From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known alpine railway in France, explorers revealed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their selection. But the initial suspicions quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque settlement provides more than a swim. Visitors may meander through beautiful Venetian squares and narrow passageways filled with bustling places to eat. Concrete platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town serve up delicious pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Classic Music in Berlin
For fans of classic rock, retro pop, and soul music, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue offers immense fun. The atmosphere is terrific, with a DJ playing only vinyl records. Seating are routinely pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Staying open late, the bar sometimes features performances, making for a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a quiet getaway. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a slope and climb a tall spiral platform for magnificent views over lush landscapes. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Their culture can be experienced through traditional dining with robust fare and traditional music. A gallery displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the central spa boasts a number of medicinal water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant find. Boasting multiple wonderful white sand beaches, its lively center is active every night with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a local feel at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation featured convenient a path to the sea and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect day trip from a nearby city. But, the route is potentially threatened of shutting down. The journey includes photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Visitors are encouraged to ride this picturesque railway while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is beautiful, featuring coastline, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is complimentary, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can walk for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This undiscovered world offers sweeping vistas, seals offshore, and an array of birdlife. The coast path follows along estuarine flanking an estuary, where remains of boats lie. A walk can commence at a very old place of worship, among the earliest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The trip involves numerous turns to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Travelers can reach a mountain lake, sometimes ringed with snow, directly. The route also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A quick ferry ride from a bustling city transports people to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the city chaos dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, explorers stroll along quiet roads lined with grand mansions. The pace is slow, with time interrupted by resident cats and chances to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is often filled with thoughts for a next visit to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Housed behind a Gothic building is a library that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses numerous of magnificent tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection features detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
