From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after arriving, an explorer wondered about their selection. Yet the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This charming town offers more than swimming. Guests can wander through ornate piazzas and narrow alleys lined with bustling places to eat. Concrete jumping points turn the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Local spots offer crisp pastries and drinks with friendly service.
Classic Music in Berlin
For aficionados of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul music, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed music bar offers immense fun. The vibe is fabulous, complete with a DJ using just vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely cleared to create space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar sometimes has live music, making for a memorable night out.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a quiet escape. Visitors are able to climb to the peak of a slope and go up a tall wooden platform for breathtaking panoramas over green landscapes. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture can be felt through rustic dining serving hearty food and traditional music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre boasts a number of medicinal taps to try.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful discovery. Featuring several beautiful sandy coastlines, its vibrant town center comes alive in the evenings with families. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot provided a genuine feel at a a quarter of the cost. The lodging provided direct a path to the sea and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from the region. But, this line is reportedly at risk of being closed. The ride features photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Tourists are encouraged to experience this unique railway while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is reachable by ferry from several countries. The countryside is attractive, with coastline, woods, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress constructed by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is complimentary, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to stroll for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This undiscovered landscape provides sweeping vistas, seals in the water, and an profusion of wildlife. The path meanders along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remnants of boats lie. A journey can start at a 7th-century chapel, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in June. The trip involves numerous switchbacks to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible vistas. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A quick ferry ride from a bustling city takes visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle fades for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, visitors meander along tree-lined roads lined with historic houses. The rhythm is slow, with time broken by local felines and chances to look back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is often filled with thoughts for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Housed behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of ancient tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition features exquisite old maps and
