Starting with a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a forgotten alpine train line in France, explorers disclosed their most memorable discoveries from their journeys.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after stepping off the bus, a traveler questioned about their selection. Yet the first suspicions soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This charming settlement presents beyond just a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and cobbled alleys filled with bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Nearby establishments offer crisp pastries and beverages with warm hospitality.
Classic Music in Berlin
For fans of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized venue offers immense fun. The vibe is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl records. Seating are routinely pushed aside to make space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar occasionally features live music, guaranteeing a great evening.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a peaceful getaway. Guests may walk to the peak of a hill and ascend a large wooden platform for magnificent vistas over verdant fields. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. Lemko culture can be felt through traditional cuisine serving hearty dishes and music. A museum showcases the work of a renowned painter, and the central spa features several medicinal water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant discovery. Boasting several beautiful sandy beaches, its lively centre is active in the evenings with residents. While the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town provided a genuine feel at a a quarter of the price. A hotel provided direct a path to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from a nearby city. But, the route is said to be under threat of shutting down. The ride passes over photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Tourists are urged to ride this picturesque railway soon.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by coastline, forests, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost built by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the site is complimentary, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can stroll for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This secret area provides sweeping views, seals offshore, and an array of birdlife. The trail follows along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remains of ships are visible. A hike can commence at a ancient church, one of the oldest in England, and end in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved route. Closed during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The journey features many switchbacks to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent views. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, directly. The route also includes the chance for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A quick boat trip from a major metropolis transports travelers to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy is replaced for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, visitors walk along quiet lanes featuring grand mansions. The pace is leisurely, with time paused by friendly cats and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is usually filled with ideas for a future return to this incredible sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Housed behind a Gothic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses numerous of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
