From a Venetian-inspired Slovene town by the sea to a little-known mountain train line in France, explorers revealed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor wondered about their decision. However the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This charming town presents beyond just a swim. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and stone-paved lanes lined with busy eateries. Man-made jumping points turn the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Places in town offer crisp pastries and refreshments with genuine welcome.
Classic Sounds in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed venue offers great enjoyment. The atmosphere is terrific, complete with a DJ spinning just vinyl records. Seating are routinely moved to make dance floor. Open late, the bar at times features live music, making for a memorable experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a serene escape. Guests can hike to the top of a hill and go up a tall wooden platform for breathtaking vistas over lush fields. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be felt through traditional restaurants offering robust fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area has multiple medicinal taps to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent choice. Featuring several beautiful pristine shores, its vibrant town center thrives nightly with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location delivered a local feel at a a quarter of the cost. The lodging provided convenient access to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great journey from a nearby city. But, this line is reportedly under threat of shutting down. The journey features breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Travelers are urged to ride this picturesque railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is striking, with shores, woods, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress constructed by Russia and subsequently attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is complimentary, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can stroll for miles along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This secret world offers wide-open vistas, marine life in the water, and an profusion of wildlife. The trail follows along estuarine next to an river mouth, where remains of boats are visible. A journey can begin at a ancient church, reportedly the most ancient in England, and finish in a quaint town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually opens in late spring. The trip features many switchbacks to ascend the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, providing excellent views. Drivers can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, by car. The journey also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a vibrant city transports visitors to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along quiet roads featuring historic houses. The feel is leisurely, often interrupted by friendly cats and chances to stare back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often accompanied by thoughts for a future return to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a library that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains a vast collection of rare books, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection showcases exquisite old maps and
