From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked alpine railway in France, explorers disclosed their most memorable finds from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their selection. But the early suspicions quickly faded upon entering Piran. This delightful location offers beyond just a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and cobbled alleys filled with vibrant eateries. Man-made diving platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Local spots provide delicious pastries and refreshments with friendly service.
Vintage Tunes in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed venue promises great enjoyment. The ambiance is fantastic, complete with a DJ using exclusively vinyl. Furniture are sometimes moved to make dancing. Operating late into the night, the bar sometimes features live music, making for a great evening.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a peaceful retreat. Visitors may walk to the top of a hill and climb a giant spiral platform for magnificent vistas over verdant landscapes. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be felt through traditional dining offering hearty dishes and music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned naive artist, and the main area has multiple spring taps to try.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant find. With three beautiful white sand coastlines, its lively center comes alive nightly with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town offered a more authentic atmosphere at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation provided convenient access to the shore and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from the region. But, this service is potentially under threat of being closed. The ride includes breathtaking viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are urged to ride this special line before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is beautiful, featuring shores, woods, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is without charge, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to stroll for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering anyone. This hidden area provides sweeping views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birds. The coast path winds along marshes flanking an river mouth, where remnants of boats lie. A hike can start at a very old church, reportedly the most ancient in England, and finish in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Closed during winter, it usually reopens in June. The journey requires constant turns to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible views. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also includes the chance for seeing animals, completing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A quick journey from a bustling city takes visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along tree-lined streets flanked by historic houses. The feel is slow, with time paused by local felines and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is usually accompanied by ideas for a future return to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Housed behind a historic building is a archive that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
