From a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked mountain railway in France, explorers disclosed their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their selection. Yet the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This charming location provides beyond just a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled alleys housing bustling places to eat. Man-made platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Vintage Music in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club is great enjoyment. The ambiance is fantastic, complete with a DJ spinning only records. Furniture are routinely cleared to allow for dancing. Open late, the bar sometimes hosts performances, making for a memorable experience.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a quiet retreat. Travelers may walk to the peak of a ski run and go up a giant twisting viewing tower for stunning panoramas over green fields. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage is on display through traditional restaurants serving hearty fare and music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa has a number of mineral water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful discovery. Featuring multiple wonderful white sand coastlines, its bustling town center is active every night with families. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a local atmosphere at a much lower of the cost. A hotel provided convenient entry to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect excursion from nearby cities. Yet, this service is potentially under threat of shutting down. The journey passes over photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to see this unique line before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable museums and is accessible by boat from several countries. The landscape is striking, featuring shores, woods, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a historical naval base constructed by Russia and later demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This hidden landscape boasts expansive vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of wildlife. The trail meanders along marshes next to an estuary, where remains of old vessels lie. A hike can begin at a 7th-century church, among the oldest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually opens in June. The trip features many switchbacks to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent scenery. Travelers can access a mountain lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The journey also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, adding to the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A short ferry ride from a bustling city takes travelers to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests walk along tree-lined streets featuring grand mansions. The pace is slow, often interrupted by resident cats and chances to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The ferry back is usually spent planning thoughts for a comeback to this special sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of ancient books, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection includes detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
