From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian seaside settlement to a overlooked mountain railway in France, travelers revealed their most memorable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer wondered about their decision. Yet the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement presents beyond just swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful piazzas and cobbled alleys housing bustling places to eat. Concrete diving platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Local spots serve up flaky pastries and refreshments with genuine welcome.
Vintage Tunes in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club promises immense fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, with a DJ using exclusively records. Seating are sometimes moved to create dancing. Open late, the bar sometimes hosts live music, ensuring a great night out.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Spa Town
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a peaceful escape. Guests may walk to the top of a slope and climb a giant twisting lookout for stunning views over lush landscapes. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture is on display through rustic dining offering substantial food and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the main area has multiple mineral water sources to try.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant choice. Featuring multiple stunning pristine beaches, its lively town center comes alive in the evenings with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location delivered a more authentic atmosphere at a fraction of the price. The lodging provided easy entry to the sea and a elegant and warm environment.
A Historic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect journey from a nearby city. However, the route is reportedly threatened of shutting down. The trip includes photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are advised to see this unique railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, with shores, woods, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can walk for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This undiscovered world offers sweeping vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birds. The trail winds along salt marsh bordering an river mouth, where remnants of boats lie. A walk can start at a very old chapel, one of the earliest in England, and finish in a pretty town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The journey requires constant switchbacks to climb the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Travelers can access a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, directly. The route also presents the potential for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief journey from a major city takes travelers to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along historic streets lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is slow, with time broken by friendly felines and chances to gaze back at the distant city. The ferry back is often filled with ideas for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Tucked away behind a historic building is a library that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of magnificent books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display includes exquisite Renaissance-era cartography and
