Starting with a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a overlooked alpine train line in France, visitors have shared their standout encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their selection. But the initial doubts quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This charming town offers more than a swim. Guests are able to stroll through ornate piazzas and stone-paved lanes housing busy eateries. Man-made jumping points make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Local spots offer crisp pastries and drinks with friendly welcome.
Retro Music in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed music bar promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ using only vinyl records. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Operating late, the bar at times has live bands, guaranteeing a great night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a quiet getaway. Visitors can hike to the summit of a hill and ascend a giant spiral lookout for magnificent vistas over verdant fields. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional restaurants offering substantial dishes and folk music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area boasts several spring water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful choice. With multiple beautiful sandy coastlines, its lively centre comes alive in the evenings with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot provided a genuine feel at a fraction of the price. The lodging offered direct access to the beach and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from a nearby city. But, the route is reportedly at risk of being closed. The trip includes photogenic bridges around the locality of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Tourists are advised to ride this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is striking, featuring coastline, forests, and farmland. A notable location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the site is free, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to walk for miles along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This hidden landscape offers wide-open views, marine life in the water, and an abundance of birds. The trail winds along marshes flanking an estuary, where remnants of boats are visible. A journey can start at a ancient place of worship, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved mountain road. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The trip involves numerous turns to climb the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible scenery. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes ringed with snow, directly. The journey also offers the chance for seeing animals, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a major metropolis takes travelers to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, explorers meander along historic roads flanked by historic houses. The pace is leisurely, often paused by resident cats and moments to gaze back at the far-off city. The return journey is often accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains a vast collection of rare volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection showcases exquisite old maps and
