Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked mountain railway in France, travelers have shared their most memorable finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after getting off the bus, one visitor pondered about their selection. However the first hesitations quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque town offers more than swimming. Guests may meander through ornate piazzas and stone-paved passageways filled with vibrant seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town serve up crisp pastries and beverages with genuine hospitality.
Classic Music in The German Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized venue promises immense fun. The vibe is fantastic, with a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Seating are routinely cleared to create dancing. Staying open late into the night, the bar at times has live music, ensuring a memorable evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene escape. Travelers are able to climb to the summit of a hill and climb a tall wooden platform for magnificent panoramas over green landscapes. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture is on display through rustic dining serving robust food and folk music. A museum celebrates the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area has a number of mineral water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. Featuring multiple wonderful pristine shores, its vibrant center is active nightly with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town provided a local feel at a fraction of the price. The lodging offered easy access to the sea and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb journey from a nearby city. But, this line is potentially threatened of being closed. The journey passes over breathtaking bridges around the area of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Visitors are encouraged to ride this picturesque line before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is beautiful, with coastline, woods, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost built by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can hike for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This secret area boasts expansive views, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birdlife. The path meanders along marshes next to an estuary, where remnants of boats can be seen. A walk can start at a very old place of worship, one of the oldest in England, and conclude in a pretty town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in late spring. The journey features constant bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking vistas. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, by car. The drive also presents the potential for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A quick boat trip from a major city transports travelers to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along tree-lined lanes featuring grand mansions. The pace is slow, often interrupted by local cats and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is usually accompanied by plans for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Located behind a historic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of ancient tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes gorgeous old maps and
