Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain train line in France, visitors revealed their standout finds from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. But the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque location provides more than a swim. Guests can wander through ornate piazzas and narrow alleys housing vibrant places to eat. Concrete diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Places in town serve up delicious pastries and drinks with friendly service.
Vintage Sounds in Berlin
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed venue is immense fun. The atmosphere is terrific, complete with a DJ playing only records. Chairs and tables are sometimes moved to allow for space to dance. Open late into the night, the bar occasionally hosts performances, guaranteeing a memorable experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a serene escape. Guests can hike to the top of a slope and go up a large twisting platform for breathtaking vistas over verdant fields. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through traditional cuisine with substantial fare and traditional music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the central spa has several spring water sources to try.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant choice. With several beautiful sandy coastlines, its bustling centre thrives nightly with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a more authentic feel at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation offered convenient access to the beach and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from a nearby city. However, the route is said to be threatened of closure. The journey features photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Tourists are advised to ride this picturesque railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is attractive, characterized by coastline, woods, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to stroll for miles along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another person. This hidden world offers wide-open vistas, marine life offshore, and an array of birdlife. The trail follows along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A walk can start at a very old church, one of the earliest in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The trip features many bends to climb the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The route also presents the potential for spotting bears, completing the remarkable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a vibrant city transports visitors to a car-free island. As the day ends, the city chaos is replaced for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, guests meander along historic streets flanked by beautiful homes. The pace is slow, with time interrupted by local cats and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is often accompanied by ideas for a next visit to this special sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Tucked away behind a historic building is a library that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition includes gorgeous old cartography and
