Starting with a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known alpine railway in France, travelers revealed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor wondered about their decision. However the early suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This charming location presents beyond just swimming. Tourists may meander through elaborately decorated public squares and narrow passageways housing bustling seafood restaurants. Concrete platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Nearby establishments serve up crisp pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Vintage Music in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized music bar is a lot of fun. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ using just records. Furniture are routinely moved to make space to dance. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times has live music, making for a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a quiet getaway. Travelers are able to climb to the top of a slope and ascend a tall spiral viewing tower for magnificent panoramas over green pastures. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Their culture is on display through rustic restaurants serving substantial food and music. A gallery showcases the work of a renowned painter, and the main area boasts multiple mineral taps to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful discovery. Boasting multiple wonderful white sand coastlines, its bustling centre thrives nightly with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a local atmosphere at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation provided direct entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb journey from a nearby city. However, the route is said to be under threat of shutting down. The trip includes breathtaking bridges around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are advised to see this special railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost established by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is complimentary, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can hike for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This undiscovered world provides wide-open vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path winds along estuarine bordering an estuary, where wrecks of boats are visible. A walk can commence at a 7th-century church, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a charming town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The trip requires many switchbacks to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent views. Drivers can access a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A quick journey from a vibrant metropolis transports visitors to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the city chaos dissipates for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, guests meander along quiet lanes featuring historic houses. The pace is relaxed, often broken by friendly felines and chances to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is usually accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this special retreat.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Located behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds a vast collection of magnificent tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display includes exquisite old maps and
