Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a little-known mountain train line in France, travelers disclosed their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after arriving, one visitor pondered about their selection. Yet the first suspicions soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque settlement provides more than a swim. Tourists can wander through beautiful Venetian squares and stone-paved alleys housing busy eateries. Man-made diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and drinks with genuine hospitality.
Classic Music in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated venue offers a lot of fun. The atmosphere is terrific, featuring a DJ using only records. Chairs and tables are routinely pushed aside to make dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar occasionally hosts performances, making for a memorable experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a peaceful escape. Guests are able to climb to the top of a ski run and ascend a large wooden lookout for breathtaking vistas over green landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through rustic cuisine serving robust dishes and traditional music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the main area has several mineral water fountains to try.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful choice. With three stunning pristine beaches, its vibrant centre thrives nightly with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location delivered a local experience at a fraction of the cost. A hotel featured easy access to the sea and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb journey from a nearby city. However, the route is said to be at risk of shutting down. The journey includes breathtaking viaducts around the area of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to experience this special line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with coastline, woods, and farmland. A notable location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base established by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another person. This hidden world provides sweeping views, seals offshore, and an array of birds. The coast path meanders along salt marsh bordering an river mouth, where remains of ships can be seen. A walk can start at a ancient church, one of the earliest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Closed during winter, it typically opens in June. The trip requires many bends to ascend the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, providing incredible views. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a vibrant city takes visitors to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, visitors walk along tree-lined roads featuring historic houses. The feel is relaxed, often interrupted by local felines and opportunities to stare back at the distant mainland. The return journey is usually filled with thoughts for a comeback to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains a vast collection of rare volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display showcases detailed old maps and
