Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their standout encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after arriving, an explorer wondered about their choice. But the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful town offers beyond just swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through beautiful Venetian squares and cobbled lanes lined with bustling eateries. Man-made platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Nearby establishments provide crisp pastries and drinks with genuine hospitality.
Classic Music in Germany's Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed music bar offers immense fun. The atmosphere is terrific, with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl records. Seating are often pushed aside to create space to dance. Open late, the bar occasionally has live bands, making for a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a serene escape. Visitors may walk to the top of a ski run and climb a tall wooden lookout for breathtaking panoramas over green pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine serving substantial fare and traditional music. A museum showcases the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre has a number of spring water sources to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent discovery. With several wonderful pristine shores, its vibrant centre thrives in the evenings with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location provided a more authentic feel at a fraction of the price. Accommodation provided direct entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect day trip from nearby cities. But, this service is potentially threatened of closure. The ride features breathtaking bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Tourists are urged to ride this special railway before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable attractions and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is attractive, with shores, forests, and farms. A historical location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can walk for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This undiscovered landscape provides wide-open vistas, seals in the water, and an array of wildlife. The coast path meanders along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of boats lie. A walk can begin at a very old place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Closed during winter, it typically opens in June. The drive features constant switchbacks to ascend the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, still covered in snow, without a cable car. The route also includes the chance for spotting bears, adding to the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a vibrant city takes people to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, guests walk along historic roads featuring beautiful homes. The feel is relaxed, frequently paused by local cats and moments to stare back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is usually accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this incredible sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of ancient tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display features gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
