From a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known mountain train line in France, visitors disclosed their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. But the first suspicions quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This delightful settlement presents beyond just a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through elaborately decorated public squares and stone-paved lanes lined with vibrant places to eat. Concrete platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Local spots offer flaky pastries and refreshments with genuine service.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed music bar promises great enjoyment. The vibe is fabulous, complete with a DJ playing only vinyl. Furniture are often cleared to make space to dance. Open late, the bar at times hosts live music, ensuring a great evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a quiet getaway. Travelers are able to climb to the peak of a hill and climb a tall spiral viewing tower for magnificent panoramas over green landscapes. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be felt through traditional restaurants offering hearty dishes and music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre features several mineral water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. With several stunning white sand shores, its vibrant center thrives in the evenings with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a genuine feel at a much lower of the price. Accommodation offered convenient a path to the sea and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb excursion from the region. Yet, the route is potentially threatened of being closed. The journey features spectacular viaducts around the area of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Travelers are encouraged to experience this picturesque line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The landscape is striking, characterized by coastline, woods, and farmland. A historical fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is without charge, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This undiscovered landscape boasts expansive vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of birdlife. The coast path follows along marshes bordering an estuary, where remnants of boats lie. A walk can start at a very old chapel, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in June. The drive requires many turns to ascend the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking views. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The journey also includes the chance for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a major metropolis transports travelers to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, visitors walk along quiet roads featuring grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, frequently interrupted by local felines and chances to look back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is usually filled with plans for a future return to this unique place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Housed behind a historic building is a library that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains thousands of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition includes exquisite Renaissance-era cartography and
