Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked alpine train line in France, visitors have shared their standout discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after stepping off the bus, a traveler wondered about their selection. But the first suspicions soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This delightful location presents more than a swim. Guests can wander through ornate public squares and narrow lanes housing vibrant eateries. Man-made jumping points render the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town serve up flaky pastries and refreshments with genuine welcome.
Classic Tunes in The German Capital
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club is immense fun. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ spinning only vinyl. Furniture are sometimes pushed aside to create dancing. Staying open late, the bar occasionally hosts performances, making for a memorable experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a peaceful getaway. Travelers may walk to the peak of a hill and go up a giant wooden lookout for stunning panoramas over verdant pastures. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Their culture is on display through traditional dining offering substantial food and traditional music. A gallery celebrates the work of a noted painter, and the central spa features a number of spring water sources to try.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent find. With multiple beautiful pristine beaches, its vibrant town center thrives every night with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a local feel at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation provided easy entry to the shore and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great day trip from a nearby city. But, this service is reportedly at risk of closure. The journey features photogenic viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Tourists are encouraged to see this unique railway soon.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, has notable sites and is reachable by boat from several countries. The countryside is beautiful, featuring coastline, woods, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost constructed by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is complimentary, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This undiscovered world provides wide-open vistas, marine life offshore, and an profusion of birdlife. The trail follows along marshes next to an estuary, where wrecks of boats can be seen. A hike can start at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the oldest in England, and finish in a quaint town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually opens in June. The drive requires constant switchbacks to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking views. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The drive also includes the potential for seeing animals, completing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A quick journey from a vibrant city takes travelers to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the city chaos fades for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along quiet roads flanked by beautiful homes. The feel is slow, often paused by resident cats and chances to look back at the far-off city. The return journey is usually accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this special place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a historic church is a collection that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of magnificent volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition includes exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
