From a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a overlooked mountain railway in France, explorers revealed their most memorable encounters from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Shortly after arriving, an explorer wondered about their choice. But the initial suspicions quickly faded upon entering Piran. This charming settlement offers more than a swim. Guests may meander through ornate Venetian squares and stone-paved alleys housing vibrant seafood restaurants. Concrete jumping points render the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Nearby establishments provide delicious pastries and drinks with friendly hospitality.
Retro Tunes in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized music bar is great enjoyment. The ambiance is fantastic, with a DJ spinning exclusively records. Furniture are often moved to make dance floor. Open late into the night, the bar at times hosts live bands, ensuring a memorable experience.
Ethnic Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a serene getaway. Guests may walk to the summit of a slope and go up a giant wooden lookout for breathtaking vistas over verdant landscapes. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Their culture is on display through traditional cuisine offering substantial fare and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a prolific folk artist, and the main area boasts several mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. With several wonderful white sand shores, its vibrant center thrives every night with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location provided a genuine feel at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation provided convenient access to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from the region. However, this line is said to be under threat of being closed. The journey includes spectacular bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Visitors are urged to experience this special line before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is reachable by boat from several countries. The countryside is beautiful, featuring shores, forests, and farmland. A historical fort at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost built by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is complimentary, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another soul. This hidden world offers expansive views, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail follows along estuarine bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of boats are visible. A walk can start at a ancient chapel, one of the oldest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Closed during winter, it typically opens in early summer. The journey involves many bends to climb the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible scenery. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, directly. The journey also presents the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A short boat trip from a vibrant metropolis takes visitors to a car-free getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined streets featuring historic houses. The feel is relaxed, with time paused by local cats and moments to look back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often spent planning plans for a future return to this incredible place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Located behind a historic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition showcases detailed old maps and
