Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known mountain railway in France, explorers revealed their most memorable finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer wondered about their decision. Yet the first hesitations quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful location provides more than a swim. Visitors may meander through ornate Venetian squares and stone-paved lanes lined with busy places to eat. Man-made jumping points make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Nearby establishments offer crisp pastries and drinks with warm welcome.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized venue is immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning only vinyl records. Chairs and tables are often moved to allow for dance floor. Open late, the bar at times has performances, ensuring a great night out.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a serene retreat. Visitors can hike to the peak of a slope and climb a large spiral lookout for magnificent panoramas over green landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage can be felt through rustic dining offering substantial dishes and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a noted folk artist, and the town centre boasts a number of medicinal water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. Boasting three beautiful pristine beaches, its lively center comes alive nightly with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location provided a local experience at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation offered direct entry to the sea and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect journey from the region. But, this line is potentially at risk of closure. The ride features photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Tourists are encouraged to ride this special railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The countryside is striking, characterized by coastline, woods, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost built by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to stroll for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing anyone. This undiscovered area offers sweeping vistas, seals in the water, and an array of birdlife. The trail meanders along marshes flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A journey can commence at a ancient place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive involves numerous switchbacks to ascend the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the potential for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A brief boat trip from a bustling metropolis takes travelers to a peaceful island. As the sun sets, the city chaos fades for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests meander along tree-lined roads flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, frequently interrupted by resident cats and moments to stare back at the distant city. The trip home is usually filled with ideas for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a Gothic building is a archive that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds a vast collection of rare tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition features exquisite 16th-century cartography and
