From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked alpine railway in France, explorers disclosed their most memorable finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Moments after arriving, an explorer pondered about their choice. Yet the first doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful location offers beyond just a swim. Tourists can wander through beautiful public squares and narrow lanes housing vibrant seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Local spots offer flaky pastries and drinks with friendly hospitality.
Vintage Tunes in The German Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized music bar promises great enjoyment. The ambiance is fantastic, with a DJ spinning just vinyl. Furniture are sometimes moved to make dancing. Open late, the bar sometimes features live music, making for a great night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May offers a quiet retreat. Travelers are able to climb to the top of a hill and climb a large twisting platform for magnificent panoramas over lush fields. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. Their culture is on display through rustic dining with robust food and traditional music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the town centre boasts a number of spring water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. Boasting several wonderful white sand beaches, its bustling centre is active every night with locals. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot delivered a more authentic experience at a a quarter of the price. The lodging featured direct a path to the shore and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect journey from a nearby city. But, this line is said to be under threat of shutting down. The journey includes spectacular viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to ride this unique railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting attractions and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Walking through the remains is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can walk for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This undiscovered world provides wide-open views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of wildlife. The path follows along marshes flanking an river mouth, where remnants of boats are visible. A walk can commence at a 7th-century church, reportedly the oldest in England, and conclude in a pretty town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in late spring. The journey features many turns to ascend the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, offering incredible scenery. Drivers can access a mountain lake, sometimes ringed with snow, directly. The drive also offers the potential for wildlife sightings, completing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Getaway Near a Metropolis
A brief journey from a bustling city transports people to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, visitors stroll along historic streets flanked by grand mansions. The rhythm is slow, frequently paused by local felines and chances to gaze back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is often filled with ideas for a comeback to this unique place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Housed behind a 14th-century building is a library that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds numerous of ancient tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display includes detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
