Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked alpine train line in France, explorers have shared their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after stepping off the bus, a traveler wondered about their selection. Yet the first doubts quickly faded upon entering Piran. This delightful settlement offers beyond just a swim. Tourists are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and narrow lanes filled with vibrant places to eat. Man-made jumping points render the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town serve up crisp pastries and refreshments with friendly welcome.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized music bar offers great enjoyment. The vibe is fantastic, with a DJ using exclusively records. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to create space to dance. Operating late into the night, the bar sometimes features live bands, guaranteeing a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene getaway. Travelers are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and climb a tall twisting platform for magnificent panoramas over green landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through rustic cuisine serving robust food and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area has several spring water sources to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful choice. Featuring several wonderful pristine coastlines, its vibrant town center comes alive nightly with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot delivered a more authentic atmosphere at a fraction of the price. Accommodation offered convenient entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from nearby cities. But, this line is said to be threatened of shutting down. The ride features photogenic bridges around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Tourists are encouraged to experience this unique railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is striking, with coastline, forests, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress constructed by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This undiscovered area offers expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birds. The coast path winds along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remains of old vessels can be seen. A hike can start at a ancient church, reportedly the most ancient in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The trip requires many bends to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Travelers can access a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The journey also includes the potential for seeing animals, completing the remarkable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a bustling metropolis takes visitors to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors meander along quiet lanes flanked by grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, often paused by friendly cats and chances to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is usually spent planning plans for a comeback to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Housed behind a historic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds a vast collection of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases exquisite Renaissance-era cartography and
