Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene town by the sea to a forgotten alpine train line in France, visitors have shared their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after arriving, one visitor pondered about their choice. Yet the initial suspicions quickly faded upon entering Piran. This delightful town offers beyond just swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful public squares and cobbled lanes lined with bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Local spots offer flaky pastries and beverages with warm service.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated venue promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ using just vinyl records. Furniture are often cleared to create dance floor. Staying open late, the bar occasionally has live bands, guaranteeing a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Spa Town
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a quiet escape. Visitors can hike to the top of a ski run and go up a tall spiral lookout for stunning vistas over green landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional cuisine serving hearty food and music. A gallery showcases the work of a prolific painter, and the main area has multiple mineral water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant find. Featuring multiple stunning white sand shores, its bustling center comes alive nightly with residents. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a more authentic atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. The lodging provided easy a path to the shore and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb day trip from nearby cities. Yet, the route is potentially threatened of closure. The trip features spectacular viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Tourists are urged to see this picturesque line soon.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is attractive, with shores, forests, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base built by Russia and subsequently demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is without charge, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
It is possible to walk for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This secret area provides expansive views, seals in the water, and an profusion of birds. The coast path meanders along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where remains of boats can be seen. A journey can begin at a ancient chapel, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually reopens in early summer. The trip involves constant turns to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent views. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The drive also offers the chance for seeing animals, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A quick journey from a bustling city transports travelers to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle fades for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined roads lined with grand mansions. The feel is slow, frequently interrupted by resident cats and moments to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is often filled with ideas for a next visit to this unique place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Tucked away behind a historic building is a library that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection includes detailed Renaissance-era maps and
