Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their most memorable encounters from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor pondered about their selection. However the early suspicions quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This charming location provides more than a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and narrow alleys filled with busy eateries. Concrete diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Local spots serve up flaky pastries and drinks with friendly hospitality.
Retro Music in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, retro pop, and soul music, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated venue promises immense fun. The vibe is fabulous, featuring a DJ spinning only vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely moved to create space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar at times hosts performances, guaranteeing a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a serene escape. Travelers can hike to the top of a ski run and ascend a large wooden platform for stunning panoramas over lush landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic cuisine serving robust fare and traditional music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre has multiple spring water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. Boasting multiple wonderful pristine shores, its vibrant town center is active every night with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location delivered a more authentic atmosphere at a much lower of the price. Accommodation provided easy access to the beach and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb day trip from a nearby city. Yet, this line is potentially under threat of shutting down. The ride features spectacular stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Travelers are encouraged to experience this unique line while they can.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is striking, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering anyone. This secret area provides wide-open vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The path meanders along estuarine next to an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A journey can start at a very old church, reportedly the most ancient in England, and end in a charming town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Shut during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The trip features numerous bends to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking views. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also includes the opportunity for spotting bears, completing the remarkable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A brief journey from a bustling city transports visitors to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos dissipates for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along quiet streets flanked by historic houses. The pace is relaxed, often broken by local cats and chances to stare back at the distant city. The ferry back is often spent planning thoughts for a future return to this special place.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Housed behind a Gothic building is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of magnificent volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition features exquisite old maps and
