From a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked mountain railway in France, explorers disclosed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their choice. However the initial hesitations soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque location offers more than swimming. Guests are able to stroll through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled passageways filled with bustling seafood restaurants. Concrete jumping points make the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots serve up flaky pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Retro Tunes in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed music bar offers great enjoyment. The ambiance is fabulous, featuring a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Seating are routinely pushed aside to allow for dancing. Open late into the night, the bar at times has live bands, guaranteeing a memorable experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a peaceful retreat. Travelers are able to climb to the peak of a hill and climb a tall wooden viewing tower for magnificent vistas over green pastures. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture can be experienced through rustic restaurants offering hearty food and music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a noted naive artist, and the main area features multiple spring water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent choice. With several stunning sandy coastlines, its lively town center thrives in the evenings with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location delivered a genuine feel at a fraction of the price. A hotel offered convenient entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great excursion from a nearby city. However, the route is reportedly at risk of being closed. The journey features spectacular bridges around the town of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are urged to ride this special railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, with coastline, woods, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is free, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can stroll for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another person. This hidden world offers sweeping views, seals offshore, and an profusion of birdlife. The path follows along marshes flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of boats can be seen. A walk can commence at a ancient church, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The journey involves numerous bends to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking vistas. Travelers can access a mountain lake, still covered in snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the opportunity for seeing animals, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a major metropolis transports travelers to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, guests walk along quiet streets featuring historic houses. The pace is leisurely, frequently interrupted by friendly felines and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is often accompanied by plans for a future return to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses numerous of magnificent tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
