From a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a overlooked alpine train line in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after arriving, an explorer pondered about their decision. Yet the first hesitations soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This charming location offers more than swimming. Guests may meander through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled passageways filled with bustling eateries. Man-made platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Places in town provide flaky pastries and refreshments with warm welcome.
Retro Tunes in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated music bar offers great enjoyment. The vibe is terrific, with a DJ spinning exclusively records. Seating are sometimes cleared to make dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar sometimes features performances, guaranteeing a memorable evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a peaceful escape. Guests can hike to the peak of a ski run and climb a tall spiral lookout for breathtaking panoramas over green fields. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture can be felt through rustic restaurants with robust fare and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a noted folk artist, and the central spa boasts a number of medicinal water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. Featuring several beautiful pristine coastlines, its vibrant town center comes alive nightly with residents. While the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location delivered a more authentic feel at a much lower of the price. Accommodation provided easy entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from nearby cities. Yet, the route is potentially threatened of being closed. The trip includes photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Tourists are advised to ride this unique line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct culture. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base established by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is complimentary, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can walk for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This secret area offers expansive vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of birdlife. The path meanders along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of boats are visible. A hike can start at a very old chapel, one of the oldest in England, and end in a pretty town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The trip requires numerous turns to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Travelers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still covered in snow, by car. The drive also includes the potential for seeing animals, completing the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis takes travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, visitors meander along tree-lined lanes flanked by historic houses. The rhythm is leisurely, frequently interrupted by local cats and moments to stare back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is usually filled with ideas for a next visit to this special retreat.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds a vast collection of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
