Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a little-known mountain railway in France, travelers disclosed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their decision. But the early suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This charming settlement offers beyond just a swim. Tourists may meander through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved lanes filled with bustling eateries. Man-made jumping points make the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town provide flaky pastries and refreshments with warm service.
Classic Music in Berlin
For lovers of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar promises great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fantastic, complete with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl records. Seating are often cleared to create dance floor. Operating until the early hours, the bar sometimes has performances, guaranteeing a great night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a quiet retreat. Guests can hike to the top of a hill and ascend a giant spiral lookout for breathtaking views over lush landscapes. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through rustic cuisine serving hearty dishes and traditional music. A gallery displays the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre boasts a number of spring water sources to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent discovery. Featuring multiple wonderful white sand beaches, its bustling center thrives in the evenings with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot provided a genuine experience at a a quarter of the price. The lodging provided convenient entry to the beach and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect day trip from a nearby city. However, the route is said to be threatened of being closed. The journey passes over spectacular stone arches around the area of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to see this special railway while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by coastline, woods, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This secret area offers sweeping views, seals offshore, and an array of wildlife. The path winds along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where wrecks of boats can be seen. A walk can start at a very old chapel, among the oldest in England, and end in a charming town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The trip involves numerous switchbacks to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible vistas. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also offers the potential for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis transports travelers to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the city chaos dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, guests meander along quiet lanes flanked by grand mansions. The pace is slow, often paused by friendly felines and opportunities to stare back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is often spent planning ideas for a future return to this unique 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 historic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains thousands of magnificent books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display includes exquisite Renaissance-era maps and