From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten alpine train line in France, explorers disclosed their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after stepping off the bus, an explorer wondered about their selection. But the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque settlement offers more than a swim. Guests are able to stroll through beautiful Venetian squares and stone-paved alleys housing bustling eateries. Man-made diving platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Local spots provide crisp pastries and drinks with warm service.
Classic Tunes in Berlin
For lovers of classic rock, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed club promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ playing only records. Chairs and tables are routinely cleared to make space to dance. Staying open late, the bar sometimes hosts performances, making for a memorable experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a quiet getaway. Travelers may walk to the top of a ski run and climb a large twisting platform for magnificent vistas over lush fields. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic dining serving substantial food and traditional music. A museum displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa boasts several medicinal water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful find. Boasting several stunning sandy coastlines, its bustling centre is active in the evenings with locals. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location provided a local feel at a a quarter of the price. A hotel featured convenient access to the sea and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect day trip from the region. But, the route is potentially at risk of shutting down. The journey features breathtaking viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to see this unique line while they can.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable museums and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is attractive, featuring coastline, woods, and farmland. A historical fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can stroll for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This secret area provides expansive views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birds. The path winds along marshes bordering an estuary, where remains of ships lie. A journey can start at a 7th-century church, one of the most ancient in England, and conclude in a pretty coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The drive features many turns to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering breathtaking views. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the potential for spotting bears, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a bustling city takes visitors to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests walk along tree-lined streets lined with beautiful homes. The rhythm is relaxed, with time interrupted by local felines and opportunities to look back at the distant city. The return journey is usually filled with ideas for a comeback to this incredible retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a historic building is a archive that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds thousands of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition features exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
