From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a forgotten alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor pondered about their choice. But the initial doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming settlement provides beyond just swimming. Visitors can wander through ornate piazzas and narrow alleys filled with bustling places to eat. Man-made diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Local spots offer flaky pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Vintage Music in Germany's Capital
For lovers of classic rock, retro pop, and soul, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar promises great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fantastic, complete with a DJ spinning only records. Furniture are routinely moved to make dancing. Open until the early hours, the bar sometimes features live bands, ensuring a great night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a peaceful escape. Visitors can hike to the top of a slope and ascend a large wooden viewing tower for stunning views over verdant fields. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Lemko culture is on display through traditional dining serving robust dishes and music. A museum displays the work of a noted folk artist, and the town centre features several mineral water sources to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. With multiple wonderful white sand beaches, its vibrant town center thrives nightly with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot delivered a local experience at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation featured easy a path to the beach and a stylish but welcoming environment.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb journey from nearby cities. However, the route is potentially at risk of shutting down. The journey features photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Travelers are urged to experience 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 archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is attractive, featuring shores, forests, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical fortress built by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This undiscovered landscape offers sweeping views, marine life offshore, and an array of wildlife. The trail winds along estuarine flanking an estuary, where remnants of ships are visible. A hike can start at a ancient church, among the oldest in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The trip features many turns to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Visitors can reach a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The journey also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a bustling city transports travelers to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, visitors walk along historic lanes lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is relaxed, often paused by local cats and moments to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The ferry back is often accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this unique place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Tucked away behind a historic building is a archive that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds numerous of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display features detailed old cartography and
