From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a forgotten alpine railway in France, explorers revealed their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after stepping off the bus, an explorer wondered about their selection. But the first suspicions soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque town presents more than a swim. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated public squares and stone-paved lanes filled with bustling places to eat. Man-made diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Nearby establishments serve up flaky pastries and drinks with genuine hospitality.
Vintage Music in The German Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized music bar is a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ using exclusively records. Furniture are sometimes cleared to allow for dancing. Operating late into the night, the bar at times hosts live music, guaranteeing a memorable experience.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a quiet escape. Visitors are able to climb to the peak of a ski run and go up a tall wooden lookout for breathtaking vistas over green pastures. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture can be experienced through traditional dining offering substantial dishes and music. A gallery showcases the work of a noted painter, and the town centre boasts multiple spring taps to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. Boasting multiple beautiful sandy beaches, its lively centre is active every night with residents. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot provided a local feel at a much lower of the cost. A hotel offered direct entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect day trip from the region. But, the route is reportedly at risk of being closed. The journey features photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to see this unique line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is reachable by boat from several countries. The countryside is beautiful, with rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A historical location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and then destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in England
It is possible to hike for miles along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another person. This hidden landscape offers wide-open vistas, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birds. The path follows along estuarine next to an estuary, where remnants of old vessels are visible. A walk can begin at a very old place of worship, one of the oldest in England, and finish in a charming town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in late spring. The journey involves constant switchbacks to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible vistas. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, often covered in snow, directly. The drive also offers the chance for seeing animals, completing the memorable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a major metropolis takes visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along historic roads lined with beautiful homes. The pace is relaxed, with time broken by local felines and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is often accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this incredible sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses a vast collection of magnificent books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition includes detailed old maps and
