Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a forgotten alpine railway in France, travelers revealed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their decision. Yet the initial doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This charming location offers beyond just a swim. Guests may meander through beautiful public squares and narrow lanes housing bustling eateries. Concrete jumping points render the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots serve up crisp pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.
Retro Tunes in Germany's Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club promises a lot of fun. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ playing just records. Chairs and tables are often moved to allow for space to dance. Staying open until the early hours, the bar sometimes features live bands, making for a great experience.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Crossing into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a quiet retreat. Guests may walk to the summit of a hill and climb a large wooden platform for breathtaking panoramas over lush pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Lemko culture is on display through traditional restaurants serving hearty dishes and traditional music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the central spa boasts a number of mineral taps to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent discovery. With three wonderful white sand coastlines, its vibrant centre is active nightly with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot provided a more authentic feel at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation provided direct entry to the sea and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great journey from nearby cities. However, this line is reportedly at risk of closure. The ride passes over photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Visitors are advised to experience this unique line while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, characterized by coastline, forests, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the site is without charge, with a small fee for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can walk for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This undiscovered area boasts wide-open vistas, seals offshore, and an array of birdlife. The trail meanders along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where remnants of boats lie. A journey can start at a very old church, reportedly the most ancient in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in late spring. The trip requires constant bends to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Visitors can access a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also presents the opportunity for spotting bears, adding to the memorable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A quick ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis takes visitors to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, visitors walk along quiet roads flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is leisurely, with time broken by resident cats and opportunities to stare back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is usually filled with thoughts for a comeback to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Located behind a Gothic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds thousands of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition features detailed Renaissance-era maps and
