From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked mountain railway in France, travelers have shared their standout discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler questioned about their choice. However the initial suspicions rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This delightful location offers more than swimming. Tourists can wander through beautiful public squares and narrow passageways lined with bustling places to eat. Man-made platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Places in town provide crisp pastries and refreshments with warm welcome.
Retro Music in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized venue is a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, featuring a DJ spinning just vinyl records. Seating are often cleared to allow for dance floor. Operating until the early hours, the bar at times has performances, guaranteeing a memorable evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Spa Town
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful retreat. Travelers can hike to the summit of a ski run and go up a large twisting platform for stunning panoramas over green fields. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through traditional dining offering robust food and traditional music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa boasts multiple spring water sources to try.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant discovery. With three beautiful pristine coastlines, its lively centre is active in the evenings with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a local experience at a much lower of the price. The lodging provided convenient access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from nearby cities. However, this service is said to be under threat of shutting down. The ride includes spectacular viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to see this unique line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The countryside is attractive, featuring shores, forests, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical fortress constructed by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is without charge, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to stroll for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This undiscovered area provides sweeping views, seals in the water, and an array of birds. The trail follows along marshes next to an estuary, where remains of ships can be seen. A hike can commence at a 7th-century church, among the earliest in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Closed during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The drive requires many bends to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent views. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The route also offers the opportunity for seeing animals, adding to the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A quick journey from a vibrant metropolis transports visitors to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along historic roads featuring beautiful homes. The rhythm is relaxed, with time broken by friendly cats and chances to gaze back at the distant city. The return journey is often accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a Gothic building is a collection that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds thousands of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display includes detailed Renaissance-era maps and
