From a Venetian-style Slovenian coastal town to a little-known mountain railway in France, explorers revealed their most unforgettable encounters from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their choice. Yet the first doubts rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This charming settlement offers beyond just swimming. Guests can wander through ornate piazzas and narrow alleys lined with busy eateries. Concrete jumping points render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Nearby establishments serve up crisp pastries and refreshments with genuine service.
Classic Tunes in Berlin
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated venue promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, featuring a DJ spinning just vinyl records. Furniture are routinely cleared to make space to dance. Operating late into the night, the bar at times has live bands, making for a great evening.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a peaceful getaway. Guests may walk to the peak of a ski run and go up a tall twisting lookout for breathtaking views over green pastures. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture is on display through traditional restaurants with robust dishes and folk music. A museum displays the work of a noted naive artist, and the central spa has multiple medicinal taps to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant find. With multiple beautiful sandy coastlines, its lively centre comes alive every night with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a local atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. A hotel offered easy entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from the region. Yet, the route is potentially under threat of closure. The ride includes spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to see this unique railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The countryside is beautiful, with shores, forests, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This undiscovered landscape boasts sweeping views, seals offshore, and an array of wildlife. The coast path winds along marshes flanking an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A hike can begin at a very old chapel, reportedly the oldest in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The trip involves many switchbacks to ascend the steep southern section of the Carpathians, offering incredible scenery. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, by car. The route also offers the potential for seeing animals, adding to the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A quick journey from a major city takes visitors to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, visitors meander along tree-lined lanes flanked by historic houses. The feel is relaxed, frequently interrupted by local cats and opportunities to look back at the distant mainland. The trip home is usually accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this unique retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Located behind a 14th-century church is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses a vast collection of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
