From a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked alpine train line in France, explorers revealed their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their decision. But the early doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This delightful settlement offers beyond just swimming. Tourists can wander through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved passageways lined with bustling places to eat. Man-made diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Local spots serve up crisp pastries and refreshments with friendly service.
Vintage Music in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed music bar offers a lot of fun. The atmosphere is terrific, complete with a DJ spinning just records. Seating are often pushed aside to create dance floor. Operating until the early hours, the bar at times has performances, making for a memorable night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a peaceful getaway. Guests may walk to the summit of a slope and go up a tall wooden platform for stunning vistas over verdant landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture can be felt through rustic dining offering robust food and music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned folk artist, and the town centre boasts multiple mineral water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful discovery. With multiple beautiful white sand beaches, its vibrant town center is active every night with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town delivered a genuine feel at a a quarter of the price. A hotel offered convenient a path to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect day trip from a nearby city. However, this line is potentially threatened of closure. The ride includes spectacular stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Travelers are urged to ride this picturesque railway while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is striking, with shores, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is complimentary, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can stroll for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This secret world boasts sweeping views, marine life in the water, and an array of wildlife. The path meanders along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where remnants of boats are visible. A journey can start at a very old chapel, among the most ancient in England, and finish in a charming town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The drive requires constant switchbacks to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent views. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, by car. The journey also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A short journey from a bustling city takes people to a tranquil getaway. As the evening approaches, the urban energy dissipates for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, visitors stroll along historic streets flanked by historic houses. The pace is slow, frequently broken by resident felines and opportunities to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The return journey is usually accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Located behind a historic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses numerous of magnificent books, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display includes detailed old cartography and
