From a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known mountain train line in France, explorers revealed their standout encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor questioned about their decision. However the initial doubts soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement presents beyond just a swim. Tourists may meander through ornate Venetian squares and stone-paved lanes lined with busy seafood restaurants. Concrete jumping points turn the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Places in town offer delicious pastries and refreshments with genuine hospitality.
Vintage Music in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized venue promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl records. Seating are often pushed aside to allow for dance floor. Staying open late into the night, the bar sometimes features performances, guaranteeing a great evening.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a peaceful getaway. Guests can hike to the summit of a hill and go up a giant twisting platform for stunning views over verdant fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage can be felt through rustic cuisine offering substantial fare and folk music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned painter, and the town centre boasts multiple medicinal taps to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant choice. Featuring three stunning sandy shores, its vibrant center is active in the evenings with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location provided a local atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. A hotel featured easy entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great excursion from a nearby city. Yet, the route is said to be under threat of closure. The journey features spectacular viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to see this picturesque line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is beautiful, characterized by shores, forests, and farms. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base established by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is without charge, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can stroll for miles along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This secret area boasts wide-open views, marine life in the water, and an abundance of wildlife. The coast path meanders along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A walk can begin at a ancient church, among the earliest in England, and conclude in a pretty town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Closed during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The trip involves numerous bends to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent vistas. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The drive also includes the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A quick ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis takes people to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests stroll along tree-lined roads featuring beautiful homes. The feel is slow, frequently broken by friendly cats and opportunities to look back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is usually accompanied by ideas for a future return to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Located behind a Gothic church is a library that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses numerous of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features detailed 16th-century maps and
