From a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a little-known alpine train line in France, visitors revealed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after arriving, one visitor questioned about their choice. However the early suspicions quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque town provides beyond just a swim. Guests are able to stroll through ornate piazzas and stone-paved alleys filled with busy eateries. Concrete diving platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Places in town provide flaky pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Vintage Tunes in The German Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed club offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, featuring a DJ playing just vinyl records. Seating are often cleared to make dancing. Open until the early hours, the bar occasionally features live music, guaranteeing a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a quiet retreat. Guests can hike to the summit of a slope and climb a large twisting lookout for breathtaking vistas over verdant fields. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional dining serving substantial fare and folk music. A museum displays the work of a noted painter, and the central spa has several mineral taps to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent find. With three wonderful white sand beaches, its vibrant center is active nightly with families. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot offered a genuine feel at a a quarter of the cost. A hotel offered convenient access to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from a nearby city. But, this service is reportedly under threat of shutting down. The ride features photogenic bridges around the town of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Travelers are urged to ride this special line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable museums and is accessible by ferry from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, with coastline, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is complimentary, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another person. This hidden area boasts wide-open vistas, marine life in the water, and an abundance of birdlife. The path meanders along marshes bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A walk can start at a ancient place of worship, one of the most ancient in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive involves constant turns to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking views. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The journey also includes the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A short boat trip from a bustling city transports people to a car-free island. As the day ends, the urban energy is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along tree-lined lanes lined with grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, frequently interrupted by local felines and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is usually filled with thoughts for a comeback to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a historic building is a archive that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains thousands of rare volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display features detailed old cartography and
