From a Venetian-inspired Slovene town by the sea to a forgotten alpine train line in France, visitors disclosed their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer questioned about their selection. Yet the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This charming town presents more than swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and cobbled passageways lined with bustling eateries. Man-made platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots provide flaky pastries and drinks with warm service.
Retro Music in Berlin
For fans of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized music bar promises great enjoyment. The vibe is terrific, complete with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Furniture are sometimes pushed aside to create dancing. Open late into the night, the bar occasionally hosts performances, guaranteeing a memorable night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Traveling into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a serene escape. Guests may walk to the top of a ski run and go up a large spiral viewing tower for magnificent vistas over lush fields. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic cuisine serving hearty dishes and traditional music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific painter, and the main area has a number of medicinal water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant discovery. Boasting three wonderful pristine beaches, its vibrant town center thrives nightly with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot delivered a genuine feel at a much lower of the cost. The lodging featured convenient a path to the sea and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb excursion from a nearby city. Yet, this line is potentially under threat of shutting down. The trip features breathtaking bridges around the town of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Tourists are advised to experience this picturesque line soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable attractions and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a historical fortress constructed by Russia and then destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring 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 part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This undiscovered world provides wide-open views, seals in the water, and an abundance of birds. The trail winds along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where remains of ships lie. A journey can begin at a very old chapel, one of the oldest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in late spring. The drive features many switchbacks to ascend the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Drivers can access a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the opportunity for wildlife sightings, completing the remarkable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A brief ferry ride from a major metropolis takes visitors to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, guests stroll along quiet streets featuring beautiful homes. The feel is relaxed, with time interrupted 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 special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a archive that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds a vast collection of rare volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection includes detailed 16th-century maps and
