Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a little-known alpine railway in France, explorers revealed their most memorable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after stepping off the bus, a traveler pondered about their selection. But the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This picturesque settlement offers beyond just swimming. Visitors can wander through ornate Venetian squares and cobbled lanes filled with busy seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Places in town serve up flaky pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.
Vintage Tunes in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated venue offers great enjoyment. The ambiance is fantastic, complete with a DJ playing only vinyl. Furniture are sometimes pushed aside to make dancing. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times hosts live bands, guaranteeing a memorable night out.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a quiet escape. Visitors can hike to the peak of a slope and go up a tall wooden lookout for magnificent vistas over lush pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture can be felt through rustic cuisine serving robust fare and traditional music. A museum showcases the work of a noted naive artist, and the central spa has multiple spring taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent find. Featuring several wonderful sandy beaches, its lively town center comes alive in the evenings with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location delivered a more authentic experience at a fraction of the cost. A hotel featured easy access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Scenic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from the region. Yet, this service is reportedly under threat of shutting down. The ride includes breathtaking stone arches around the area of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Travelers are urged to see this unique railway soon.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The countryside is attractive, with shores, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress constructed by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the fort ruins is complimentary, with a small fee 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 seeing another soul. This hidden world boasts sweeping views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an array of birdlife. The path follows along salt marsh next to an estuary, where remnants of boats are visible. A journey can start at a 7th-century church, among the most ancient in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive requires many switchbacks to ascend the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, offering incredible scenery. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The drive also includes the opportunity for wildlife sightings, adding to the remarkable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a major metropolis transports travelers to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, explorers walk along historic lanes flanked by grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, with time broken by friendly cats and moments to gaze back at the far-off city. The trip home is usually filled with ideas for a next visit to this special place.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Housed behind a historic building is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features detailed 16th-century cartography and
