From a Venetian-inspired Slovene town by the sea to a little-known mountain railway in France, travelers have shared their most memorable finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after arriving, an explorer pondered about their choice. But the initial doubts soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful settlement offers beyond just swimming. Guests can wander through beautiful public squares and stone-paved passageways filled with vibrant places to eat. Man-made diving platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Nearby establishments serve up crisp pastries and drinks with friendly service.
Vintage Sounds in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized club is immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, featuring a DJ spinning only vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often pushed aside to create dancing. Staying open late, the bar sometimes features performances, ensuring a great night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a quiet getaway. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a slope and climb a tall twisting platform for breathtaking panoramas over lush landscapes. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic restaurants offering substantial fare and folk music. A gallery displays the work of a noted painter, and the town centre has a number of medicinal water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent discovery. Boasting several wonderful pristine coastlines, its vibrant centre comes alive every night with locals. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town offered a more authentic feel at a much lower of the price. A hotel provided direct entry to the sea and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb day trip from nearby cities. But, this line is said to be threatened of being closed. The journey includes photogenic viaducts around the area of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Travelers are urged to see this picturesque line before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is accessible by boat from several countries. The countryside is beautiful, with rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical naval base constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This hidden world offers sweeping views, marine life offshore, and an abundance of wildlife. The trail winds along estuarine next to an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A hike can begin at a 7th-century place of worship, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a pretty town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The drive features constant turns to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent views. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the opportunity for spotting bears, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A quick boat trip from a bustling city transports travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, guests meander along tree-lined roads flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, frequently interrupted by resident cats and chances to look back at the far-off city. The trip home is often spent planning ideas for a next visit to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds a vast collection of magnificent volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display includes detailed Renaissance-era maps and
