From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked mountain train line in France, visitors revealed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after getting off the bus, one visitor questioned about their choice. Yet the early doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming town provides more than swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful Venetian squares and cobbled passageways lined with vibrant places to eat. Man-made diving platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Local spots offer flaky pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Classic Music in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, retro pop, and soul music, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed club offers immense fun. The vibe is terrific, with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Seating are routinely pushed aside to create dance floor. Operating late, the bar sometimes hosts live music, making for a great experience.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene getaway. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a hill and go up a giant wooden platform for stunning panoramas over verdant pastures. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture is on display through rustic cuisine serving substantial dishes and folk music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific folk artist, and the central spa boasts several spring water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful find. With multiple beautiful white sand beaches, its lively centre is active in the evenings with residents. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location provided a local feel at a much lower of the price. A hotel offered convenient entry to the beach and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect day trip from nearby cities. But, this line is potentially threatened of shutting down. The trip includes photogenic stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to see this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with shores, woods, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base established by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can stroll for miles along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This undiscovered area boasts expansive views, marine life in the water, and an array of birds. The coast path meanders along marshes bordering an estuary, where remains of boats lie. A walk can commence at a very old church, reportedly the most ancient in England, and end in a charming town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Closed during winter, it usually reopens in early summer. The drive involves constant bends to climb the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible views. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, still covered in snow, by car. The drive also includes the opportunity for wildlife sightings, completing the remarkable experience.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A quick journey from a major metropolis takes people to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, explorers stroll along quiet roads flanked by beautiful homes. The pace is leisurely, with time interrupted by friendly cats and chances to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is often accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this unique place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a library that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains thousands of ancient books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The display showcases gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
