From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a forgotten alpine train line in France, visitors have shared their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after arriving, an explorer pondered about their selection. But the first hesitations soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This delightful town provides beyond just a swim. Guests are able to stroll through beautiful Venetian squares and narrow lanes housing busy seafood restaurants. Concrete platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Local spots serve up delicious pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Retro Music in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ playing only vinyl records. Furniture are often pushed aside to create dancing. Staying open late, the bar at times has live bands, ensuring a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a quiet getaway. Guests can hike to the summit of a slope and ascend a large twisting lookout for stunning views over verdant fields. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture is on display through rustic dining offering hearty fare and traditional music. A gallery displays the work of a noted naive artist, and the town centre features multiple medicinal water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful discovery. With three beautiful sandy coastlines, its bustling center thrives in the evenings with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location provided a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. A hotel provided easy a path to the sea and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great excursion from the region. However, this service is potentially threatened of shutting down. The trip passes over spectacular stone arches around the town of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Travelers are urged to see this picturesque line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting attractions and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, featuring coastline, woods, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical fortress established by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is without charge, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can stroll for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another person. This undiscovered landscape offers sweeping views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail follows along salt marsh bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of boats lie. A walk can begin at a 7th-century church, reportedly the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Shut during winter, it typically opens in June. The trip requires many turns to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible vistas. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The journey also presents the chance for spotting bears, enhancing the memorable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A quick journey from a major metropolis takes travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, visitors walk along historic roads featuring beautiful homes. The feel is leisurely, frequently paused by friendly cats and opportunities to stare back at the far-off city. The return journey is usually accompanied by thoughts for a future return to this special retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Housed behind a Gothic building is a library that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains thousands of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features exquisite old maps and
