From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked alpine railway in France, explorers disclosed their standout finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Right after arriving, an explorer wondered about their choice. Yet the first suspicions soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque settlement offers more than a swim. Visitors may meander through beautiful Venetian squares and narrow passageways housing vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town offer delicious pastries and refreshments with genuine welcome.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For fans of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized venue promises immense fun. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ using only vinyl. Seating are often cleared to allow for dance floor. Staying open late, the bar occasionally hosts live bands, guaranteeing a great night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a peaceful retreat. Guests may walk to the peak of a hill and ascend a giant twisting platform for breathtaking vistas over green landscapes. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage can be felt through rustic cuisine offering hearty food and traditional music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa has multiple mineral taps to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful choice. Featuring three beautiful white sand beaches, its lively center thrives in the evenings with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town offered a local feel at a much lower of the cost. A hotel offered direct a path to the sea and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb excursion from a nearby city. But, this service is reportedly at risk of being closed. The journey includes photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to see this special line soon.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is attractive, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress constructed by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the site is free, with a small fee for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can walk for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This secret world offers wide-open vistas, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The coast path meanders along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where wrecks of ships are visible. A hike can commence at a very old place of worship, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The journey requires numerous switchbacks to climb the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking views. Travelers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still covered in snow, directly. The route also presents the potential for wildlife sightings, completing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A quick boat trip from a major metropolis transports people to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along historic roads lined with beautiful homes. The pace is slow, with time broken by local felines and moments to stare back at the far-off city. The ferry back is often filled with plans for a future return to this special retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a archive that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses numerous of magnificent tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display features detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
