Starting with a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a little-known mountain train line in France, explorers have shared their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after getting off the bus, one visitor wondered about their selection. Yet the first hesitations quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming location provides more than a swim. Guests can wander through beautiful public squares and stone-paved alleys lined with bustling places to eat. Man-made diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town serve up crisp pastries and refreshments with friendly welcome.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club offers a lot of fun. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ playing just vinyl records. Chairs and tables are routinely moved to create dance floor. Open late, the bar sometimes hosts live bands, ensuring a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a quiet getaway. Travelers may walk to the summit of a hill and go up a giant spiral platform for stunning panoramas over green fields. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture is on display through traditional restaurants offering robust fare and music. A museum displays the work of a noted folk artist, and the town centre features a number of spring water sources to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant discovery. Boasting several beautiful pristine shores, its lively center is active in the evenings with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town offered a genuine feel at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation featured convenient entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect excursion from the region. Yet, this line is reportedly at risk of closure. The ride includes photogenic bridges around the town of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Tourists are urged to see this unique line while they can.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable museums and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, with rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is without charge, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for miles along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This hidden world provides sweeping vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of wildlife. The path winds along estuarine next to an river mouth, where wrecks of boats are visible. A journey can begin at a 7th-century chapel, reportedly the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Closed during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The drive features numerous turns to ascend the steep southern section of the Carpathians, offering excellent scenery. Visitors can access a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also presents the chance for spotting bears, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A quick boat trip from a vibrant metropolis transports travelers to a peaceful island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along historic roads flanked by historic houses. The pace is relaxed, with time broken by local felines and opportunities to look back at the distant city. The ferry back is often accompanied by plans for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a historic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds numerous of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display showcases detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
