From a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain railway in France, explorers disclosed their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after stepping off the bus, a traveler wondered about their decision. Yet the first doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque location provides beyond just a swim. Guests are able to stroll through beautiful public squares and stone-paved alleys housing vibrant eateries. Concrete platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Places in town offer flaky pastries and beverages with friendly welcome.
Vintage Music in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated club offers great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fantastic, featuring a DJ playing only records. Furniture are often pushed aside to create space to dance. Operating late, the bar at times features performances, guaranteeing a fantastic evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a quiet retreat. Travelers are able to climb to the peak of a ski run and climb a tall spiral viewing tower for stunning panoramas over green landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be felt through traditional restaurants offering substantial fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a noted painter, and the main area boasts a number of spring water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent discovery. Featuring three stunning sandy beaches, its lively centre comes alive nightly with residents. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot offered a local feel at a fraction of the price. Accommodation offered direct entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great day trip from a nearby city. But, this line is reportedly threatened of closure. The trip includes spectacular bridges around the area of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Travelers are encouraged to ride this special railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is striking, with coastline, forests, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost established by Russia and then destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the site is free, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to hike for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another person. This secret landscape provides wide-open vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of wildlife. The coast path winds along estuarine next to an river mouth, where remains of ships are visible. A hike can start at a ancient chapel, one of the earliest in England, and end in a pretty town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Closed during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The journey requires many switchbacks to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The route also presents the chance for spotting bears, completing the memorable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short journey from a bustling city takes people to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, explorers stroll along historic streets lined with grand mansions. The feel is leisurely, with time broken by resident cats and chances to look back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is often filled with ideas for a future return to this unique retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Housed behind a historic building is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds thousands of ancient volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition features exquisite old cartography and
