From a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a overlooked mountain train line in France, visitors revealed their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, a traveler pondered about their selection. Yet the early suspicions quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This delightful location presents more than a swim. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and cobbled lanes filled with bustling places to eat. Concrete jumping points make the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town offer delicious pastries and beverages with genuine hospitality.
Classic Tunes in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed music bar is a lot of fun. The vibe is fabulous, featuring a DJ using only records. Furniture are sometimes pushed aside to create space to dance. Open late, the bar at times hosts performances, guaranteeing a great experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a serene escape. Guests can hike to the top of a slope and ascend a tall spiral lookout for magnificent panoramas over lush fields. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through traditional dining with substantial fare and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area has multiple medicinal water fountains to try.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant find. Featuring three beautiful white sand shores, its lively center comes alive nightly with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location delivered a genuine experience at a a quarter of the price. The lodging featured easy a path to the sea and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from nearby cities. But, this service is reportedly threatened of being closed. The ride includes photogenic stone arches around the town of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Tourists are encouraged to see this special railway soon.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is accessible by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is beautiful, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and subsequently attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the site is free, with a small fee for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This undiscovered landscape offers sweeping views, seals offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The path meanders along marshes next to an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A hike can begin at a ancient place of worship, among the oldest in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The trip involves many bends to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the opportunity for wildlife sightings, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A short journey from a bustling metropolis transports people to a peaceful getaway. As the evening approaches, the city chaos fades for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, guests walk along tree-lined lanes lined with historic houses. The feel is slow, with time broken by resident felines and opportunities to look back at the skyline of the city. The return journey is often spent planning plans for a comeback to this special retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of magnificent tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display features exquisite 16th-century maps and
