Starting with a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a forgotten mountain train line in France, travelers have shared their most memorable encounters from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their decision. However the early suspicions rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This delightful location provides beyond just swimming. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and stone-paved passageways lined with bustling eateries. Man-made platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Local spots offer delicious pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Retro Sounds in Germany's Capital
For lovers of classic rock, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, complete with a DJ playing only vinyl. Furniture are often cleared to allow for dancing. Open late, the bar sometimes has performances, making for a memorable night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful getaway. Travelers are able to climb to the peak of a slope and climb a tall wooden platform for magnificent vistas over verdant landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic dining with hearty fare and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the central spa features multiple mineral water sources to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant find. With multiple stunning white sand shores, its vibrant town center is active in the evenings with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a local experience at a much lower of the cost. A hotel featured direct a path to the beach and a elegant and warm ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great day trip from a nearby city. However, the route is said to be under threat of being closed. The ride passes over breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Travelers are urged to experience this unique line before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The countryside is striking, featuring shores, woods, and farmland. A historical fort at Bomarsund marks a historical fortress constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is without charge, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can walk for miles along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another person. This hidden world boasts sweeping vistas, seals offshore, and an array of birds. The coast path meanders along estuarine next to an estuary, where remains of ships lie. A walk can commence at a ancient chapel, among the most ancient in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Shut during the colder months, it typically opens in late spring. The drive requires constant turns to navigate the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, offering excellent vistas. Travelers can reach a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, directly. The journey also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A brief ferry ride from a vibrant city takes visitors to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, guests walk along historic lanes flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is relaxed, with time interrupted by resident cats and chances to look back at the far-off city. The return journey is usually filled with ideas for a comeback to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Tucked away behind a historic building is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection includes exquisite old maps and
