Starting with a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a forgotten mountain railway in France, explorers disclosed their most memorable finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after arriving, an explorer wondered about their choice. But the first hesitations soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This delightful settlement offers more than a swim. Tourists are able to stroll through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled lanes housing vibrant places to eat. Concrete jumping points turn the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town serve up delicious pastries and beverages with warm hospitality.
Retro Music in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and Motown, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized venue offers immense fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, featuring a DJ playing just records. Furniture are often moved to allow for dance floor. Operating until the early hours, the bar sometimes hosts live bands, ensuring a great night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Spa Town
Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a quiet getaway. Guests may walk to the peak of a slope and go up a tall spiral viewing tower for stunning views over verdant landscapes. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be felt through rustic dining with robust food and traditional music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the town centre boasts several spring water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent find. Boasting multiple wonderful sandy shores, its lively center thrives in the evenings with residents. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a local experience at a a quarter of the cost. A hotel offered convenient entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Scenic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from nearby cities. However, this line is potentially under threat of being closed. The journey passes over spectacular bridges around the area of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Travelers are encouraged to experience this unique line soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable sites and is reachable by boat from several countries. The countryside is attractive, characterized by shores, forests, and farmland. A notable location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base established by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is complimentary, with a ticket for the information center.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This secret world boasts expansive views, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail meanders along estuarine bordering an river mouth, where remains of old vessels can be seen. A walk can begin at a 7th-century church, one of the earliest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt mountain road. Closed during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The journey involves numerous bends to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering excellent scenery. Drivers can access a mountain lake, sometimes ringed with snow, directly. The journey also includes the chance for seeing animals, enhancing the remarkable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A brief journey from a major city takes travelers to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along quiet roads flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is relaxed, often interrupted by local cats and chances to stare back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is often spent planning thoughts for a future return to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Housed behind a historic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains a vast collection of magnificent tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes exquisite old cartography and
