From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked mountain railway in France, visitors disclosed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after arriving, one visitor pondered about their choice. However the initial hesitations quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful location provides beyond just a swim. Guests are able to stroll through ornate piazzas and narrow passageways lined with busy seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Local spots offer flaky pastries and beverages with friendly service.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and Motown, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar offers immense fun. The vibe is fabulous, featuring a DJ using just records. Seating are sometimes moved to allow for dance floor. Operating late, the bar occasionally hosts performances, making for a memorable night out.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a serene getaway. Visitors can hike to the top of a slope and ascend a large wooden lookout for breathtaking views over verdant pastures. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Their culture is on display through rustic dining serving substantial food and music. A museum displays the work of a renowned naive artist, and the central spa boasts a number of mineral taps to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. Boasting multiple beautiful white sand beaches, its bustling centre comes alive in the evenings with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a genuine feel at a fraction of the cost. The lodging offered easy entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from the region. However, the route is potentially under threat of shutting down. The trip features photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Travelers are encouraged to experience this picturesque line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting attractions and is accessible by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, featuring coastline, woods, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is without charge, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This secret world provides expansive views, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of wildlife. The path follows along estuarine next to an river mouth, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A journey can start at a ancient church, one of the most ancient in England, and finish in a charming town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The trip requires many switchbacks to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent views. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The journey also presents the potential for spotting bears, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a major metropolis transports travelers to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the urban energy dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, visitors meander along quiet streets featuring grand mansions. The pace is relaxed, with time interrupted by resident cats and moments to stare back at the far-off city. The trip home is often filled with plans for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a 14th-century church is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds thousands of ancient volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection showcases exquisite 16th-century cartography and
