From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked mountain train line in France, explorers have shared their standout finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after arriving, an explorer wondered about their selection. But the initial hesitations quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming town provides beyond just swimming. Tourists may meander through ornate piazzas and stone-paved passageways housing busy seafood restaurants. Concrete platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Local spots serve up delicious pastries and beverages with genuine service.
Retro Sounds in Germany's Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated venue offers great enjoyment. The vibe is terrific, with a DJ spinning only vinyl records. Furniture are routinely cleared to create dance floor. Staying open late into the night, the bar sometimes hosts live music, guaranteeing a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Spa Town
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a peaceful retreat. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a hill and climb a large wooden platform for breathtaking views over lush landscapes. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine with robust dishes and folk music. A museum celebrates the work of a noted folk artist, and the town centre boasts a number of spring taps to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant choice. Boasting several stunning sandy beaches, its vibrant town center is active every night with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a more authentic experience at a a quarter of the cost. The lodging offered convenient a path to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect day trip from a nearby city. But, this service is potentially at risk of shutting down. The trip includes spectacular stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to see this special line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The countryside is attractive, with shores, forests, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost built by Russia and later demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is without charge, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can hike for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This secret world offers wide-open vistas, seals offshore, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail winds along marshes next to an river mouth, where remnants of ships lie. A walk can begin at a very old place of worship, among the most ancient in England, and finish in a pretty town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The drive requires constant switchbacks to ascend the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still covered in snow, directly. The drive also presents the potential for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable experience.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A quick journey from a vibrant metropolis takes travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the evening approaches, the urban energy fades for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, guests meander along historic lanes featuring beautiful homes. The pace is relaxed, frequently paused by resident felines and moments to gaze back at the far-off city. The ferry back is usually filled with thoughts for a comeback to this special place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Located behind a historic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition includes detailed old cartography and
