From a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain train line in France, visitors revealed their most memorable finds from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor pondered about their selection. However the initial suspicions soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This delightful settlement provides beyond just swimming. Guests are able to stroll through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved passageways lined with vibrant eateries. Man-made platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and beverages with friendly service.
Vintage Sounds in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized music bar promises great enjoyment. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ using only vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often cleared to make dancing. Staying open late, the bar occasionally hosts performances, ensuring a memorable night out.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a quiet retreat. Travelers can hike to the top of a hill and ascend a tall spiral lookout for magnificent vistas over verdant fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage is on display through traditional cuisine with hearty dishes and traditional music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a prolific folk artist, and the main area features multiple medicinal taps to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. With three stunning white sand coastlines, its vibrant center comes alive nightly with families. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location delivered a local feel at a a quarter of the price. The lodging provided convenient access to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb day trip from the region. Yet, this line is potentially under threat of being closed. The journey passes over photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Travelers are encouraged to experience this special railway while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable attractions and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The countryside is beautiful, with rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A historical fort at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in England
It is possible to walk for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another person. This secret area boasts sweeping vistas, seals offshore, and an profusion of birds. The coast path meanders along marshes next to an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A hike can commence at a 7th-century chapel, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a pretty town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt road. Closed during winter, it usually opens in early summer. The trip requires many switchbacks to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking vistas. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The journey also includes the potential for wildlife sightings, enhancing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick journey from a major city takes travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos dissipates for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, guests stroll along historic roads flanked by beautiful homes. The pace is relaxed, often paused by friendly felines and moments to look back at the far-off city. The return journey is often accompanied by ideas for a future return to this special retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Housed behind a historic building is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds numerous of magnificent tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
