Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a forgotten mountain train line in France, visitors revealed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. Yet the early doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque location provides beyond just swimming. Guests may meander through beautiful piazzas and narrow lanes filled with busy places to eat. Concrete jumping points make the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Local spots offer flaky pastries and drinks with warm hospitality.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed club promises immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, featuring a DJ playing only vinyl. Seating are sometimes cleared to make dance floor. Open late, the bar occasionally hosts live bands, making for a memorable evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Spa Town
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a quiet escape. Travelers are able to climb to the summit of a slope and ascend a tall spiral lookout for stunning views over green fields. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic restaurants with robust fare and traditional music. A museum showcases the work of a renowned painter, and the main area has multiple mineral taps to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent discovery. With three wonderful white sand shores, its lively town center thrives in the evenings with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town provided a local feel at a fraction of the price. A hotel provided direct access to the beach and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from nearby cities. Yet, this line is potentially under threat of shutting down. The ride features breathtaking bridges around the area of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Visitors are encouraged to see this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable attractions and is accessible by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost built by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is without charge, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can walk for miles along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This hidden landscape boasts expansive vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birdlife. The coast path follows along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels are visible. A hike can commence at a very old chapel, among the oldest in England, and end in a quaint town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Shut during winter, it typically opens in late spring. The drive involves many switchbacks to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking views. Travelers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The route also presents the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A quick ferry ride from a major metropolis takes travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos fades for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, visitors meander along quiet roads lined with historic houses. The pace is leisurely, often interrupted by friendly cats and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the city. The return journey is usually spent planning ideas for a comeback to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Located behind a Gothic building is a library that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features detailed old maps and
