Starting with a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked alpine railway in France, explorers disclosed their standout discoveries from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their decision. Yet the initial hesitations quickly faded upon entering Piran. This delightful town offers more than a swim. Visitors may meander through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled lanes lined with bustling places to eat. Concrete jumping points make the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Local spots serve up crisp pastries and refreshments with genuine service.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated venue promises immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, featuring a DJ using only vinyl. Seating are routinely moved to make dance floor. Staying open late into the night, the bar at times has live bands, ensuring a memorable night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a quiet getaway. Visitors may walk to the top of a slope and climb a giant twisting viewing tower for magnificent vistas over green pastures. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture can be experienced through rustic dining with hearty fare and music. A gallery displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the town centre boasts multiple mineral water fountains to try.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. Boasting several stunning white sand shores, its vibrant centre thrives in the evenings with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot offered a genuine feel at a much lower of the price. Accommodation provided direct access to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from the region. Yet, the route is reportedly threatened of shutting down. The journey features photogenic stone arches around the town of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Tourists are encouraged to see this picturesque railway soon.
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, has interesting museums and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The countryside is striking, with shores, forests, and farms. A historical location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This hidden area boasts expansive vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of birds. The coast path follows along salt marsh next to an estuary, where wrecks of ships can be seen. A walk can commence at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the earliest in England, and finish in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The journey requires numerous turns to ascend the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking vistas. Drivers can access a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, directly. The route also includes the potential for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a vibrant metropolis transports people to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along historic lanes featuring beautiful homes. The feel is slow, often broken by friendly cats and moments to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is often filled with plans for a comeback to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Located behind a Gothic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds a vast collection of magnificent tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display showcases detailed old cartography and
