From a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their selection. Yet the initial suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town offers more than swimming. Guests can wander through ornate public squares and stone-paved alleys housing busy places to eat. Concrete platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Nearby establishments provide crisp pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Vintage Sounds in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed club is immense fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, complete with a DJ playing exclusively records. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Operating late, the bar sometimes has live music, making for a memorable night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a quiet getaway. Travelers may walk to the summit of a hill and ascend a giant wooden platform for stunning panoramas over green landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional cuisine serving hearty fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area boasts several mineral water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful choice. Boasting several stunning pristine coastlines, its vibrant centre is active every night with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot offered a more authentic atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. A hotel featured direct access to the sea and a elegant and warm ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from nearby cities. However, this line is said to be under threat of closure. The trip passes over breathtaking stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Tourists are encouraged to ride this special railway while they can.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is striking, featuring coastline, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is free, with a ticket for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can walk for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This undiscovered landscape offers sweeping views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of birdlife. The trail follows along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where remains of ships are visible. A walk can commence at a ancient place of worship, reportedly the most ancient in England, and end in a charming town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved route. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The trip requires many bends to climb the steep southern section of the Carpathians, providing incredible vistas. Visitors can access a mountain lake, still covered in snow, by car. The journey also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short journey from a vibrant city takes travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests stroll along historic roads flanked by historic houses. The feel is relaxed, with time interrupted by local cats and moments to look back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is usually filled with thoughts for a comeback to this special retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Tucked away behind a historic building is a archive that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds thousands of magnificent tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes exquisite 16th-century cartography and
