Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten alpine train line in France, visitors revealed their standout finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after getting off the bus, one visitor wondered about their selection. But the initial doubts quickly faded upon entering Piran. This picturesque town offers more than swimming. Tourists may meander through beautiful piazzas and narrow passageways housing bustling places to eat. Concrete diving platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Local spots offer crisp pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Vintage Sounds in Berlin
For aficionados of classic rock, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized venue offers a lot of fun. The vibe is fantastic, complete with a DJ spinning only records. Chairs and tables are routinely cleared to make dancing. Open until the early hours, the bar at times features live bands, ensuring a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Spa Town
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a peaceful getaway. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and climb a large twisting lookout for stunning panoramas over verdant fields. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Lemko culture can be felt through traditional dining offering substantial fare and folk music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa boasts several medicinal water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. Boasting multiple stunning sandy shores, its lively centre comes alive nightly with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location provided a more authentic feel at a much lower of the price. The lodging provided convenient entry to the beach and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from nearby cities. But, this line is said to be under threat of being closed. The trip features breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Travelers are encouraged to experience this unique railway before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting attractions and is accessible by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with shores, woods, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is without charge, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can stroll for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another person. This secret area provides wide-open vistas, seals in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path follows along marshes flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of ships are visible. A walk can start at a ancient church, reportedly the oldest in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Closed during winter, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive features many turns to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking views. Drivers can access a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The drive also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a major city transports visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, visitors walk along historic streets featuring historic houses. The pace is leisurely, with time interrupted by friendly felines and chances to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is often spent planning thoughts for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Located behind a Gothic church is a archive that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of magnificent books, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection showcases gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
