From a Venetian-style Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten alpine railway in France, explorers revealed their standout finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor wondered about their choice. Yet the first doubts soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement offers beyond just a swim. Visitors can wander through ornate public squares and narrow passageways lined with busy seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town serve up delicious pastries and beverages with friendly welcome.
Retro Music in Germany's Capital
For lovers of classic rock, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated club promises immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to make space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar at times has live music, ensuring a fantastic experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a peaceful escape. Visitors are able to climb to the summit of a slope and climb a tall spiral lookout for breathtaking views over lush landscapes. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional restaurants serving hearty fare and traditional music. A gallery celebrates the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area has a number of spring water sources to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful choice. With multiple stunning sandy shores, its vibrant centre is active every night with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a local atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. The lodging featured direct entry to the beach and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect journey from the region. However, the route is potentially under threat of closure. The trip passes over spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Visitors are advised to ride this unique railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is without charge, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can hike for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This hidden area offers wide-open vistas, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path meanders along estuarine next to an estuary, where wrecks of ships can be seen. A hike can begin at a ancient place of worship, reportedly the most ancient in England, and conclude in a pretty coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in June. The trip features many turns to ascend the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Travelers can reach a mountain lake, often covered in snow, without a cable car. The route also includes the opportunity for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable experience.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a major city takes visitors to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos fades for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, explorers stroll along tree-lined streets featuring historic houses. The rhythm is slow, with time broken by resident cats and opportunities to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is usually filled with thoughts for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses a vast collection of rare volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition includes gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
