Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known mountain train line in France, explorers revealed their most memorable finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their decision. Yet the first doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town offers more than swimming. Tourists may meander through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled lanes filled with vibrant places to eat. Man-made diving platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots offer delicious pastries and refreshments with genuine welcome.
Retro Tunes in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar offers great enjoyment. The atmosphere is terrific, complete with a DJ playing exclusively vinyl records. Chairs and tables are routinely cleared to allow for space to dance. Operating late, the bar sometimes has live bands, guaranteeing a memorable night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful retreat. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a hill and climb a tall twisting platform for breathtaking vistas over green landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Their culture can be felt through rustic dining serving hearty food and music. A gallery showcases the work of a noted folk artist, and the main area has multiple medicinal taps to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful discovery. Boasting multiple beautiful sandy shores, its vibrant centre thrives nightly with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a local feel at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation provided convenient entry to the shore and a elegant and warm ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great excursion from the region. But, this line is reportedly under threat of being closed. The ride features photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Tourists are urged to see this picturesque line before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The countryside is beautiful, featuring coastline, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost built by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the remains is free, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can stroll for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This undiscovered world provides sweeping views, seals in the water, and an abundance of birdlife. The coast path meanders along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where remnants of ships lie. A walk can commence at a very old chapel, among the most ancient in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Closed during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The drive features many turns to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering incredible vistas. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The route also presents the chance for spotting bears, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief journey from a major metropolis takes visitors to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, visitors stroll along quiet lanes featuring historic houses. The rhythm is leisurely, frequently paused by local felines and opportunities to stare back at the far-off city. The return journey is often spent planning thoughts for a comeback to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Located behind a historic building is a library that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of magnificent volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition includes exquisite 16th-century cartography and
