From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked mountain train line in France, visitors disclosed their most memorable encounters from their journeys.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor questioned about their decision. But the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque town presents beyond just a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through elaborately decorated public squares and narrow alleys lined with vibrant eateries. Concrete jumping points turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots offer crisp pastries and refreshments with warm welcome.
Retro Music in Germany's Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized venue offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ using only vinyl. Furniture are sometimes moved to create dance floor. Staying open late, the bar sometimes hosts performances, ensuring a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a quiet escape. Visitors can hike to the top of a ski run and ascend a giant twisting platform for breathtaking vistas over verdant fields. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be felt through traditional restaurants with hearty dishes and music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre has a number of spring water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful find. With several beautiful pristine beaches, its bustling centre thrives every night with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town offered a local feel at a fraction of the cost. A hotel provided direct access to the shore and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect day trip from nearby cities. Yet, the route is potentially under threat of being closed. The ride includes breathtaking viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to see this picturesque line before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, with coastline, woods, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and then destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is complimentary, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This undiscovered landscape offers wide-open views, seals in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path follows along marshes flanking an river mouth, where remnants of boats can be seen. A journey can begin at a very old place of worship, one of the oldest in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Closed during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The trip requires numerous bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The route also includes the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick journey from a bustling city transports visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, explorers walk along tree-lined roads featuring historic houses. The pace is relaxed, often broken by resident cats and chances to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often filled with thoughts for a comeback to this unique retreat.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Tucked away behind a historic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds thousands of magnificent tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display features exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
