From a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known mountain train line in France, travelers have shared their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after stepping off the bus, one visitor questioned about their selection. Yet the initial hesitations soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque settlement provides more than swimming. Tourists are able to stroll through ornate piazzas and narrow alleys lined with vibrant places to eat. Concrete platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Local spots offer crisp pastries and drinks with warm hospitality.
Retro Music in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized venue offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ using only vinyl. Furniture are sometimes pushed aside to allow for dancing. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times has performances, ensuring a fantastic night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a serene getaway. Guests can hike to the top of a hill and go up a tall twisting lookout for breathtaking vistas over verdant pastures. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Their culture can be felt through rustic cuisine with robust food and traditional music. A gallery showcases the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre boasts a number of spring water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent find. Featuring multiple stunning pristine shores, its vibrant centre comes alive nightly with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location delivered a more authentic atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. The lodging provided convenient access to the sea and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great day trip from a nearby city. Yet, this line is reportedly under threat of shutting down. The ride passes over photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Visitors are encouraged to ride this unique line soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is beautiful, characterized by rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the fort ruins is without charge, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can hike for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This undiscovered landscape provides expansive vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birds. The coast path winds along marshes flanking an river mouth, where remains of old vessels lie. A hike can commence at a ancient chapel, among the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The drive features numerous bends to ascend the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing excellent views. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The route also presents the potential for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a bustling metropolis takes travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, guests stroll along historic roads flanked by grand mansions. The pace is leisurely, with time interrupted by friendly cats and opportunities to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is often accompanied by plans for a next visit to this incredible sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Located behind a Gothic building is a collection that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses a vast collection of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition includes detailed 16th-century maps and
