From a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten mountain train line in France, visitors disclosed their most memorable encounters from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after arriving, an explorer pondered about their choice. But the early doubts rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque location offers beyond just swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through beautiful Venetian squares and cobbled passageways filled with vibrant places to eat. Concrete diving platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Places in town provide flaky pastries and drinks with friendly hospitality.
Retro Tunes in Berlin
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized music bar promises immense fun. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ using just vinyl records. Furniture are sometimes pushed aside to make dancing. Open until the early hours, the bar occasionally has performances, making for a memorable evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a peaceful retreat. Visitors may walk to the peak of a ski run and ascend a large wooden platform for magnificent views over green landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic dining offering robust food and folk music. A gallery showcases the work of a renowned painter, and the town centre has several medicinal water fountains to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful choice. With several beautiful white sand coastlines, its bustling town center thrives in the evenings with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot delivered a more authentic experience at a much lower of the price. Accommodation provided easy entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great journey from a nearby city. However, the route is reportedly threatened of shutting down. The ride includes spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are urged to ride this unique line before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable attractions and is reachable by ferry from several countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by coastline, forests, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century naval base constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the site is without charge, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This secret landscape offers sweeping vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birdlife. The path winds along marshes next to an estuary, where remains of boats are visible. A hike can begin at a ancient church, among the earliest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved road. Closed during the colder months, it typically opens in late spring. The journey requires numerous turns to ascend the steep southern section of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking views. Drivers can access a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The drive also includes the chance for wildlife sightings, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short ferry ride from a bustling city transports people to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos fades for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, guests meander along historic lanes featuring historic houses. The rhythm is relaxed, frequently interrupted by local felines and opportunities to gaze back at the distant mainland. The trip home is usually filled with thoughts for a comeback to this special retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Tucked away behind a historic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses numerous of ancient volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes detailed 16th-century cartography and
