Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain railway in France, explorers disclosed their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor questioned about their decision. But the initial suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This picturesque town presents more than a swim. Tourists can wander through ornate Venetian squares and stone-paved lanes filled with vibrant eateries. Concrete jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town provide flaky pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Classic Tunes in Berlin
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized venue promises immense fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, featuring a DJ using just vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Operating late, the bar occasionally features performances, ensuring a great night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a quiet escape. Guests may walk to the summit of a ski run and climb a tall twisting lookout for breathtaking panoramas over green pastures. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture is on display through rustic restaurants offering hearty food and traditional music. A gallery celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the town centre boasts a number of medicinal taps to try.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. Boasting several wonderful pristine coastlines, its vibrant town center comes alive in the evenings with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot offered a more authentic feel at a fraction of the cost. The lodging provided direct entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb day trip from the region. Yet, this line is potentially at risk of shutting down. The journey passes over spectacular bridges around the town of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to see this picturesque railway soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is striking, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund marks a historical fortress built by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the fort ruins is complimentary, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for hours along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This secret area boasts wide-open views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of wildlife. The trail meanders along marshes bordering an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A walk can begin at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the oldest in England, and conclude in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved route. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The journey involves constant turns to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Travelers can reach a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, by car. The route also offers the potential for seeing animals, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short journey from a bustling city takes people to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy dissipates for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, guests stroll along tree-lined roads featuring grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, often paused by local felines and moments to stare back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often filled with plans for a comeback to this incredible sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Housed behind a Gothic church is a archive that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of magnificent books, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display includes detailed old maps and
