Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian seaside settlement to a overlooked alpine railway in France, travelers have shared their most unforgettable encounters from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, a traveler pondered about their decision. However the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This charming settlement presents more than swimming. Tourists can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and cobbled lanes lined with vibrant places to eat. Man-made diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Local spots provide flaky pastries and refreshments with warm welcome.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club is a lot of fun. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ using exclusively vinyl. Chairs and tables are often pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Staying open late into the night, the bar at times has live music, making for a fantastic experience.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene getaway. Guests can hike to the summit of a hill and ascend a tall twisting lookout for breathtaking views over green pastures. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional dining with hearty food and music. A gallery displays the work of a prolific folk artist, and the central spa has a number of mineral taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. Boasting three wonderful sandy shores, its vibrant centre comes alive nightly with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a more authentic atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. A hotel featured easy a path to the sea and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from the region. Yet, this line is reportedly under threat of shutting down. The ride passes over breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Travelers are encouraged to see this picturesque railway soon.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A historical fort at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost established by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the remains is complimentary, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can hike for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This secret landscape provides wide-open vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of birds. The coast path meanders along marshes bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of boats can be seen. A hike can start at a ancient place of worship, one of the oldest in England, and conclude in a charming town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive requires constant turns to ascend the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent vistas. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, still covered in snow, directly. The drive also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the remarkable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a major city transports people to a peaceful getaway. As the evening approaches, the urban energy is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined roads featuring beautiful homes. The feel is leisurely, often interrupted by resident cats and moments to stare back at the distant city. The return journey is often accompanied by thoughts for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a library that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains a vast collection of ancient books, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display features gorgeous old cartography and
