Readers' Most Cherished Journey Finds of This Year: Secret Spots Worldwide
Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a little-known mountain railway in France, travelers have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after getting off the bus, an explorer questioned about their selection. Yet the first hesitations rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This charming location offers more than a swim. Tourists can wander through ornate public squares and narrow passageways housing vibrant eateries. Concrete diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Places in town serve up delicious pastries and drinks with friendly hospitality.
Retro Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of classic rock, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized music bar offers a lot of fun. The vibe is fabulous, featuring a DJ using just vinyl records. Furniture are sometimes cleared to make dancing. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times has live bands, guaranteeing a great night out.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a quiet getaway. Travelers may walk to the peak of a slope and ascend a giant wooden lookout for magnificent views over lush landscapes. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage can be felt through rustic restaurants offering substantial food and music. A gallery celebrates the work of a prolific naive artist, and the town centre features several spring taps to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant find. Featuring multiple wonderful white sand shores, its vibrant center is active in the evenings with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location delivered a local feel at a a quarter of the price. Accommodation provided direct entry to the sea and a elegant and warm ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from a nearby city. Yet, the route is said to be threatened of closure. The journey features spectacular bridges around the area of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Tourists are advised to ride this unique railway before it's too late.
Island History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is striking, featuring coastline, forests, and farmland. A notable fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical naval base established by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is complimentary, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This secret world boasts sweeping vistas, seals offshore, and an profusion of wildlife. The trail winds along salt marsh flanking an estuary, where remnants of boats are visible. A walk can commence at a very old church, reportedly the oldest in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt route. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in late spring. The trip requires numerous turns to navigate the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Drivers can access a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, by car. The journey also presents the opportunity for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a bustling metropolis takes visitors to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, visitors stroll along historic streets featuring grand mansions. The feel is leisurely, often interrupted by resident cats and opportunities to gaze back at the distant mainland. The return journey is often spent planning ideas for a future return to this unique place.
Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Located behind a historic church is a library that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains numerous of rare books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The display includes gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
