Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known mountain railway in France, travelers have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor questioned about their selection. However the early suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful town offers beyond just a swim. Tourists can wander through ornate Venetian squares and stone-paved lanes housing vibrant places to eat. Concrete diving platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Places in town provide flaky pastries and refreshments with genuine welcome.
Classic Music in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated venue is immense fun. The vibe is fabulous, featuring a DJ using just records. Furniture are sometimes moved to allow for space to dance. Staying open late into the night, the bar occasionally hosts live bands, ensuring a great evening.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful getaway. Visitors can hike to the summit of a slope and go up a large spiral viewing tower for breathtaking vistas over verdant fields. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic dining serving robust fare and traditional music. A museum celebrates the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre boasts several medicinal water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant discovery. Boasting three beautiful sandy beaches, its bustling centre thrives in the evenings with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a more authentic experience at a fraction of the price. The lodging featured direct a path to the shore and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect excursion from a nearby city. But, this service is potentially at risk of being closed. The trip includes breathtaking viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to experience this unique railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is reachable by ferry from several countries. The countryside is striking, featuring coastline, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost built by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the site is free, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This secret area boasts expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of wildlife. The coast path meanders along salt marsh next to an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels are visible. A walk can begin at a 7th-century chapel, one of the oldest in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive involves many turns to climb the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Visitors can access a mountain lake, often covered in snow, without a cable car. The journey also includes the potential for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A brief boat trip from a major metropolis transports people to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle fades for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, guests meander along tree-lined streets lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is relaxed, frequently paused by local cats and moments to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often filled with thoughts for a future return to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Located behind a historic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses a vast collection of ancient books, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features detailed Renaissance-era maps and
