Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian seaside settlement to a overlooked mountain railway in France, explorers revealed their standout encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after arriving, one visitor wondered about their choice. Yet the early hesitations quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque location presents more than swimming. Tourists can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and cobbled passageways filled with vibrant places to eat. Man-made platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Places in town offer flaky pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Retro Tunes in Berlin
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed music bar promises immense fun. The vibe is terrific, with a DJ playing exclusively records. Furniture are often pushed aside to create dance floor. Operating late into the night, the bar at times has live music, ensuring a great experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene escape. Guests are able to climb to the top of a hill and ascend a giant spiral lookout for breathtaking vistas over verdant landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture can be felt through traditional cuisine with hearty dishes and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa boasts several mineral water sources to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent discovery. Featuring multiple beautiful sandy shores, its lively centre comes alive nightly with families. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a more authentic feel at a fraction of the price. A hotel featured easy access to the beach and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from the region. However, the route is potentially at risk of being closed. The journey features spectacular stone arches around the town of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Travelers are urged to see this unique railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, featuring coastline, forests, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost built by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the site is complimentary, with a ticket for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can stroll for miles along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another person. This undiscovered world boasts sweeping views, seals offshore, and an abundance of birds. The path winds along marshes flanking an river mouth, where remains of old vessels are visible. A hike can commence at a 7th-century church, among the oldest in England, and finish in a charming town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved mountain road. Shut during winter, it usually opens in June. The trip features many switchbacks to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking views. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, still covered in snow, without a cable car. The drive also presents the potential for spotting bears, completing the memorable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief journey from a major metropolis transports travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined lanes featuring grand mansions. The rhythm is slow, frequently interrupted by resident felines and moments to gaze back at the far-off city. The ferry back is usually accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains thousands of magnificent tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection showcases exquisite Renaissance-era cartography and