From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked alpine railway in France, explorers revealed their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor pondered about their selection. But the first hesitations quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This charming town provides beyond just a swim. Tourists can wander through ornate Venetian squares and stone-paved alleys filled with bustling seafood restaurants. Concrete jumping points make the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and drinks with genuine hospitality.
Classic Music in Berlin
For fans of classic rock, retro pop, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar promises a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, featuring a DJ spinning exclusively records. Chairs and tables are sometimes moved to make space to dance. Operating late into the night, the bar sometimes has live music, making for a great experience.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a quiet getaway. Visitors are able to climb to the summit of a hill and go up a giant twisting lookout for stunning views over verdant fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. Lemko culture can be felt through rustic cuisine serving hearty dishes and music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the main area boasts multiple mineral taps to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent discovery. With several stunning pristine beaches, its bustling town center thrives every night with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a local feel at a fraction of the price. Accommodation offered easy entry to the sea and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect day trip from nearby cities. Yet, this line is potentially under threat of being closed. The journey passes over breathtaking bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Tourists are advised to experience this picturesque railway soon.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by coastline, woods, and farms. A historical location at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost established by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is without charge, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for miles along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This hidden world offers wide-open views, seals in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path winds along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where remnants of ships are visible. A walk can commence at a very old chapel, one of the oldest in England, and end in a quaint town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The drive requires constant bends to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The route also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a bustling city transports travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the evening approaches, the urban energy dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers walk along historic lanes flanked by grand mansions. The rhythm is relaxed, with time broken by friendly felines and moments to look back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is usually accompanied by ideas for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Located behind a historic building is a collection that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display features detailed 16th-century cartography and
