Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known mountain train line in France, explorers revealed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after stepping off the bus, a traveler pondered about their choice. Yet the first hesitations quickly faded upon entering Piran. This delightful location offers more than swimming. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated public squares and stone-paved lanes lined with bustling eateries. Concrete jumping points render the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots serve up flaky pastries and drinks with warm hospitality.
Retro Tunes in Berlin
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed music bar offers immense fun. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ using exclusively vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely cleared to make dance floor. Open late into the night, the bar at times has performances, guaranteeing a great evening.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful retreat. Visitors can hike to the summit of a hill and climb a tall spiral lookout for magnificent panoramas over verdant fields. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Lemko culture is on display through rustic restaurants offering hearty fare and traditional music. A gallery showcases the work of a noted folk artist, and the main area boasts several spring water fountains to try.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant choice. Boasting several stunning sandy beaches, its vibrant town center is active in the evenings with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town offered a genuine feel at a fraction of the cost. A hotel provided easy access to the beach and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb journey from nearby cities. But, this service is reportedly at risk of closure. The journey features spectacular bridges around the town of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Tourists are advised to ride this unique railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is striking, with rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost built by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the remains is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This secret world provides sweeping vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of birds. The coast path meanders along marshes flanking an estuary, where remains of boats lie. A walk can start at a very old chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically reopens in early summer. The drive involves many turns to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent views. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, by car. The route also offers the chance for spotting bears, enhancing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A short journey from a bustling city transports visitors to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, explorers walk along tree-lined lanes lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is relaxed, with time broken by resident cats and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is often spent planning thoughts for a comeback to this special retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Housed behind a 14th-century church is a archive that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of rare books, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display showcases detailed old maps and
