From a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a overlooked alpine train line in France, explorers disclosed their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their selection. Yet the early doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This charming town offers beyond just swimming. Guests can wander through ornate Venetian squares and narrow alleys housing bustling places to eat. Man-made platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and beverages with friendly hospitality.
Classic Tunes in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club offers immense fun. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Furniture are often cleared to allow for space to dance. Operating late, the bar sometimes has performances, ensuring a memorable evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful escape. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a hill and go up a giant twisting lookout for breathtaking panoramas over green landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. Lemko culture can be felt through traditional restaurants offering robust fare and folk music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a noted painter, and the main area boasts multiple spring water sources to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful choice. Boasting multiple beautiful white sand coastlines, its lively town center thrives nightly with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town provided a local feel at a fraction of the price. Accommodation featured convenient access to the beach and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great excursion from a nearby city. Yet, the route is reportedly at risk of closure. The trip features breathtaking viaducts around the area of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to experience this special line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, characterized by coastline, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost built by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in England
It is possible to walk for miles along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This secret world offers expansive views, marine life in the water, and an abundance of birdlife. The path winds along salt marsh bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A walk can begin at a ancient chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Closed during the colder months, it typically opens in June. The trip requires many switchbacks to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible vistas. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, by car. The journey also presents the potential for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A brief ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis takes travelers to a peaceful island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, guests stroll along quiet lanes lined with grand mansions. The pace is relaxed, with time paused by resident felines and moments to stare back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often spent planning ideas for a next visit to this incredible sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Located behind a historic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of rare volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition showcases exquisite old cartography and
