Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a little-known mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their most memorable finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after arriving, a traveler pondered about their choice. Yet the initial suspicions rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque settlement offers more than swimming. Tourists are able to stroll through ornate public squares and narrow alleys lined with bustling seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Places in town serve up crisp pastries and refreshments with genuine hospitality.
Vintage Tunes in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized club promises great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fantastic, with a DJ spinning just vinyl records. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to make dancing. Open late into the night, the bar at times has live bands, making for a memorable experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a quiet retreat. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a hill and go up a tall wooden lookout for magnificent vistas over lush pastures. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage can be felt through rustic cuisine offering substantial dishes and music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a noted painter, and the town centre boasts multiple medicinal water sources to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. With three wonderful sandy coastlines, its lively center comes alive in the evenings with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot offered a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. A hotel featured easy entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great excursion from a nearby city. Yet, this service is said to be under threat of shutting down. The journey passes over spectacular viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to see this special railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The countryside is striking, featuring shores, forests, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and then destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the site is free, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This hidden area boasts sweeping views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of wildlife. The coast path meanders along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remains of boats can be seen. A hike can commence at a very old chapel, among the oldest in England, and end in a pretty town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Closed during winter, it typically opens in June. The trip requires constant turns to climb the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The drive also offers the potential for spotting bears, completing the memorable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A brief ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis transports travelers to a peaceful island. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers walk along historic streets lined with grand mansions. The feel is slow, often broken by friendly cats and moments to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is often spent planning thoughts for a future return to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Tucked away behind a historic building is a archive that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains a vast collection of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display features exquisite 16th-century cartography and
