From a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten alpine train line in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after getting off the bus, one visitor wondered about their decision. But the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This delightful settlement presents more than a swim. Visitors may meander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and narrow passageways housing bustling places to eat. Man-made platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Nearby establishments serve up delicious pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Retro Tunes in Germany's Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue is a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, with a DJ spinning only vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely pushed aside to make dance floor. Staying open late into the night, the bar sometimes features performances, making for a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a peaceful retreat. Travelers may walk to the summit of a slope and go up a large twisting lookout for magnificent views over verdant pastures. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be felt through traditional restaurants with robust fare and folk music. A museum displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area boasts several spring water sources to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent choice. With three stunning sandy shores, its lively centre thrives nightly with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a genuine feel at a a quarter of the cost. The lodging featured easy a path to the beach and a elegant and warm ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb excursion from nearby cities. But, this line is potentially threatened of shutting down. The ride features breathtaking bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Tourists are urged to see this special line before it's too late.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is striking, with shores, forests, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is complimentary, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This undiscovered landscape boasts expansive vistas, seals in the water, and an profusion of birds. The coast path meanders along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where remains of ships are visible. A hike can start at a 7th-century chapel, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a charming town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Closed during the colder months, it usually reopens in late spring. The trip involves numerous switchbacks to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible vistas. Drivers can access a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also includes the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a major city takes people to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, guests walk along tree-lined lanes featuring historic houses. The rhythm is leisurely, frequently interrupted by resident felines and moments to look back at the distant mainland. The ferry back is often accompanied by ideas for a future return to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Located behind a historic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of rare volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection includes exquisite 16th-century maps and
