From a Venetian-style Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after arriving, an explorer pondered about their choice. Yet the initial hesitations quickly faded upon entering Piran. This charming town provides beyond just swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful piazzas and narrow lanes housing busy places to eat. Man-made diving platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Nearby establishments provide delicious pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.
Vintage Music in The German Capital
For fans of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated venue offers great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning just records. Chairs and tables are sometimes moved to create dance floor. Operating late, the bar occasionally has live bands, ensuring a great night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a serene retreat. Guests may walk to the summit of a hill and ascend a tall wooden viewing tower for breathtaking views over green fields. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture can be experienced through traditional restaurants offering robust food and folk music. A museum displays the work of a noted folk artist, and the central spa features multiple medicinal water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. Featuring three wonderful white sand beaches, its bustling center is active in the evenings with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location delivered a genuine experience at a fraction of the cost. The lodging provided direct entry to the sea and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great excursion from nearby cities. However, this service is said to be at risk of being closed. The ride includes breathtaking bridges around the locality of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to see this unique railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is reachable by boat from several countries. The landscape is attractive, with rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost established by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the remains is complimentary, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
It is possible to stroll for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This secret world offers sweeping views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birds. The path follows along marshes bordering an estuary, where wrecks of ships can be seen. A walk can start at a very old place of worship, among the earliest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The journey features many turns to ascend the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Drivers can access a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also presents the potential for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable experience.
Island Escape Near a Metropolis
A short journey from a bustling city transports visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along historic roads featuring grand mansions. The pace is leisurely, often paused by local felines and opportunities to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is often filled with ideas for a future return to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a historic church is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds thousands of magnificent books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection showcases gorgeous 16th-century maps and
