Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a little-known alpine train line in France, travelers have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after arriving, one visitor wondered about their choice. However the first suspicions soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This delightful town provides more than a swim. Visitors can wander through ornate Venetian squares and narrow passageways housing bustling places to eat. Man-made jumping points make the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Nearby establishments offer delicious pastries and refreshments with genuine service.
Classic Tunes in The German Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized club promises immense fun. The vibe is terrific, complete with a DJ using only vinyl records. Seating are often cleared to allow for dance floor. Open until the early hours, the bar at times features performances, making for a great evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a quiet escape. Guests may walk to the peak of a hill and ascend a tall twisting platform for magnificent views over lush fields. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage is on display through rustic restaurants serving substantial food and traditional music. A museum celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the main area features a number of mineral taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful choice. Featuring multiple wonderful sandy coastlines, its lively center comes alive in the evenings with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot offered a genuine feel at a much lower of the cost. A hotel offered easy access to the beach and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb day trip from a nearby city. But, the route is reportedly under threat of shutting down. The ride passes over breathtaking stone arches around the town of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to see this unique railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is beautiful, with rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A historical fort at Bomarsund marks a historical fortress established by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can walk for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering anyone. This secret landscape boasts wide-open views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of wildlife. The coast path meanders along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where remains of ships can be seen. A hike can start at a 7th-century chapel, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically opens in late spring. The trip requires numerous bends to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, by car. The journey also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A quick journey from a major city takes travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, explorers stroll along quiet streets lined with beautiful homes. The feel is slow, with time broken by resident cats and chances to stare back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is usually spent planning plans for a future return to this special sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Located behind a Gothic church is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains numerous of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The display features detailed Renaissance-era maps and
