Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten alpine railway in France, visitors revealed their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor wondered about their selection. But the first suspicions soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This charming settlement offers more than swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through ornate piazzas and cobbled lanes filled with vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots provide flaky pastries and drinks with friendly hospitality.
Classic Sounds in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized venue offers great enjoyment. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ spinning only vinyl. Seating are sometimes cleared to create dance floor. Staying open late, the bar at times features live music, ensuring a great night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a peaceful getaway. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a ski run and ascend a giant twisting platform for stunning views over lush fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture can be felt through rustic dining offering substantial dishes and traditional music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned painter, and the town centre boasts several medicinal water sources to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful discovery. With three stunning sandy coastlines, its vibrant town center thrives nightly with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot delivered a genuine experience at a much lower of the cost. A hotel offered easy access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb excursion from nearby cities. Yet, the route is potentially threatened of shutting down. The trip features breathtaking stone arches around the area of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to see this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by shores, forests, and farmland. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for miles along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This secret area provides expansive views, seals offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail follows along marshes bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A journey can start at a 7th-century church, one of the earliest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive involves constant switchbacks to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, still covered in snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a major city transports travelers to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, guests walk along historic roads featuring grand mansions. The rhythm is leisurely, often broken by friendly felines and moments to look back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is usually accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this unique sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Located behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition includes detailed 16th-century maps and
