From a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after stepping off the bus, a traveler questioned about their choice. But the early suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement offers more than a swim. Tourists can wander through ornate piazzas and cobbled alleys filled with bustling places to eat. Man-made jumping points render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town offer flaky pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Classic Music in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed club is immense fun. The ambiance is fantastic, with a DJ using only vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to allow for dance floor. Staying open late into the night, the bar occasionally features live bands, ensuring a great experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a quiet escape. Guests are able to climb to the top of a slope and go up a tall wooden viewing tower for breathtaking panoramas over green fields. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be experienced through traditional dining offering hearty dishes and music. A museum showcases the work of a prolific naive artist, and the central spa features several spring taps to try.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful discovery. Boasting three wonderful pristine beaches, its vibrant town center comes alive in the evenings with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location offered a genuine feel at a much lower of the cost. A hotel offered direct access to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great excursion from the region. Yet, the route is said to be threatened of closure. The trip includes breathtaking bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are advised to experience this special railway before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is accessible by boat from several countries. The landscape is attractive, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost established by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is without charge, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can stroll for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This undiscovered landscape boasts sweeping views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of birdlife. The trail winds along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels lie. A journey can start at a 7th-century chapel, among the oldest in England, and end in a pretty town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved mountain road. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in June. The drive requires numerous turns to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking views. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, by car. The journey also includes the opportunity for spotting bears, completing the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a vibrant metropolis takes visitors to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers walk along quiet lanes featuring grand mansions. The rhythm is slow, often broken by local felines and chances to stare back at the distant city. The ferry back is often accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this special sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Located behind a historic building is a archive that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains a vast collection of rare volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display features gorgeous old cartography and
