From a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a little-known mountain train line in France, explorers disclosed their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their selection. But the early suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This charming town offers more than a swim. Guests can wander through ornate public squares and stone-paved lanes filled with busy places to eat. Man-made diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Places in town serve up crisp pastries and drinks with warm service.
Classic Sounds in Berlin
For fans of classic rock, 1960s pop, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized club is great enjoyment. The vibe is terrific, with a DJ spinning only vinyl records. Furniture are sometimes cleared to allow for space to dance. Staying open until the early hours, the bar occasionally has live music, making for a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a peaceful retreat. Visitors can hike to the summit of a hill and climb a large wooden viewing tower for magnificent panoramas over green fields. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional dining serving hearty dishes and music. A museum showcases the work of a noted painter, and the central spa boasts multiple spring water sources to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent find. Boasting multiple wonderful sandy coastlines, its vibrant town center thrives nightly with residents. While the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location provided a more authentic feel at a much lower of the cost. A hotel featured easy entry to the beach and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great excursion from a nearby city. But, this service is said to be at risk of closure. The journey features photogenic viaducts around the area of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are urged to see this unique line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund reveals a historical naval base built by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is without charge, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can hike for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another person. This hidden landscape provides sweeping vistas, marine life offshore, and an array of wildlife. The trail follows along estuarine flanking an estuary, where remains of old vessels lie. A walk can begin at a ancient place of worship, among the earliest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in June. The trip involves many turns to navigate the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Visitors can access a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, without a cable car. The route also includes the chance for seeing animals, completing the remarkable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short journey from a vibrant metropolis transports visitors to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along quiet roads lined with grand mansions. The feel is leisurely, often interrupted by resident felines and moments to stare back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is usually spent planning thoughts for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Located behind a Gothic building is a library that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of magnificent tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition features exquisite old maps and
