Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked alpine train line in France, explorers revealed their most memorable finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor wondered about their choice. Yet the initial doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful town offers more than swimming. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and narrow lanes lined with busy eateries. Man-made jumping points render the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Places in town offer flaky pastries and beverages with warm hospitality.
Vintage Tunes in The German Capital
For lovers of classic rock, retro pop, and soul, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed club promises a lot of fun. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ playing only vinyl. Furniture are routinely cleared to create dancing. Operating until the early hours, the bar at times has live music, making for a great experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful retreat. Visitors can hike to the summit of a hill and climb a giant wooden lookout for magnificent panoramas over green pastures. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic dining offering hearty fare and music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa has several medicinal taps to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful choice. With several wonderful sandy beaches, its vibrant centre is active every night with families. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location delivered a more authentic feel at a much lower of the price. A hotel provided direct access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from a nearby city. Yet, this line is reportedly under threat of being closed. The ride features breathtaking bridges around the area of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Travelers are encouraged to experience this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base built by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is free, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can walk for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This secret area boasts wide-open views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birdlife. The path winds along estuarine next to an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A journey can begin at a 7th-century place of worship, among the most ancient in England, and conclude in a quaint town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The drive involves numerous switchbacks to ascend the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent vistas. Travelers can reach a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, by car. The journey also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, completing the remarkable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a vibrant city transports visitors to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers meander along historic streets lined with grand mansions. The feel is leisurely, frequently broken by resident cats and chances to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is often filled with thoughts for a comeback to this incredible retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Housed behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains a vast collection of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition includes detailed old maps and
