From a Venice-like Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten alpine railway in France, visitors disclosed their most unforgettable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after arriving, an explorer pondered about their selection. However the early doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This charming settlement provides more than a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through beautiful piazzas and cobbled alleys filled with bustling eateries. Concrete diving platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Places in town serve up flaky pastries and beverages with friendly hospitality.
Vintage Music in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed music bar offers great enjoyment. The vibe is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning just records. Chairs and tables are routinely pushed aside to create dance floor. Operating until the early hours, the bar occasionally hosts live bands, guaranteeing a memorable night out.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene escape. Visitors can hike to the top of a hill and ascend a tall twisting viewing tower for breathtaking panoramas over verdant landscapes. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be felt through traditional dining with robust dishes and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a prolific folk artist, and the main area features multiple mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. Boasting multiple beautiful sandy coastlines, its vibrant town center is active nightly with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot delivered a genuine experience at a fraction of the cost. A hotel featured convenient entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect journey from nearby cities. Yet, this line is potentially at risk of closure. The journey features breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Tourists are urged to ride this special line soon.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is reachable by boat from several countries. The countryside is attractive, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is free, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can stroll for miles along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This hidden world offers sweeping views, seals in the water, and an profusion of birds. The trail follows along salt marsh next to an river mouth, where remnants of boats can be seen. A hike can commence at a very old church, among the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it usually opens in June. The trip involves constant turns to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Travelers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The journey also offers the opportunity for spotting bears, adding to the memorable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a bustling city transports people to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos fades for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, guests meander along historic roads lined with beautiful homes. The pace is slow, with time broken by local felines and moments to look back at the far-off city. The trip home is often accompanied by ideas for a next visit to this incredible place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Located behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains a vast collection of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display showcases exquisite 16th-century cartography and
