Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain train line in France, visitors disclosed their standout finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after getting off the bus, one visitor questioned about their choice. But the initial suspicions quickly faded upon entering Piran. This picturesque location provides more than a swim. Guests can wander through beautiful Venetian squares and cobbled passageways housing bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Places in town offer flaky pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Vintage Sounds in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated venue promises immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ using just records. Chairs and tables are often moved to create dance floor. Operating late into the night, the bar at times hosts live bands, making for a great evening.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a peaceful retreat. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a slope and climb a large wooden lookout for stunning views over green pastures. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage is on display through traditional dining offering hearty fare and folk music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a noted naive artist, and the main area has several spring water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant discovery. With multiple stunning pristine beaches, its bustling centre comes alive nightly with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a genuine atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation offered direct a path to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect journey from nearby cities. However, the route is reportedly under threat of closure. The journey features photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to experience this picturesque line before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The countryside is beautiful, featuring shores, forests, and farmland. A significant fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base built by Russia and then attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to walk for hours along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This undiscovered world boasts sweeping vistas, seals offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail meanders along marshes next to an river mouth, where wrecks of ships lie. A hike can begin at a very old chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and finish in a charming town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt road. Inaccessible during winter, it usually opens in late spring. The trip requires numerous turns to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent views. Visitors can access a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The journey also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A brief boat trip from a vibrant metropolis takes visitors to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the city chaos fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, visitors meander along tree-lined roads flanked by historic houses. The feel is slow, with time broken by local felines and opportunities to look back at the far-off city. The ferry back is usually accompanied by plans for a next visit to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Housed behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses a vast collection of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The display features detailed 16th-century maps and
