From a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked mountain train line in France, travelers revealed their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after arriving, a traveler pondered about their choice. Yet the first hesitations soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This delightful settlement offers beyond just a swim. Guests can wander through ornate piazzas and cobbled alleys housing busy seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Nearby establishments serve up crisp pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Retro Tunes in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar offers immense fun. The vibe is fantastic, complete with a DJ playing exclusively records. Chairs and tables are routinely cleared to create dance floor. Staying open late into the night, the bar occasionally features live bands, guaranteeing a great night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a quiet escape. Visitors are able to climb to the peak of a slope and climb a tall twisting platform for breathtaking views over lush pastures. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Their culture can be experienced through traditional dining with robust fare and traditional music. A gallery showcases the work of a prolific naive artist, and the central spa boasts several mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. Featuring three wonderful pristine beaches, its lively center comes alive in the evenings with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a local atmosphere at a fraction of the price. Accommodation offered direct a path to the beach and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from a nearby city. Yet, this service is potentially threatened of closure. The trip features photogenic bridges around the locality of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to see this picturesque line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from several countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with shores, forests, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base constructed by Russia and then destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the remains is complimentary, with a charge for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for miles along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This hidden landscape provides wide-open views, seals in the water, and an profusion of wildlife. The coast path follows along salt marsh bordering an river mouth, where remains of boats can be seen. A walk can start at a very old chapel, among the most ancient in England, and conclude in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The trip features constant bends to climb the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking scenery. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, directly. The drive also includes the potential for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A quick journey from a major city transports travelers to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors stroll along quiet streets lined with beautiful homes. The pace is leisurely, with time interrupted by local felines and moments to gaze back at the far-off city. The trip home is often spent planning plans for a next visit to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Located behind a 14th-century church is a library that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses numerous of ancient volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The display showcases gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
