From a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a forgotten alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their most memorable finds from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after stepping off the bus, one visitor wondered about their choice. But the initial suspicions quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This picturesque settlement presents beyond just a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through beautiful public squares and narrow passageways lined with busy eateries. Man-made diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots provide crisp pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Classic Tunes in Berlin
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, complete with a DJ playing only records. Chairs and tables are routinely moved to create dance floor. Staying open late into the night, the bar sometimes hosts live bands, making for a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a quiet retreat. Guests may walk to the top of a ski run and climb a large twisting platform for magnificent vistas over verdant pastures. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through traditional cuisine with hearty dishes and music. A gallery celebrates the work of a noted painter, and the main area has a number of spring taps to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. Featuring multiple wonderful pristine coastlines, its vibrant centre comes alive in the evenings with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a genuine feel at a much lower of the cost. A hotel offered easy access to the beach and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from the region. But, the route is reportedly at risk of shutting down. The ride features photogenic stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to ride this picturesque line soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is striking, with rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the fort ruins is free, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can hike for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This undiscovered area boasts sweeping vistas, seals offshore, and an array of birdlife. The coast path follows along marshes next to an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A journey can begin at a ancient church, reportedly the oldest in England, and conclude in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The trip requires numerous turns to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing excellent views. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes ringed with snow, directly. The route also offers the opportunity for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A quick boat trip from a bustling metropolis takes visitors to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests walk along quiet lanes featuring grand mansions. The rhythm is relaxed, with time broken by local felines and opportunities to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is often filled with ideas for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds thousands of rare volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition includes gorgeous old cartography and
