Starting with a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain train line in France, visitors disclosed their standout finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer wondered about their choice. Yet the first doubts quickly faded upon entering Piran. This picturesque town presents beyond just a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and narrow lanes housing bustling eateries. Concrete jumping points make the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Nearby establishments provide flaky pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Classic Music in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed music bar promises immense fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, complete with a DJ using exclusively records. Furniture are sometimes pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Operating late, the bar at times features performances, making for a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a serene getaway. Visitors are able to climb to the summit of a hill and go up a large twisting platform for magnificent views over green fields. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage can be felt through rustic cuisine serving substantial food and traditional music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a noted painter, and the central spa features several medicinal water sources to try.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant find. Featuring three wonderful sandy beaches, its lively centre is active nightly with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a local feel at a much lower of the price. The lodging provided direct entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb journey from the region. Yet, the route is potentially at risk of shutting down. The ride includes photogenic bridges around the town of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Tourists are advised to see this special railway soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting attractions and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is attractive, with rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A historical fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and later demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can hike for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This secret landscape offers expansive views, marine life in the water, and an abundance of birds. The path meanders along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A hike can begin at a ancient chapel, among the most ancient in England, and end in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The journey features constant bends to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering incredible scenery. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, by car. The drive also presents the potential for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief journey from a vibrant city transports travelers to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along tree-lined roads flanked by historic houses. The rhythm is slow, frequently interrupted by friendly felines and opportunities to look back at the skyline of the city. The return journey is often spent planning ideas for a comeback to this incredible sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a 14th-century church is a archive that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains a vast collection of ancient books, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition includes detailed Renaissance-era maps and
