Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene town by the sea to a little-known mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their standout encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor wondered about their selection. However the first doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This charming location offers more than a swim. Visitors can wander through beautiful Venetian squares and cobbled passageways housing busy seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town offer delicious pastries and beverages with genuine hospitality.
Classic Music in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, retro pop, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized venue promises great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning only vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often cleared to create dance floor. Open until the early hours, the bar at times hosts live bands, making for a great evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene retreat. Visitors may walk to the top of a hill and ascend a giant wooden viewing tower for stunning vistas over lush pastures. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be experienced through rustic restaurants serving robust food and folk music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area boasts multiple mineral water sources to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant discovery. Featuring several stunning sandy coastlines, its lively center comes alive in the evenings with locals. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot provided a more authentic atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. A hotel provided convenient entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Scenic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb day trip from a nearby city. However, this service is potentially at risk of shutting down. The trip includes spectacular viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Tourists are advised to see this picturesque line before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is reachable by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, featuring shores, forests, and farms. A historical fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This secret world provides sweeping views, seals in the water, and an abundance of wildlife. The path winds along marshes flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels are visible. A walk can commence at a 7th-century place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in June. The drive involves constant turns to navigate the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, offering excellent scenery. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, without a cable car. The route also presents the chance for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A short journey from a bustling metropolis transports travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the evening approaches, the urban energy fades for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, visitors stroll along historic streets featuring grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, with time paused by resident cats and opportunities to look back at the distant city. The ferry back is usually spent planning ideas for a future return to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display includes detailed 16th-century maps and
