From a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known alpine railway in France, travelers disclosed their standout finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor pondered about their choice. Yet the initial suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful settlement offers beyond just swimming. Tourists can wander through ornate piazzas and cobbled lanes housing busy seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots provide delicious pastries and drinks with warm service.
Classic Tunes in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated venue promises a lot of fun. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl records. Seating are sometimes cleared to allow for space to dance. Staying open late, the bar sometimes features live bands, guaranteeing a great experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a serene retreat. Travelers can hike to the peak of a hill and climb a tall wooden lookout for stunning views over green fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic dining serving substantial fare and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a prolific folk artist, and the main area has multiple spring taps to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent choice. Featuring several stunning sandy shores, its lively centre thrives every night with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location offered a genuine experience at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation featured direct access to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb excursion from a nearby city. But, this line is said to be threatened of being closed. The journey passes over breathtaking bridges around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are encouraged to ride this unique railway while they can.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, characterized by shores, forests, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the site is complimentary, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This hidden world boasts sweeping views, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path meanders along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of boats can be seen. A walk can commence at a 7th-century church, reportedly the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The drive features constant turns to climb the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking vistas. Drivers can access a mountain lake, still covered in snow, by car. The route also presents the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a major city transports people to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, guests walk along quiet lanes featuring historic houses. The rhythm is leisurely, often interrupted by local felines and moments to look back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is often accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of magnificent volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection showcases gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
