Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten mountain train line in France, visitors revealed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after arriving, a traveler pondered about their decision. However the initial doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful location provides beyond just a swim. Visitors may meander through beautiful Venetian squares and stone-paved lanes lined with vibrant eateries. Man-made jumping points make the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots provide delicious pastries and beverages with friendly hospitality.
Retro Sounds in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated venue promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, complete with a DJ spinning just vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely moved to create dancing. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times has live bands, making for a great experience.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a quiet getaway. Visitors can hike to the top of a slope and ascend a large twisting lookout for breathtaking views over verdant landscapes. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture is on display through traditional dining serving substantial fare and music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the central spa features multiple medicinal taps to try.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful choice. With three wonderful white sand beaches, its vibrant center is active nightly with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location delivered a local atmosphere at a fraction of the price. The lodging offered convenient a path to the shore and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from a nearby city. Yet, this line is reportedly at risk of being closed. The trip includes breathtaking stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Tourists are advised to see this unique line before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century naval base established by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is without charge, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can stroll for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This hidden world provides wide-open views, marine life in the water, and an array of wildlife. The path meanders along estuarine bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of ships are visible. A walk can start at a ancient place of worship, reportedly the most ancient in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Closed during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The drive requires constant bends to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, by car. The journey also presents the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis transports visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along historic streets flanked by historic houses. The feel is slow, with time paused by friendly felines and opportunities to gaze back at the distant mainland. The return journey is often spent planning thoughts for a future return to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Housed behind a 14th-century church is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display features exquisite old cartography and
