From a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their standout encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer wondered about their choice. Yet the first hesitations soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This charming town provides more than swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through elaborately decorated piazzas and narrow lanes filled with busy places to eat. Concrete jumping points turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Places in town provide flaky pastries and refreshments with friendly welcome.
Classic Sounds in Germany's Capital
For lovers of classic rock, 1960s pop, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar promises a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, with a DJ using only vinyl. Furniture are often cleared to make space to dance. Open late, the bar at times has live bands, guaranteeing a great evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful retreat. Travelers can hike to the top of a ski run and climb a giant wooden platform for magnificent vistas over lush landscapes. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage can be felt through rustic dining serving substantial dishes and music. A museum displays the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre features a number of mineral water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful choice. Featuring several stunning white sand coastlines, its vibrant centre is active in the evenings with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a genuine experience at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation provided easy entry to the sea and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great excursion from nearby cities. But, this service is potentially under threat of being closed. The journey features photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Visitors are urged to see this special line while they can.
Island 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 capital, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base established by Russia and then destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can stroll for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another person. This secret area offers sweeping views, marine life in the water, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail meanders along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where remains of old vessels lie. A walk can commence at a very old church, one of the earliest in England, and end in a charming coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The trip requires numerous bends to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Travelers can reach a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The drive also includes the opportunity for wildlife sightings, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a major metropolis transports people to a peaceful island. As the day ends, the city chaos is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors meander along tree-lined roads featuring historic houses. The rhythm is slow, often broken by resident felines and opportunities to stare back at the distant city. The trip home is often accompanied by ideas for a next visit to this special retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Located behind a Gothic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses a vast collection of magnificent books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection showcases exquisite 16th-century cartography and
