Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain train line in France, visitors revealed their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after stepping off the bus, one visitor wondered about their selection. Yet the early suspicions soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This delightful town provides beyond just swimming. Guests can wander through ornate public squares and narrow lanes lined with busy places to eat. Concrete diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Nearby establishments offer crisp pastries and drinks with warm hospitality.
Vintage Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized music bar offers a lot of fun. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ spinning only records. Furniture are sometimes pushed aside to create space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar at times has performances, ensuring a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a quiet escape. Visitors may walk to the summit of a ski run and climb a giant twisting lookout for stunning vistas over green pastures. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture is on display through traditional cuisine offering hearty dishes and music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a renowned painter, and the town centre boasts a number of mineral water sources to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. With multiple beautiful white sand coastlines, its bustling centre thrives in the evenings with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot offered a local atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. A hotel offered convenient entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great excursion from the region. But, this service is reportedly at risk of closure. The journey includes spectacular stone arches around the town of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Travelers are advised to ride this special line while they can.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable museums and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The landscape is striking, characterized by shores, forests, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is complimentary, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another person. This secret world offers expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of birdlife. The path follows along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where wrecks of boats can be seen. A walk can begin at a very old chapel, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a pretty town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt route. Closed during the colder months, it usually opens in late spring. The drive requires many switchbacks to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing excellent views. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, by car. The drive also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, adding to the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a bustling metropolis takes people to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, visitors walk along tree-lined roads featuring grand mansions. The pace is relaxed, frequently broken by resident felines and chances to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is usually filled with thoughts for a next visit to this incredible sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a historic building is a library that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains numerous of magnificent tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display includes detailed old cartography and
