From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain railway in France, visitors revealed their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after stepping off the bus, one visitor pondered about their choice. Yet the early doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This charming location presents more than a swim. Visitors can wander through beautiful public squares and cobbled passageways housing vibrant places to eat. Concrete jumping points render the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Places in town provide flaky pastries and drinks with warm hospitality.
Classic Sounds in Berlin
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed music bar offers a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, featuring a DJ spinning only vinyl records. Furniture are often pushed aside to make dance floor. Operating late, the bar sometimes hosts live music, making for a fantastic night out.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene escape. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a hill and go up a large spiral viewing tower for stunning vistas over lush fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional restaurants offering substantial dishes and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the town centre features several mineral taps to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent discovery. With three stunning pristine shores, its lively centre comes alive in the evenings with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a more authentic atmosphere at a fraction of the price. A hotel provided direct a path to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect excursion from nearby cities. Yet, the route is said to be threatened of being closed. The journey passes over photogenic viaducts around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to experience this special line before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable sites and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is beautiful, characterized by rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A historical fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress constructed by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the site is complimentary, with a ticket for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This undiscovered world boasts sweeping views, seals offshore, and an profusion of birds. The trail winds along marshes flanking an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels are visible. A hike can start at a very old church, reportedly the earliest in England, and conclude in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The journey features numerous bends to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking scenery. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The route also presents the chance for wildlife sightings, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A quick boat trip from a major metropolis takes people to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, guests meander along historic lanes featuring grand mansions. The pace is leisurely, often paused by local felines and opportunities to look back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is usually spent planning thoughts for a next visit to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds thousands of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases gorgeous old cartography and
