Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a overlooked alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after stepping off the bus, one visitor questioned about their decision. But the early suspicions rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This delightful location presents beyond just a swim. Visitors may meander through ornate piazzas and cobbled passageways lined with bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Local spots provide flaky pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club offers great enjoyment. The atmosphere is terrific, complete with a DJ using exclusively records. Furniture are sometimes cleared to make dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar sometimes has live bands, ensuring a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a serene retreat. Visitors can hike to the top of a slope and climb a giant spiral lookout for breathtaking vistas over lush fields. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture is on display through rustic dining offering robust fare and folk music. A museum showcases the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area features several medicinal water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful find. Boasting several beautiful white sand coastlines, its bustling centre thrives every night with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location provided a local atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation featured easy entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from the region. However, the route is said to be at risk of being closed. The ride includes breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Travelers are encouraged to ride this picturesque line soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable museums and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, with rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This secret landscape provides sweeping vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail winds along salt marsh next to an estuary, where remnants of ships are visible. A hike can commence at a 7th-century church, among the earliest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in June. The journey requires many bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking views. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, directly. The route also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, adding to the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a bustling metropolis takes travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, explorers stroll along tree-lined roads flanked by beautiful homes. The pace is leisurely, frequently paused by resident felines and chances to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often spent planning thoughts for a comeback to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a Gothic building is a archive that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses a vast collection of rare volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features gorgeous old maps and
