From a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known alpine railway in France, travelers disclosed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after arriving, a traveler wondered about their selection. Yet the early doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement provides beyond just a swim. Tourists can wander through ornate piazzas and cobbled alleys housing busy eateries. Concrete jumping points render the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town serve up flaky pastries and drinks with friendly service.
Vintage Tunes in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated venue promises immense fun. The vibe is fantastic, with a DJ spinning just vinyl. Furniture are routinely pushed aside to make dance floor. Open until the early hours, the bar occasionally features live bands, making for a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a peaceful escape. Travelers can hike to the top of a hill and climb a tall wooden viewing tower for breathtaking views over verdant pastures. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Their culture can be felt through rustic dining serving substantial food and music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa boasts a number of medicinal water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent discovery. Boasting multiple wonderful sandy coastlines, its vibrant center comes alive every night with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a genuine feel at a a quarter of the cost. The lodging offered easy access to the sea and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect day trip from nearby cities. Yet, this line is said to be under threat of closure. The trip includes photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Travelers are advised to see this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The landscape is attractive, characterized by shores, woods, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base constructed by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is without charge, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can hike for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another person. This undiscovered world offers expansive vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path meanders along marshes next to an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A journey can commence at a 7th-century place of worship, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a charming town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The drive involves many switchbacks to ascend the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Travelers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, directly. The route also offers the opportunity for seeing animals, adding to the memorable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A short ferry ride from a major city takes visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, explorers meander along tree-lined streets featuring grand mansions. The feel is slow, often broken by resident felines and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is usually filled with plans for a comeback to this incredible sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Tucked away behind a historic church is a archive that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display includes detailed old maps and
