From a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after arriving, one visitor questioned about their decision. However the early doubts rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This charming town presents more than a swim. Visitors can wander through ornate public squares and cobbled passageways lined with vibrant eateries. Man-made jumping points make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town serve up crisp pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Classic Tunes in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized club promises great enjoyment. The vibe is terrific, with a DJ using exclusively vinyl. Seating are routinely pushed aside to allow for dance floor. Operating until the early hours, the bar occasionally hosts performances, making for a great evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a quiet retreat. Travelers may walk to the peak of a ski run and ascend a tall wooden platform for breathtaking views over green landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional restaurants offering robust food and folk music. A museum displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa has a number of spring water sources to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. Boasting multiple wonderful white sand coastlines, its bustling town center is active nightly with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot provided a local feel at a fraction of the cost. A hotel offered convenient entry to the beach and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great day trip from the region. However, the route is said to be under threat of closure. The trip features photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Tourists are advised to see this unique line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting attractions and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with coastline, woods, and farmland. A notable location at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost built by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is free, with a charge for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This undiscovered landscape provides expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of birds. The path follows along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of boats can be seen. A journey can begin at a 7th-century church, one of the most ancient in England, and finish in a pretty town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Closed during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive features numerous switchbacks to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing incredible vistas. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The drive also presents the potential for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Near a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a vibrant metropolis takes travelers to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos dissipates for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along quiet streets featuring beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, often paused by local cats and opportunities to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is often filled with plans for a next visit to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Located behind a historic building is a archive that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds a vast collection of magnificent tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition features detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
