Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a forgotten alpine train line in France, travelers revealed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their selection. Yet the initial suspicions soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque settlement presents beyond just swimming. Guests may meander through ornate piazzas and cobbled passageways housing bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Local spots serve up crisp pastries and beverages with genuine service.
Retro Music in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar is immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, featuring a DJ playing only vinyl records. Furniture are sometimes pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Staying open late into the night, the bar sometimes features performances, making for a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene retreat. Guests can hike to the summit of a ski run and climb a large wooden viewing tower for stunning vistas over verdant landscapes. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. Lemko culture can be felt through rustic cuisine offering robust food and folk music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre has several spring taps to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant choice. Boasting three stunning sandy beaches, its lively town center thrives nightly with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a genuine experience at a much lower of the cost. A hotel provided convenient entry to the beach and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from nearby cities. However, this line is reportedly at risk of being closed. The trip includes spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Tourists are encouraged to experience this unique railway soon.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, with coastline, woods, and farms. A historical location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to stroll for miles along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another person. This undiscovered area offers expansive vistas, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The coast path meanders along salt marsh bordering an river mouth, where remains of old vessels are visible. A walk can begin at a very old place of worship, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The drive involves numerous turns to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking vistas. Travelers can access a mountain lake, often covered in snow, without a cable car. The route also presents the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a bustling city takes people to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined streets featuring beautiful homes. The pace is slow, often paused by local cats and chances to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is often spent planning thoughts for a comeback to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a archive that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
