Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a little-known alpine railway in France, visitors revealed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their decision. But the first hesitations soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful location offers beyond just a swim. Guests can wander through beautiful piazzas and narrow alleys housing vibrant eateries. Concrete diving platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Places in town serve up flaky pastries and beverages with friendly welcome.
Classic Tunes in Berlin
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized club offers immense fun. The vibe is fantastic, with a DJ playing exclusively vinyl records. Seating are sometimes cleared to create dance floor. Staying open late into the night, the bar occasionally hosts live music, making for a great night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene getaway. Guests are able to climb to the top of a slope and ascend a giant spiral lookout for stunning views over lush pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic dining offering hearty dishes and traditional music. A museum celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the town centre has a number of mineral taps to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. With multiple beautiful pristine beaches, its lively centre thrives in the evenings with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a local atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. The lodging provided easy access to the shore and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from nearby cities. Yet, this service is potentially at risk of closure. The journey passes over spectacular bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Tourists are advised 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 region of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, featuring coastline, forests, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund marks a historical fortress built by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is complimentary, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can stroll for miles along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another person. This hidden world provides wide-open vistas, seals in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The path winds along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels are visible. A hike can commence at a very old church, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive involves constant bends to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking views. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The drive also includes the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A quick journey from a major city takes visitors to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, guests meander along historic streets featuring beautiful homes. The pace is leisurely, often broken by local cats and chances to stare back at the distant mainland. The trip home is often filled with thoughts for a next visit to this incredible retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic 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 contains a vast collection of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases gorgeous old maps and
