From a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a forgotten alpine train line in France, visitors have shared their standout discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after getting off the bus, one visitor wondered about their selection. However the early doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful town offers beyond just a swim. Guests are able to stroll through ornate Venetian squares and narrow passageways housing vibrant eateries. Concrete platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Places in town offer delicious pastries and drinks with friendly hospitality.
Classic Music in Germany's Capital
For lovers of classic rock, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ playing only records. Furniture are sometimes pushed aside to create space to dance. Operating late into the night, the bar occasionally has live music, ensuring a memorable experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a quiet escape. Visitors are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and climb a giant wooden platform for magnificent views over verdant fields. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture can be felt through traditional cuisine with substantial fare and folk music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a noted folk artist, and the central spa features multiple spring taps to try.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful find. Featuring several wonderful sandy coastlines, its vibrant town center is active every night with residents. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a more authentic feel at a a quarter of the price. A hotel offered easy access to the shore and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb excursion from a nearby city. Yet, the route is reportedly threatened of shutting down. The journey includes photogenic viaducts around the area of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Visitors are encouraged to see this special line before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is striking, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the site is complimentary, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for hours along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This undiscovered landscape boasts sweeping vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birds. The trail follows along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A journey can begin at a 7th-century place of worship, reportedly the most ancient in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Closed during winter, it typically opens in late spring. The trip involves constant switchbacks to climb the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The route also presents the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a bustling city transports people to a tranquil getaway. As the evening approaches, the urban energy is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along quiet streets flanked by grand mansions. The rhythm is slow, frequently interrupted by friendly felines and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is often accompanied by ideas for a future return to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Located behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds numerous of magnificent books, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition showcases exquisite 16th-century cartography and
