From a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a little-known alpine railway in France, visitors revealed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after stepping off the bus, a traveler pondered about their decision. Yet the early doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town offers more than a swim. Guests may meander through beautiful public squares and narrow passageways filled with vibrant places to eat. Man-made platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Places in town provide flaky pastries and drinks with friendly hospitality.
Vintage Tunes in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed music bar promises immense fun. The ambiance is terrific, featuring a DJ spinning only vinyl records. Seating are sometimes moved to allow for dancing. Operating until the early hours, the bar occasionally hosts live bands, guaranteeing a memorable night out.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene retreat. Guests may walk to the peak of a slope and ascend a tall twisting viewing tower for stunning panoramas over verdant fields. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine with substantial food and music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific painter, and the town centre features multiple mineral water sources to try.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent choice. With multiple wonderful pristine beaches, its lively center comes alive nightly with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a genuine feel at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation provided direct access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
An Iconic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great journey from the region. However, the route is reportedly under threat of being closed. The trip includes spectacular stone arches around the town of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Travelers are encouraged to see this picturesque line while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable sites and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is striking, with shores, forests, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another person. This undiscovered landscape boasts wide-open vistas, seals in the water, and an array of birdlife. The trail meanders along marshes flanking an estuary, where remains of ships are visible. A hike can start at a ancient church, among the most ancient in England, and conclude in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Shut during winter, it typically opens in late spring. The drive requires numerous switchbacks to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The route also presents the potential for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a major metropolis takes visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, guests meander along tree-lined lanes flanked by beautiful homes. The pace is leisurely, often interrupted by local cats and chances to stare back at the distant city. The ferry back is usually accompanied by plans for a next visit to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features detailed Renaissance-era maps and
