From a Venetian-inspired Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their decision. However the first suspicions soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful town presents more than swimming. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated piazzas and narrow lanes filled with vibrant places to eat. Man-made jumping points make the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Nearby establishments offer crisp pastries and beverages with friendly service.
Vintage Sounds in The German Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar offers great enjoyment. The ambiance is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Seating are routinely cleared to create space to dance. Open late into the night, the bar sometimes has performances, making for a great experience.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Spa Town
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a peaceful getaway. Visitors can hike to the peak of a ski run and ascend a giant spiral platform for stunning vistas over verdant landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture is on display through traditional dining with substantial fare and music. A museum displays the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area features several spring taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful choice. Featuring several stunning white sand beaches, its bustling center thrives nightly with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a genuine experience at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation featured easy access to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a superb excursion from a nearby city. However, this line is potentially at risk of closure. The trip passes over breathtaking viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Tourists are advised to ride this special railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable attractions and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is striking, featuring coastline, forests, and farms. A notable fort 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 fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in England
It is possible to walk for hours along a section of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This hidden area provides wide-open vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of birdlife. The path follows along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A walk can begin at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the oldest in England, and conclude in a pretty coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Inaccessible during winter, it usually opens in late spring. The drive requires many turns to ascend the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Visitors can access a mountain lake, still covered in snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the chance for spotting bears, completing the remarkable experience.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A brief boat trip from a bustling city transports travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, explorers walk along quiet roads flanked by historic houses. The rhythm is leisurely, with time paused by local cats and moments to gaze back at the distant city. The ferry back is often accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of magnificent books, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition showcases detailed Renaissance-era maps and
