From a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a little-known mountain train line in France, visitors revealed their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. Yet the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque location offers beyond just swimming. Visitors may meander through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled lanes housing busy seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots serve up flaky pastries and refreshments with friendly welcome.
Vintage Sounds in The German Capital
For fans of classic rock, 1960s pop, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized club offers great enjoyment. The vibe is fantastic, complete with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl records. Furniture are routinely pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Operating late, the bar at times features live music, guaranteeing a memorable evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Spa Town
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a serene getaway. Travelers can hike to the top of a slope and go up a tall wooden lookout for stunning views over verdant fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine serving substantial food and folk music. A museum showcases the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre has a number of medicinal taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant find. Boasting three wonderful sandy beaches, its vibrant centre thrives every night with locals. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a local atmosphere at a much lower of the price. A hotel provided easy entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Scenic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great day trip from nearby cities. But, the route is said to be threatened of shutting down. The trip passes over photogenic bridges around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Travelers are encouraged to experience this unique line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is beautiful, with coastline, woods, and farms. A historical location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost established by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the site is without charge, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to walk for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This secret world boasts wide-open views, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birds. The trail meanders along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where remains of boats can be seen. A journey can begin at a very old church, one of the oldest in England, and finish in a quaint town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Closed during winter, it typically opens in June. The drive involves many bends to ascend the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The route also includes the chance for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief journey from a major city takes travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, guests stroll along historic streets flanked by grand mansions. The pace is leisurely, with time interrupted by resident cats and chances to stare back at the distant city. The ferry back is usually spent planning thoughts for a future return to this unique place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Housed behind a Gothic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection showcases detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
