From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked mountain railway in France, travelers revealed their most memorable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer wondered about their decision. But the first hesitations soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This delightful town presents beyond just swimming. Guests are able to stroll through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled lanes lined with vibrant eateries. Man-made platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Nearby establishments provide crisp pastries and refreshments with friendly service.
Vintage Tunes in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and Motown, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club offers a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, complete with a DJ spinning exclusively records. Seating are sometimes cleared to create space to dance. Operating late, the bar at times has live bands, making for a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a quiet escape. Travelers can hike to the top of a slope and ascend a large twisting lookout for magnificent panoramas over lush pastures. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be felt through traditional cuisine offering hearty food and traditional music. A museum showcases the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa has multiple spring taps to try.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent discovery. Featuring three wonderful sandy beaches, its vibrant town center thrives nightly with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a more authentic atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. A hotel offered easy entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great day trip from a nearby city. Yet, this line is said to be threatened of closure. The journey passes over breathtaking stone arches around the town of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Tourists are advised to ride this unique line before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A historical fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress constructed by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is free, with a small fee for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to hike for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This hidden area boasts sweeping vistas, seals in the water, and an abundance of wildlife. The path follows along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remains of boats are visible. A journey can begin at a 7th-century chapel, among the earliest in England, and end in a pretty town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The journey requires numerous switchbacks to navigate the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Travelers can reach a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the chance for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a major city transports people to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers walk along quiet roads flanked by grand mansions. The feel is leisurely, with time broken by friendly felines and chances to look back at the distant city. The ferry back is usually filled with thoughts for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Located behind a 14th-century building is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of magnificent tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes detailed old cartography and
