From a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a overlooked mountain railway in France, visitors disclosed their most memorable finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after arriving, one visitor wondered about their decision. But the initial doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming settlement provides beyond just swimming. Guests may meander through ornate Venetian squares and cobbled alleys housing vibrant places to eat. Concrete diving platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town provide crisp pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Retro Tunes in The German Capital
For lovers of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul music, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated venue offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ using just records. Furniture are routinely pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Operating until the early hours, the bar sometimes has live music, making for a memorable night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a serene retreat. Travelers may walk to the summit of a slope and climb a tall wooden lookout for breathtaking vistas over lush fields. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage is on display through rustic restaurants offering robust fare and folk music. A gallery showcases the work of a prolific naive artist, and the central spa boasts several medicinal taps to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant find. Boasting three stunning white sand shores, its vibrant centre comes alive nightly with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot provided a more authentic experience at a much lower of the cost. The lodging provided convenient access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming environment.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from nearby cities. But, this service is reportedly threatened of being closed. The ride features photogenic stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Travelers are advised to experience this unique line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located 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 ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is beautiful, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the site is without charge, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This undiscovered world provides wide-open views, seals offshore, and an array of birdlife. The path follows along estuarine bordering an river mouth, where remains of boats can be seen. A journey can start at a very old church, among the most ancient in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The drive features many bends to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking vistas. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, directly. The journey also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the remarkable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a bustling city takes visitors to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, visitors meander along tree-lined lanes flanked by historic houses. The feel is leisurely, with time interrupted by friendly cats and opportunities to look back at the distant city. The ferry back is often spent planning thoughts for a next visit to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a historic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses a vast collection of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection includes detailed old cartography and
