From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their standout finds from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after arriving, one visitor questioned about their selection. But the first doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This delightful location presents more than a swim. Guests are able to stroll through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled passageways filled with bustling eateries. Concrete platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town provide delicious pastries and beverages with warm hospitality.
Retro Tunes in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club is great enjoyment. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Seating are often cleared to allow for space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar sometimes hosts performances, ensuring a memorable night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene retreat. Visitors may walk to the summit of a ski run and ascend a giant twisting platform for magnificent views over lush fields. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Their culture can be felt through rustic restaurants offering substantial dishes and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the town centre features several medicinal water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent choice. Featuring multiple beautiful pristine coastlines, its lively town center thrives nightly with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location provided a genuine experience at a much lower of the cost. A hotel provided easy entry to the beach and a elegant and warm environment.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from the region. Yet, the route is reportedly under threat of shutting down. The journey passes over photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Tourists are encouraged to ride this unique line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable museums and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is striking, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost constructed by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is complimentary, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This undiscovered area provides wide-open vistas, seals in the water, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail follows along estuarine next to an river mouth, where remains of ships can be seen. A hike can commence at a 7th-century chapel, reportedly the most ancient in England, and conclude in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in late spring. The trip involves constant turns to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The journey also includes the chance for spotting bears, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A short boat trip from a major city transports visitors to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers stroll along tree-lined roads lined with historic houses. The pace is slow, frequently broken by resident cats and chances to look back at the distant city. The return journey is often accompanied by plans for a future return to this special place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of magnificent volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases exquisite 16th-century maps and
