From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten alpine railway in France, travelers disclosed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their choice. However the first doubts soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town offers more than a swim. Tourists can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and narrow alleys housing vibrant places to eat. Concrete diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and beverages with warm service.
Classic Tunes in The German Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul music, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed club promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, with a DJ playing exclusively vinyl. Chairs and tables are often cleared to make space to dance. Operating late into the night, the bar at times features performances, making for a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a peaceful escape. Guests can hike to the peak of a hill and go up a tall twisting viewing tower for magnificent panoramas over lush landscapes. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture can be felt through traditional restaurants serving robust dishes and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the town centre features multiple medicinal water sources to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful choice. Featuring multiple stunning sandy coastlines, its bustling centre is active nightly with families. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a local feel at a a quarter of the price. The lodging featured direct entry to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from nearby cities. Yet, this line is reportedly under threat of being closed. The journey includes spectacular stone arches around the area of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Tourists are advised to see this picturesque railway soon.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is striking, with rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the remains is without charge, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to stroll for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This undiscovered world offers sweeping views, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birds. The path winds along salt marsh next to an estuary, where wrecks of boats are visible. A walk can begin at a 7th-century church, one of the most ancient in England, and conclude in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Shut during the colder months, it typically opens in June. The journey features constant bends to climb the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, providing incredible vistas. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, often covered in snow, by car. The journey also presents the opportunity for spotting bears, enhancing the memorable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief journey from a major city transports visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the evening approaches, the city chaos fades for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, explorers walk along quiet roads lined with beautiful homes. The pace is slow, with time broken by local cats and chances to look back at the far-off city. The trip home is often spent planning thoughts for a future return to this incredible sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a archive that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of magnificent tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display includes gorgeous old cartography and
