From a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after getting off the bus, one visitor wondered about their choice. Yet the early hesitations soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This charming location provides more than swimming. Visitors can wander through ornate piazzas and stone-paved lanes lined with vibrant seafood restaurants. Concrete platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Nearby establishments serve up crisp pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Retro Music in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar is a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, featuring a DJ using just vinyl records. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to make dancing. Operating late into the night, the bar occasionally has performances, ensuring a memorable experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a serene retreat. Travelers can hike to the summit of a ski run and climb a tall spiral viewing tower for magnificent vistas over green pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional cuisine with robust fare and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre boasts several spring taps to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent choice. Featuring several stunning sandy coastlines, its lively town center comes alive in the evenings with families. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a more authentic feel at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation offered convenient a path to the sea and a elegant and warm environment.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from the region. Yet, this line is reportedly at risk of shutting down. The journey passes over photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Tourists are advised to ride this picturesque line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, with coastline, forests, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the site is free, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to walk for miles along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This hidden landscape provides sweeping views, marine life in the water, and an abundance of wildlife. The trail follows along salt marsh next to an estuary, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A hike can begin at a 7th-century church, one of the oldest in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt road. Shut during winter, it usually opens in early summer. The drive features many switchbacks to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible vistas. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The journey also presents the chance for seeing animals, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A brief boat trip from a bustling city transports visitors to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests walk along tree-lined streets featuring grand mansions. The feel is slow, frequently paused by resident felines and chances to gaze back at the distant mainland. The return journey is often accompanied by ideas for a future return to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Located behind a Gothic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains thousands of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection showcases exquisite 16th-century maps and
