From a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a overlooked mountain train line in France, explorers revealed their most memorable finds from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. But the initial suspicions soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque settlement offers beyond just swimming. Tourists are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and narrow alleys lined with bustling places to eat. Concrete diving platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Nearby establishments offer flaky pastries and drinks with friendly welcome.
Vintage Music in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, featuring a DJ spinning just vinyl. Furniture are sometimes pushed aside to make dance floor. Open until the early hours, the bar sometimes features live bands, ensuring a memorable experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a quiet retreat. Guests can hike to the peak of a slope and go up a giant wooden viewing tower for stunning vistas over green landscapes. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage can be felt through rustic dining with robust fare and music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the central spa has several medicinal water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant choice. Featuring multiple stunning sandy shores, its lively town center comes alive every night with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a more authentic feel at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation provided convenient access to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great excursion from the region. Yet, this service is potentially at risk of closure. The ride features spectacular bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Travelers are urged to ride this unique railway while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable attractions and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by coastline, forests, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress constructed by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the site is free, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to walk for miles along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another person. This hidden world offers expansive vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of birds. The path follows along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A journey can commence at a ancient chapel, among the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Shut during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The trip involves numerous turns to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The route also presents the opportunity for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis takes visitors to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy dissipates for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers stroll along historic roads flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is leisurely, frequently paused by resident felines and moments to gaze back at the distant city. The ferry back is usually filled with ideas for a future return to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a collection that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display showcases detailed old maps and
