Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a little-known alpine train line in France, travelers disclosed their most memorable discoveries from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their decision. But the early doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque location provides beyond just swimming. Tourists can wander through beautiful Venetian squares and stone-paved passageways lined with vibrant places to eat. Concrete platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Local spots offer delicious pastries and drinks with friendly hospitality.
Vintage Sounds in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated club offers great enjoyment. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ using exclusively records. Seating are often moved to create space to dance. Open late into the night, the bar sometimes hosts live music, making for a great experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a peaceful retreat. Travelers are able to climb to the peak of a slope and go up a giant twisting lookout for stunning views over verdant landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage is on display through traditional cuisine offering substantial food and music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa features a number of medicinal water fountains to try.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful find. Boasting multiple beautiful white sand coastlines, its vibrant center thrives every night with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot offered a genuine feel at a a quarter of the price. A hotel featured direct access to the beach and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from nearby cities. But, the route is said to be under threat of being closed. The trip passes over breathtaking stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Tourists are advised to experience this unique line soon.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable attractions and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The countryside is beautiful, with shores, woods, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress constructed by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This undiscovered area provides wide-open views, seals in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The path follows along salt marsh bordering an river mouth, where remnants of boats can be seen. A hike can begin at a ancient chapel, one of the oldest in England, and conclude in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The trip involves many switchbacks to climb the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible scenery. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, by car. The route also includes the opportunity for seeing animals, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short journey from a bustling metropolis takes people to a peaceful island. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, guests walk along historic lanes lined with beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, with time broken by local felines and chances to gaze back at the distant city. The trip home is usually filled with thoughts for a future return to this special retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a 14th-century building is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
