From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a forgotten mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after arriving, an explorer questioned about their choice. Yet the first hesitations soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This delightful town offers more than swimming. Guests may meander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and stone-paved passageways filled with busy seafood restaurants. Concrete jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For fans of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul music, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized music bar is great enjoyment. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning only records. Seating are routinely cleared to create dancing. Open late into the night, the bar sometimes features performances, making for a fantastic night out.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Spa Town
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a quiet getaway. Guests may walk to the peak of a hill and go up a tall twisting platform for stunning vistas over verdant fields. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through traditional restaurants serving hearty food and folk music. A gallery showcases the work of a renowned painter, and the central spa has several mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. With multiple wonderful sandy beaches, its lively center is active every night with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location provided a local atmosphere at a fraction of the price. Accommodation provided easy a path to the beach and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb day trip from the region. But, the route is said to be threatened of closure. The trip features photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are advised to experience this unique railway before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is attractive, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund marks a historical fortress built by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is complimentary, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to walk for miles along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This hidden landscape boasts expansive views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail meanders along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of boats lie. A hike can commence at a 7th-century chapel, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a quaint town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically opens in late spring. The trip requires many turns to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking vistas. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The route also offers the opportunity for seeing animals, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A brief boat trip from a vibrant metropolis transports visitors to a peaceful island. As the day ends, the city chaos is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, explorers stroll along tree-lined streets featuring grand mansions. The pace is leisurely, frequently paused by friendly cats and chances to gaze back at the distant mainland. The ferry back is often filled with plans for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds a vast collection of magnificent volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes exquisite 16th-century maps and
