Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. However the initial suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement provides beyond just swimming. Visitors may meander through ornate public squares and cobbled alleys filled with vibrant places to eat. Man-made jumping points turn the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town serve up delicious pastries and refreshments with warm welcome.
Vintage Music in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed club promises a lot of fun. The vibe is terrific, complete with a DJ playing only vinyl. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Operating late into the night, the bar occasionally features live music, guaranteeing a memorable evening.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a serene retreat. Visitors can hike to the top of a hill and go up a large spiral platform for breathtaking panoramas over green pastures. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional restaurants with hearty fare and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a renowned naive artist, and the main area features a number of medicinal water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful discovery. Boasting three stunning white sand coastlines, its vibrant centre is active every night with residents. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a genuine experience at a a quarter of the cost. A hotel featured direct entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb journey from a nearby city. But, this line is potentially under threat of shutting down. The journey passes over spectacular viaducts around the area of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Tourists are advised to ride this picturesque line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, featuring coastline, forests, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost established by Russia and subsequently attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the site is free, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can walk for miles along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This undiscovered world offers wide-open views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of wildlife. The coast path follows along marshes bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A journey can commence at a very old church, among the earliest in England, and conclude in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The journey involves numerous turns to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the opportunity for seeing animals, completing the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief journey from a vibrant metropolis transports travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, explorers stroll along tree-lined streets lined with beautiful homes. The feel is relaxed, often broken by local felines and chances to look back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is usually spent planning ideas for a next visit to this incredible sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases detailed 16th-century maps and
