Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a forgotten mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their decision. But the early doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This delightful town presents more than a swim. Tourists can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and narrow lanes lined with bustling eateries. Man-made jumping points make the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Nearby establishments provide delicious pastries and drinks with warm service.
Retro Music in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated club promises great enjoyment. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ using exclusively records. Furniture are often pushed aside to create space to dance. Staying open until the early hours, the bar sometimes has live music, ensuring a fantastic night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful retreat. Visitors can hike to the summit of a ski run and ascend a large wooden lookout for stunning vistas over green landscapes. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic cuisine with substantial fare and folk music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific painter, and the main area boasts multiple mineral water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. Boasting multiple wonderful sandy coastlines, its vibrant center is active every night with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town offered a local experience at a much lower of the price. The lodging offered direct a path to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from nearby cities. However, the route is said to be at risk of closure. The journey features photogenic stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Tourists are advised to see this unique railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is reachable by ferry from several countries. The landscape is beautiful, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base established by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can walk for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another person. This hidden landscape provides wide-open views, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birdlife. The path meanders along marshes bordering an estuary, where wrecks of ships lie. A walk can start at a very old place of worship, among the earliest in England, and end in a pretty town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive involves constant bends to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent vistas. Visitors can access a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The journey also presents the opportunity for spotting bears, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A brief journey from a bustling city transports people to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests meander along tree-lined roads flanked by historic houses. The pace is leisurely, frequently paused by friendly cats and moments to gaze back at the distant mainland. The ferry back is usually spent planning ideas for a next visit to this special sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Tucked away behind a historic building is a archive that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses numerous of ancient books, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display includes detailed old maps and
