Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known mountain train line in France, travelers have shared their standout finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after arriving, one visitor wondered about their decision. But the first hesitations soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This charming settlement offers beyond just swimming. Guests may meander through elaborately decorated public squares and stone-paved passageways lined with bustling seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Places in town serve up crisp pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Retro Music in The German Capital
For fans of classic rock, retro pop, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized music bar is great enjoyment. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ using exclusively vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely cleared to create dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar sometimes features live music, guaranteeing a great experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a peaceful escape. Travelers are able to climb to the top of a ski run and go up a large wooden viewing tower for stunning vistas over green landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional dining with substantial fare and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area boasts multiple mineral water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. Featuring several stunning white sand shores, its vibrant centre is active in the evenings with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location provided a more authentic feel at a fraction of the price. Accommodation provided convenient entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great excursion from nearby cities. Yet, the route is potentially under threat of shutting down. The ride features breathtaking viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to ride this picturesque line before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, characterized by coastline, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is complimentary, with a charge for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This secret landscape offers sweeping views, seals in the water, and an array of wildlife. The path winds along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where wrecks of ships can be seen. A hike can start at a 7th-century church, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in late spring. The journey involves many bends to ascend the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The journey also includes the potential for spotting bears, adding to the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief journey from a vibrant metropolis transports travelers to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the urban energy is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, explorers walk along historic roads lined with historic houses. The feel is relaxed, often paused by local cats and opportunities to gaze back at the distant city. The return journey is usually spent planning plans for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Housed behind a historic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of ancient books, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection includes gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
