Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a little-known mountain train line in France, travelers disclosed their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. But the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful town presents beyond just a swim. Guests can wander through beautiful public squares and stone-paved lanes housing bustling seafood restaurants. Concrete platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Local spots provide delicious pastries and beverages with genuine service.
Retro Music in Germany's Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed venue is great enjoyment. The ambiance is terrific, with a DJ playing just vinyl. Furniture are often pushed aside to make space to dance. Staying open until the early hours, the bar sometimes hosts live bands, guaranteeing a great experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a quiet retreat. Visitors can hike to the summit of a slope and go up a large spiral lookout for breathtaking vistas over green fields. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional cuisine serving robust dishes and music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a renowned painter, and the main area features several medicinal taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. Featuring multiple wonderful pristine shores, its bustling town center is active in the evenings with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a more authentic feel at a fraction of the price. The lodging offered easy entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great day trip from nearby cities. Yet, the route is said to be at risk of closure. The trip passes over photogenic stone arches around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Tourists are encouraged to see this unique line soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is reachable by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, featuring shores, forests, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is complimentary, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to stroll for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This undiscovered landscape offers expansive vistas, marine life offshore, and an array of birds. The path follows along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where wrecks of boats lie. A hike can start at a very old chapel, among the earliest in England, and end in a charming town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Shut during winter, it usually opens in late spring. The journey involves many turns to climb the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, directly. The journey also includes the potential for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a bustling metropolis takes travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers stroll along quiet streets flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, with time paused by local cats and moments to gaze back at the far-off city. The trip home is usually filled with ideas for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a library that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of magnificent tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display showcases detailed Renaissance-era maps and
