From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their selection. But the first doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This charming town offers more than a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and narrow alleys housing bustling places to eat. Concrete diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Places in town serve up delicious pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Vintage Tunes in The German Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed venue offers immense fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl records. Seating are routinely cleared to allow for space to dance. Operating until the early hours, the bar at times has live music, guaranteeing a memorable experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a quiet getaway. Travelers may walk to the top of a hill and climb a tall wooden lookout for breathtaking views over lush fields. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage is on display through rustic cuisine serving hearty dishes and traditional music. A gallery displays the work of a noted painter, and the central spa boasts several spring water sources to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful choice. Boasting multiple stunning pristine beaches, its bustling center comes alive in the evenings with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location delivered a more authentic feel at a a quarter of the price. The lodging offered convenient access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from the region. However, this line is said to be at risk of being closed. The trip includes photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Travelers are urged to experience this unique railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable museums and is easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is striking, featuring coastline, woods, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress built by Russia and later demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is complimentary, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to walk for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This secret world boasts sweeping vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of wildlife. The path winds along estuarine bordering an estuary, where remnants of boats are visible. A hike can start at a ancient chapel, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a charming town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt mountain road. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in June. The drive requires constant switchbacks to navigate the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking vistas. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, directly. The route also presents the potential for seeing animals, completing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A short journey from a major city transports travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos is replaced for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, explorers stroll along historic streets flanked by historic houses. The rhythm is leisurely, frequently interrupted by resident felines and opportunities to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is often spent planning ideas for a future return to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a library that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of magnificent books, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases detailed Renaissance-era maps and
