From a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a forgotten alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from their journeys.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after arriving, an explorer wondered about their choice. Yet the initial doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This charming location presents beyond just a swim. Tourists are able to stroll through elaborately decorated piazzas and narrow lanes housing vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Places in town provide crisp pastries and refreshments with warm welcome.
Classic Music in Berlin
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, complete with a DJ playing just vinyl. Furniture are often pushed aside to make dance floor. Operating late into the night, the bar at times features live bands, making for a great evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a quiet escape. Visitors are able to climb to the top of a hill and go up a tall twisting viewing tower for breathtaking panoramas over verdant landscapes. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage is on display through traditional cuisine serving substantial food and music. A museum celebrates the work of a noted folk artist, and the main area boasts multiple spring water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. Boasting three beautiful pristine shores, its lively centre comes alive in the evenings with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town offered a local atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation featured convenient access to the sea and a elegant and warm environment.
A Scenic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from the region. Yet, this line is said to be threatened of shutting down. The trip passes over photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Tourists are advised to see this picturesque railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is striking, featuring shores, forests, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost built by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This secret world offers expansive vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of birdlife. The trail follows along estuarine bordering an estuary, where remains of ships lie. A hike can commence at a 7th-century church, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a quaint town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Closed during winter, it usually opens in late spring. The trip requires numerous bends to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the potential for seeing animals, completing the remarkable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A short ferry ride from a major city takes visitors to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy dissipates for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers stroll along historic streets featuring grand mansions. The rhythm is leisurely, often broken by resident felines and moments to gaze back at the distant city. The trip home is usually filled with plans for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Located behind a historic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains a vast collection of ancient tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection showcases gorgeous old maps and
