Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a forgotten alpine train line in France, visitors have shared their standout encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after stepping off the bus, one visitor wondered about their selection. But the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful location offers more than swimming. Tourists may meander through elaborately decorated piazzas and narrow alleys filled with vibrant eateries. Concrete platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Nearby establishments offer crisp pastries and drinks with warm hospitality.
Vintage Sounds in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue promises a lot of fun. The vibe is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning only vinyl. Seating are sometimes moved to allow for dancing. Open late, the bar occasionally has performances, guaranteeing a fantastic experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a peaceful retreat. Guests can hike to the peak of a slope and go up a giant spiral lookout for magnificent panoramas over lush landscapes. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage is on display through traditional dining with hearty fare and folk music. A museum displays the work of a renowned naive artist, and the town centre has a number of mineral water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. Featuring multiple wonderful pristine coastlines, its lively centre thrives nightly with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot offered a local experience at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation provided convenient entry to the shore and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb excursion from nearby cities. But, this service is potentially threatened of closure. The trip passes over spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to see this unique line while they can.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting attractions and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is beautiful, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost built by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is without charge, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can walk for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This hidden world boasts sweeping views, marine life in the water, and an array of birds. The coast path winds along marshes next to an estuary, where remains of boats can be seen. A hike can start at a very old chapel, among the earliest in England, and end in a charming town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The journey requires numerous switchbacks to climb the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking vistas. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, sometimes ringed with snow, directly. The route also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short journey from a vibrant city takes people to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, guests meander along quiet streets featuring grand mansions. The pace is relaxed, frequently broken by resident cats and chances to stare back at the distant mainland. The return journey is often accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this incredible sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Located behind a Gothic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds thousands of rare books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition features detailed Renaissance-era maps and
