Starting with a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a forgotten mountain train line in France, explorers disclosed their standout finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer questioned about their selection. Yet the early doubts soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This delightful town presents beyond just swimming. Tourists are able to stroll through elaborately decorated piazzas and cobbled lanes housing bustling places to eat. Man-made jumping points turn the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Local spots serve up delicious pastries and beverages with friendly service.
Vintage Music in Berlin
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated venue promises great enjoyment. The vibe is fantastic, complete with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Seating are sometimes moved to create space to dance. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times has performances, ensuring a great evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a quiet getaway. Travelers may walk to the top of a hill and go up a giant wooden platform for stunning panoramas over verdant landscapes. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture is on display through rustic dining offering robust dishes and folk music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the central spa features a number of spring water sources to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful choice. With multiple wonderful white sand beaches, its lively centre thrives every night with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot provided a more authentic experience at a a quarter of the price. A hotel offered convenient access to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect journey from the region. But, this service is reportedly under threat of shutting down. The journey passes over photogenic bridges around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to experience this picturesque line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, characterized by shores, forests, and farms. A historical location at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base built by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the fort ruins is complimentary, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can stroll for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another person. This undiscovered landscape boasts sweeping vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birds. The path follows along marshes next to an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A walk can start at a very old chapel, reportedly the most ancient in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically opens in June. The journey requires numerous switchbacks to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The route also includes the opportunity for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Escape Near a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a bustling city transports people to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, explorers walk along historic lanes lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is relaxed, often interrupted by friendly cats and chances to gaze back at the distant city. The trip home is often accompanied by plans for a comeback to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Located behind a historic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds numerous of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection showcases gorgeous old maps and
