From a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known alpine railway in France, visitors revealed their most memorable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after getting off the bus, an explorer questioned about their decision. But the first hesitations soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This picturesque location presents beyond just a swim. Visitors may meander through elaborately decorated piazzas and stone-paved lanes housing busy seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Nearby establishments offer flaky pastries and refreshments with friendly hospitality.
Retro Tunes in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ using just vinyl records. Furniture are often cleared to allow for dancing. Operating late, the bar at times hosts live music, making for a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a peaceful retreat. Travelers are able to climb to the top of a ski run and go up a large wooden viewing tower for stunning vistas over verdant fields. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic restaurants with hearty food and traditional music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the central spa boasts a number of spring water sources to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent discovery. Featuring multiple wonderful pristine beaches, its bustling town center thrives in the evenings with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town offered a genuine experience at a much lower of the price. The lodging featured easy entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect journey from the region. However, this line is said to be under threat of closure. The journey passes over photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to see this special line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is striking, featuring shores, forests, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering anyone. This hidden area boasts sweeping views, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birds. The path meanders along marshes flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of ships lie. A walk can commence at a ancient chapel, among the most ancient in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually opens in late spring. The drive requires numerous bends to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Drivers can access a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The journey also presents the chance for seeing animals, adding to the remarkable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a vibrant city takes people to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy dissipates for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, visitors walk along quiet streets lined with beautiful homes. The pace is leisurely, with time broken by friendly cats and opportunities to stare back at the far-off city. The trip home is usually filled with ideas for a comeback to this special retreat.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Located behind a 14th-century church is a library that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains a vast collection of rare volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features exquisite old maps and
