Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten alpine train line in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after getting off the bus, an explorer questioned about their decision. But the first suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful town provides more than swimming. Guests can wander through ornate piazzas and narrow alleys filled with vibrant eateries. Concrete jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Places in town provide delicious pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Vintage Music in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, retro pop, and Motown, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar promises immense fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, complete with a DJ using only records. Furniture are routinely moved to make space to dance. Staying open until the early hours, the bar sometimes has performances, guaranteeing a fantastic evening.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a quiet getaway. Visitors may walk to the top of a ski run and climb a giant twisting viewing tower for breathtaking views over green pastures. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine with hearty dishes and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a prolific painter, and the town centre features a number of spring water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent find. With several beautiful sandy coastlines, its lively town center thrives every night with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town delivered a genuine atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation offered easy entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect excursion from the region. Yet, this line is reportedly under threat of closure. The trip features photogenic stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Tourists are encouraged to ride this unique railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, featuring coastline, woods, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base established by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is complimentary, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another person. This undiscovered landscape boasts expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an abundance of birds. The trail follows along salt marsh next to an estuary, where remains of ships are visible. A journey can commence at a ancient place of worship, one of the oldest in England, and conclude in a pretty coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually reopens in June. The journey involves many switchbacks to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent views. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, often covered in snow, directly. The drive also includes the opportunity for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a vibrant city transports people to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos fades for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, explorers walk along historic lanes flanked by grand mansions. The pace is slow, with time interrupted by resident cats and opportunities to stare back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often spent planning plans for a future return to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains a vast collection of rare volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection showcases detailed 16th-century maps and
