Starting with a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten alpine train line in France, visitors have shared their standout discoveries from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Right after arriving, an explorer pondered about their decision. However the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This charming location provides more than swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful piazzas and narrow passageways housing vibrant eateries. Man-made diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town provide flaky pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Vintage Sounds in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated club promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, complete with a DJ spinning only vinyl records. Furniture are sometimes moved to make dance floor. Open late, the bar at times hosts live bands, ensuring a memorable evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a quiet escape. Visitors may walk to the top of a slope and climb a large wooden viewing tower for stunning vistas over green landscapes. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage can be felt through rustic restaurants serving substantial food and music. A museum displays the work of a prolific painter, and the town centre boasts several mineral water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. Featuring three wonderful sandy coastlines, its lively town center is active nightly with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town offered a local experience at a fraction of the cost. The lodging offered direct access to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from the region. Yet, the route is said to be under threat of closure. The journey features photogenic viaducts around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to see this unique railway before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is striking, featuring shores, woods, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress established by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for miles along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This undiscovered landscape provides wide-open views, seals in the water, and an abundance of birdlife. The coast path meanders along salt marsh next to an estuary, where remnants of old vessels lie. A journey can begin at a ancient church, reportedly the earliest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Inaccessible during winter, it usually opens in June. The journey requires constant bends to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible vistas. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, still covered in snow, by car. The journey also includes the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a major metropolis transports people to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, guests stroll along historic roads flanked by beautiful homes. The pace is slow, often broken by resident felines and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is often filled with ideas for a comeback to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Housed behind a historic church is a archive that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features gorgeous old maps and
