From a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a forgotten mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, a traveler wondered about their selection. Yet the first hesitations soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town offers more than swimming. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and narrow lanes lined with vibrant eateries. Concrete platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Nearby establishments serve up delicious pastries and drinks with warm service.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, retro pop, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized music bar promises immense fun. The atmosphere is terrific, with a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Chairs and tables are sometimes moved to create dance floor. Operating until the early hours, the bar occasionally has performances, guaranteeing a memorable evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Traveling into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a quiet escape. Guests can hike to the peak of a slope and ascend a tall wooden platform for magnificent panoramas over green landscapes. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional cuisine offering hearty food and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned naive artist, and the main area boasts multiple mineral water sources to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. Featuring multiple wonderful white sand beaches, its lively center comes alive nightly with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town offered a local experience at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation featured easy a path to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb journey from nearby cities. Yet, this line is potentially threatened of being closed. The trip features breathtaking viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Tourists are encouraged to experience this unique line before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is attractive, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is without charge, with a ticket for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This hidden area boasts sweeping views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of birds. The coast path meanders along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where remains of boats are visible. A walk can start at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the most ancient in England, and finish in a pretty town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt route. Shut during winter, it usually opens in June. The trip requires many switchbacks to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent vistas. Visitors can access a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The route also includes the potential for wildlife sightings, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis transports visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers walk along historic lanes featuring beautiful homes. The feel is slow, frequently interrupted by friendly felines and opportunities to stare back at the far-off city. The trip home is often accompanied by plans for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Housed behind a historic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds a vast collection of magnificent volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
