Starting with a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain railway in France, travelers have shared their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after arriving, an explorer wondered about their selection. But the initial hesitations quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming location offers beyond just a swim. Visitors can wander through ornate public squares and cobbled passageways lined with vibrant eateries. Concrete platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Places in town serve up delicious pastries and beverages with genuine hospitality.
Classic Music in Berlin
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized club is immense fun. The ambiance is terrific, featuring a DJ using only records. Chairs and tables are often moved to make dance floor. Operating late, the bar occasionally has performances, making for a memorable experience.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a serene getaway. Travelers can hike to the summit of a ski run and ascend a tall wooden lookout for stunning vistas over verdant landscapes. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture is on display through rustic restaurants serving substantial fare and music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a noted painter, and the main area features a number of spring water sources to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. With several stunning pristine shores, its bustling centre is active in the evenings with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location delivered a more authentic experience at a fraction of the price. Accommodation featured easy entry to the beach and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from the region. However, this service is said to be at risk of being closed. The ride features photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Travelers are urged to experience this picturesque line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is striking, characterized by coastline, forests, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress constructed by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is free, with a small fee for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This hidden area offers expansive views, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail follows along marshes bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of ships can be seen. A hike can commence at a ancient chapel, among the oldest in England, and end in a pretty town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt route. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The drive requires constant bends to ascend the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking scenery. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, often covered in snow, by car. The journey also offers the potential for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A short journey from a bustling city transports visitors to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along quiet roads lined with historic houses. The rhythm is leisurely, often paused by resident cats and chances to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is usually spent planning ideas for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains a vast collection of magnificent books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display includes gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
