Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, one visitor pondered about their choice. Yet the initial doubts soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque settlement provides beyond just swimming. Tourists can wander through elaborately decorated public squares and stone-paved alleys lined with busy eateries. Man-made platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Local spots offer crisp pastries and refreshments with warm service.
Vintage Tunes in The German Capital
For lovers of classic rock, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed club promises a lot of fun. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl records. Furniture are routinely cleared to create dance floor. Operating late, the bar sometimes hosts live music, making for a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a quiet retreat. Visitors may walk to the peak of a slope and go up a tall twisting lookout for breathtaking views over green pastures. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture can be felt through rustic cuisine offering robust dishes and folk music. A museum displays the work of a noted folk artist, and the town centre features a number of mineral water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant discovery. Boasting three beautiful white sand beaches, its bustling town center comes alive nightly with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot provided a genuine feel at a much lower of the cost. The lodging provided direct access to the beach and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from a nearby city. But, the route is said to be under threat of closure. The journey passes over spectacular stone arches around the area of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Travelers are encouraged to experience this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is striking, with shores, woods, and farms. A historical fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base established by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is complimentary, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for miles along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This hidden world provides expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an abundance of wildlife. The coast path meanders along marshes next to an estuary, where remnants of old vessels lie. A hike can begin at a ancient chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and finish in a charming town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Closed during winter, it typically opens in June. The journey requires many bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing incredible vistas. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also includes the opportunity for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A quick journey from a major metropolis transports visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers walk along tree-lined streets featuring grand mansions. The rhythm is slow, frequently interrupted by resident felines and opportunities to stare back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is usually spent planning ideas for a future return to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a Gothic church is a library that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display showcases gorgeous old cartography and
