From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known mountain train line in France, travelers revealed their most unforgettable encounters from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their decision. But the initial doubts soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This charming settlement provides beyond just swimming. Visitors can wander through ornate piazzas and cobbled passageways filled with vibrant places to eat. Concrete diving platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Vintage Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar is a lot of fun. The vibe is terrific, complete with a DJ playing only vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely moved to allow for dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times has performances, ensuring a memorable experience.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a peaceful retreat. Guests are able to climb to the top of a ski run and ascend a tall twisting platform for magnificent vistas over green fields. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Their culture is on display through traditional dining offering robust dishes and music. A gallery displays the work of a noted folk artist, and the central spa has several spring taps to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful choice. Featuring multiple wonderful sandy coastlines, its lively centre is active nightly with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a genuine experience at a a quarter of the cost. The lodging offered convenient access to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from nearby cities. But, the route is potentially under threat of being closed. The trip features breathtaking stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Travelers are encouraged to see this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is striking, featuring coastline, forests, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is complimentary, with a ticket for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can stroll for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another person. This secret world provides wide-open vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birds. The coast path winds along marshes flanking an estuary, where wrecks of ships are visible. A walk can start at a 7th-century chapel, reportedly the most ancient in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in June. The drive requires numerous turns to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking vistas. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the opportunity for wildlife sightings, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a major metropolis transports visitors to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the city chaos fades for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, visitors walk along historic lanes lined with beautiful homes. The pace is slow, with time broken by friendly felines and moments to look back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is often filled with plans for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Housed behind a historic church is a archive that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
