From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a forgotten mountain train line in France, explorers have shared their most memorable finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after arriving, a traveler wondered about their decision. But the first suspicions quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This charming settlement presents more than a swim. Guests can wander through ornate Venetian squares and narrow passageways lined with busy eateries. Man-made diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Local spots provide crisp pastries and refreshments with friendly service.
Classic Sounds in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar promises immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ using only vinyl. Furniture are routinely cleared to create dancing. Operating until the early hours, the bar occasionally hosts live music, ensuring a fantastic evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Crossing into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a peaceful retreat. Travelers may walk to the top of a hill and go up a large twisting platform for magnificent vistas over green fields. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be felt through rustic cuisine offering hearty fare and folk music. A gallery displays the work of a noted painter, and the central spa boasts multiple medicinal taps to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant find. Featuring several wonderful sandy beaches, its lively centre is active in the evenings with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a more authentic atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation provided convenient access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb day trip from a nearby city. However, this service is reportedly at risk of being closed. The ride passes over spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to ride this unique line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, featuring shores, woods, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost constructed by Russia and later demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is without charge, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can hike for miles along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This secret world boasts expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an profusion of wildlife. The coast path meanders along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of ships can be seen. A hike can begin at a ancient chapel, among the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The trip requires many turns to ascend the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick journey from a bustling city takes visitors to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, explorers meander along historic streets flanked by historic houses. The pace is leisurely, often interrupted by local cats and moments to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is usually filled with plans for a next visit to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Located behind a 14th-century church is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds thousands of magnificent books, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection showcases detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
