Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a forgotten alpine train line in France, visitors revealed their standout finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after arriving, one visitor wondered about their decision. But the early doubts quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This charming location offers more than swimming. Tourists may meander through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved passageways filled with vibrant places to eat. Man-made jumping points render the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Places in town provide delicious pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Vintage Sounds in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed music bar promises great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fabulous, featuring a DJ playing exclusively records. Furniture are often cleared to make space to dance. Open late, the bar sometimes hosts live bands, making for a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene retreat. Visitors may walk to the peak of a slope and ascend a giant spiral platform for breathtaking vistas over lush pastures. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage is on display through traditional restaurants serving hearty food and music. A museum showcases the work of a noted folk artist, and the central spa features a number of mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent choice. With multiple beautiful pristine shores, its vibrant center thrives every night with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot delivered a genuine atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation featured direct entry to the sea and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from the region. However, this service is potentially at risk of shutting down. The journey features breathtaking bridges around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to experience this unique railway while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable attractions and is accessible by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is attractive, featuring coastline, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical fortress built by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the site is without charge, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Tranquility in England
It is possible to stroll for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This undiscovered area provides expansive vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The path follows along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where wrecks of boats lie. A journey can start at a ancient church, reportedly the oldest in England, and end in a charming coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Inaccessible during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The journey features many switchbacks to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking vistas. Travelers can access a mountain lake, often ringed with snow, without a cable car. The journey also includes the chance for wildlife sightings, enhancing the unforgettable experience.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A short journey from a vibrant city takes travelers to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, guests stroll along historic lanes featuring grand mansions. The feel is slow, with time broken by friendly felines and moments to gaze back at the distant city. The ferry back is usually spent planning ideas for a future return to this special place.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Housed behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses a vast collection of ancient volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition features detailed old maps and
