From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a forgotten alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their standout finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after getting off the bus, one visitor pondered about their selection. However the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This charming settlement offers beyond just a swim. Tourists may meander through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved alleys housing bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Places in town offer crisp pastries and refreshments with warm service.
Classic Sounds in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue is a lot of fun. The atmosphere is terrific, with a DJ using exclusively records. Chairs and tables are often pushed aside to create dancing. Staying open until the early hours, the bar occasionally features live bands, guaranteeing a great night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene getaway. Guests can hike to the peak of a ski run and climb a large spiral viewing tower for breathtaking panoramas over verdant pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage is on display through rustic restaurants with robust fare and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre boasts multiple mineral water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant find. Featuring multiple wonderful pristine beaches, its bustling center is active nightly with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location provided a more authentic feel at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation provided convenient a path to the sea and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from nearby cities. Yet, the route is potentially at risk of closure. The trip passes over spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to see this special railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is striking, characterized by coastline, woods, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is complimentary, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can walk for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This hidden world offers sweeping views, seals offshore, and an abundance of wildlife. The path follows along marshes bordering an river mouth, where remains of ships lie. A walk can commence at a 7th-century church, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The journey features many turns to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent vistas. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, directly. The route also presents the opportunity for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief journey from a vibrant metropolis takes people to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along historic streets lined with beautiful homes. The feel is slow, often paused by friendly cats and chances to stare back at the distant city. The trip home is often accompanied by plans for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Tucked away behind a historic church is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition showcases gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
