Starting with a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a forgotten mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Right after arriving, an explorer pondered about their decision. However the first doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town presents beyond just swimming. Tourists can wander through ornate Venetian squares and cobbled alleys housing bustling places to eat. Man-made diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Nearby establishments serve up crisp pastries and refreshments with friendly hospitality.
Classic Tunes in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized music bar offers great enjoyment. The vibe is fantastic, with a DJ playing just vinyl records. Furniture are routinely pushed aside to create space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar occasionally hosts live bands, guaranteeing a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene escape. Visitors can hike to the peak of a ski run and ascend a tall spiral platform for magnificent vistas over green landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional cuisine offering substantial food and music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned naive artist, and the main area features a number of medicinal water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. Featuring several beautiful pristine beaches, its bustling centre is active every night with families. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town offered a local atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. The lodging provided convenient entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great day trip from the region. Yet, this line is said to be threatened of being closed. The trip features breathtaking bridges around the area of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to ride this special railway while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong culture. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, characterized by shores, woods, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost established by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is complimentary, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for miles along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another person. This secret world provides expansive vistas, seals offshore, and an abundance of birds. The path meanders along estuarine bordering an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels lie. A walk can begin at a ancient church, one of the most ancient in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Shut during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The trip features constant turns to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing incredible vistas. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, still covered in snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the potential for seeing animals, adding to the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief boat trip from a bustling metropolis takes travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined roads featuring beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, with time interrupted by local cats and chances to stare back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is often filled with thoughts for a next visit to this special retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Tucked away behind a historic building is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of ancient volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition features gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and
