Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a forgotten alpine train line in France, travelers have shared their standout finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after arriving, one visitor wondered about their selection. Yet the initial suspicions quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming settlement provides more than swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through beautiful piazzas and narrow alleys filled with busy places to eat. Concrete diving platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town serve up crisp pastries and drinks with friendly welcome.
Vintage Tunes in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue promises immense fun. The atmosphere is terrific, complete with a DJ using only vinyl. Chairs and tables are often moved to make dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar occasionally has live bands, guaranteeing a fantastic evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a serene escape. Travelers can hike to the top of a ski run and go up a giant twisting platform for breathtaking vistas over green fields. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage is on display through traditional dining serving substantial food and folk music. A gallery displays the work of a noted naive artist, and the main area has several mineral taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. Boasting multiple beautiful pristine beaches, its bustling centre is active in the evenings with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location delivered a local atmosphere at a much lower of the price. A hotel provided easy access to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Scenic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb day trip from a nearby city. However, the route is said to be at risk of shutting down. The trip passes over photogenic viaducts around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to see this picturesque railway soon.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The landscape is beautiful, featuring shores, forests, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can stroll for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This hidden landscape provides sweeping vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of birdlife. The coast path meanders along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remains of boats are visible. A hike can commence at a very old church, reportedly the earliest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Closed during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The drive requires many switchbacks to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible vistas. Travelers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, directly. The route also offers the potential for seeing animals, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis transports visitors to a tranquil getaway. As the evening approaches, the urban energy dissipates for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, explorers stroll along historic lanes lined with historic houses. The pace is leisurely, often interrupted by resident cats and moments to stare back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is often accompanied by ideas for a comeback to this unique sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Tucked away behind a historic building is a library that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds a vast collection of magnificent volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition features detailed 16th-century cartography and
