From a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain train line in France, explorers revealed their standout encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their decision. But the initial doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque settlement provides more than swimming. Tourists may meander through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled alleys housing busy seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Local spots provide crisp pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Vintage Tunes in Berlin
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club offers a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, with a DJ spinning just vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes cleared to create space to dance. Open late, the bar at times features live bands, guaranteeing a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a quiet escape. Visitors may walk to the peak of a slope and go up a large spiral platform for magnificent panoramas over verdant pastures. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture is on display through rustic cuisine serving hearty dishes and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area has several mineral water fountains to try.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful find. Boasting multiple wonderful pristine beaches, its vibrant centre thrives nightly with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot provided a genuine atmosphere at a much lower of the cost. The lodging offered direct entry to the sea and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from nearby cities. However, the route is said to be under threat of being closed. The journey includes spectacular stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Tourists are encouraged to ride this picturesque line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is reachable by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, with coastline, woods, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base constructed by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This undiscovered landscape provides expansive views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birds. The coast path meanders along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where wrecks of ships lie. A walk can start at a very old place of worship, among the oldest in England, and end in a charming town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt route. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in late spring. The trip involves many switchbacks to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking scenery. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The route also presents the chance for spotting bears, completing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a bustling city transports visitors to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, visitors walk along historic streets flanked by grand mansions. The feel is slow, frequently interrupted by local cats and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is usually filled with thoughts for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds a vast collection of magnificent books, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition includes gorgeous old maps and
