Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a overlooked alpine railway in France, travelers have shared their standout finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after stepping off the bus, a traveler wondered about their choice. However the initial hesitations soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful location provides more than swimming. Guests are able to stroll through ornate piazzas and cobbled alleys lined with vibrant eateries. Man-made jumping points turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots offer delicious pastries and beverages with warm service.
Vintage Tunes in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed club promises great enjoyment. The ambiance is terrific, with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Furniture are routinely pushed aside to allow for dance floor. Open until the early hours, the bar at times features performances, ensuring a memorable experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a serene retreat. Guests are able to climb to the top of a slope and ascend a tall wooden viewing tower for breathtaking vistas over green fields. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional cuisine with substantial food and folk music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa boasts a number of mineral taps to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent find. Boasting several beautiful white sand beaches, its bustling town center is active nightly with residents. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot offered a genuine experience at a a quarter of the price. A hotel featured easy entry to the beach and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from nearby cities. But, this service is reportedly under threat of being closed. The journey passes over spectacular bridges around the area of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Travelers are encouraged to experience this special railway while they can.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is striking, characterized by shores, forests, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost built by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to hike for hours along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This hidden world provides sweeping vistas, seals in the water, and an abundance of wildlife. The coast path meanders along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where wrecks of boats lie. A hike can start at a 7th-century chapel, reportedly the most ancient in England, and conclude in a charming town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Closed during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The drive involves constant switchbacks to ascend the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, by car. The journey also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a bustling city transports people to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, explorers stroll along quiet roads lined with historic houses. The pace is relaxed, often interrupted by resident felines and moments to look back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is usually accompanied by plans for a comeback to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a Gothic building is a library that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses numerous of ancient books, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display includes gorgeous 16th-century maps and
