From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their standout finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after arriving, a traveler questioned about their choice. Yet the initial suspicions quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This picturesque settlement provides more than a swim. Visitors may meander through beautiful public squares and cobbled alleys housing busy seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Local spots offer delicious pastries and drinks with warm hospitality.
Retro Music in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club is immense fun. The ambiance is terrific, featuring a DJ using only vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to allow for dance floor. Operating late, the bar sometimes has live music, guaranteeing a fantastic night out.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Crossing into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful getaway. Visitors can hike to the summit of a slope and go up a large twisting viewing tower for breathtaking panoramas over lush pastures. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Their culture is on display through traditional dining serving hearty fare and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre has multiple medicinal water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful discovery. Boasting three wonderful sandy shores, its lively town center comes alive in the evenings with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a genuine atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. A hotel provided convenient entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great day trip from a nearby city. Yet, this service is said to be at risk of closure. The journey features photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to experience this unique line before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is beautiful, with shores, woods, and farms. A historical fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical fortress built by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is complimentary, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This secret area provides sweeping views, marine life in the water, and an abundance of birdlife. The path winds along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels are visible. A walk can start at a ancient chapel, one of the oldest in England, and conclude in a charming town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Closed during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The drive features constant switchbacks to ascend the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible vistas. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the opportunity for seeing animals, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief boat trip from a vibrant city takes visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, visitors meander along quiet streets featuring historic houses. The pace is slow, with time broken by resident cats and moments to stare back at the distant mainland. The trip home is usually filled with plans for a comeback to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a archive that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains a vast collection of magnificent volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display showcases gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
