From a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain railway in France, visitors revealed their standout finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after arriving, one visitor questioned about their choice. But the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque location presents beyond just swimming. Guests can wander through beautiful Venetian squares and stone-paved lanes filled with busy places to eat. Concrete jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town offer delicious pastries and refreshments with genuine service.
Retro Music in Berlin
For fans of classic rock, 1960s pop, and Motown, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated club is a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ playing exclusively records. Seating are sometimes moved to create dance floor. Operating late, the bar occasionally features live bands, making for a memorable night out.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a quiet retreat. Travelers can hike to the top of a ski run and go up a giant twisting lookout for magnificent panoramas over verdant landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional dining serving hearty dishes and music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area features several spring water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant discovery. Featuring multiple stunning white sand shores, its bustling centre thrives in the evenings with residents. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town offered a more authentic feel at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation provided easy access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great excursion from a nearby city. However, the route is reportedly under threat of closure. The journey features photogenic bridges around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to experience this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable sites and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by coastline, woods, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost constructed by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is free, with a charge for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can walk for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This secret landscape provides expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an abundance of birds. The trail meanders along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where wrecks of ships lie. A journey can commence at a very old chapel, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a quaint town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The drive requires numerous switchbacks to climb the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible vistas. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, without a cable car. The journey also presents the chance for spotting bears, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A brief boat trip from a vibrant city takes travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests meander along historic lanes lined with historic houses. The feel is relaxed, often broken by friendly cats and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The return journey is usually accompanied by ideas for a next visit to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Located behind a Gothic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses a vast collection of rare volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display showcases exquisite old cartography and
