Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a overlooked mountain train line in France, travelers have shared their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after arriving, an explorer questioned about their selection. Yet the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque location presents more than a swim. Tourists can wander through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled alleys filled with bustling eateries. Man-made jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Vintage Music in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized venue offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, complete with a DJ playing just records. Seating are sometimes cleared to allow for dancing. Open until the early hours, the bar sometimes has live bands, guaranteeing a memorable night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a peaceful retreat. Visitors are able to climb to the peak of a ski run and ascend a large wooden lookout for stunning vistas over lush landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture is on display through traditional cuisine serving substantial fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a noted folk artist, and the main area features multiple medicinal water sources to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. Featuring several beautiful white sand beaches, its bustling centre thrives every night with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot offered a local atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. A hotel provided convenient access to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from the region. Yet, the route is said to be threatened of closure. The journey features spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to see this special line while they can.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by coastline, woods, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund marks a historical fortress constructed by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is without charge, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can walk for miles along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This secret area boasts wide-open vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birds. The trail follows along estuarine next to an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels are visible. A walk can commence at a very old church, among the oldest in England, and end in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Inaccessible during winter, it usually opens in June. The journey involves constant turns to climb the steep southern section of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking scenery. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also includes the chance for spotting bears, adding to the memorable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a bustling metropolis takes travelers to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, guests meander along historic streets lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is slow, with time broken by friendly felines and chances to gaze back at the distant city. The trip home is often filled with plans for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Housed behind a 14th-century building is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection includes exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
