From a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known alpine railway in France, visitors disclosed their most memorable finds from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after stepping off the bus, one visitor wondered about their decision. But the first doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This delightful town presents more than swimming. Guests are able to stroll through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled lanes housing vibrant places to eat. Man-made platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and refreshments with genuine service.
Classic Music in Berlin
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed music bar offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ using exclusively vinyl. Furniture are sometimes pushed aside to make dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar occasionally has live music, guaranteeing a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a serene retreat. Travelers can hike to the top of a ski run and go up a large wooden lookout for magnificent views over verdant pastures. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture is on display through traditional dining serving substantial food and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the town centre boasts multiple mineral water fountains to try.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant find. With several wonderful white sand coastlines, its vibrant center thrives nightly with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a local experience at a fraction of the price. A hotel offered easy access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from the region. However, the route is said to be under threat of closure. The journey passes over photogenic bridges around the town of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to experience this special railway while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The countryside is striking, characterized by shores, forests, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This hidden landscape boasts sweeping views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of wildlife. The path meanders along salt marsh bordering an river mouth, where remnants of boats lie. A walk can commence at a 7th-century chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually opens in early summer. The drive requires many bends to ascend the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Visitors can access a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also includes the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A quick ferry ride from a vibrant city transports visitors to a car-free island. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along quiet lanes lined with beautiful homes. The pace is relaxed, often interrupted by resident cats and chances to gaze back at the distant city. The ferry back is often filled with plans for a next visit to this special retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Housed behind a historic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds thousands of ancient books, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition includes gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
