From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked alpine railway in France, travelers have shared their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after stepping off the bus, a traveler wondered about their selection. However the early doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful location offers more than a swim. Guests can wander through ornate Venetian squares and cobbled passageways housing bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and drinks with friendly welcome.
Retro Tunes in Berlin
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar is immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ playing just vinyl. Furniture are often cleared to create dance floor. Staying open late into the night, the bar occasionally has performances, making for a memorable night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a quiet retreat. Visitors may walk to the top of a slope and ascend a tall wooden platform for magnificent vistas over verdant pastures. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic cuisine with hearty food and music. A gallery displays the work of a prolific folk artist, and the main area has a number of medicinal water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent find. Boasting three beautiful sandy shores, its bustling centre comes alive nightly with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a local feel at a fraction of the price. Accommodation featured convenient entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from a nearby city. But, this service is potentially under threat of closure. The trip includes breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Travelers are encouraged to ride this picturesque line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is striking, featuring shores, forests, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund reveals a historical naval base established by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This secret world boasts expansive vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail winds along estuarine bordering an estuary, where remnants of boats can be seen. A journey can commence at a ancient chapel, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in June. The drive requires many turns to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering incredible vistas. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, by car. The drive also presents the potential for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A short ferry ride from a bustling metropolis transports people to a peaceful island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, explorers meander along tree-lined roads flanked by grand mansions. The rhythm is leisurely, with time broken by resident cats and chances to look back at the distant city. The ferry back is often spent planning thoughts for a next visit to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Located behind a 14th-century building is a archive that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds numerous of magnificent volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases gorgeous old cartography and
