From a Venetian-inspired Slovene town by the sea to a little-known mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their selection. Yet the initial hesitations quickly faded upon entering Piran. This charming location presents beyond just swimming. Visitors may meander through ornate piazzas and stone-paved lanes filled with bustling places to eat. Concrete platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town provide delicious pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For aficionados of classic rock, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar offers immense fun. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning just records. Seating are sometimes cleared to allow for dancing. Open late, the bar at times has performances, ensuring a memorable experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Spa Town
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a serene escape. Guests can hike to the summit of a ski run and ascend a large twisting lookout for stunning views over lush landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture is on display through rustic dining offering substantial dishes and folk music. A gallery displays the work of a renowned painter, and the main area boasts multiple medicinal water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant discovery. Featuring several stunning pristine beaches, its lively centre is active nightly with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town delivered a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. The lodging provided direct a path to the sea and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from a nearby city. However, the route is reportedly under threat of shutting down. The ride passes over spectacular stone arches around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to experience this picturesque line soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is striking, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base built by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is complimentary, with a small fee for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to hike for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This undiscovered area offers sweeping vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of wildlife. The coast path follows along estuarine next to an river mouth, where remnants of boats can be seen. A journey can begin at a ancient church, among the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in June. The journey features constant bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing incredible vistas. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the potential for seeing animals, completing the unforgettable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A short journey from a bustling city transports people to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy dissipates for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, explorers stroll along quiet roads lined with beautiful homes. The rhythm is relaxed, often interrupted by friendly felines and moments to stare back at the distant mainland. The trip home is usually filled with plans for a comeback to this unique place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Located behind a historic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses numerous of magnificent volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection includes exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
