Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known mountain railway in France, explorers revealed their standout discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their decision. Yet the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque location presents more than swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful public squares and narrow alleys lined with busy eateries. Concrete platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Places in town provide flaky pastries and beverages with genuine welcome.
Vintage Music in Berlin
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed music bar offers immense fun. The atmosphere is terrific, complete with a DJ using only vinyl records. Furniture are sometimes pushed aside to allow for dance floor. Staying open late into the night, the bar sometimes has performances, ensuring a great evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a quiet retreat. Travelers can hike to the top of a hill and go up a tall wooden lookout for stunning panoramas over verdant pastures. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage can be felt through traditional restaurants serving hearty dishes and music. A museum showcases the work of a noted painter, and the main area features a number of medicinal water fountains to try.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant find. Featuring multiple stunning sandy shores, its bustling center is active every night with residents. While the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a local experience at a much lower of the cost. The lodging provided easy access to the beach and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from nearby cities. Yet, the route is reportedly under threat of being closed. The journey includes breathtaking stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Tourists are encouraged to ride this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The landscape is striking, featuring shores, forests, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical fortress constructed by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
It is possible to stroll for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This hidden area boasts expansive views, seals offshore, and an array of birds. The coast path follows along estuarine bordering an estuary, where remains of boats are visible. A journey can start at a 7th-century chapel, reportedly the most ancient in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The trip involves constant bends to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, often covered in snow, by car. The drive also includes the potential for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A brief boat trip from a bustling city transports visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the evening approaches, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, guests walk along tree-lined lanes flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, with time paused by resident felines and chances to stare back at the distant city. The ferry back is often accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this special retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a library that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains a vast collection of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display includes exquisite 16th-century cartography and
