From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten alpine railway in France, visitors revealed their standout finds from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their decision. But the first doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque location offers more than a swim. Tourists may meander through beautiful Venetian squares and stone-paved alleys lined with busy places to eat. Man-made diving platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town offer flaky pastries and beverages with genuine welcome.
Vintage Music in Berlin
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed club offers a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, complete with a DJ playing exclusively vinyl. Seating are routinely pushed aside to create dancing. Open late into the night, the bar sometimes has live bands, ensuring a great evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a peaceful retreat. Travelers may walk to the peak of a hill and climb a large wooden lookout for magnificent vistas over lush fields. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture can be felt through traditional cuisine offering substantial fare and folk music. A museum showcases the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre boasts multiple mineral water fountains to try.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful find. Featuring several stunning sandy shores, its lively centre thrives in the evenings with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a genuine experience at a fraction of the price. Accommodation featured convenient entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great day trip from the region. However, this line is reportedly threatened of closure. The ride features breathtaking bridges around the town of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Visitors are encouraged to ride this unique line soon.
Archipelago Heritage 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 easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is attractive, with shores, woods, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the site is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to stroll for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This hidden landscape offers expansive views, marine life in the water, and an profusion of wildlife. The coast path follows along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remains of old vessels are visible. A journey can start at a very old chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually opens in late spring. The journey requires constant bends to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent views. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The route also presents the potential for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A short journey from a major city takes people to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, visitors stroll along quiet lanes flanked by grand mansions. The rhythm is relaxed, with time paused by friendly cats and chances to stare back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is often accompanied by ideas for a comeback to this unique sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a archive that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses a vast collection of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection includes gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
