From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked alpine railway in France, explorers disclosed their standout finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their selection. Yet the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful location offers more than a swim. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled passageways filled with busy places to eat. Man-made jumping points make the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Local spots serve up delicious pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.
Classic Tunes in Germany's Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated club promises immense fun. The ambiance is fantastic, complete with a DJ using exclusively records. Furniture are routinely moved to make dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times hosts live bands, making for a fantastic experience.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Spa Town
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a peaceful escape. Travelers can hike to the top of a slope and go up a giant wooden viewing tower for stunning vistas over green landscapes. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional dining serving hearty food and music. A museum showcases the work of a prolific naive artist, and the central spa boasts a number of mineral water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. Featuring three stunning pristine beaches, its lively center comes alive nightly with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot provided a more authentic feel at a fraction of the price. Accommodation offered convenient entry to the sea and a elegant and warm ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from a nearby city. But, this line is reportedly threatened of shutting down. The journey passes over spectacular viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Travelers are encouraged to see this picturesque line before it's too late.
Island 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, offers interesting attractions and is accessible by boat from several countries. The landscape is beautiful, with shores, forests, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the site is without charge, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can hike for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This secret area offers sweeping views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birdlife. The coast path meanders along marshes next to an estuary, where remnants of ships are visible. A hike can start at a ancient place of worship, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt road. Shut during the colder months, it typically opens in late spring. The drive features constant turns to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, by car. The journey also includes the opportunity for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A quick boat trip from a bustling metropolis transports visitors to a car-free island. As the day ends, the city chaos dissipates for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, explorers walk along quiet streets lined with historic houses. The feel is leisurely, frequently broken by resident cats and chances to stare back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is usually accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Tucked away behind a historic building is a archive that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses numerous of ancient books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The collection showcases exquisite 16th-century cartography and
