From a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their standout finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor questioned about their selection. However the initial suspicions quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement presents beyond just swimming. Guests may meander through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled lanes lined with vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town provide flaky pastries and beverages with friendly hospitality.
Classic Music in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, with a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Seating are often cleared to make dancing. Staying open late into the night, the bar sometimes has live music, ensuring a memorable experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a serene getaway. Travelers are able to climb to the summit of a hill and go up a tall spiral platform for breathtaking panoramas over green fields. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage is on display through traditional dining with hearty fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area boasts a number of medicinal water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful choice. Boasting three stunning sandy shores, its bustling centre is active in the evenings with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a local atmosphere at a fraction of the price. A hotel offered convenient access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect day trip from the region. But, the route is potentially under threat of being closed. The journey includes spectacular stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Tourists are advised to experience this picturesque railway while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable attractions and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A significant site at Bomarsund reveals a historical naval base constructed by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can hike for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This undiscovered landscape provides wide-open views, seals offshore, and an abundance of wildlife. The trail follows along estuarine flanking an estuary, where remains of old vessels are visible. A hike can commence at a very old place of worship, one of the earliest in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The trip features many bends to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The journey also offers the opportunity for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a bustling city transports visitors to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the city chaos fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, explorers walk along historic streets lined with grand mansions. The pace is slow, with time broken by resident felines and opportunities to look back at the far-off city. The trip home is usually accompanied by plans for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Housed behind a historic church is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses a vast collection of ancient books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition includes gorgeous 16th-century maps and
