Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after arriving, an explorer pondered about their selection. Yet the initial hesitations soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This charming location offers more than swimming. Guests may meander through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled lanes housing vibrant seafood restaurants. Concrete platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and beverages with genuine service.
Classic Tunes in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated club offers immense fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning exclusively records. Chairs and tables are sometimes moved to create dancing. Staying open late into the night, the bar sometimes hosts performances, making for a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a peaceful escape. Visitors can hike to the peak of a hill and climb a giant twisting lookout for stunning vistas over verdant fields. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture can be experienced through traditional cuisine with robust food and traditional music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa boasts a number of spring taps to try.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent discovery. Boasting three beautiful white sand shores, its bustling centre is active in the evenings with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town provided a local atmosphere at a much lower of the price. The lodging offered direct access to the beach and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from the region. But, the route is reportedly under threat of being closed. The journey includes photogenic stone arches around the town of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to experience this picturesque line soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is striking, characterized by shores, forests, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical naval base built by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This undiscovered landscape boasts expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of birds. The path meanders along marshes next to an river mouth, where remnants of boats are visible. A journey can commence at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the oldest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The journey involves numerous bends to ascend the steep southern section of the Carpathians, offering incredible scenery. Visitors can access a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The route also includes the potential for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A brief journey from a bustling city transports people to a peaceful getaway. As the evening approaches, the city chaos fades for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, guests stroll along quiet lanes flanked by beautiful homes. The feel is leisurely, frequently paused by resident felines and opportunities to stare back at the distant mainland. The return journey is usually spent planning ideas for a future return to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Tucked away behind a historic church is a archive that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains thousands of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display showcases gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
