From a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain railway in France, explorers disclosed their standout finds from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after stepping off the bus, an explorer questioned about their selection. Yet the first suspicions quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This delightful location presents beyond just swimming. Visitors may meander through elaborately decorated piazzas and stone-paved alleys filled with vibrant places to eat. Concrete diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Nearby establishments offer flaky pastries and drinks with genuine hospitality.
Retro Music in Germany's Capital
For lovers of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar offers immense fun. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely moved to allow for space to dance. Operating late, the bar occasionally features live bands, ensuring a great night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a quiet retreat. Travelers can hike to the summit of a hill and climb a giant spiral platform for magnificent panoramas over lush pastures. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine serving robust food and traditional music. A gallery celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the town centre boasts several spring water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant choice. Boasting several stunning white sand beaches, its lively centre comes alive in the evenings with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot provided a more authentic atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation featured direct access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from a nearby city. Yet, the route is potentially at risk of closure. The journey features spectacular viaducts around the town of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Visitors are urged to experience this picturesque line soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong identity. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is attractive, characterized by rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is free, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This undiscovered world offers expansive vistas, seals in the water, and an profusion of birds. The coast path meanders along marshes next to an estuary, where wrecks of ships can be seen. A hike can begin at a 7th-century chapel, among the earliest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Closed during winter, it usually opens in June. The journey features many turns to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still covered in snow, directly. The drive also offers the opportunity for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick journey from a bustling city takes travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers stroll along historic lanes featuring beautiful homes. The feel is relaxed, with time broken by local felines and chances to stare back at the distant city. The ferry back is often accompanied by thoughts for a future return to this incredible sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Tucked away behind a historic building is a library that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains thousands of rare volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition includes exquisite Renaissance-era cartography and
