From a Venice-like Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten alpine railway in France, travelers have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after arriving, one visitor pondered about their decision. But the initial doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful settlement presents more than swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through beautiful piazzas and cobbled lanes housing vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Nearby establishments provide flaky pastries and drinks with genuine hospitality.
Vintage Tunes in Germany's Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club is immense fun. The vibe is fantastic, complete with a DJ spinning only records. Seating are routinely moved to make dancing. Staying open until the early hours, the bar occasionally has live music, guaranteeing a memorable experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a quiet retreat. Guests can hike to the peak of a hill and ascend a tall twisting platform for stunning views over green pastures. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Their culture can be felt through rustic dining with substantial fare and music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa has multiple mineral water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful discovery. Featuring several wonderful sandy beaches, its bustling center thrives nightly with families. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a genuine experience at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation offered convenient entry to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great excursion from the region. Yet, this line is said to be under threat of shutting down. The trip includes spectacular stone arches around the town of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are encouraged to experience this unique line before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is easy to get to by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with shores, forests, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and then destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the site is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for miles along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering anyone. This undiscovered area boasts sweeping vistas, marine life in the water, and an abundance of birds. The trail follows along marshes bordering an estuary, where remains of old vessels lie. A walk can begin at a ancient church, one of the earliest in England, and conclude in a pretty coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Closed during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The trip features many bends to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking vistas. Visitors can access a mountain lake, still covered in snow, by car. The route also presents the opportunity for wildlife sightings, completing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A quick ferry ride from a vibrant city takes people to a peaceful getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, visitors meander along historic streets flanked by historic houses. The feel is slow, frequently interrupted by resident cats and chances to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is usually accompanied by thoughts for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Located behind a 14th-century building is a archive that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds a vast collection of rare books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection showcases exquisite 16th-century cartography and
