From a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a little-known mountain railway in France, explorers disclosed their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer questioned about their choice. But the first suspicions soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque town provides beyond just swimming. Tourists can wander through ornate Venetian squares and narrow alleys housing bustling eateries. Concrete platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Nearby establishments provide flaky pastries and refreshments with warm service.
Vintage Sounds in The German Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized venue offers a lot of fun. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ playing just vinyl records. Seating are often cleared to allow for space to dance. Staying open until the early hours, the bar occasionally hosts live bands, ensuring a memorable night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a quiet retreat. Visitors are able to climb to the summit of a slope and climb a giant twisting lookout for stunning panoramas over green pastures. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture can be experienced through traditional restaurants offering hearty dishes and folk music. A museum displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the town centre features several spring water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent find. Featuring several wonderful pristine shores, its lively town center thrives nightly with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a genuine feel at a a quarter of the price. The lodging featured direct access to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb excursion from the region. However, this line is potentially under threat of being closed. The ride passes over photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Tourists are urged to experience this picturesque line soon.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong identity. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is striking, with rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is without charge, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to walk for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This undiscovered landscape provides wide-open views, seals in the water, and an abundance of wildlife. The path follows along salt marsh bordering an river mouth, where remnants of ships are visible. A walk can start at a very old place of worship, among the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Shut during winter, it usually opens in early summer. The journey requires many turns to climb the steep southern section of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, by car. The route also includes the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the remarkable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A brief journey from a bustling city transports visitors to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers walk along quiet roads lined with beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, with time paused by friendly cats and chances to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The return journey is often filled with thoughts for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Located behind a historic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds numerous of rare tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display showcases detailed 16th-century maps and
