From a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a little-known mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their standout discoveries from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor questioned about their choice. Yet the first doubts soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement offers more than a swim. Visitors may meander through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled lanes housing bustling seafood restaurants. Concrete platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Local spots offer crisp pastries and beverages with friendly service.
Classic Sounds in Berlin
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized venue is immense fun. The ambiance is terrific, with a DJ playing exclusively vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely moved to make dancing. Open late, the bar at times hosts live music, guaranteeing a great evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a serene retreat. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and go up a large wooden lookout for stunning vistas over lush fields. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage can be felt through rustic cuisine serving robust dishes and music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the main area features multiple spring water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent find. With several stunning white sand coastlines, its bustling center is active in the evenings with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town offered a local experience at a a quarter of the price. The lodging provided easy access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming environment.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb excursion from nearby cities. However, this line is said to be at risk of closure. The ride passes over spectacular viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Tourists are advised to see this unique railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable attractions and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The landscape is striking, featuring coastline, forests, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and subsequently attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the fort ruins is without charge, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This undiscovered world boasts sweeping views, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birds. The path meanders along estuarine flanking an estuary, where remains of boats lie. A walk can begin at a ancient church, among the most ancient in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Shut during winter, it usually opens in early summer. The drive features many bends to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Travelers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often covered in snow, by car. The drive also offers the potential for seeing animals, adding to the memorable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A short ferry ride from a bustling city transports visitors to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the urban energy is replaced for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, guests walk along tree-lined lanes featuring historic houses. The feel is leisurely, with time paused by resident felines and chances to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often filled with ideas for a future return to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Housed behind a historic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses a vast collection of rare books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition includes detailed old maps and
