From a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked alpine train line in France, explorers revealed their standout encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after getting off the bus, one visitor pondered about their selection. But the initial suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This charming settlement provides more than a swim. Tourists may meander through elaborately decorated public squares and narrow passageways housing vibrant places to eat. Concrete platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town provide delicious pastries and beverages with genuine welcome.
Classic Tunes in Berlin
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized club promises a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, featuring a DJ playing just vinyl. Furniture are sometimes moved to allow for dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times has live bands, guaranteeing a fantastic night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a peaceful escape. Travelers may walk to the top of a slope and go up a giant twisting lookout for magnificent vistas over green pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage is on display through rustic restaurants offering robust dishes and music. A gallery showcases the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre features multiple medicinal taps to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. Boasting several wonderful pristine shores, its bustling town center is active nightly with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a genuine feel at a a quarter of the price. A hotel featured easy access to the shore and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect day trip from the region. But, the route is said to be at risk of being closed. The ride includes photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Tourists are urged to see this picturesque railway soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is striking, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A historical location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century naval base established by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is complimentary, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This secret world boasts expansive vistas, seals in the water, and an profusion of wildlife. The trail meanders along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where wrecks of boats lie. A walk can start at a 7th-century chapel, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically opens in late spring. The trip features numerous bends to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking views. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, by car. The journey also presents the potential for spotting bears, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A brief journey from a bustling city transports travelers to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the urban energy is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors stroll along historic streets flanked by historic houses. The rhythm is slow, often paused by resident felines and opportunities to gaze back at the distant city. The ferry back is often filled with ideas for a future return to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a collection that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds thousands of rare books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection showcases gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
