From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a forgotten mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their standout finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Right after arriving, one visitor questioned about their decision. But the initial doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque location offers beyond just a swim. Guests can wander through ornate piazzas and cobbled lanes lined with bustling seafood restaurants. Concrete platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and beverages with warm service.
Retro Tunes in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated club is great enjoyment. The atmosphere is terrific, featuring a DJ spinning only vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely pushed aside to create dancing. Staying open late into the night, the bar at times hosts performances, ensuring a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a serene retreat. Visitors are able to climb to the top of a hill and go up a tall spiral lookout for breathtaking vistas over verdant landscapes. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be felt through traditional dining with robust fare and music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a prolific naive artist, and the town centre features several spring taps to try.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful discovery. With several beautiful white sand beaches, its lively town center is active nightly with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town provided a more authentic atmosphere at a much lower of the price. The lodging provided convenient a path to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from nearby cities. Yet, this line is potentially threatened of closure. The journey features photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Travelers are encouraged to experience this picturesque railway while they can.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is striking, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base established by Russia and subsequently demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the site is free, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for miles along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This hidden world boasts wide-open views, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birds. The coast path follows along marshes flanking an river mouth, where remnants of boats are visible. A journey can start at a 7th-century chapel, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a charming town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically reopens in early summer. The trip requires constant turns to navigate the steep southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking vistas. Drivers can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, directly. The route also presents the potential for spotting bears, completing the remarkable experience.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A brief journey from a bustling city takes visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined streets featuring grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, often paused by resident cats and opportunities to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is often filled with thoughts for a future return to this unique sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a historic building is a library that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains a vast collection of magnificent volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display features gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
