Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known alpine railway in France, visitors revealed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their selection. Yet the early hesitations soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This charming town provides beyond just a swim. Guests may meander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and narrow alleys filled with busy places to eat. Man-made platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Nearby establishments offer crisp pastries and refreshments with warm welcome.
Retro Tunes in Germany's Capital
For lovers of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul music, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed venue promises immense fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, featuring a DJ playing only vinyl records. Seating are often moved to create space to dance. Staying open until the early hours, the bar sometimes features live bands, guaranteeing a fantastic experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a serene retreat. Visitors can hike to the top of a slope and go up a tall wooden lookout for stunning vistas over lush landscapes. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture can be experienced through traditional cuisine with substantial dishes and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre features a number of spring taps to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant choice. Featuring several beautiful pristine beaches, its bustling centre is active every night with residents. While the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location offered a local atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. The lodging provided easy entry to the beach and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb excursion from a nearby city. However, the route is potentially threatened of closure. The ride passes over photogenic stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to ride this special line while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is accessible by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base constructed by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the site is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can hike for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This secret landscape boasts expansive vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of wildlife. The coast path meanders along estuarine flanking an estuary, where remains of boats can be seen. A walk can begin at a 7th-century chapel, among the earliest in England, and end in a charming town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in June. The drive involves many bends to climb the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, still covered in snow, without a cable car. The route also presents the chance for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a bustling metropolis takes travelers to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, visitors stroll along quiet roads featuring beautiful homes. The pace is slow, frequently interrupted by local cats and opportunities to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The ferry back is often filled with plans for a future return to this unique sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Located behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of magnificent books, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition showcases detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
