From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian seaside settlement to a overlooked mountain train line in France, travelers revealed their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their choice. But the early suspicions quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town provides more than a swim. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and stone-paved lanes housing vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots serve up flaky pastries and refreshments with genuine welcome.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated club offers immense fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, with a DJ playing exclusively records. Chairs and tables are often moved to allow for dance floor. Staying open late, the bar at times features performances, guaranteeing a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a serene escape. Visitors can hike to the peak of a ski run and ascend a giant twisting platform for magnificent panoramas over green pastures. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Lemko culture is on display through rustic restaurants with robust fare and music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned folk artist, and the town centre boasts several medicinal water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful discovery. With several beautiful pristine coastlines, its lively town center comes alive every night with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location provided a more authentic feel at a fraction of the cost. A hotel offered easy access to the shore and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from nearby cities. Yet, this line is potentially under threat of being closed. The ride passes over breathtaking viaducts around the area of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Travelers are encouraged to ride this special line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The countryside is striking, featuring shores, forests, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the site is free, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can walk for miles along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This hidden landscape offers expansive views, marine life in the water, and an array of wildlife. The trail follows along marshes next to an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels are visible. A hike can begin at a ancient church, among the oldest in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved mountain road. Closed during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The trip requires many turns to ascend the steep southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Drivers can access a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The journey also presents the potential for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A short boat trip from a major metropolis transports people to a car-free island. As the day ends, the city chaos is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, visitors meander along quiet roads flanked by grand mansions. The feel is leisurely, with time broken by friendly cats and chances to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The return journey is usually accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this special retreat.
Top Discovery: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a archive that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds a vast collection of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection showcases gorgeous 16th-century maps and
