Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain railway in France, explorers revealed their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer questioned about their choice. But the early hesitations quickly faded upon entering Piran. This charming settlement presents beyond just swimming. Tourists may meander through ornate piazzas and stone-paved alleys housing bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made diving platforms turn the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Nearby establishments provide flaky pastries and drinks with genuine welcome.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated club promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ playing only vinyl records. Furniture are often moved to allow for dance floor. Open late, the bar at times has live music, making for a great evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a quiet escape. Guests may walk to the top of a slope and go up a tall spiral lookout for stunning panoramas over verdant landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture can be experienced through rustic dining with substantial fare and folk music. A museum showcases the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa boasts multiple mineral taps to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. With several beautiful white sand shores, its bustling center thrives in the evenings with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a local atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. The lodging provided convenient access to the sea and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb day trip from nearby cities. But, the route is said to be at risk of closure. The journey features spectacular bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Tourists are advised to experience this special railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is accessible by ferry from several countries. The countryside is striking, featuring shores, forests, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost established by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is without charge, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can stroll for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This secret area offers sweeping vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of birds. The trail meanders along marshes next to an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A hike can begin at a very old chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually reopens in June. The drive requires constant bends to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Travelers can access a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The route also presents the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the memorable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A short journey from a bustling metropolis takes travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, guests walk along tree-lined streets lined with historic houses. The rhythm is relaxed, often paused by friendly cats and moments to look back at the skyline of the city. The return journey is often accompanied by ideas for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Located behind a historic building is a archive that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses a vast collection of magnificent tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition showcases exquisite old cartography and
