Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain train line in France, explorers have shared their most memorable discoveries from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after arriving, one visitor wondered about their choice. But the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This charming town provides more than a swim. Visitors may meander through elaborately decorated public squares and narrow lanes filled with busy seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots offer flaky pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Retro Tunes in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed music bar offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning only vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often pushed aside to allow for dancing. Operating late, the bar at times hosts performances, ensuring a great evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene escape. Guests can hike to the summit of a hill and ascend a giant twisting platform for stunning panoramas over lush pastures. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Lemko culture is on display through rustic dining offering substantial fare and traditional music. A museum celebrates the work of a noted painter, and the main area has several mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful discovery. Boasting several wonderful white sand shores, its lively town center is active in the evenings with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a more authentic experience at a a quarter of the price. A hotel provided direct access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb journey from a nearby city. However, this service is potentially under threat of closure. The journey passes over breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to ride this unique railway while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable sites and is reachable by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with coastline, woods, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This secret landscape boasts wide-open vistas, marine life offshore, and an array of wildlife. The coast path follows along salt marsh bordering an river mouth, where remains of ships are visible. A hike can start at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Shut during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The journey involves constant turns to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Visitors can access a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The route also includes the potential for spotting bears, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A brief journey from a bustling metropolis takes people to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos dissipates for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers stroll along historic roads flanked by historic houses. The pace is relaxed, frequently paused by resident cats and opportunities to look back at the far-off city. The trip home is often accompanied by plans for a next visit to this special place.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a historic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of magnificent books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection includes gorgeous old cartography and
