From a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a little-known mountain train line in France, travelers have shared their standout discoveries from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their choice. But the initial hesitations quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming town presents more than a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and cobbled passageways housing busy seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and beverages with friendly hospitality.
Vintage Music in Berlin
For fans of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed music bar promises great enjoyment. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ playing just vinyl records. Chairs and tables are sometimes cleared to allow for dancing. Open late, the bar at times has performances, guaranteeing a great night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a serene getaway. Visitors can hike to the summit of a ski run and ascend a giant spiral lookout for stunning panoramas over lush fields. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture can be felt through traditional dining offering robust dishes and music. A gallery displays the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre boasts multiple mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant choice. Featuring multiple wonderful white sand shores, its lively town center comes alive every night with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a genuine experience at a fraction of the cost. A hotel offered direct access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from the region. Yet, this line is said to be under threat of being closed. The journey passes over spectacular stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Travelers are encouraged to ride this unique railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is striking, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost established by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is without charge, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to hike for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering anyone. This secret area boasts sweeping vistas, seals in the water, and an array of wildlife. The path follows along marshes flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A walk can commence at a ancient chapel, among the most ancient in England, and conclude in a quaint town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Closed during the colder months, it usually reopens in late spring. The trip requires constant bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering incredible vistas. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The journey also presents the chance for spotting bears, completing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Near a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a major metropolis transports visitors to a car-free island. As the day ends, the city chaos fades for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, visitors meander along historic streets lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is relaxed, with time paused by friendly felines and opportunities to gaze back at the distant city. The trip home is often filled with ideas for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Housed behind a Gothic church is a archive that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of magnificent books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection features exquisite Renaissance-era cartography and
