Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after arriving, one visitor questioned about their decision. Yet the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement presents beyond just swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through ornate piazzas and stone-paved lanes housing vibrant eateries. Man-made diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Places in town offer crisp pastries and refreshments with genuine welcome.
Vintage Tunes in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, retro pop, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club promises great enjoyment. The ambiance is fantastic, with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often pushed aside to make dancing. Operating until the early hours, the bar at times features performances, ensuring a great experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a quiet retreat. Travelers can hike to the top of a ski run and go up a tall wooden platform for magnificent views over lush pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage can be felt through rustic restaurants with hearty dishes and music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area features several mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent choice. Boasting multiple wonderful pristine beaches, its bustling centre comes alive in the evenings with residents. While the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot delivered a local feel at a fraction of the price. Accommodation featured convenient access to the beach and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb day trip from nearby cities. Yet, this line is reportedly threatened of closure. The journey features photogenic viaducts around the area of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to ride this picturesque railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is attractive, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A historical fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is complimentary, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another person. This secret area boasts sweeping views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birds. The trail meanders along estuarine next to an estuary, where wrecks of boats are visible. A walk can start at a ancient place of worship, reportedly the oldest in England, and conclude in a pretty town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Shut during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The drive features numerous switchbacks to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent scenery. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often covered in snow, without a cable car. The journey also presents the chance for wildlife sightings, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a bustling city takes visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, guests meander along historic roads lined with grand mansions. The feel is leisurely, with time broken by resident cats and opportunities to look back at the distant city. The ferry back is often accompanied by plans for a next visit to this unique place.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Located behind a 14th-century church is a archive that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds thousands of magnificent books, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition features gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
