Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a forgotten alpine train line in France, explorers revealed their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after arriving, an explorer pondered about their choice. Yet the initial doubts soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement offers more than a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through beautiful Venetian squares and narrow lanes lined with busy places to eat. Man-made diving platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots serve up crisp pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Classic Tunes in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated music bar is great enjoyment. The vibe is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning exclusively records. Seating are routinely moved to create space to dance. Open late, the bar sometimes features live bands, guaranteeing a fantastic night out.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a peaceful retreat. Travelers may walk to the top of a slope and ascend a giant spiral lookout for stunning views over verdant pastures. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Their culture can be felt through rustic dining offering substantial fare and traditional music. A museum showcases the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area features multiple medicinal taps to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant discovery. Boasting several stunning white sand shores, its vibrant town center thrives in the evenings with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location offered a local atmosphere at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation provided easy a path to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great excursion from a nearby city. However, this line is reportedly threatened of being closed. The journey passes over breathtaking stone arches around the town of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to see this unique line while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable museums and is easy to get to by ferry from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, characterized by coastline, forests, and farmland. A notable location at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost constructed by Russia and then demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the remains is complimentary, with a ticket for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to hike for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This undiscovered landscape boasts sweeping vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail winds along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where remnants of boats are visible. A journey can begin at a very old place of worship, among the most ancient in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt road. Closed during winter, it usually reopens in early summer. The trip features many turns to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, without a cable car. The drive also presents the potential for seeing animals, completing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief ferry ride from a major metropolis transports visitors to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy is replaced for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests stroll along tree-lined streets featuring beautiful homes. The rhythm is slow, with time paused by local felines and opportunities to gaze back at the distant mainland. The trip home is usually filled with thoughts for a comeback to this incredible sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Located behind a historic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds thousands of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display showcases gorgeous 16th-century maps and
