Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a little-known mountain train line in France, explorers revealed their standout discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their decision. But the early doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque location presents more than a swim. Visitors can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and narrow passageways housing bustling places to eat. Man-made jumping points turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Nearby establishments provide flaky pastries and refreshments with warm service.
Classic Tunes in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed venue promises great enjoyment. The vibe is terrific, with a DJ using just records. Furniture are routinely moved to create dance floor. Operating late, the bar sometimes hosts live bands, ensuring a memorable experience.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a serene getaway. Visitors may walk to the peak of a hill and go up a large wooden viewing tower for stunning views over verdant fields. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Their culture can be felt through traditional cuisine with substantial fare and music. A museum showcases the work of a noted painter, and the main area has a number of mineral water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent choice. Featuring multiple wonderful sandy shores, its lively center comes alive every night with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location delivered a local feel at a fraction of the cost. A hotel offered easy entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from the region. However, this service is said to be threatened of shutting down. The journey passes over spectacular bridges around the town of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are advised to ride this special line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is accessible by ferry from nearby countries. The countryside is striking, characterized by coastline, forests, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical fortress established by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the site is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to hike for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This undiscovered area boasts wide-open views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birds. The coast path winds along marshes flanking an estuary, where remnants of old vessels lie. A journey can start at a very old place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved route. Shut during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The trip requires constant switchbacks to climb the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, without a cable car. The route also includes the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a vibrant city transports travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, guests stroll along historic lanes lined with grand mansions. The pace is slow, with time broken by friendly felines and chances to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is usually spent planning plans for a future return to this special place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It contains thousands of rare volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The display includes exquisite 16th-century maps and
