Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked mountain train line in France, travelers disclosed their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their selection. But the early hesitations soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque town provides beyond just a swim. Visitors can wander through ornate piazzas and narrow alleys filled with vibrant eateries. Concrete diving platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots offer delicious pastries and refreshments with warm service.
Retro Tunes in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated music bar offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ playing only vinyl. Furniture are often cleared to allow for dancing. Operating until the early hours, the bar at times features live music, making for a great evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a peaceful getaway. Guests can hike to the peak of a slope and climb a giant spiral lookout for magnificent vistas over lush fields. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage can be felt through rustic restaurants with substantial food and folk music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a noted naive artist, and the town centre features several mineral water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent discovery. With several stunning sandy beaches, its vibrant town center is active nightly with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a local feel at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation featured convenient entry to the beach and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from nearby cities. However, this service is said to be at risk of being closed. The ride includes photogenic viaducts around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to ride this unique railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The countryside is beautiful, characterized by rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A historical fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base built by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to walk for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This undiscovered area provides wide-open views, seals offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail follows along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where remains of old vessels lie. A walk can begin at a 7th-century chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The trip requires constant turns to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking vistas. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the potential for wildlife sightings, completing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a bustling city transports travelers to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos is replaced for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along quiet lanes flanked by grand mansions. The pace is relaxed, with time broken by friendly felines and opportunities to stare back at the distant mainland. The trip home is usually filled with thoughts for a comeback to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Located behind a 14th-century church is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds thousands of magnificent books, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases detailed Renaissance-era maps and
