Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene town by the sea to a forgotten mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their selection. Yet the early doubts quickly faded upon entering Piran. This picturesque town offers beyond just swimming. Tourists can wander through beautiful Venetian squares and narrow alleys lined with bustling eateries. Man-made jumping points render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Places in town provide flaky pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club offers immense fun. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning just records. Chairs and tables are routinely cleared to allow for dancing. Staying open late, the bar occasionally has live music, ensuring a memorable experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a quiet escape. Visitors can hike to the top of a hill and climb a giant spiral viewing tower for stunning views over verdant pastures. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture is on display through traditional restaurants serving hearty dishes and traditional music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre boasts several spring water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant find. With several stunning white sand shores, its lively center is active nightly with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a genuine feel at a much lower of the price. Accommodation offered direct entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great excursion from the region. But, the route is said to be at risk of closure. The journey passes over spectacular stone arches around the town of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Travelers are advised to see this special railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable museums and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, characterized by shores, forests, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress established by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is without charge, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can walk for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another person. This secret area boasts expansive views, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birds. The path follows along estuarine next to an estuary, where wrecks of ships are visible. A hike can start at a very old place of worship, among the oldest in England, and finish in a quaint town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually reopens in late spring. The drive involves numerous bends to climb the steep southern section of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Travelers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The journey also offers the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief journey from a bustling metropolis takes travelers to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, explorers stroll along quiet streets lined with historic houses. The feel is leisurely, frequently interrupted by resident cats and moments to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is often spent planning ideas for a future return to this incredible sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a library that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds thousands of magnificent books, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features gorgeous old cartography and
