From a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a little-known mountain train line in France, visitors have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, a traveler wondered about their choice. However the initial doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque town provides beyond just swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful public squares and cobbled lanes lined with vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Nearby establishments serve up delicious pastries and refreshments with friendly hospitality.
Classic Tunes in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul music, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed club promises immense fun. The vibe is terrific, complete with a DJ spinning just vinyl. Furniture are routinely moved to allow for dance floor. Operating until the early hours, the bar sometimes features live bands, making for a great experience.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a quiet escape. Guests can hike to the peak of a slope and climb a giant twisting platform for magnificent views over lush pastures. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage is on display through traditional cuisine with hearty dishes and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a prolific folk artist, and the central spa features multiple medicinal taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful discovery. Boasting multiple wonderful white sand beaches, its lively centre is active in the evenings with locals. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town delivered a more authentic experience at a much lower of the price. The lodging provided convenient access to the sea and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from the region. Yet, this line is said to be at risk of being closed. The trip includes spectacular stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Travelers are urged to ride this picturesque line before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is accessible by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is striking, featuring shores, forests, and farms. A notable fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress built by Russia and subsequently attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can stroll for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This undiscovered world provides sweeping vistas, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail follows along estuarine bordering an estuary, where remnants of ships are visible. A journey can commence at a 7th-century church, one of the earliest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Closed during the colder months, it usually reopens in late spring. The trip involves many bends to climb the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent vistas. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also includes the chance for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short journey from a bustling city takes travelers to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the city chaos fades for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along tree-lined roads featuring beautiful homes. The feel is slow, frequently broken by resident felines and moments to gaze back at the far-off city. The return journey is usually spent planning ideas for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of ancient volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display showcases gorgeous 16th-century maps and
