Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a forgotten mountain train line in France, travelers revealed their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their decision. However the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful town presents more than a swim. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and narrow lanes filled with busy seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points turn the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Local spots provide flaky pastries and beverages with friendly welcome.
Retro Music in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized club offers great enjoyment. The vibe is terrific, with a DJ spinning only vinyl. Chairs and tables are often cleared to allow for space to dance. Operating late into the night, the bar sometimes has live bands, guaranteeing a great night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene getaway. Guests are able to climb to the top of a ski run and ascend a large twisting platform for breathtaking vistas over verdant fields. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic restaurants with hearty fare and music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned folk artist, and the town centre features multiple spring taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful choice. Featuring multiple beautiful sandy coastlines, its lively town center is active in the evenings with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot provided a genuine feel at a a quarter of the price. A hotel provided easy entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great excursion from nearby cities. However, the route is said to be under threat of closure. The journey includes photogenic stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Tourists are urged to experience this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is attractive, featuring coastline, woods, and farmland. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is free, with a charge 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 passing anyone. This secret landscape provides wide-open views, seals in the water, and an array of birdlife. The path meanders along salt marsh next to an estuary, where remains of ships can be seen. A walk can start at a ancient chapel, one of the earliest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Closed during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The trip involves many turns to climb the steep southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking views. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The drive also offers the chance for seeing animals, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A quick journey from a vibrant metropolis transports travelers to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along quiet lanes flanked by historic houses. The pace is relaxed, often broken by friendly felines and moments to stare back at the skyline of the city. The return journey is often accompanied by ideas for a comeback to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Tucked away behind a historic church is a library that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains numerous of magnificent tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
