From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known mountain railway in France, visitors disclosed their most unforgettable encounters from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after arriving, one visitor wondered about their selection. Yet the early doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming settlement offers beyond just swimming. Guests can wander through ornate Venetian squares and cobbled alleys lined with busy eateries. Man-made jumping points render the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Places in town offer delicious pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Classic Tunes in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized venue promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, complete with a DJ playing just records. Chairs and tables are sometimes moved to make space to dance. Staying open late, the bar occasionally has live music, making for a fantastic night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a peaceful retreat. Visitors can hike to the summit of a hill and ascend a large wooden platform for breathtaking vistas over verdant landscapes. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine with substantial fare and traditional music. A museum showcases the work of a noted folk artist, and the town centre boasts several mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful choice. With three beautiful pristine shores, its lively town center thrives in the evenings with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a genuine atmosphere at a much lower of the price. Accommodation offered convenient access to the shore and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb day trip from a nearby city. But, the route is potentially under threat of closure. The ride features photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to experience this special railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is striking, with rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base built by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the site is free, with a charge for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to walk for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This hidden world boasts wide-open views, seals in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail follows along marshes flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A walk can commence at a 7th-century chapel, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a quaint town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Shut during the colder months, it typically opens in late spring. The trip involves numerous switchbacks to climb the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The drive also includes the potential for seeing animals, completing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A quick boat trip from a bustling metropolis takes travelers to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, guests stroll along historic lanes lined with beautiful homes. The feel is relaxed, frequently broken by local felines and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is usually filled with thoughts for a next visit to this incredible sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a archive that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition includes exquisite Renaissance-era cartography and
