From a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known alpine train line in France, explorers have shared their standout finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their decision. Yet the early hesitations quickly faded upon entering Piran. This charming settlement presents beyond just a swim. Visitors may meander through beautiful Venetian squares and cobbled passageways filled with bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Nearby establishments serve up crisp pastries and beverages with friendly welcome.
Retro Tunes in Germany's Capital
For fans of classic rock, retro pop, and soul music, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated club is a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, with a DJ playing just vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely cleared to allow for space to dance. Operating late into the night, the bar at times features live bands, ensuring a fantastic evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene escape. Guests may walk to the summit of a slope and ascend a tall twisting platform for stunning vistas over green landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through traditional restaurants serving substantial dishes and music. A gallery displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the town centre boasts a number of spring water sources to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent choice. Featuring several wonderful white sand beaches, its lively centre is active nightly with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town offered a genuine atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. The lodging provided convenient entry to the sea and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from nearby cities. But, this line is potentially threatened of closure. The journey features spectacular viaducts around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Visitors are urged to experience this picturesque line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is accessible by boat from several countries. The landscape is striking, with coastline, forests, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost built by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
It is possible to hike for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another person. This hidden landscape offers expansive vistas, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birds. The path winds along estuarine bordering an estuary, where remnants of old vessels are visible. A hike can begin at a ancient chapel, reportedly the most ancient in England, and conclude in a quaint town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Shut during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The trip features constant switchbacks to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible vistas. Drivers can access a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, by car. The journey also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A short boat trip from a bustling city takes travelers to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests walk along tree-lined roads lined with historic houses. The pace is relaxed, often paused by local cats and moments to look back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often filled with thoughts for a future return to this incredible place.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains thousands of rare volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features exquisite 16th-century maps and
