Globetrotters' Most Cherished Travel Finds of This Year: Secret Spots Around the Globe
From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a forgotten alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their standout encounters from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after stepping off the bus, an explorer pondered about their choice. But the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This charming town provides beyond just swimming. Visitors may meander through ornate piazzas and cobbled alleys lined with bustling eateries. Concrete diving platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for all ages. Nearby establishments provide delicious pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Vintage Music in Berlin
For fans of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed music bar promises a lot of fun. The vibe is terrific, complete with a DJ using only records. Furniture are routinely pushed aside to create space to dance. Open until the early hours, the bar sometimes features performances, guaranteeing a fantastic night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a quiet retreat. Guests can hike to the summit of a ski run and ascend a tall twisting viewing tower for magnificent views over lush fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine offering substantial food and music. A gallery showcases the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area features several medicinal water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent find. With three beautiful pristine beaches, its bustling town center is active every night with residents. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town provided a genuine experience at a a quarter of the price. A hotel provided direct access to the beach and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from nearby cities. Yet, this service is reportedly at risk of shutting down. The journey passes over photogenic stone arches around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Travelers are encouraged to experience this picturesque line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is beautiful, with rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can stroll for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This undiscovered area boasts sweeping vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birds. The path follows along estuarine flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of ships can be seen. A walk can commence at a very old church, among the most ancient in England, and conclude in a pretty coastal town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Inaccessible during winter, it usually opens in June. The drive involves numerous bends to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also includes the potential for spotting bears, adding to the memorable experience.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief ferry ride from a major city takes travelers to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, guests meander along tree-lined lanes lined with grand mansions. The feel is leisurely, often interrupted by resident cats and moments to stare back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is often accompanied by ideas for a comeback to this incredible retreat.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Tucked away behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases detailed Renaissance-era maps and