From a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain railway in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their selection. Yet the early hesitations quickly faded upon entering Piran. This delightful location offers more than swimming. Guests may meander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and stone-paved lanes housing bustling places to eat. Concrete platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Places in town offer delicious pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For fans of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated club offers a lot of fun. The atmosphere is terrific, featuring a DJ spinning exclusively records. Seating are sometimes pushed aside to make space to dance. Open late, the bar occasionally features performances, ensuring a memorable experience.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a quiet escape. Guests may walk to the peak of a hill and go up a tall wooden platform for stunning panoramas over green pastures. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture can be felt through traditional dining offering substantial fare and music. A museum showcases the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa boasts a number of mineral taps to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant discovery. Boasting multiple beautiful pristine shores, its bustling centre comes alive every night with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a genuine experience at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation provided convenient a path to the shore and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from the region. However, this line is said to be under threat of closure. The journey includes spectacular viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Tourists are urged to see this picturesque line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is accessible by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the site is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can walk for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This undiscovered world boasts expansive vistas, marine life offshore, and an array of wildlife. The path follows along salt marsh next to an estuary, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A walk can begin at a ancient place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and finish in a charming town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in early summer. The trip features constant bends to climb the steep southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible scenery. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The journey also includes the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the remarkable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a vibrant metropolis transports people to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors meander along historic roads featuring historic houses. The pace is slow, with time paused by local felines and opportunities to stare back at the distant city. The return journey is often accompanied by plans for a next visit to this incredible retreat.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Housed behind a Gothic church is a archive that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains a vast collection of ancient books, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection includes exquisite old maps and
