From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain train line in France, travelers have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after arriving, an explorer wondered about their selection. But the early hesitations soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town offers beyond just swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful Venetian squares and narrow passageways filled with busy places to eat. Concrete jumping points render the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots serve up flaky pastries and refreshments with friendly service.
Classic Sounds in Berlin
For fans of classic rock, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated club offers immense fun. The ambiance is fantastic, complete with a DJ playing only vinyl records. Seating are often cleared to make dance floor. Operating late into the night, the bar at times hosts live music, ensuring a memorable night out.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a serene retreat. Guests may walk to the top of a ski run and ascend a large spiral viewing tower for breathtaking views over green fields. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine serving substantial dishes and traditional music. A gallery celebrates the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa features several mineral taps to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent discovery. Boasting three beautiful pristine shores, its bustling centre comes alive nightly with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a genuine atmosphere at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation provided direct a path to the shore and a elegant and warm environment.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from nearby cities. Yet, the route is reportedly at risk of closure. The ride features spectacular stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are urged to experience this unique line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is striking, with shores, woods, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the site is complimentary, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering anyone. This secret landscape boasts wide-open views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of wildlife. The path meanders along estuarine next to an estuary, where remnants of boats can be seen. A walk can begin at a very old chapel, among the oldest in England, and conclude in a quaint town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved route. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The drive features many bends to climb the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking vistas. Travelers can access a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, directly. The journey also presents the potential for wildlife sightings, completing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a vibrant metropolis transports travelers to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the urban energy is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, visitors meander along historic roads flanked by beautiful homes. The feel is slow, often paused by resident cats and chances to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is often filled with plans for a future return to this incredible place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds a vast collection of magnificent tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition includes exquisite old maps and
