From a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a forgotten mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after getting off the bus, an explorer questioned about their choice. Yet the early doubts quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque town presents beyond just a swim. Guests are able to stroll through ornate public squares and cobbled passageways lined with vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town offer delicious pastries and refreshments with friendly service.
Retro Sounds in Germany's Capital
For lovers of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed venue is a lot of fun. The atmosphere is terrific, featuring a DJ playing just vinyl. Seating are often moved to make space to dance. Staying open late, the bar at times features live music, ensuring a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a peaceful getaway. Visitors are able to climb to the peak of a slope and ascend a large twisting lookout for breathtaking panoramas over green pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage is on display through rustic restaurants with robust fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned folk artist, and the town centre features a number of medicinal water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent choice. Boasting multiple wonderful white sand shores, its lively center is active nightly with families. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location provided a genuine feel at a a quarter of the price. The lodging offered easy entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect journey from the region. But, this line is potentially under threat of shutting down. The ride includes breathtaking bridges around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Tourists are advised to ride this picturesque 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 Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, featuring shores, forests, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is complimentary, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can stroll for miles along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another person. This secret world offers wide-open vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of wildlife. The coast path meanders along estuarine flanking an estuary, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A hike can commence at a ancient chapel, reportedly the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Closed during winter, it usually opens in late spring. The journey involves many switchbacks to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible views. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also presents the potential for spotting bears, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A quick boat trip from a bustling metropolis takes travelers to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, guests meander along quiet streets lined with grand mansions. The pace is relaxed, with time paused by resident cats and chances to stare back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is usually accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this unique retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a Gothic building is a archive that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains a vast collection of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display features exquisite Renaissance-era cartography and
