Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked alpine train line in France, travelers have shared their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their decision. However the initial hesitations soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful location provides beyond just swimming. Guests may meander through beautiful public squares and stone-paved passageways lined with bustling eateries. Man-made jumping points render the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Local spots serve up delicious pastries and beverages with warm hospitality.
Vintage Music in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul music, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar is immense fun. The vibe is fabulous, complete with a DJ playing exclusively vinyl records. Furniture are sometimes moved to make space to dance. Operating late, the bar occasionally features live music, making for a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a peaceful getaway. Travelers are able to climb to the peak of a ski run and climb a giant wooden lookout for stunning views over verdant landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be felt through rustic dining with hearty dishes and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a noted naive artist, and the town centre has several medicinal water sources to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. Featuring three beautiful white sand coastlines, its lively town center comes alive nightly with families. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town delivered a local experience at a fraction of the cost. A hotel featured direct a path to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Scenic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great day trip from the region. Yet, this service is potentially threatened of being closed. The journey features breathtaking viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Tourists are encouraged to see this special railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is striking, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a historical fortress established by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is free, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can walk for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another person. This hidden world boasts wide-open views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of wildlife. The trail meanders along marshes flanking an estuary, where remains of ships lie. A hike can begin at a very old place of worship, one of the most ancient in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in late spring. The drive requires many bends to ascend the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent vistas. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, directly. The drive also includes the potential for wildlife sightings, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a vibrant metropolis takes travelers to a peaceful island. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, guests walk along historic streets flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, often interrupted by resident cats and chances to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is often spent planning thoughts for a next visit to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a historic church is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display features gorgeous old maps and
