Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain railway in France, explorers revealed their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after stepping off the bus, one visitor questioned about their choice. However the initial suspicions soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque location presents more than swimming. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled passageways filled with bustling places to eat. Man-made platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Nearby establishments provide flaky pastries and refreshments with genuine service.
Vintage Tunes in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed club promises immense fun. The atmosphere is terrific, featuring a DJ using just vinyl. Furniture are often moved to make dance floor. Operating late, the bar occasionally has live bands, ensuring a great evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a quiet retreat. Travelers can hike to the peak of a slope and ascend a large twisting lookout for breathtaking vistas over lush pastures. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic dining serving robust fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the central spa features a number of medicinal water sources to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent find. Featuring multiple beautiful sandy coastlines, its bustling centre comes alive every night with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot provided a genuine feel at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation offered convenient entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect day trip from nearby cities. But, this service is potentially threatened of being closed. The journey passes over spectacular stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Tourists are encouraged to experience this unique railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, with shores, forests, and farmland. A historical fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base established by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the fort ruins is complimentary, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This hidden world boasts sweeping vistas, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The path meanders along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A hike can start at a ancient place of worship, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Closed during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The trip requires many bends to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible vistas. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also presents the potential for spotting bears, adding to the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a major city transports visitors to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along quiet roads lined with beautiful homes. The feel is slow, with time interrupted by resident felines and opportunities to look back at the distant mainland. The return journey is usually accompanied by ideas for a comeback to this unique place.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Located behind a historic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds numerous of ancient volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases exquisite old maps and
