From a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain railway in France, travelers disclosed their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor wondered about their choice. Yet the early suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque settlement provides beyond just swimming. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and stone-paved alleys lined with bustling eateries. Concrete jumping points render the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and refreshments with warm welcome.
Vintage Music in The German Capital
For fans of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul music, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning only records. Seating are sometimes cleared to allow for space to dance. Open late into the night, the bar at times hosts live bands, making for a fantastic experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a peaceful escape. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a slope and go up a tall spiral lookout for magnificent vistas over verdant fields. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic cuisine with substantial food and music. A museum displays the work of a noted naive artist, and the town centre has several spring taps to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant discovery. Featuring multiple wonderful sandy coastlines, its vibrant centre is active nightly with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town offered a more authentic experience at a fraction of the price. Accommodation provided direct access to the beach and a elegant and warm environment.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great day trip from nearby cities. However, the route is said to be threatened of shutting down. The ride passes over breathtaking stone arches around the area of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Tourists are urged to ride this unique railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, characterized by shores, forests, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and subsequently attacked 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 stroll for miles along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This undiscovered world boasts expansive vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birds. The path winds along marshes next to an river mouth, where remnants of ships lie. A journey can commence at a very old church, reportedly the most ancient in England, and end in a pretty town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive involves numerous bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent vistas. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The journey also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable experience.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A quick journey from a bustling city takes travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined roads flanked by historic houses. The pace is leisurely, often broken by friendly felines and opportunities to look back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is usually filled with ideas for a comeback to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Housed behind a historic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of rare tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features exquisite old cartography and
