Starting with a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a overlooked mountain train line in France, travelers revealed their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their decision. Yet the initial doubts quickly faded upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement provides more than swimming. Guests may meander through ornate Venetian squares and stone-paved passageways housing vibrant eateries. Man-made jumping points render the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Local spots serve up crisp pastries and refreshments with friendly service.
Vintage Music in The German Capital
For lovers of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized venue offers great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fantastic, with a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often moved to create dancing. Operating until the early hours, the bar at times hosts live music, ensuring a fantastic experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a quiet getaway. Travelers are able to climb to the top of a slope and go up a giant twisting viewing tower for magnificent views over lush landscapes. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture is on display through rustic dining offering hearty food and traditional music. A gallery showcases the work of a noted painter, and the main area features several spring taps to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. With several stunning white sand beaches, its lively town center is active in the evenings with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town provided a more authentic feel at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation featured direct access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from the region. But, this service is potentially threatened of being closed. The journey includes photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Travelers are encouraged to see this special line soon.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The countryside is striking, featuring shores, woods, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is without charge, with a charge for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This secret landscape provides sweeping vistas, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birds. The coast path winds along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A hike can commence at a very old church, one of the oldest in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Closed during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The journey involves numerous bends to navigate the steep southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The journey also includes the potential for seeing animals, adding to the remarkable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a vibrant metropolis transports people to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined streets lined with grand mansions. The feel is slow, frequently interrupted by resident cats and moments to gaze back at the distant mainland. The return journey is usually spent planning ideas for a future return to this special place.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Located behind a Gothic building is a library that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of magnificent volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The display includes detailed old maps and
