From a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a forgotten alpine train line in France, explorers disclosed their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. But the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque town provides more than swimming. Guests may meander through beautiful piazzas and cobbled alleys lined with busy places to eat. Concrete jumping points render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots serve up crisp pastries and beverages with warm service.
Classic Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized venue offers immense fun. The atmosphere is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning exclusively records. Furniture are often moved to make space to dance. Operating late into the night, the bar sometimes hosts live music, making for a fantastic evening.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a serene retreat. Guests are able to climb to the top of a hill and go up a tall spiral platform for stunning vistas over lush pastures. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional restaurants offering hearty food and traditional music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a prolific painter, and the main area has multiple mineral taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent discovery. Boasting several beautiful white sand beaches, its lively centre thrives in the evenings with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location offered a more authentic experience at a much lower of the price. A hotel featured convenient a path to the sea and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect journey from nearby cities. However, this line is reportedly threatened of closure. The trip passes over photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Travelers are urged to see this unique railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is striking, with shores, forests, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the site is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can stroll for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This hidden world offers wide-open views, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The path meanders along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels are visible. A hike can commence at a 7th-century place of worship, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a quaint town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely described as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The drive features numerous switchbacks to climb the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Visitors can access a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The route also includes the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A brief boat trip from a vibrant city takes travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along tree-lined lanes lined with historic houses. The feel is relaxed, often broken by resident cats and chances to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The return journey is often filled with thoughts for a comeback to this special sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses a vast collection of magnificent tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display features detailed 16th-century maps and
