From a Venetian-style Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked mountain train line in France, travelers have shared their standout discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler questioned about their decision. But the initial doubts quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This charming location provides beyond just swimming. Guests can wander through beautiful piazzas and cobbled passageways housing bustling eateries. Man-made jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Nearby establishments serve up delicious pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Vintage Music in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed venue is immense fun. The ambiance is terrific, complete with a DJ playing exclusively vinyl. Seating are routinely moved to create dancing. Operating late into the night, the bar at times has performances, making for a great experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a peaceful escape. Travelers are able to climb to the peak of a hill and ascend a tall wooden viewing tower for breathtaking vistas over lush landscapes. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage is on display through rustic cuisine offering substantial food and traditional music. A gallery showcases the work of a noted naive artist, and the town centre boasts several medicinal water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant choice. Featuring several stunning pristine coastlines, its vibrant centre comes alive in the evenings with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a local atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. The lodging offered direct entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect journey from a nearby city. Yet, this service is said to be threatened of being closed. The journey includes photogenic bridges around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Tourists are advised to ride this unique railway soon.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable sites and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost built by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is complimentary, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can walk for miles along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This undiscovered landscape offers sweeping views, marine life in the water, and an array of birds. The path winds along marshes bordering an river mouth, where remains of boats can be seen. A hike can start at a very old chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt route. Shut during winter, it usually opens in June. The journey involves many switchbacks to climb the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, offering incredible vistas. Travelers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still covered in snow, without a cable car. The journey also includes the potential for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a vibrant city transports people to a peaceful island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, visitors meander along quiet streets lined with historic houses. The pace is relaxed, frequently broken by local cats and opportunities to look back at the distant city. The ferry back is usually filled with thoughts for a next visit to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a archive that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of ancient tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features gorgeous old cartography and
