From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten alpine train line in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, one visitor wondered about their decision. However the early doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This charming location offers beyond just a swim. Tourists can wander through ornate Venetian squares and narrow alleys housing vibrant eateries. Concrete jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Classic Tunes in Germany's Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated venue offers a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, complete with a DJ using just vinyl. Furniture are sometimes pushed aside to create dancing. Open late, the bar sometimes hosts live music, ensuring a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene retreat. Guests can hike to the summit of a slope and go up a giant wooden platform for breathtaking vistas over green landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional restaurants serving hearty dishes and music. A museum displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the town centre boasts multiple spring taps to try.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. Featuring three wonderful white sand shores, its bustling centre is active in the evenings with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town provided a more authentic atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. The lodging provided convenient entry to the shore and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb journey from the region. However, this line is potentially at risk of closure. The ride passes over spectacular bridges around the town of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Travelers are advised to see this special line while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The landscape is attractive, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the fort ruins is complimentary, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can walk for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This hidden landscape provides sweeping vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail winds along salt marsh bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels lie. A journey can start at a ancient church, one of the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Shut during winter, it usually opens in early summer. The drive requires numerous turns to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent scenery. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, directly. The route also presents the opportunity for wildlife sightings, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis takes people to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers meander along quiet streets lined with grand mansions. The pace is slow, often paused by resident felines and moments to stare back at the far-off city. The return journey is often spent planning ideas for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Housed behind a 14th-century building is a library that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display includes detailed old cartography and
