From a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a forgotten alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from recent travels.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, an explorer questioned about their choice. But the early suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This charming town offers beyond just a swim. Guests are able to stroll through ornate piazzas and stone-paved lanes housing busy places to eat. Man-made diving platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and beverages with friendly hospitality.
Classic Sounds in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed music bar offers a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, with a DJ using just records. Chairs and tables are sometimes moved to allow for space to dance. Open late, the bar at times has performances, guaranteeing a great night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a serene getaway. Travelers can hike to the top of a ski run and go up a large twisting platform for magnificent panoramas over green landscapes. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional restaurants with hearty dishes and music. A museum displays the work of a noted folk artist, and the central spa features several mineral water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful find. With several beautiful sandy beaches, its vibrant center is active every night with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location provided a local feel at a fraction of the cost. The lodging provided convenient entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from nearby cities. But, the route is reportedly at risk of being closed. The ride features photogenic bridges around the town of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Travelers are advised to ride this unique line while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is attractive, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost established by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is without charge, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This undiscovered area boasts expansive views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of wildlife. The coast path meanders along marshes flanking an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels are visible. A walk can begin at a 7th-century place of worship, among the earliest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually opens in late spring. The trip features numerous switchbacks to ascend the steep southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent vistas. Travelers can reach a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, by car. The route also offers the chance for seeing animals, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a major metropolis takes visitors to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, explorers walk along quiet lanes lined with historic houses. The pace is leisurely, with time broken by resident felines and opportunities to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is usually filled with plans for a comeback to this special retreat.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a 14th-century church is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses a vast collection of magnificent books, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases detailed 16th-century cartography and
