Starting with a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their standout finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their decision. However the initial hesitations quickly faded upon entering Piran. This charming town presents more than a swim. Tourists may meander through ornate public squares and cobbled lanes housing bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Places in town serve up flaky pastries and drinks with warm hospitality.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For fans of classic rock, retro pop, and Motown, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed club promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, complete with a DJ playing just records. Chairs and tables are often cleared to make space to dance. Staying open until the early hours, the bar occasionally has live music, guaranteeing a great night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a peaceful retreat. Travelers are able to climb to the top of a slope and go up a giant twisting lookout for magnificent vistas over verdant pastures. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Their culture can be felt through traditional cuisine offering substantial dishes and folk music. A gallery showcases the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre has multiple medicinal taps to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. Featuring multiple wonderful white sand beaches, its vibrant centre thrives nightly with locals. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location delivered a more authentic experience at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation offered easy entry to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect day trip from nearby cities. Yet, the route is potentially at risk of shutting down. The ride includes breathtaking bridges around the town of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Visitors are encouraged to see this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is attractive, characterized by coastline, forests, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the site is complimentary, with a small fee for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can stroll for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This hidden area offers wide-open vistas, marine life offshore, and an array of birdlife. The path follows along estuarine next to an river mouth, where wrecks of ships can be seen. A walk can start at a 7th-century place of worship, among the most ancient in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Closed during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The journey involves constant turns to climb the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking vistas. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, by car. The journey also offers the chance for spotting bears, completing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief journey from a vibrant city transports people to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, guests meander along quiet streets featuring beautiful homes. The rhythm is relaxed, often interrupted by friendly felines and moments to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is usually accompanied by ideas for a future return to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Located behind a historic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses a vast collection of ancient tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display includes exquisite 16th-century cartography and
