From a Venetian-inspired Slovene town by the sea to a little-known alpine train line in France, explorers revealed their most memorable finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after stepping off the bus, a traveler wondered about their selection. Yet the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque location presents beyond just swimming. Guests may meander through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved alleys housing bustling places to eat. Concrete diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Local spots provide delicious pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Vintage Music in Germany's Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated venue is immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ using just vinyl records. Seating are often moved to create dancing. Operating until the early hours, the bar at times features performances, ensuring a fantastic experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a peaceful retreat. Guests may walk to the summit of a slope and climb a large twisting viewing tower for stunning views over green fields. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be experienced through rustic restaurants offering hearty dishes and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a noted painter, and the town centre features several medicinal taps to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful discovery. With multiple beautiful sandy coastlines, its bustling center is active in the evenings with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot delivered a local feel at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation featured easy entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming environment.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from nearby cities. Yet, this line is potentially under threat of shutting down. The trip includes breathtaking stone arches around the town of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to ride this special line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is attractive, with coastline, forests, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress built by Russia and subsequently demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the site is without charge, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can hike for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This hidden world boasts sweeping views, marine life in the water, and an abundance of wildlife. The trail follows along estuarine flanking an estuary, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A walk can commence at a ancient chapel, one of the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually reopens in early summer. The drive involves numerous turns to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The route also presents the chance for seeing animals, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief journey from a vibrant metropolis transports travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests walk along quiet roads lined with historic houses. The pace is slow, with time broken by friendly felines and opportunities to look back at the distant city. The trip home is often filled with ideas for a comeback to this incredible place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Located behind a Gothic church is a collection that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses a vast collection of rare volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection includes detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
