Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known mountain railway in France, explorers disclosed their most unforgettable discoveries from their journeys.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after arriving, a traveler pondered about their choice. But the initial doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement offers more than swimming. Guests are able to stroll through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and cobbled lanes lined with bustling places to eat. Man-made jumping points make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Local spots provide delicious pastries and refreshments with friendly welcome.
Retro Music in The German Capital
For lovers of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul music, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar promises great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fabulous, with a DJ playing exclusively vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes cleared to allow for dance floor. Staying open late, the bar at times hosts live bands, making for a memorable night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a peaceful getaway. Guests can hike to the peak of a hill and ascend a tall spiral viewing tower for breathtaking views over verdant landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture can be experienced through rustic restaurants offering robust fare and music. A museum showcases the work of a prolific painter, and the town centre has several mineral water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful choice. With multiple beautiful pristine coastlines, its lively centre is active nightly with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location provided a local feel at a much lower of the price. The lodging provided direct entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from a nearby city. But, this line is said to be under threat of closure. The trip features photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Travelers are encouraged to see this picturesque railway soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is striking, with rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost built by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This secret area offers wide-open views, seals offshore, and an profusion of birds. The trail follows along marshes bordering an river mouth, where remnants of boats lie. A walk can commence at a very old place of worship, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in late spring. The journey requires numerous switchbacks to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often covered in snow, directly. The route also offers the chance for seeing animals, adding to the remarkable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A brief journey from a bustling metropolis takes visitors to a peaceful island. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, guests walk along historic lanes lined with historic houses. The pace is leisurely, with time broken by friendly felines and chances to stare back at the far-off city. The trip home is usually filled with plans for a comeback to this unique retreat.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Located behind a 14th-century building is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of ancient tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The display includes detailed old cartography and
