From a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain railway in France, travelers have shared their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after arriving, a traveler questioned about their decision. But the initial doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque town provides more than a swim. Guests can wander through beautiful Venetian squares and cobbled alleys lined with bustling eateries. Man-made platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Places in town offer flaky pastries and drinks with friendly service.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated venue is a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, with a DJ spinning just vinyl. Furniture are often moved to allow for dance floor. Open late into the night, the bar at times has live music, making for a great night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a quiet getaway. Travelers can hike to the summit of a hill and climb a large wooden lookout for stunning panoramas over verdant pastures. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Their culture is on display through rustic restaurants offering substantial dishes and traditional music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre features several spring taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent find. With several wonderful pristine beaches, its vibrant town center thrives every night with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location offered a genuine feel at a fraction of the cost. A hotel featured easy entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb journey from nearby cities. But, this service is reportedly at risk of being closed. The journey includes photogenic bridges around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to see this picturesque railway while they can.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is beautiful, featuring coastline, forests, and farms. A historical location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base established by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is free, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can walk for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another person. This undiscovered area provides expansive vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path meanders along estuarine next to an river mouth, where remains of ships are visible. A hike can start at a 7th-century church, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a charming town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The journey features many switchbacks to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking vistas. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, without a cable car. The route also includes the opportunity for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A short boat trip from a vibrant city transports visitors to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, explorers walk along quiet roads lined with historic houses. The feel is relaxed, with time interrupted by resident felines and moments to stare back at the distant mainland. The trip home is often spent planning thoughts for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a archive that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains numerous of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes exquisite old cartography and
