From a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a overlooked mountain train line in France, explorers disclosed their most memorable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after arriving, a traveler wondered about their decision. Yet the early doubts soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This delightful town offers more than a swim. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled passageways lined with vibrant eateries. Concrete jumping points render the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town offer crisp pastries and refreshments with friendly hospitality.
Retro Music in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated venue offers great enjoyment. The atmosphere is terrific, complete with a DJ using exclusively vinyl. Seating are often moved to create dancing. Open late into the night, the bar occasionally features live bands, guaranteeing a fantastic experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene retreat. Visitors may walk to the top of a hill and climb a large spiral lookout for stunning panoramas over green fields. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic cuisine with robust food and music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a renowned naive artist, and the central spa boasts a number of mineral water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. With several wonderful white sand shores, its bustling centre comes alive every night with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a genuine experience at a fraction of the cost. The lodging provided direct access to the beach and a elegant and warm environment.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb day trip from a nearby city. But, the route is said to be under threat of shutting down. The ride passes over spectacular viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to ride this special line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is attractive, with shores, woods, and farms. A historical fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the site is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for miles along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another person. This secret world boasts wide-open vistas, marine life offshore, and an array of birds. The path follows along marshes flanking an estuary, where wrecks of boats can be seen. A hike can start at a 7th-century place of worship, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in June. The drive requires constant turns to ascend the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent views. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, often covered in snow, directly. The route also presents the potential for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A short ferry ride from a bustling city transports travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along quiet lanes featuring historic houses. The rhythm is leisurely, often paused by resident cats and moments to look back at the far-off city. The trip home is often accompanied by plans for a future return to this unique retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Located behind a historic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses a vast collection of magnificent tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases exquisite 16th-century cartography and
