Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a forgotten alpine train line in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after arriving, a traveler questioned about their selection. Yet the first doubts rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This delightful location presents beyond just a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through beautiful public squares and cobbled alleys housing busy places to eat. Concrete platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Local spots serve up delicious pastries and drinks with warm hospitality.
Retro Music 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 specialized music bar promises a lot of fun. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ using only vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely pushed aside to make dance floor. Staying open late into the night, the bar sometimes features live music, guaranteeing a memorable night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a quiet getaway. Travelers are able to climb to the top of a ski run and ascend a large twisting platform for breathtaking vistas over lush pastures. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture is on display through traditional restaurants offering robust fare and folk music. A museum displays the work of a renowned naive artist, and the central spa features a number of mineral taps to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent find. Boasting several wonderful sandy shores, its bustling centre comes alive nightly with residents. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a genuine atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation offered direct a path to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from a nearby city. Yet, this line is reportedly under threat of closure. The ride passes over photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Travelers are urged to ride this special line while they can.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by coastline, forests, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the remains is complimentary, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can walk for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This secret area offers expansive vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of wildlife. The coast path follows along salt marsh next to an estuary, where wrecks of boats are visible. A hike can start at a ancient church, among the earliest in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually reopens in early summer. The journey involves numerous switchbacks to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, by car. The drive also presents the potential for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A brief journey from a major metropolis transports travelers to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along quiet streets flanked by beautiful homes. The feel is relaxed, with time paused by local felines and opportunities to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The ferry back is usually filled with thoughts for a comeback to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses a vast collection of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display includes exquisite 16th-century maps and
