From a Venetian-style Slovenian coastal town to a little-known alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after arriving, one visitor wondered about their selection. But the early hesitations soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This charming town offers more than swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful public squares and stone-paved alleys housing busy seafood restaurants. Concrete platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Places in town serve up delicious pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Vintage Tunes in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul music, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue offers immense fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, with a DJ using just vinyl. Chairs and tables are often cleared to make dancing. Open late, the bar at times has live bands, guaranteeing a great evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a quiet retreat. Guests may walk to the peak of a hill and go up a giant wooden lookout for stunning panoramas over verdant fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine serving substantial food and music. A museum displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area features multiple mineral water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. With several beautiful pristine coastlines, its vibrant centre comes alive in the evenings with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a local feel at a fraction of the price. The lodging featured direct access to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great excursion from nearby cities. However, this line is reportedly under threat of closure. The ride includes spectacular stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to ride this unique line soon.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is beautiful, featuring coastline, woods, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost established by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is complimentary, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This hidden landscape provides expansive views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of birdlife. The coast path follows along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where remains of old vessels can be seen. A walk can commence at a very old place of worship, among the earliest in England, and finish in a pretty town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in early summer. The journey involves many turns to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent vistas. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also presents the potential for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a bustling city transports travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, explorers stroll along quiet roads flanked by grand mansions. The rhythm is leisurely, often broken by friendly cats and moments to stare back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is often filled with ideas for a future return to this unique retreat.
Top Discovery: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Housed behind a Gothic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses a vast collection of magnificent books, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition features gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
