From a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a little-known mountain train line in France, travelers disclosed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Right after stepping off the bus, a traveler questioned about their decision. Yet the initial suspicions quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town offers more than swimming. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated public squares and narrow alleys lined with bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town offer delicious pastries and refreshments with friendly welcome.
Vintage Sounds in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed music bar offers great enjoyment. The atmosphere is terrific, featuring a DJ spinning just vinyl records. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to create dance floor. Open late into the night, the bar sometimes features live music, guaranteeing a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a peaceful escape. Visitors are able to climb to the top of a ski run and go up a large spiral lookout for stunning views over lush fields. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine offering robust food and music. A museum showcases the work of a noted naive artist, and the town centre boasts multiple mineral taps to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent find. Featuring several wonderful pristine beaches, its bustling town center comes alive in the evenings with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town offered a local feel at a much lower of the price. Accommodation provided direct a path to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from a nearby city. But, the route is said to be at risk of shutting down. The journey includes photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to experience this picturesque line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable sites and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The countryside is beautiful, featuring coastline, woods, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base constructed by Russia and subsequently attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is complimentary, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This undiscovered area offers sweeping vistas, seals in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail meanders along marshes next to an river mouth, where remains of ships are visible. A walk can commence at a ancient church, one of the oldest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt mountain road. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in June. The drive requires constant switchbacks to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible scenery. Travelers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also includes the chance for spotting bears, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a vibrant city transports people to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the city chaos is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, visitors stroll along historic roads lined with beautiful homes. The feel is slow, often paused by resident felines and moments to stare back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is usually filled with thoughts for a comeback to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains a vast collection of ancient books, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection features exquisite old cartography and
