Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain railway in France, visitors revealed their most unforgettable encounters from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after arriving, one visitor pondered about their choice. But the first hesitations quickly faded upon entering Piran. This charming town presents beyond just a swim. Tourists may meander through beautiful public squares and stone-paved alleys lined with vibrant places to eat. Man-made jumping points render the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town provide delicious pastries and drinks with warm hospitality.
Vintage Sounds in Berlin
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul music, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated venue promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, featuring a DJ playing just vinyl records. Seating are routinely cleared to allow for space to dance. Staying open late, the bar sometimes features performances, ensuring a great evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Crossing into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a quiet retreat. Visitors can hike to the peak of a hill and go up a large spiral viewing tower for magnificent views over green landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be felt through traditional cuisine offering robust fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre features multiple medicinal water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. Featuring multiple stunning white sand coastlines, its lively centre is active nightly with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a genuine experience at a much lower of the price. The lodging provided direct entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from a nearby city. However, the route is potentially threatened of being closed. The trip features breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to experience this special railway soon.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable museums and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is striking, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the site is free, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to stroll for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This undiscovered world offers expansive views, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birds. The coast path follows along marshes next to an river mouth, where remnants of ships are visible. A journey can start at a 7th-century church, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it usually reopens in early summer. The journey features many turns to ascend the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible scenery. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, often covered in snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the opportunity for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a vibrant city takes people to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, guests stroll along tree-lined streets lined with beautiful homes. The pace is relaxed, frequently broken by friendly cats and opportunities to gaze back at the distant mainland. The return journey is often accompanied by plans for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Housed behind a Gothic building is a collection that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains thousands of magnificent books, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes detailed 16th-century maps and
