From a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their standout encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after arriving, a traveler pondered about their choice. Yet the initial doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque settlement provides beyond just swimming. Tourists can wander through ornate Venetian squares and cobbled lanes filled with busy places to eat. Man-made platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town offer crisp pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Classic Music in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated venue offers a lot of fun. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ using just vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes cleared to make dance floor. Operating until the early hours, the bar occasionally hosts live music, ensuring a memorable experience.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a quiet retreat. Guests may walk to the peak of a slope and climb a large spiral platform for magnificent views over green pastures. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Their culture can be experienced through traditional cuisine offering substantial dishes and traditional music. A museum celebrates the work of a prolific painter, and the town centre boasts several mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent find. Featuring multiple beautiful white sand coastlines, its lively town center thrives nightly with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot delivered a local experience at a fraction of the price. A hotel provided direct entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from the region. Yet, this line is said to be under threat of closure. The journey passes over breathtaking stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Tourists are encouraged to ride this unique railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is accessible by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, with coastline, woods, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost built by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to stroll for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This undiscovered area boasts sweeping vistas, marine life offshore, and an profusion of wildlife. The coast path winds along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where wrecks of ships lie. A journey can commence at a ancient place of worship, one of the most ancient in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually opens in June. The journey requires many bends to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing excellent views. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, sometimes ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also presents the chance for spotting bears, completing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A quick journey from a major city transports travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, visitors meander along quiet roads featuring historic houses. The pace is slow, frequently broken by resident cats and chances to stare back at the far-off city. The ferry back is usually accompanied by plans for a comeback to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Located behind a Gothic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses a vast collection of magnificent tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features gorgeous old cartography and
