Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian coastal town to a little-known mountain railway in France, explorers disclosed their standout finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after stepping off the bus, a traveler wondered about their decision. Yet the early doubts soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful town offers beyond just a swim. Tourists can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and stone-paved lanes filled with vibrant places to eat. Concrete platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Nearby establishments serve up crisp pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Retro Music in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed music bar offers immense fun. The vibe is fabulous, featuring a DJ spinning only vinyl. Furniture are routinely pushed aside to create dancing. Staying open late into the night, the bar at times features live bands, guaranteeing a fantastic night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a serene retreat. Travelers are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and climb a large wooden platform for magnificent panoramas over green pastures. This area is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage can be felt through traditional restaurants offering substantial dishes and music. A museum displays the work of a prolific folk artist, and the main area has a number of mineral water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant find. Boasting three wonderful sandy beaches, its bustling centre thrives in the evenings with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a more authentic feel at a much lower of the price. Accommodation featured direct entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb day trip from nearby cities. Yet, the route is potentially threatened of closure. The ride features photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Tourists are urged to see this unique railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is reachable by boat from several countries. The landscape is attractive, featuring shores, forests, and farmland. A notable location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost built by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to hike for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This secret landscape provides expansive views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of birds. The coast path meanders along estuarine next to an estuary, where remains of boats are visible. A walk can begin at a 7th-century chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually opens in late spring. The drive involves many bends to ascend the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Visitors can access a mountain lake, often covered in snow, by car. The route also includes the opportunity for wildlife sightings, completing the remarkable experience.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A brief boat trip from a vibrant city takes travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along quiet lanes lined with grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, often paused by local felines and chances to look back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is often accompanied by plans for a future return to this special place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Tucked away behind a historic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses numerous of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection includes gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
