From a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a overlooked alpine train line in France, visitors disclosed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after getting off the bus, one visitor wondered about their selection. However the first suspicions soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque location provides more than a swim. Visitors can wander through ornate Venetian squares and stone-paved alleys lined with bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points render the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Places in town offer delicious pastries and drinks with warm service.
Classic Music in The German Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed venue promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl records. Furniture are sometimes moved to allow for dancing. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times has live music, making for a memorable experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Journeying into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene retreat. Visitors may walk to the peak of a ski run and go up a large wooden viewing tower for magnificent vistas over lush fields. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture can be felt through rustic restaurants offering substantial food and folk music. A gallery showcases the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa boasts multiple spring water sources to try.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant find. Featuring several wonderful pristine coastlines, its vibrant center comes alive every night with locals. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot delivered a more authentic experience at a fraction of the price. A hotel featured direct entry to the shore and a elegant and warm environment.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from a nearby city. Yet, this line is potentially threatened of closure. The trip passes over spectacular viaducts around the area of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are urged to ride this picturesque railway while they can.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable sites and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with coastline, woods, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This undiscovered landscape boasts wide-open vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of birdlife. The coast path follows along salt marsh next to an estuary, where remains of ships can be seen. A journey can start at a 7th-century chapel, one of the earliest in England, and conclude in a charming town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Shut during winter, it usually opens in June. The trip requires constant switchbacks to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent views. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still covered in snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the potential for spotting bears, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A brief journey from a vibrant metropolis takes people to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, guests walk along historic lanes flanked by historic houses. The rhythm is slow, frequently interrupted by friendly cats and opportunities to gaze back at the distant mainland. The return journey is often accompanied by thoughts for a future return to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
