From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known mountain railway in France, explorers disclosed their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after stepping off the bus, an explorer questioned about their choice. Yet the early doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This charming town presents beyond just swimming. Tourists may meander through ornate public squares and cobbled alleys housing busy seafood restaurants. Concrete jumping points render the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and beverages with warm hospitality.
Retro Tunes in Berlin
For aficionados of classic rock, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized venue is immense fun. The atmosphere is terrific, complete with a DJ using only vinyl records. Seating are often cleared to make dancing. Staying open late, the bar at times hosts live music, making for a memorable night out.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a peaceful getaway. Travelers can hike to the peak of a hill and go up a tall spiral viewing tower for breathtaking panoramas over lush landscapes. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be felt through rustic cuisine offering substantial dishes and traditional music. A museum celebrates the work of a noted folk artist, and the central spa has several mineral taps to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent discovery. With several beautiful white sand beaches, its bustling centre thrives nightly with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location offered a more authentic feel at a fraction of the price. The lodging offered easy a path to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from the region. But, the route is potentially threatened of closure. The journey includes photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to experience this special railway before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, featuring shores, forests, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost built by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is complimentary, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This secret landscape provides wide-open views, seals offshore, and an array of wildlife. The path follows along marshes next to an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A walk can begin at a very old place of worship, among the oldest in England, and end in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Closed during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The journey features many switchbacks to ascend the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The route also includes the opportunity for spotting bears, completing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A short boat trip from a vibrant city transports people to a car-free island. As the day ends, the urban energy dissipates for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, visitors meander along tree-lined lanes lined with beautiful homes. The rhythm is relaxed, with time paused by local felines and moments to look back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is usually accompanied by ideas for a future return to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Located behind a 14th-century building is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of magnificent tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display showcases exquisite 16th-century maps and
