From a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a overlooked alpine railway in France, explorers revealed their standout discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. Yet the first suspicions soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This picturesque settlement presents beyond just a swim. Visitors may meander through ornate piazzas and stone-paved passageways lined with bustling places to eat. Man-made platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Local spots provide crisp pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul music, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated venue is a lot of fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, featuring a DJ playing just vinyl. Seating are routinely cleared to allow for dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times features performances, making for a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a peaceful retreat. Guests may walk to the summit of a slope and ascend a giant twisting viewing tower for stunning views over verdant landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be experienced through rustic dining with substantial food and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the central spa features a number of medicinal taps to try.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent choice. Featuring three beautiful sandy coastlines, its lively center comes alive in the evenings with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town offered a genuine experience at a fraction of the price. A hotel featured easy access to the beach and a elegant and warm ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from nearby cities. However, this service is potentially threatened of closure. The trip includes photogenic bridges around the town of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to see this unique line soon.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable museums and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is attractive, with rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund reveals a historical naval base constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the fort ruins is without charge, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can hike for miles along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This hidden area offers sweeping vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of birdlife. The coast path winds along marshes next to an estuary, where remains of ships are visible. A walk can start at a 7th-century chapel, one of the earliest in England, and finish in a charming town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in late spring. The drive requires numerous turns to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible scenery. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, directly. The journey also presents the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A quick boat trip from a bustling city transports travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along historic lanes lined with beautiful homes. The pace is relaxed, with time broken by resident cats and chances to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The ferry back is often spent planning plans for a comeback to this incredible sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
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 library that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of rare books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection includes gorgeous 16th-century cartography and
