From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a little-known mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after stepping off the bus, one visitor wondered about their selection. Yet the initial hesitations quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This charming location offers more than swimming. Visitors are able to stroll through ornate piazzas and narrow passageways lined with bustling seafood restaurants. Concrete jumping points make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Local spots offer flaky pastries and refreshments with friendly hospitality.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated club offers immense fun. The vibe is fabulous, complete with a DJ playing only vinyl. Furniture are routinely moved to allow for dancing. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times features performances, making for a memorable evening.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a peaceful getaway. Guests can hike to the peak of a ski run and ascend a giant wooden viewing tower for stunning vistas over green fields. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. The local heritage can be felt through traditional cuisine offering robust food and traditional music. A museum celebrates the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa has several medicinal taps to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant discovery. Boasting three beautiful white sand coastlines, its lively centre is active nightly with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a local feel at a a quarter of the price. The lodging offered direct access to the beach and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect day trip from nearby cities. But, the route is potentially at risk of shutting down. The journey passes over breathtaking viaducts around the town of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Visitors are advised to ride this unique railway soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is reachable by ferry from several countries. The landscape is striking, characterized by shores, forests, and farms. A historical location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical naval base built by Russia and later demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is complimentary, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for miles along a section of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another person. This hidden landscape boasts expansive views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birdlife. The coast path follows along estuarine bordering an estuary, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A journey can start at a ancient chapel, reportedly the most ancient in England, and end in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt mountain road. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in June. The journey requires constant bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, sometimes ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also includes the potential for spotting bears, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a major city transports people to a tranquil island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, explorers meander along tree-lined lanes lined with beautiful homes. The rhythm is leisurely, often paused by friendly cats and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is often accompanied by plans for a next visit to this special place.
Top Discovery: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Tucked away behind a historic church is a archive that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses thousands of ancient books, with a star attraction being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection showcases exquisite Renaissance-era cartography and
