From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, a traveler pondered about their decision. But the early doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful settlement presents beyond just swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and narrow passageways lined with busy eateries. Concrete diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and drinks with friendly welcome.
Retro Tunes in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized venue promises immense fun. The vibe is fabulous, featuring a DJ playing only vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often pushed aside to create dance floor. Open late into the night, the bar sometimes hosts live music, ensuring a fantastic experience.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene escape. Visitors can hike to the top of a slope and climb a tall twisting platform for breathtaking panoramas over lush fields. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture is on display through traditional dining offering hearty fare and music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the central spa has a number of medicinal taps to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful discovery. Boasting several stunning sandy beaches, its vibrant centre comes alive nightly with locals. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a more authentic atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. The lodging provided easy a path to the beach and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from nearby cities. However, the route is potentially at risk of being closed. The ride features spectacular viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Tourists are urged to see this unique line soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The landscape is attractive, characterized by rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A historical fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost established by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can stroll for miles along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This undiscovered landscape boasts wide-open vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of wildlife. The path meanders along estuarine next to an estuary, where remnants of boats are visible. A hike can commence at a 7th-century chapel, among the oldest in England, and conclude in a pretty town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The drive involves numerous switchbacks to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, by car. The drive also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, enhancing the memorable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a vibrant metropolis takes people to a car-free island. As the day ends, the city chaos fades for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, explorers stroll along tree-lined lanes lined with historic houses. The pace is leisurely, frequently broken by resident felines and chances to look back at the far-off city. The trip home is usually filled with thoughts for a comeback to this special sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Tucked away behind a 14th-century church is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains thousands of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display features exquisite old maps and
