Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten mountain railway in France, travelers disclosed their standout encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer wondered about their choice. But the early hesitations soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful town presents more than a swim. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and cobbled passageways housing bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Local spots offer flaky pastries and beverages with friendly welcome.
Vintage Music in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated club is great enjoyment. The atmosphere is terrific, featuring a DJ spinning exclusively records. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to make space to dance. Staying open late into the night, the bar at times features live music, guaranteeing a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a quiet getaway. Travelers can hike to the peak of a ski run and go up a tall wooden lookout for magnificent vistas over lush pastures. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage is on display through rustic dining offering hearty dishes and folk music. A gallery showcases the work of a prolific folk artist, and the central spa boasts a number of spring water fountains to try.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful discovery. Boasting several wonderful white sand beaches, its lively town center comes alive every night with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town offered a genuine feel at a fraction of the price. A hotel featured easy access to the shore and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from a nearby city. However, the route is said to be threatened of shutting down. The ride features photogenic stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Tourists are encouraged to see this picturesque railway while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is attractive, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and then destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the remains is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering anyone. This secret area offers sweeping vistas, marine life in the water, and an profusion of wildlife. The path meanders along estuarine bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A hike can start at a ancient church, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a charming town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The trip features numerous switchbacks to ascend the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent scenery. Drivers can access a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, by car. The drive also presents the opportunity for wildlife sightings, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a bustling metropolis transports travelers to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers stroll along tree-lined streets featuring historic houses. The rhythm is slow, with time interrupted by resident cats and opportunities to look back at the far-off city. The trip home is often accompanied by ideas for a comeback to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses numerous of magnificent books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features exquisite 16th-century maps and
