Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a overlooked mountain railway in France, travelers disclosed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after arriving, an explorer pondered about their selection. However the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This delightful location presents beyond just a swim. Visitors may meander through ornate public squares and narrow lanes housing busy seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Places in town provide flaky pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Retro Music in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club offers a lot of fun. The vibe is terrific, with a DJ spinning only vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely pushed aside to create dance floor. Open until the early hours, the bar occasionally hosts live bands, ensuring a great night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene getaway. Visitors are able to climb to the peak of a ski run and climb a giant twisting lookout for breathtaking vistas over verdant fields. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional restaurants serving hearty food and music. A museum showcases the work of a noted folk artist, and the town centre has several spring taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent choice. Featuring three beautiful pristine beaches, its lively town center thrives nightly with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a more authentic feel at a a quarter of the price. A hotel offered easy entry to the sea and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from a nearby city. Yet, this line is reportedly under threat of being closed. The trip passes over breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Travelers are encouraged to see this picturesque line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The countryside is attractive, featuring shores, woods, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base established by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This undiscovered landscape boasts wide-open views, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The path meanders along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels lie. A hike can commence at a very old chapel, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The trip involves many turns to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent views. Visitors can access a mountain lake, often covered in snow, directly. The route also offers the potential for wildlife sightings, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief journey from a bustling city transports visitors to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the city chaos dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests stroll along tree-lined streets flanked by beautiful homes. The pace is slow, with time broken by local cats and opportunities to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is often accompanied by ideas for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a library that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds thousands of ancient books, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display features gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
