Starting with a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Right after arriving, an explorer wondered about their decision. However the initial suspicions rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement presents more than a swim. Visitors may meander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and cobbled passageways housing vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town provide delicious pastries and beverages with genuine welcome.
Vintage Music in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar promises immense fun. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Operating late into the night, the bar occasionally hosts performances, ensuring a memorable evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Traveling into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a quiet retreat. Travelers may walk to the peak of a ski run and go up a giant spiral platform for breathtaking views over green landscapes. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture can be felt through traditional cuisine with hearty fare and music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a renowned naive artist, and the main area boasts a number of medicinal water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. Featuring multiple wonderful white sand coastlines, its lively town center comes alive nightly with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot provided a genuine atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. A hotel offered convenient access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb day trip from nearby cities. However, this service is said to be at risk of being closed. The trip features spectacular viaducts around the town of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Travelers are advised to see this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, featuring coastline, woods, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost built by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is without charge, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This undiscovered area offers expansive vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birds. The trail meanders along estuarine next to an estuary, where remains of old vessels are visible. A walk can commence at a very old chapel, reportedly the earliest in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Closed during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The drive features many bends to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, directly. The journey also presents the potential for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A quick journey from a bustling metropolis takes people to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle fades for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, guests meander along quiet streets flanked by historic houses. The pace is slow, often broken by resident cats and chances to stare back at the distant mainland. The trip home is usually accompanied by plans for a future return to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds a vast collection of ancient volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The display showcases detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
