From a Venetian-style Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten alpine train line in France, visitors revealed their most unforgettable discoveries from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their selection. Yet the first doubts soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This charming town presents beyond just a swim. Guests can wander through beautiful piazzas and cobbled lanes housing bustling places to eat. Man-made platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Places in town offer crisp pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue promises immense fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, with a DJ playing exclusively records. Seating are sometimes moved to make dancing. Staying open late into the night, the bar sometimes hosts live music, making for a memorable evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene retreat. Travelers can hike to the peak of a slope and go up a tall wooden platform for breathtaking vistas over verdant fields. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture is on display through traditional restaurants with robust dishes and folk music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre boasts a number of mineral taps to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant choice. Featuring three wonderful white sand coastlines, its vibrant town center comes alive every night with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a more authentic atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation featured direct entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb excursion from a nearby city. Yet, this line is reportedly under threat of being closed. The ride passes over spectacular bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Visitors are urged to ride this special line soon.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and subsequently attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is without charge, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can stroll for hours along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This undiscovered area boasts expansive vistas, seals in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path winds along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where remains of ships can be seen. A walk can start at a ancient chapel, reportedly the most ancient in England, and finish in a charming town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The journey requires numerous turns to ascend the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Drivers can access a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a major metropolis takes visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, visitors walk along tree-lined lanes lined with grand mansions. The pace is relaxed, with time paused by resident cats and chances to stare back at the distant mainland. The ferry back is often spent planning ideas for a future return to this unique sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a archive that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds thousands of magnificent volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases exquisite old maps and
