Starting with a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a overlooked alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their decision. Yet the first hesitations quickly faded upon entering Piran. This charming location provides more than a swim. Guests can wander through beautiful public squares and cobbled passageways filled with busy places to eat. Concrete platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Local spots provide crisp pastries and beverages with friendly welcome.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club promises immense fun. The ambiance is terrific, with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl records. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar at times hosts performances, making for a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a serene retreat. Guests may walk to the summit of a ski run and ascend a giant twisting platform for breathtaking panoramas over verdant pastures. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. Lemko culture is on display through traditional dining serving substantial fare and music. A museum showcases the work of a renowned naive artist, and the central spa has several spring water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent discovery. Featuring multiple beautiful pristine shores, its lively centre comes alive in the evenings with families. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a local atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. The lodging offered easy access to the beach and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect excursion from a nearby city. However, this service is potentially at risk of shutting down. The ride includes breathtaking bridges around the town of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are advised to ride this special railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is attractive, characterized by coastline, woods, and farms. A historical location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the fort ruins is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in England
It is possible to hike for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This undiscovered world provides expansive views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birds. The trail meanders along marshes flanking an estuary, where remains of old vessels are visible. A journey can begin at a 7th-century place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The trip requires constant bends to climb the steep southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a bustling city transports visitors to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, visitors walk along quiet streets lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is leisurely, with time paused by local felines and chances to look back at the distant mainland. The trip home is often accompanied by plans for a comeback to this special place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Located behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition features detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
