From a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known alpine train line in France, travelers revealed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after arriving, a traveler wondered about their choice. But the first doubts rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This delightful settlement presents more than swimming. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled alleys lined with busy places to eat. Concrete diving platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Places in town serve up flaky pastries and refreshments with friendly service.
Retro Tunes in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized venue is immense fun. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ playing just vinyl records. Chairs and tables are routinely moved to allow for dancing. Operating late into the night, the bar sometimes has live music, ensuring a memorable night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene escape. Visitors can hike to the top of a slope and climb a large wooden platform for magnificent panoramas over verdant fields. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture is on display through rustic dining offering hearty fare and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a renowned painter, and the town centre boasts a number of mineral water sources to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent find. Featuring three stunning sandy beaches, its lively center comes alive nightly with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town offered a local experience at a fraction of the cost. A hotel offered convenient a path to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect journey from the region. Yet, this service is said to be under threat of shutting down. The ride passes over breathtaking bridges around the locality of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Travelers are urged to experience this unique railway soon.
Island History 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 museums and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with shores, forests, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress established by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the site is free, with a charge for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to hike for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This undiscovered world offers expansive vistas, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail meanders along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remains of ships are visible. A hike can start at a 7th-century church, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a charming town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The journey requires constant turns to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking scenery. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also presents the potential for seeing animals, completing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A brief journey from a bustling city takes people to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos dissipates for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, explorers meander along historic streets flanked by grand mansions. The feel is slow, with time paused by local cats and moments to gaze back at the distant city. The ferry back is often accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this special sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds numerous of magnificent books, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases exquisite 16th-century cartography and
