Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked alpine train line in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after arriving, one visitor wondered about their selection. Yet the early doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement presents beyond just a swim. Guests are able to stroll through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved alleys lined with bustling seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Local spots provide crisp pastries and beverages with friendly service.
Retro Music in Berlin
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized music bar promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning just vinyl. Furniture are sometimes moved to make dancing. Operating late, the bar at times features live music, ensuring a memorable experience.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a serene retreat. Guests are able to climb to the top of a ski run and ascend a tall wooden platform for magnificent views over green pastures. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Their culture can be felt through traditional dining serving hearty food and traditional music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a prolific naive artist, and the town centre has several mineral taps to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. Boasting multiple stunning sandy shores, its lively centre thrives in the evenings with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot delivered a more authentic experience at a fraction of the price. A hotel offered easy access to the beach and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from the region. However, the route is reportedly under threat of closure. The ride passes over spectacular stone arches around the area of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to ride this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is striking, featuring coastline, forests, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical fortress built by Russia and subsequently attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to stroll for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This undiscovered area boasts expansive views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of wildlife. The coast path winds along marshes next to an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A journey can begin at a ancient church, among the earliest in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt mountain road. Closed during winter, it typically opens in June. The journey features many turns to climb the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Drivers can access a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, directly. The route also presents the chance for seeing animals, completing the remarkable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A quick journey from a bustling metropolis transports people to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, guests walk along quiet streets lined with grand mansions. The pace is relaxed, with time broken by friendly cats and opportunities to look back at the distant city. The trip home is usually accompanied by ideas for a future return to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds a vast collection of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes detailed Renaissance-era maps and
