From a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a forgotten alpine railway in France, travelers have shared their most memorable finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after arriving, one visitor questioned about their choice. But the early doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town provides beyond just swimming. Tourists may meander through beautiful Venetian squares and stone-paved alleys housing vibrant places to eat. Concrete diving platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Places in town provide delicious pastries and beverages with friendly service.
Classic Tunes in Germany's Capital
For fans of classic rock, retro pop, and Motown, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar is immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ playing only records. Chairs and tables are routinely pushed aside to make dancing. Open late into the night, the bar sometimes has performances, making for a fantastic experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a peaceful retreat. Guests may walk to the top of a hill and climb a large spiral viewing tower for stunning views over verdant fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be felt through rustic dining serving hearty food and traditional music. A museum celebrates the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area has multiple mineral taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. With several wonderful pristine shores, its lively centre comes alive every night with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location delivered a local experience at a much lower of the cost. The lodging featured convenient entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming environment.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from the region. Yet, the route is said to be at risk of closure. The ride features photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Travelers are urged to ride this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The countryside is beautiful, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the site is without charge, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This undiscovered world offers sweeping views, seals in the water, and an array of birds. The coast path meanders along estuarine next to an estuary, where remnants of boats are visible. A journey can commence at a ancient church, among the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The journey involves numerous turns to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking views. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the potential for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short journey from a vibrant city transports visitors to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers meander along historic roads lined with beautiful homes. The feel is slow, with time broken by friendly felines and moments to look back at the distant mainland. The return journey is often filled with ideas for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Located behind a historic building is a archive that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of ancient volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection showcases detailed 16th-century maps and
