Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked alpine railway in France, travelers revealed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after getting off the bus, one visitor questioned about their choice. But the first suspicions soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This charming settlement offers more than swimming. Tourists may meander through elaborately decorated public squares and narrow lanes housing vibrant places to eat. Concrete jumping points render the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and refreshments with friendly welcome.
Vintage Music in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, 1960s pop, and Motown, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed venue promises immense fun. The vibe is terrific, complete with a DJ using exclusively records. Seating are sometimes moved to make space to dance. Staying open late into the night, the bar at times features live bands, making for a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene escape. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a hill and go up a giant spiral viewing tower for breathtaking views over lush pastures. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional restaurants offering hearty fare and folk music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa features multiple medicinal water sources to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful find. With several stunning white sand coastlines, its lively centre thrives every night with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a local experience at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation offered easy access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb day trip from nearby cities. Yet, the route is potentially at risk of shutting down. The ride includes spectacular bridges around the area of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are urged to ride this unique line soon.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is attractive, with rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the fort ruins is free, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
It is possible to hike for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This hidden area offers sweeping views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of wildlife. The trail meanders along estuarine flanking an estuary, where wrecks of ships lie. A journey can start at a ancient place of worship, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a pretty town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Closed during winter, it usually reopens in early summer. The trip features constant turns to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent vistas. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also offers the potential for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A quick journey from a bustling city takes visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, explorers meander along tree-lined streets flanked by historic houses. The pace is slow, often broken by friendly felines and opportunities to stare back at the far-off city. The trip home is often filled with thoughts for a future return to this unique sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Located behind a Gothic church is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains a vast collection of rare volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display showcases exquisite old cartography and
