From a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten alpine railway in France, explorers revealed their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after getting off the bus, a traveler questioned about their decision. However the initial suspicions quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This delightful town offers more than swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful Venetian squares and stone-paved passageways housing busy seafood restaurants. Concrete platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Places in town serve up delicious pastries and drinks with friendly welcome.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar promises immense fun. The vibe is terrific, complete with a DJ using only vinyl. Furniture are often moved to make dance floor. Open late into the night, the bar occasionally features live bands, ensuring a fantastic experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene getaway. Travelers may walk to the top of a hill and go up a giant twisting platform for stunning panoramas over lush fields. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture is on display through rustic restaurants offering robust dishes and traditional music. A museum showcases the work of a renowned painter, and the central spa has multiple spring water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent choice. With three beautiful white sand shores, its lively town center comes alive nightly with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot provided a more authentic feel at a fraction of the price. Accommodation offered convenient access to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from nearby cities. But, this service is said to be under threat of shutting down. The trip features spectacular viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Travelers are urged to ride this special line while they can.
Archipelago History 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, has interesting sites and is easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is striking, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund marks a historical fortress established by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the fort ruins is without charge, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
It is possible to walk for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another person. This undiscovered world offers wide-open vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of birdlife. The path follows along marshes next to an estuary, where wrecks of ships are visible. A hike can commence at a very old place of worship, one of the most ancient in England, and conclude in a pretty town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The trip involves numerous bends to ascend the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking views. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the chance for spotting bears, completing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a vibrant metropolis transports people to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos fades for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, explorers meander along historic streets flanked by grand mansions. The feel is leisurely, often interrupted by resident cats and opportunities to look back at the distant mainland. The ferry back is often accompanied by plans for a future return to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of rare books, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The display includes gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
