Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a forgotten alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their standout discoveries from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, one visitor questioned about their choice. Yet the first doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque location offers more than swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful piazzas and cobbled lanes housing busy seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and refreshments with friendly hospitality.
Classic Tunes in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized club offers great enjoyment. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely cleared to allow for space to dance. Operating until the early hours, the bar occasionally has live bands, guaranteeing a great experience.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a quiet escape. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a slope and ascend a giant twisting platform for stunning views over lush landscapes. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic cuisine with substantial food and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a noted naive artist, and the town centre features a number of mineral taps to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant discovery. Featuring three wonderful sandy beaches, its bustling centre comes alive in the evenings with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town offered a more authentic atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation offered direct a path to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great excursion from the region. Yet, this line is reportedly threatened of shutting down. The ride passes over spectacular stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Tourists are advised to experience this unique line while they can.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The countryside is beautiful, with coastline, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can walk for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering anyone. This secret area offers expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail winds along marshes bordering an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A journey can start at a 7th-century place of worship, among the oldest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually reopens in early summer. The drive involves constant turns to navigate the steep southern section of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, directly. The journey also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A short ferry ride from a major city transports people to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, explorers walk along historic roads flanked by historic houses. The rhythm is relaxed, with time paused by friendly felines and chances to gaze back at the distant city. The ferry back is usually accompanied by thoughts for a future return to this unique place.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Located behind a 14th-century church is a archive that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases detailed 16th-century maps and
