Starting with a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a forgotten alpine train line in France, travelers revealed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, a traveler wondered about their decision. But the initial hesitations soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This charming location offers more than a swim. Tourists may meander through ornate public squares and cobbled passageways filled with vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town offer crisp pastries and beverages with friendly welcome.
Vintage Sounds in Berlin
For fans of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and Motown, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar offers great enjoyment. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ using exclusively records. Seating are often pushed aside to allow for dancing. Open until the early hours, the bar at times features live music, ensuring a great evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a peaceful retreat. Travelers are able to climb to the top of a slope and go up a tall twisting platform for stunning views over lush landscapes. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage is on display through traditional restaurants serving hearty fare and music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned naive artist, and the central spa has multiple medicinal water sources to try.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant choice. Featuring multiple beautiful white sand shores, its bustling center comes alive nightly with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town offered a local feel at a fraction of the price. Accommodation featured easy access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb journey from the region. But, the route is said to be under threat of shutting down. The ride includes breathtaking stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Travelers are urged to ride this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is attractive, characterized by coastline, forests, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is complimentary, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can hike for hours along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This secret area boasts expansive views, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The coast path follows along marshes bordering an river mouth, where remains of ships are visible. A hike can start at a very old place of worship, among the oldest in England, and conclude in a charming town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in early summer. The journey features numerous bends to climb the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, sometimes covered in snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short journey from a major city takes travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, guests meander along tree-lined lanes featuring beautiful homes. The pace is leisurely, often interrupted by resident felines and moments to gaze back at the distant city. The trip home is often accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this special retreat.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a historic church is a archive that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses numerous of magnificent books, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display includes gorgeous old maps and
