Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten mountain train line in France, explorers have shared their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after arriving, one visitor questioned about their decision. However the early doubts soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque location provides more than a swim. Tourists can wander through beautiful public squares and narrow lanes housing busy places to eat. Man-made jumping points make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Nearby establishments offer flaky pastries and drinks with genuine hospitality.
Retro Music in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated venue promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, complete with a DJ playing just records. Furniture are sometimes cleared to allow for dancing. Operating until the early hours, the bar sometimes has live bands, making for a great experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a quiet getaway. Visitors can hike to the peak of a slope and ascend a tall spiral lookout for breathtaking vistas over lush pastures. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional restaurants with robust fare and music. A gallery displays the work of a prolific painter, and the main area features a number of medicinal water sources to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent find. Featuring three beautiful white sand shores, its lively center is active every night with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. The lodging offered convenient a path to the beach and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from a nearby city. Yet, the route is said to be under threat of shutting down. The trip passes over spectacular viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Travelers are urged to experience this unique line while they can.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, with coastline, forests, and farmland. A historical fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical naval base established by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is complimentary, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This hidden world provides sweeping views, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birds. The coast path meanders along estuarine next to an river mouth, where remnants of ships are visible. A hike can start at a very old chapel, among the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Shut during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The journey involves many turns to ascend the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking views. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, often covered in snow, without a cable car. The drive also includes the potential for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A quick boat trip from a major metropolis takes people to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the city chaos dissipates for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, guests meander along quiet roads lined with historic houses. The pace is slow, with time interrupted by local felines and opportunities to look back at the distant mainland. The trip home is often filled with thoughts for a future return to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Housed behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds a vast collection of magnificent volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features exquisite old maps and
