maps and
