Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian town by the sea to a forgotten alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their most memorable finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their choice. Yet the first hesitations soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This charming town offers more than swimming. Guests are able to stroll through ornate public squares and stone-paved passageways filled with busy eateries. Man-made diving platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Nearby establishments provide delicious pastries and beverages with warm hospitality.
Classic Tunes in The German Capital
For lovers of classic rock, retro pop, and soul, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated music bar is a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, complete with a DJ using exclusively vinyl. Furniture are sometimes moved to create space to dance. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times has performances, ensuring a memorable experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a peaceful getaway. Guests can hike to the peak of a ski run and go up a giant wooden viewing tower for breathtaking vistas over lush fields. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture is on display through traditional dining with hearty food and folk music. A museum showcases the work of a prolific painter, and the main area has multiple spring water sources to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. Boasting several wonderful white sand shores, its lively town center is active every night with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot provided a more authentic feel at a a quarter of the cost. A hotel provided easy access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from a nearby city. But, this line is potentially at risk of closure. The trip features photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Visitors are urged to see this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, featuring coastline, woods, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the site is without charge, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to walk for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This undiscovered world offers wide-open views, marine life in the water, and an abundance of birds. The trail meanders along marshes flanking an estuary, where remains of ships lie. A walk can start at a 7th-century chapel, one of the earliest in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it usually reopens in early summer. The trip requires numerous switchbacks to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also presents the potential for seeing animals, adding to the remarkable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A short journey from a bustling city takes travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, explorers stroll along quiet roads lined with grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, frequently paused by friendly felines and moments to gaze back at the distant city. The return journey is usually filled with ideas for a comeback to this unique sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Located behind a Gothic building is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of ancient books, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition features exquisite old maps and
