Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian seaside settlement to a overlooked mountain train line in France, travelers have shared their most memorable finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler questioned about their selection. Yet the initial doubts soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful town offers more than a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled alleys housing vibrant places to eat. Concrete platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and refreshments with genuine service.
Retro Music in Berlin
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized venue is immense fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, complete with a DJ playing exclusively records. Chairs and tables are routinely pushed aside to create dancing. Staying open until the early hours, the bar occasionally hosts live music, making for a memorable experience.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a peaceful escape. Visitors can hike to the top of a hill and ascend a tall twisting platform for stunning views over verdant fields. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture can be felt through traditional cuisine offering hearty food and traditional music. A gallery showcases the work of a prolific naive artist, and the central spa has a number of spring water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. With three wonderful white sand beaches, its vibrant centre is active nightly with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location delivered a genuine atmosphere at a much lower of the price. The lodging offered convenient access to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb day trip from nearby cities. But, this line is reportedly under threat of being closed. The ride passes over spectacular stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to ride this unique railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is reachable by ferry from several countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and later demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a charge for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can walk for miles along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This hidden world boasts wide-open vistas, marine life offshore, and an array of birds. The trail follows along estuarine next to an estuary, where wrecks of boats are visible. A hike can start at a ancient place of worship, among the oldest in England, and end in a pretty town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it typically opens in late spring. The drive features many turns to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible vistas. Drivers can access a mountain lake, often covered in snow, by car. The drive also includes the opportunity for seeing animals, completing the memorable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a major city takes travelers to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, explorers meander along historic roads lined with historic houses. The feel is slow, frequently paused by local felines and opportunities to gaze back at the distant mainland. The return journey is usually accompanied by plans for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Housed behind a historic building is a archive that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses thousands of rare volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection showcases exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
