From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after arriving, one visitor pondered about their selection. Yet the initial hesitations quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement provides beyond just swimming. Visitors may meander through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled alleys housing vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Nearby establishments serve up crisp pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Vintage Music in Berlin
For aficionados of classic rock, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed venue offers immense fun. The ambiance is terrific, featuring a DJ using only vinyl. Seating are sometimes moved to make space to dance. Staying open late, the bar occasionally features performances, making for a memorable evening.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a quiet getaway. Visitors are able to climb to the summit of a hill and ascend a tall spiral lookout for magnificent views over verdant landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage is on display through rustic cuisine serving hearty food and folk music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area features a number of medicinal taps to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent discovery. Boasting multiple stunning sandy shores, its lively town center is active nightly with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot provided a more authentic feel at a much lower of the cost. A hotel featured direct a path to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from nearby cities. However, the route is reportedly threatened of being closed. The ride features photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Tourists are urged to ride this unique railway soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is attractive, with coastline, forests, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This secret world boasts expansive vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of wildlife. The coast path winds along marshes next to an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels are visible. A walk can begin at a ancient chapel, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt road. Closed during winter, it usually opens in June. The journey features numerous turns to climb the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Drivers can access a high-altitude lake, still covered in snow, directly. The journey also includes the opportunity for seeing animals, completing the memorable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a vibrant city takes travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, guests meander along historic streets lined with historic houses. The feel is slow, with time broken by resident felines and opportunities to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The ferry back is often spent planning ideas for a future return to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a archive that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds thousands of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display includes exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
