From a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their decision. But the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This charming settlement offers more than swimming. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated public squares and narrow lanes lined with busy seafood restaurants. Concrete jumping points make the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town provide flaky pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Vintage Sounds in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar offers immense fun. The ambiance is fantastic, with a DJ playing exclusively vinyl. Furniture are routinely pushed aside to create space to dance. Open late into the night, the bar occasionally features live bands, guaranteeing a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful retreat. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a hill and ascend a large wooden viewing tower for breathtaking vistas over verdant fields. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage can be felt through traditional dining serving robust dishes and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a noted folk artist, and the main area boasts several medicinal taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful discovery. Boasting three wonderful white sand shores, its vibrant town center thrives nightly with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a more authentic atmosphere at a much lower of the price. The lodging offered convenient entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Scenic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from the region. But, this service is reportedly at risk of being closed. The ride features photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are encouraged to experience this unique railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The landscape is striking, with coastline, woods, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical naval base established by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Exploring the site is complimentary, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to walk for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This undiscovered area boasts expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birds. The trail meanders along estuarine bordering an estuary, where remnants of ships are visible. A hike can commence at a ancient church, one of the earliest in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive involves numerous turns to navigate the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, offering incredible scenery. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still covered in snow, by car. The drive also offers the potential for spotting bears, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A quick journey from a vibrant metropolis transports people to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the city chaos dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along tree-lined streets featuring beautiful homes. The pace is relaxed, often interrupted by local cats and chances to stare back at the distant mainland. The ferry back is usually spent planning thoughts for a comeback to this incredible sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Medieval 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 archive that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of ancient books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display features gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
