From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked mountain railway in France, explorers disclosed their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after arriving, a traveler questioned about their selection. Yet the initial suspicions rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This charming town offers beyond just a swim. Visitors can wander through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved lanes housing vibrant places to eat. Man-made jumping points make the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Places in town provide delicious pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized club is a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, featuring a DJ playing just records. Furniture are often cleared to create dancing. Staying open late, the bar at times hosts performances, making for a great evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a quiet escape. Guests can hike to the peak of a hill and climb a large twisting viewing tower for breathtaking panoramas over lush landscapes. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through rustic cuisine offering hearty fare and folk music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the town centre features a number of medicinal taps to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful find. Boasting multiple beautiful sandy shores, its bustling town center comes alive nightly with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot provided a local atmosphere at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation featured easy access to the beach and a elegant and warm environment.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb day trip from the region. Yet, this line is reportedly threatened of shutting down. The journey includes breathtaking stone arches around the town of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Visitors are encouraged to experience this unique line before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is beautiful, with shores, woods, and farms. A historical fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical naval base established by Russia and subsequently demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the site is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This undiscovered area provides wide-open vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of wildlife. The coast path winds along marshes bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A hike can commence at a 7th-century chapel, one of the earliest in England, and conclude in a pretty coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The journey involves numerous bends to ascend the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Drivers can access a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, by car. The route also presents the opportunity for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A quick boat trip from a bustling metropolis takes people to a tranquil getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, visitors meander along historic streets featuring grand mansions. The pace is slow, often broken by local cats and moments to stare back at the skyline of the city. The return journey is often accompanied by ideas for a next visit to this unique place.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains a vast collection of magnificent tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display features detailed old maps and
