Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain train line in France, visitors disclosed their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. But the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This charming location presents more than a swim. Visitors can wander through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved alleys lined with bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Local spots provide delicious pastries and drinks with friendly hospitality.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue promises a lot of fun. The atmosphere is terrific, with a DJ playing exclusively vinyl. Seating are routinely moved to create space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar at times hosts live bands, making for a great experience.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a quiet retreat. Guests may walk to the top of a slope and climb a large twisting viewing tower for magnificent vistas over lush fields. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture can be felt through rustic dining with robust food and folk music. A gallery showcases the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre features multiple spring water sources to try.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful choice. Boasting multiple wonderful pristine coastlines, its vibrant centre comes alive nightly with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location delivered a genuine experience at a fraction of the price. The lodging provided convenient access to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from nearby cities. Yet, the route is reportedly under threat of closure. The ride passes over photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are urged to experience this special line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is striking, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is without charge, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This hidden landscape boasts sweeping vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail follows along estuarine next to an estuary, where remnants of ships are visible. A journey can begin at a ancient place of worship, among the most ancient in England, and conclude in a quaint town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually reopens in June. The journey involves many turns to ascend the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking vistas. Drivers can access a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, by car. The journey also offers the potential for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief journey from a vibrant metropolis takes visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, visitors walk along tree-lined streets lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is relaxed, with time interrupted by resident cats and moments to look back at the far-off city. The return journey is often filled with ideas for a future return to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Located behind a Gothic building is a collection that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection includes gorgeous old maps and
