Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a overlooked alpine train line in France, travelers have shared their standout encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after stepping off the bus, one visitor wondered about their decision. Yet the early hesitations quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming town provides beyond just swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through ornate piazzas and narrow alleys filled with vibrant seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Places in town serve up flaky pastries and beverages with genuine hospitality.
Classic Music in Berlin
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated venue promises great enjoyment. The vibe is fantastic, featuring a DJ using just vinyl records. Furniture are often cleared to create dance floor. Open late into the night, the bar at times features live bands, guaranteeing a great evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Spa Town
Traveling into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a serene escape. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a ski run and ascend a large spiral lookout for stunning vistas over green pastures. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be experienced through traditional cuisine with robust dishes and music. A gallery displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa features several spring water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful choice. With multiple beautiful white sand beaches, its vibrant centre thrives in the evenings with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location provided a local feel at a much lower of the cost. A hotel featured convenient entry to the shore and a elegant and warm ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from the region. However, this service is potentially at risk of shutting down. The journey includes spectacular viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Travelers are urged to see this special railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is beautiful, with rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical fortress constructed by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to hike for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This undiscovered world provides sweeping views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of birds. The path follows along estuarine next to an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels lie. A hike can begin at a 7th-century chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Closed during winter, it typically opens in late spring. The journey features numerous turns to ascend the steep southern section of the Carpathians, offering excellent scenery. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, still covered in snow, directly. The route also includes the potential for seeing animals, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A quick boat trip from a vibrant metropolis transports people to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos fades for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, guests walk along tree-lined roads lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is slow, often broken by friendly cats and chances to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is usually accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Tucked away behind a historic building is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses thousands of ancient books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display includes gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
