From a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their standout discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after stepping off the bus, a traveler wondered about their choice. But the initial doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque settlement provides beyond just swimming. Guests can wander through ornate Venetian squares and narrow passageways lined with vibrant places to eat. Man-made diving platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town provide delicious pastries and beverages with warm hospitality.
Retro Music in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed music bar is great enjoyment. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ spinning just records. Furniture are routinely moved to create dancing. Open late into the night, the bar sometimes features live music, ensuring a memorable evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a quiet retreat. Visitors can hike to the top of a ski run and climb a giant twisting platform for stunning panoramas over lush pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic restaurants with robust fare and traditional music. A museum celebrates the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre boasts a number of mineral water sources to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. Boasting three wonderful sandy beaches, its lively centre thrives every night with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location provided a local feel at a a quarter of the cost. The lodging offered easy entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great journey from nearby cities. Yet, this line is said to be under threat of being closed. The trip features breathtaking stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Tourists are encouraged to ride this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting attractions and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The countryside is striking, with coastline, woods, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and then destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the remains is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This secret area provides sweeping views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birds. The path meanders along estuarine bordering an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels lie. A journey can start at a very old chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a pretty town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The trip features many turns to climb the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking scenery. Travelers can reach a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, by car. The journey also includes the opportunity for spotting bears, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A brief boat trip from a major metropolis takes people to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle fades for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, guests stroll along tree-lined streets flanked by grand mansions. The pace is relaxed, frequently broken by resident cats and chances to look back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is often accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this special retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Located behind a 14th-century church is a library that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains a vast collection of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
