From a Venice-like Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their standout discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after getting off the bus, one visitor pondered about their decision. However the early suspicions rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This delightful town presents beyond just swimming. Guests are able to stroll through beautiful public squares and stone-paved lanes lined with vibrant eateries. Concrete jumping points make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Local spots serve up flaky pastries and beverages with genuine service.
Classic Tunes in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and Motown, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized music bar offers immense fun. The atmosphere is terrific, featuring a DJ playing exclusively vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often cleared to create space to dance. Open late, the bar occasionally has live music, guaranteeing a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a peaceful getaway. Guests may walk to the top of a slope and climb a large wooden lookout for magnificent vistas over lush pastures. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture is on display through traditional dining serving hearty dishes and music. A gallery showcases the work of a prolific naive artist, and the central spa has several spring water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful choice. With several stunning white sand shores, its vibrant center comes alive nightly with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a more authentic experience at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation featured direct access to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from the region. But, this line is reportedly under threat of closure. The ride includes photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to see this unique line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is attractive, with coastline, woods, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and later demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This hidden landscape offers sweeping views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birds. The trail winds along salt marsh bordering an river mouth, where remains of old vessels lie. A hike can start at a very old chapel, among the earliest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in June. The trip requires constant bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing incredible views. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, without a cable car. The route also includes the potential for wildlife sightings, completing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Escape Near a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a major city takes travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, visitors meander along quiet streets featuring grand mansions. The pace is slow, frequently interrupted by local felines and chances to stare back at the far-off city. The trip home is usually accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this special retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Housed behind a historic church is a library that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains a vast collection of rare books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display showcases gorgeous 16th-century maps and
