From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their standout finds from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after stepping off the bus, one visitor wondered about their selection. But the early hesitations quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming settlement offers more than a swim. Tourists are able to stroll through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved alleys filled with busy eateries. Man-made platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town provide crisp pastries and refreshments with friendly hospitality.
Retro Tunes in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized club offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, featuring a DJ playing just vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to create dancing. Operating late, the bar occasionally hosts live music, making for a memorable experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a serene getaway. Guests can hike to the peak of a ski run and ascend a tall spiral lookout for stunning views over verdant landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through traditional cuisine with substantial fare and folk music. A gallery displays the work of a noted folk artist, and the main area features several medicinal water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant find. Featuring three beautiful pristine coastlines, its lively centre thrives every night with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a more authentic feel at a fraction of the price. Accommodation offered convenient access to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great day trip from a nearby city. Yet, this service is potentially at risk of shutting down. The trip features breathtaking bridges around the locality of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to experience this picturesque railway while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong identity. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is attractive, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is free, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can walk for hours along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This undiscovered landscape boasts wide-open views, seals in the water, and an array of birds. The path follows along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where remains of boats are visible. A walk can start at a ancient church, among the oldest in England, and conclude in a pretty town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in early summer. The journey features many bends to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent views. Drivers can access a mountain lake, still covered in snow, by car. The journey also presents the potential for seeing animals, completing the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief ferry ride from a major city takes visitors to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, guests meander along tree-lined roads lined with grand mansions. The pace is relaxed, frequently paused by friendly cats and chances to gaze back at the distant city. The return journey is often spent planning thoughts for a comeback to this special place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a historic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of magnificent tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition features exquisite 16th-century maps and
