Starting with a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known alpine train line in France, travelers have shared their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after getting off the bus, one visitor questioned about their selection. However the first suspicions quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful town presents more than swimming. Guests can wander through beautiful piazzas and narrow alleys lined with busy eateries. Concrete platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Classic Music in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue offers immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning only vinyl records. Seating are routinely cleared to allow for dancing. Operating late into the night, the bar sometimes hosts performances, making for a great night out.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a quiet escape. Travelers are able to climb to the top of a ski run and climb a large spiral platform for magnificent panoramas over lush fields. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be felt through traditional dining serving robust fare and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area features a number of medicinal taps to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent discovery. With multiple stunning pristine coastlines, its bustling centre is active in the evenings with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot provided a genuine atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation provided easy entry to the shore and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from a nearby city. Yet, this line is reportedly under threat of being closed. The trip passes over spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Tourists are advised to experience this special railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is attractive, characterized by coastline, woods, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund marks a historical fortress constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can walk for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This secret area offers expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path follows along marshes next to an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A journey can start at a very old place of worship, one of the earliest in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Closed during the colder months, it typically reopens in early summer. The journey involves numerous switchbacks to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible vistas. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, directly. The journey also presents the opportunity for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A short boat trip from a bustling city takes travelers to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, guests walk along tree-lined roads lined with beautiful homes. The pace is relaxed, frequently broken by local cats and chances to stare back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often spent planning plans for a next visit to this unique place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains numerous of ancient volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display features exquisite 16th-century maps and
