Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known alpine railway in France, explorers revealed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after getting off the bus, one visitor pondered about their decision. But the initial suspicions rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This charming location presents more than swimming. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled alleys lined with busy eateries. Concrete platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Places in town provide crisp pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.
Classic Tunes in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated music bar promises great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning only vinyl. Furniture are routinely pushed aside to create space to dance. Staying open late, the bar at times features live bands, ensuring a great night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a quiet escape. Travelers may walk to the top of a slope and ascend a tall twisting viewing tower for breathtaking vistas over lush pastures. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be felt through traditional cuisine offering substantial food and traditional music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre boasts a number of mineral water sources to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. Featuring multiple stunning white sand coastlines, its bustling center thrives in the evenings with families. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot offered a local atmosphere at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation provided direct access to the sea and a elegant and warm environment.
A Scenic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from nearby cities. But, the route is said to be at risk of being closed. The trip features spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Travelers are encouraged to experience this picturesque line before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
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 museums and is reachable by boat from several countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress established by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can stroll for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This hidden landscape offers sweeping vistas, seals offshore, and an abundance of wildlife. The path meanders along estuarine bordering an estuary, where remnants of ships can be seen. A journey can start at a 7th-century chapel, among the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually reopens in late spring. The journey requires constant switchbacks to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent vistas. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, by car. The journey also offers the chance for seeing animals, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a bustling city takes visitors to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, guests walk along quiet roads flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, with time broken by local felines and opportunities to look back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is often filled with thoughts for a comeback to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Housed behind a Gothic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds numerous of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display showcases detailed 16th-century cartography and
