From a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a little-known mountain railway in France, travelers revealed their standout encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after stepping off the bus, a traveler questioned about their selection. Yet the early hesitations soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This charming location provides more than swimming. Guests are able to stroll through beautiful piazzas and narrow passageways lined with busy eateries. Man-made platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Local spots provide crisp pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Vintage Sounds in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized club is a lot of fun. The vibe is fantastic, complete with a DJ spinning only vinyl records. Furniture are routinely moved to make dance floor. Operating late into the night, the bar at times has live bands, ensuring a great evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene escape. Guests are able to climb to the top of a slope and go up a large twisting platform for stunning views over lush pastures. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional restaurants offering substantial dishes and traditional music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific folk artist, and the main area has several mineral water sources to try.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent choice. Boasting several beautiful pristine coastlines, its vibrant town center thrives every night with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location delivered a genuine experience at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation offered easy entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from a nearby city. However, this line is said to be at risk of closure. The journey includes photogenic bridges around the town of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Tourists are encouraged to ride this unique line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with coastline, forests, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost built by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is complimentary, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to hike for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This hidden area boasts expansive views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of wildlife. The trail follows along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where wrecks of ships can be seen. A walk can begin at a ancient church, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a charming town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Closed during the colder months, it typically reopens in early summer. The drive involves many bends to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, by car. The route also includes the potential for spotting bears, adding to the memorable experience.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A short journey from a vibrant city transports visitors to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers stroll along historic streets flanked by grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, often broken by local cats and moments to look back at the distant mainland. The return journey is usually accompanied by ideas for a comeback to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Housed behind a historic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds thousands of magnificent books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition includes exquisite Renaissance-era cartography and
