Starting with a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain train line in France, visitors disclosed their standout finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after arriving, one visitor questioned about their decision. However the initial suspicions soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This charming location offers beyond just swimming. Guests may meander through ornate public squares and narrow lanes housing vibrant eateries. Concrete jumping points turn the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town provide delicious pastries and beverages with genuine hospitality.
Retro Tunes in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue is a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ playing exclusively vinyl records. Chairs and tables are sometimes moved to make dancing. Operating late, the bar at times has performances, ensuring a memorable night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a quiet escape. Guests are able to climb to the top of a ski run and go up a tall twisting viewing tower for breathtaking panoramas over green pastures. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Lemko culture is on display through rustic dining offering substantial fare and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the town centre features a number of medicinal water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful find. Boasting several stunning sandy beaches, its bustling town center is active every night with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location provided a more authentic atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. A hotel featured direct entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect excursion from nearby cities. However, the route is potentially threatened of shutting down. The journey includes photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to ride this picturesque line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is beautiful, featuring coastline, forests, and farms. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can stroll for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This hidden landscape provides expansive vistas, seals in the water, and an abundance of birds. The path follows along marshes bordering an river mouth, where remains of old vessels lie. A walk can begin at a 7th-century place of worship, among the oldest in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Shut during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The journey features numerous switchbacks to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Travelers can access a mountain lake, still covered in snow, directly. The route also offers the potential for wildlife sightings, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief boat trip from a vibrant city transports visitors to a peaceful island. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle fades for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, visitors stroll along quiet roads flanked by historic houses. The rhythm is relaxed, often broken by resident cats and moments to look back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often filled with plans for a comeback to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a archive that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of ancient volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display features exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
