From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a forgotten mountain railway in France, travelers have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their choice. But the early suspicions rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful location provides more than a swim. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and narrow lanes lined with vibrant places to eat. Man-made jumping points make the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Places in town serve up crisp pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and Motown, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue is a lot of fun. The vibe is fantastic, featuring a DJ playing only records. Furniture are sometimes moved to make dance floor. Operating late, the bar occasionally hosts live bands, ensuring a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Crossing into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a serene escape. Guests may walk to the summit of a ski run and ascend a tall spiral lookout for breathtaking views over lush landscapes. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage can be felt through traditional restaurants with substantial fare and folk music. A gallery displays the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa boasts multiple spring water sources to try.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful choice. With several beautiful white sand beaches, its vibrant center thrives in the evenings with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town offered a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the price. Accommodation offered easy access to the beach and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great excursion from nearby cities. However, the route is reportedly threatened of being closed. The trip features breathtaking stone arches around the area of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are advised to experience this picturesque line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, with shores, woods, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost established by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the site is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can hike for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This secret world offers wide-open vistas, marine life in the water, and an abundance of birds. The trail meanders along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where remains of old vessels lie. A hike can begin at a ancient church, one of the oldest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it typically opens in June. The trip features many turns to navigate the steep southern section of the Carpathians, providing excellent views. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, still covered in snow, directly. The journey also presents the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A quick journey from a major city transports people to a tranquil getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle fades for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, visitors walk along tree-lined lanes lined with grand mansions. The feel is slow, often interrupted by resident felines and moments to gaze back at the distant city. The return journey is usually accompanied by plans for a future return to this special place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Housed behind a historic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains a vast collection of ancient books, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition showcases detailed Renaissance-era maps and
