Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known alpine train line in France, travelers disclosed their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their choice. Yet the first doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful town provides more than swimming. Guests may meander through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved passageways lined with bustling places to eat. Concrete jumping points make the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and beverages with warm hospitality.
Retro Sounds in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed venue offers immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ playing only vinyl. Seating are sometimes moved to create space to dance. Operating late, the bar at times hosts performances, ensuring a memorable experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a peaceful getaway. Guests can hike to the summit of a ski run and climb a large spiral viewing tower for stunning panoramas over verdant fields. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture can be experienced through rustic restaurants with hearty dishes and traditional music. A gallery showcases the work of a prolific naive artist, and the town centre features several medicinal water sources to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. Featuring three wonderful pristine coastlines, its bustling centre comes alive in the evenings with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a more authentic feel at a fraction of the cost. The lodging provided direct access to the beach and a elegant and warm environment.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from the region. However, this line is reportedly at risk of shutting down. The trip includes spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to ride this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting attractions and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, characterized by coastline, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a historical fortress built by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can hike for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This hidden area provides sweeping views, seals in the water, and an array of birdlife. The coast path winds along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of ships can be seen. A hike can commence at a 7th-century church, among the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Shut during winter, it typically opens in June. The drive involves constant turns to climb the steep southern section of the Carpathians, offering excellent views. Travelers can access a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also includes the chance for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a major city takes visitors to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy dissipates for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors meander along historic roads lined with beautiful homes. The feel is leisurely, with time broken by local cats and moments to look back at the far-off city. The trip home is often accompanied by plans for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Housed behind a Gothic church is a library that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds thousands of magnificent volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition features gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
