From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known mountain train line in France, travelers have shared their standout discoveries from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after getting off the bus, one visitor pondered about their choice. Yet the early doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful location presents more than swimming. Visitors can wander through ornate public squares and narrow alleys filled with busy places to eat. Man-made platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Local spots provide crisp pastries and refreshments with friendly service.
Classic Music in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed music bar offers great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fabulous, complete with a DJ using just records. Chairs and tables are often moved to make dancing. Staying open late into the night, the bar at times hosts live music, ensuring a memorable evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a quiet getaway. Visitors are able to climb to the peak of a hill and go up a giant spiral platform for breathtaking panoramas over green pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture can be experienced through rustic restaurants with substantial fare and music. A museum displays the work of a noted folk artist, and the central spa features several mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. With multiple beautiful sandy shores, its bustling centre is active every night with families. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a genuine feel at a fraction of the cost. A hotel provided easy access to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great journey from the region. However, this line is reportedly at risk of being closed. The ride passes over photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Tourists are urged to see this picturesque railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with shores, forests, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can walk for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This undiscovered area offers wide-open vistas, marine life offshore, and an array of birds. The path follows along salt marsh bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of boats are visible. A journey can begin at a 7th-century chapel, among the earliest in England, and finish in a charming town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive involves numerous bends to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, by car. The journey also includes the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the remarkable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A short ferry ride from a major city takes people to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined lanes flanked by historic houses. The pace is leisurely, with time broken by friendly felines and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the mainland. The ferry back is often spent planning thoughts for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Located behind a Gothic building is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains a vast collection of magnificent volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases exquisite Renaissance-era cartography and
