Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known alpine railway in France, visitors revealed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, a traveler wondered about their choice. However the first doubts quickly faded upon entering Piran. This charming settlement provides more than swimming. Tourists can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and narrow passageways filled with busy eateries. Man-made platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town offer flaky pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.
Classic Tunes in The German Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ using just vinyl records. Chairs and tables are sometimes cleared to make dancing. Open until the early hours, the bar at times has live music, guaranteeing a great night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a quiet retreat. Travelers can hike to the top of a slope and ascend a large twisting viewing tower for breathtaking panoramas over verdant fields. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine with substantial fare and music. A museum celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the town centre has multiple mineral taps to try.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful find. Featuring several stunning white sand beaches, its vibrant centre is active in the evenings with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a genuine atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. A hotel offered easy entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from the region. However, this service is reportedly under threat of shutting down. The ride includes spectacular viaducts around the town of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Travelers are urged to see this picturesque railway soon.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is striking, featuring shores, woods, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base established by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This undiscovered world offers wide-open views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birdlife. The coast path winds along marshes bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of ships lie. A walk can commence at a ancient chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and finish in a charming town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in June. The trip involves constant turns to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, by car. The drive also includes the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A quick boat trip from a bustling metropolis transports people to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the city chaos dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers stroll along quiet streets flanked by grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, frequently broken by resident cats and moments to stare back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is often accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a historic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds numerous of ancient volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition features gorgeous old maps and
