From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten mountain train line in France, travelers revealed their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after stepping off the bus, a traveler wondered about their decision. However the early suspicions quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This charming settlement offers beyond just swimming. Guests can wander through ornate Venetian squares and stone-paved alleys lined with bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Nearby establishments serve up crisp pastries and refreshments with friendly service.
Retro Tunes in The German Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed club offers great enjoyment. The vibe is fabulous, complete with a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Seating are often cleared to make space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar occasionally has live bands, making for a great experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a serene escape. Guests may walk to the summit of a slope and climb a tall twisting lookout for breathtaking views over verdant pastures. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be felt through traditional cuisine offering substantial dishes and traditional music. A gallery showcases the work of a prolific naive artist, and the town centre has a number of medicinal water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful discovery. Featuring several wonderful pristine beaches, its vibrant town center thrives in the evenings with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town delivered a local feel at a a quarter of the cost. A hotel provided direct access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great day trip from nearby cities. Yet, the route is reportedly at risk of being closed. The trip includes spectacular stone arches around the area of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Travelers are urged to see this picturesque railway while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is reachable by ferry from several countries. The landscape is striking, characterized by coastline, woods, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base established by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to stroll for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering anyone. This secret world provides sweeping views, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birds. The coast path meanders along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of ships can be seen. A hike can begin at a 7th-century place of worship, reportedly the oldest in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The journey requires numerous turns to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking vistas. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, by car. The journey also includes the potential for seeing animals, completing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A quick boat trip from a vibrant metropolis takes visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along tree-lined lanes flanked by historic houses. The rhythm is leisurely, with time paused by friendly felines and moments to stare back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is usually spent planning ideas for a comeback to this special place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Located behind a historic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds thousands of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases exquisite Renaissance-era cartography and
