From a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a forgotten alpine railway in France, travelers disclosed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after arriving, an explorer wondered about their choice. But the initial doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This charming location presents more than a swim. Guests are able to stroll through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and stone-paved lanes lined with busy seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town serve up delicious pastries and beverages with genuine hospitality.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For fans of classic rock, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized venue offers immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, featuring a DJ playing only records. Chairs and tables are routinely moved to allow for space to dance. Staying open until the early hours, the bar sometimes features performances, ensuring a great evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a quiet getaway. Guests can hike to the top of a ski run and ascend a giant wooden platform for breathtaking panoramas over lush pastures. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be felt through traditional cuisine serving robust dishes and traditional music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a noted painter, and the town centre has multiple medicinal water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant find. With several beautiful sandy shores, its bustling centre comes alive nightly with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot delivered a genuine atmosphere at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation provided easy entry to the sea and a elegant and warm environment.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect day trip from the region. But, the route is reportedly at risk of being closed. The ride includes spectacular viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Travelers are urged to see this unique railway while they can.
Island 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 main town, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, characterized by shores, woods, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
It is possible to hike for miles along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another person. This hidden area provides expansive views, seals in the water, and an array of wildlife. The coast path meanders along marshes flanking an estuary, where wrecks of boats can be seen. A hike can begin at a very old chapel, among the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The trip requires many bends to climb the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering excellent vistas. Travelers can access a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, directly. The route also presents the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the memorable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A quick boat trip from a vibrant city takes travelers to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, explorers stroll along tree-lined lanes featuring beautiful homes. The pace is leisurely, with time broken by friendly cats and opportunities to stare back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often spent planning plans for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of magnificent books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display features gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
