Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their standout discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after arriving, one visitor wondered about their choice. But the early doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque town presents beyond just swimming. Guests are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and cobbled alleys housing vibrant eateries. Concrete platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Places in town serve up crisp pastries and beverages with friendly hospitality.
Vintage Sounds in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized club offers immense fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, complete with a DJ using exclusively vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes moved to allow for dance floor. Operating late into the night, the bar at times has performances, guaranteeing a memorable night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a quiet getaway. Guests are able to climb to the top of a slope and go up a giant wooden viewing tower for stunning vistas over lush pastures. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage can be felt through traditional dining offering hearty dishes and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the central spa has several mineral water sources to try.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent find. Boasting several stunning sandy shores, its bustling centre comes alive in the evenings with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town delivered a more authentic experience at a fraction of the cost. The lodging provided direct a path to the beach and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from a nearby city. Yet, this line is potentially threatened of being closed. The journey features spectacular stone arches around the town of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Travelers are advised to ride this unique railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is accessible by ferry from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, featuring coastline, woods, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is complimentary, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to stroll for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another person. This undiscovered landscape boasts expansive vistas, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birds. The trail meanders along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remains of old vessels are visible. A journey can begin at a ancient place of worship, one of the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Closed during the colder months, it usually reopens in early summer. The trip features many turns to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible scenery. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The drive also presents the potential for wildlife sightings, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a bustling city takes visitors to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, guests walk along tree-lined roads flanked by historic houses. The rhythm is relaxed, with time paused by friendly felines and opportunities to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is often spent planning thoughts for a next visit to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a historic church is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of ancient volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection showcases gorgeous 16th-century cartography and