Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked mountain railway in France, visitors disclosed their standout encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after stepping off the bus, one visitor pondered about their selection. But the early hesitations soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This charming town provides more than swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful Venetian squares and cobbled alleys housing vibrant places to eat. Concrete platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Nearby establishments provide crisp pastries and beverages with genuine welcome.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar promises great enjoyment. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ playing just vinyl records. Seating are routinely moved to allow for dancing. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times hosts live bands, ensuring a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene retreat. Visitors are able to climb to the top of a ski run and ascend a large wooden lookout for breathtaking views over verdant pastures. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Lemko culture is on display through traditional cuisine offering substantial dishes and music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the central spa boasts a number of medicinal water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. Boasting multiple wonderful pristine coastlines, its vibrant centre is active every night with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a local feel at a much lower of the price. Accommodation provided easy access to the sea and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from a nearby city. But, the route is said to be at risk of being closed. The ride passes over breathtaking stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Tourists are encouraged to see this unique line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is striking, featuring coastline, woods, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and later demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the site is without charge, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to stroll for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This secret landscape provides sweeping vistas, seals offshore, and an abundance of wildlife. The trail meanders along marshes bordering an river mouth, where remains of boats lie. A journey can commence at a ancient chapel, one of the earliest in England, and end in a charming town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually opens in late spring. The journey involves numerous switchbacks to navigate the steep southern section of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, often covered in snow, directly. The journey also offers the opportunity for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a bustling metropolis transports travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, explorers meander along tree-lined streets flanked by beautiful homes. The pace is relaxed, with time interrupted by friendly felines and chances to stare back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is often spent planning ideas for a future return to this unique retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains a vast collection of magnificent volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection showcases detailed old maps and
