From a Venice-like Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable encounters from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, one visitor wondered about their choice. However the early doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque town presents beyond just a swim. Guests are able to stroll through beautiful Venetian squares and stone-paved lanes housing busy seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Places in town serve up crisp pastries and refreshments with friendly hospitality.
Classic Tunes in Germany's Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed venue offers immense fun. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ playing exclusively vinyl. Furniture are routinely pushed aside to make dance floor. Open late into the night, the bar at times has performances, ensuring a memorable evening.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a peaceful escape. Visitors are able to climb to the peak of a ski run and go up a giant wooden platform for magnificent vistas over verdant pastures. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic restaurants serving robust food and folk music. A museum displays the work of a prolific painter, and the main area boasts a number of medicinal water sources to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent find. Boasting three wonderful sandy coastlines, its bustling centre is active in the evenings with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a local atmosphere at a fraction of the price. Accommodation offered direct entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect day trip from a nearby city. Yet, the route is said to be threatened of shutting down. The trip features spectacular viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Travelers are urged to ride this special railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the site is complimentary, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can walk for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This undiscovered landscape provides wide-open views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of birdlife. The coast path winds along marshes bordering an estuary, where remains of old vessels lie. A hike can begin at a very old place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The drive features constant turns to navigate the steep southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible scenery. Travelers can access a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The journey also presents the potential for seeing animals, completing the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A brief journey from a vibrant metropolis transports travelers to a car-free island. As the day ends, the urban energy is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors stroll along historic lanes flanked by beautiful homes. The pace is slow, with time interrupted by friendly cats and moments to gaze back at the distant city. The return journey is usually accompanied by ideas for a next visit to this special sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Tucked away behind a historic church is a library that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display showcases detailed old cartography and
