Starting with a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known mountain railway in France, explorers revealed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor wondered about their decision. Yet the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque town offers beyond just a swim. Visitors may meander through elaborately decorated piazzas and narrow alleys lined with vibrant eateries. Concrete jumping points turn the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Places in town offer crisp pastries and refreshments with genuine hospitality.
Classic Music in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized music bar offers a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Furniture are often cleared to create dance floor. Open until the early hours, the bar occasionally features live bands, making for a memorable experience.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a peaceful getaway. Travelers may walk to the summit of a slope and climb a tall twisting platform for breathtaking vistas over verdant pastures. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Their culture is on display through traditional cuisine offering substantial fare and folk music. A museum showcases the work of a prolific folk artist, and the main area has a number of mineral taps to try.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. Boasting multiple beautiful white sand coastlines, its lively town center thrives every night with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location provided a genuine atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation provided easy entry to the beach and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from nearby cities. However, this line is potentially at risk of closure. The ride includes spectacular bridges around the town of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Travelers are urged to ride this special railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is reachable by boat from several countries. The countryside is beautiful, with coastline, forests, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is complimentary, with a small fee for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for miles along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This hidden area provides sweeping views, marine life in the water, and an abundance of birdlife. The coast path winds along marshes bordering an river mouth, where remnants of boats are visible. A journey can start at a ancient church, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Shut during winter, it usually opens in late spring. The journey features many bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, by car. The drive also offers the potential for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A quick journey from a major city takes travelers to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along quiet lanes lined with historic houses. The pace is relaxed, often interrupted by resident cats and chances to look back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is usually spent planning plans for a comeback to this incredible place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds a vast collection of magnificent books, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display features exquisite 16th-century cartography and
