Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after getting off the bus, one visitor pondered about their choice. But the early hesitations soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful town provides beyond just a swim. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and cobbled alleys filled with busy seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Nearby establishments provide delicious pastries and drinks with friendly welcome.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed venue is a lot of fun. The vibe is fantastic, featuring a DJ playing just vinyl. Seating are routinely pushed aside to allow for dancing. Open late, the bar sometimes features live music, guaranteeing a memorable experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a quiet getaway. Travelers are able to climb to the top of a ski run and climb a tall wooden viewing tower for breathtaking panoramas over green pastures. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture can be experienced through rustic dining serving robust fare and music. A museum showcases the work of a prolific folk artist, and the main area boasts multiple medicinal taps to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent discovery. With multiple beautiful white sand beaches, its vibrant town center comes alive in the evenings with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a genuine experience at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation offered direct entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb journey from the region. However, this line is potentially under threat of being closed. The journey includes breathtaking stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Visitors are advised to see this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base built by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a ticket for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to stroll for miles along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This undiscovered area offers sweeping vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of birds. The trail winds along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where remnants of ships can be seen. A journey can commence at a very old chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a charming town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive involves many bends to ascend the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent vistas. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The route also presents the opportunity for spotting bears, enhancing the remarkable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a bustling city transports people to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, guests stroll along quiet lanes featuring historic houses. The feel is slow, with time broken by friendly cats and moments to stare back at the far-off city. The ferry back is usually accompanied by thoughts for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display features detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
