From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain railway in France, explorers revealed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after stepping off the bus, a traveler questioned about their selection. But the early suspicions soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This charming town offers more than swimming. Guests can wander through ornate piazzas and stone-paved passageways housing bustling places to eat. Concrete platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Places in town offer crisp pastries and refreshments with warm service.
Classic Music in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club is a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, complete with a DJ using just vinyl. Furniture are often pushed aside to make dance floor. Staying open late, the bar occasionally features live bands, making for a fantastic experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Crossing into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene retreat. Visitors may walk to the top of a slope and climb a large twisting viewing tower for breathtaking vistas over green pastures. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Their culture can be felt through rustic dining serving robust food and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a prolific naive artist, and the central spa features several medicinal taps to try.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. With several wonderful sandy shores, its vibrant center is active nightly with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location delivered a more authentic feel at a a quarter of the cost. A hotel provided convenient access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect journey from a nearby city. However, this service is potentially under threat of being closed. The ride includes spectacular viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to experience this unique line soon.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable sites and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, characterized by rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost built by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is free, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can hike for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This secret area provides sweeping views, marine life offshore, and an array of birdlife. The coast path follows along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A hike can commence at a 7th-century chapel, one of the oldest in England, and end in a charming coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The journey requires many bends to climb the steep southern section of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, often covered in snow, by car. The route also includes the opportunity for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable experience.
Ferry Escape Near a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a major city takes people to a peaceful getaway. As the evening approaches, the urban energy dissipates for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined lanes featuring historic houses. The rhythm is leisurely, often interrupted by friendly cats and moments to stare back at the far-off city. The trip home is usually filled with thoughts for a next visit to this special retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Located behind a 14th-century building is a archive that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of rare volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition features detailed old maps and
