From a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Right after stepping off the bus, one visitor questioned about their selection. Yet the first doubts rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This charming town presents beyond just a swim. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled passageways housing busy eateries. Concrete platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Places in town offer crisp pastries and beverages with friendly service.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated club promises immense fun. The ambiance is fantastic, with a DJ using just vinyl records. Seating are often pushed aside to make space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar at times features performances, ensuring a fantastic night out.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene getaway. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a slope and climb a large twisting viewing tower for stunning views over verdant landscapes. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture is on display through rustic restaurants serving robust fare and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a noted folk artist, and the main area features a number of spring water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant find. With three wonderful pristine shores, its lively center is active in the evenings with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a local experience at a much lower of the cost. The lodging featured direct a path to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from a nearby city. However, this service is reportedly threatened of being closed. The journey includes breathtaking bridges around the area of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to ride this picturesque line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is striking, with shores, forests, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base built by Russia and subsequently demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the site is without charge, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can stroll for miles along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering anyone. This undiscovered world boasts expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of wildlife. The coast path winds along estuarine flanking an estuary, where remnants of ships lie. A hike can begin at a very old place of worship, among the oldest in England, and finish in a charming town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually reopens in late spring. The drive features many switchbacks to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible vistas. Drivers can access a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the potential for spotting bears, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief boat trip from a bustling city takes travelers to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, visitors walk along quiet lanes lined with beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, often interrupted by resident felines and moments to stare back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often accompanied by plans for a comeback to this special sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Located behind a Gothic building is a library that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds a vast collection of rare books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features exquisite 16th-century maps and
