Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable encounters from their journeys.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after arriving, one visitor wondered about their decision. However the early hesitations soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement provides more than swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and stone-paved alleys housing vibrant eateries. Man-made diving platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Places in town serve up flaky pastries and drinks with warm service.
Classic Music in The German Capital
For fans of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue offers great enjoyment. The ambiance is terrific, featuring a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely pushed aside to allow for dance floor. Open late, the bar at times has live music, ensuring a memorable night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a quiet escape. Visitors can hike to the summit of a hill and go up a large spiral platform for magnificent views over green landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage can be felt through rustic cuisine with substantial dishes and music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre has several mineral water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant discovery. Boasting three stunning pristine beaches, its lively town center is active every night with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a local atmosphere at a much lower of the cost. The lodging provided easy entry to the sea and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from a nearby city. But, this line is potentially threatened of closure. The journey includes spectacular viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Travelers are urged to ride this unique railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The countryside is striking, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to walk for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This secret world boasts wide-open vistas, seals in the water, and an array of birds. The path follows along marshes bordering an estuary, where wrecks of ships can be seen. A hike can commence at a very old place of worship, one of the earliest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Closed during winter, it typically opens in June. The trip features numerous bends to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking vistas. Travelers can reach a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the potential for seeing animals, completing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A short journey from a vibrant city transports people to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the urban energy is replaced for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, guests stroll along tree-lined roads featuring grand mansions. The feel is slow, often interrupted by friendly cats and chances to look back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is usually filled with plans for a comeback to this special retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Located behind a historic church is a archive that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains numerous of magnificent volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display includes detailed old cartography and
