From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain train line in France, travelers have shared their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their choice. However the first hesitations soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This delightful town offers more than swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through ornate public squares and cobbled alleys filled with vibrant seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots provide flaky pastries and drinks with friendly hospitality.
Vintage Music in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar promises a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning only vinyl. Seating are sometimes cleared to allow for dancing. Operating late into the night, the bar occasionally has live bands, guaranteeing a memorable night out.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a quiet escape. Visitors may walk to the summit of a hill and ascend a giant spiral platform for stunning vistas over lush landscapes. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage can be felt through rustic dining serving hearty fare and traditional music. A museum celebrates the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre boasts a number of mineral taps to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. Featuring multiple wonderful white sand coastlines, its bustling center is active in the evenings with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location delivered a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation provided convenient a path to the beach and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Railway Journey 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 superb journey from the region. But, this line is reportedly at risk of shutting down. The trip includes breathtaking bridges around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to experience this picturesque railway while they can.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is accessible by boat from nearby countries. The landscape is striking, with rocky inlets, forests, and farmland. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
It is possible to stroll for miles along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another soul. This undiscovered area provides wide-open views, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birds. The coast path winds along estuarine bordering an river mouth, where remnants of boats lie. A journey can begin at a ancient chapel, reportedly the earliest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Closed during winter, it usually opens in June. The drive requires constant bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent scenery. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, often covered in snow, by car. The route also presents the chance for wildlife sightings, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A quick boat trip from a bustling city takes visitors to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy fades for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, guests stroll along quiet streets lined with grand mansions. The pace is leisurely, with time paused by resident felines and moments to stare back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is often filled with plans for a comeback to this special place.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a archive that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains a vast collection of ancient books, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition includes gorgeous 16th-century maps and
