From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked alpine train line in France, travelers have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor wondered about their decision. But the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This delightful town offers more than a swim. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and stone-paved passageways lined with busy seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town offer delicious pastries and drinks with friendly hospitality.
Classic Tunes in The German Capital
For fans of classic rock, 1960s pop, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized club is great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fantastic, complete with a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to make space to dance. Operating until the early hours, the bar occasionally hosts live music, making for a fantastic experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a peaceful retreat. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a ski run and ascend a giant wooden viewing tower for stunning views over lush landscapes. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage is on display through traditional cuisine with hearty food and traditional music. A museum showcases the work of a renowned naive artist, and the central spa has a number of spring taps to try.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant discovery. Featuring three wonderful white sand shores, its lively centre is active in the evenings with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location delivered a genuine experience at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation provided direct entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from nearby cities. Yet, the route is said to be threatened of shutting down. The ride includes spectacular stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Tourists are advised to see this special railway while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is attractive, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This secret landscape provides sweeping vistas, seals in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path winds along estuarine bordering an estuary, where remnants of old vessels lie. A walk can begin at a 7th-century place of worship, reportedly the most ancient in England, and finish in a quaint town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Closed during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The trip features constant turns to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Travelers can access a mountain lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The drive also presents the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the unforgettable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief journey from a major metropolis takes visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, guests walk along tree-lined streets flanked by beautiful homes. The pace is leisurely, often interrupted by local felines and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is often accompanied by thoughts for a future return to this unique retreat.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Housed behind a historic church is a collection that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains thousands of rare volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The display showcases gorgeous old maps and
