Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked mountain railway in France, travelers have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after arriving, a traveler pondered about their selection. But the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This delightful location provides beyond just swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved passageways housing bustling eateries. Concrete diving platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Places in town provide crisp pastries and beverages with friendly service.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club offers great enjoyment. The vibe is fantastic, featuring a DJ playing just vinyl records. Seating are routinely cleared to create space to dance. Staying open late, the bar occasionally has performances, making for a great evening.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a serene retreat. Visitors are able to climb to the top of a slope and ascend a tall twisting viewing tower for breathtaking views over verdant fields. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture is on display through traditional cuisine offering substantial fare and folk music. A gallery displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the central spa has a number of mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. Boasting multiple beautiful pristine beaches, its bustling town center thrives every night with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location provided a more authentic experience at a fraction of the cost. A hotel provided convenient access to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great day trip from the region. But, this service is potentially under threat of being closed. The journey passes over photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Visitors are encouraged to ride this special railway soon.
Archipelago History 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 notable attractions and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by shores, forests, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress built by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the site is without charge, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
One can walk for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This undiscovered area offers expansive vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path meanders along marshes bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels are visible. A hike can start at a 7th-century place of worship, among the oldest in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Closed during the colder months, it usually reopens in late spring. The drive involves many turns to ascend the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Drivers can access a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the opportunity for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Metropolis
A short boat trip from a vibrant city transports travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos is replaced for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along historic streets lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is slow, with time interrupted by resident cats and chances to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is often filled with ideas for a future return to this special retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Housed behind a historic church is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds numerous of magnificent volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition includes detailed 16th-century cartography and
