Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten mountain railway in France, explorers revealed their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their selection. Yet the early doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful town presents beyond just swimming. Guests may meander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and stone-paved lanes lined with busy places to eat. Concrete diving platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Local spots offer crisp pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Vintage Sounds in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized venue promises a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, with a DJ playing only vinyl. Seating are often pushed aside to make dance floor. Staying open late, the bar sometimes has performances, ensuring a great evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Spa Town
Traveling into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a peaceful getaway. Visitors are able to climb to the top of a ski run and climb a tall spiral lookout for stunning panoramas over verdant landscapes. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture can be experienced through rustic restaurants offering robust fare and traditional music. A museum showcases the work of a noted folk artist, and the town centre has a number of medicinal taps to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful find. Boasting three beautiful sandy shores, its vibrant centre thrives in the evenings with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot provided a more authentic experience at a fraction of the cost. A hotel provided easy a path to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb excursion from the region. But, this service is potentially under threat of being closed. The trip includes spectacular bridges around the area of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to ride this picturesque railway while they can.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is accessible by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is beautiful, with coastline, forests, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost built by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the remains is complimentary, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to stroll for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This hidden world offers expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an abundance of wildlife. The trail winds along estuarine next to an estuary, where remains of old vessels are visible. A hike can start at a 7th-century chapel, one of the oldest in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The journey features constant switchbacks to climb the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also presents the potential for spotting bears, completing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A brief journey from a bustling city takes travelers to a peaceful island. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, guests walk along quiet streets flanked by beautiful homes. The pace is slow, with time interrupted by resident cats and chances to gaze back at the far-off city. The ferry back is usually accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this incredible place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains a vast collection of rare volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display includes exquisite Renaissance-era cartography and
