Readers' Favorite Journey Revelations of This Year: Hidden Gems Across the World
From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known alpine railway in France, explorers revealed their standout finds from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after stepping off the bus, a traveler wondered about their choice. But the first suspicions quickly faded upon entering Piran. This charming settlement provides more than a swim. Visitors can wander through beautiful Venetian squares and cobbled alleys filled with bustling seafood restaurants. Concrete diving platforms make the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Places in town offer flaky pastries and beverages with warm welcome.
Classic Music in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, retro pop, and Motown, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a dedicated club offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, with a DJ spinning only records. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to make dancing. Operating late into the night, the bar occasionally hosts live music, guaranteeing a great evening.
Cultural Traditions in a Poland's Spa Town
Crossing into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful escape. Visitors are able to climb to the peak of a hill and climb a giant spiral platform for stunning vistas over verdant landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Lemko culture can be felt through rustic cuisine serving substantial food and music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a noted painter, and the town centre has several medicinal water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful discovery. Boasting several beautiful white sand coastlines, its vibrant center is active in the evenings with residents. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot provided a genuine experience at a a quarter of the price. A hotel provided convenient entry to the shore and a elegant and warm ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great excursion from the region. But, the route is potentially at risk of shutting down. The trip features spectacular bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as architectural treasures. Travelers are advised to see this picturesque railway soon.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong identity. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable sites and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The countryside is attractive, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost built by Russia and later demolished during the Crimean War. Walking through the site is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can walk for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This hidden area boasts wide-open vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birds. The coast path meanders along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of boats are visible. A journey can begin at a 7th-century chapel, among the earliest in England, and conclude in a pretty coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Shut during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The trip features numerous switchbacks to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent vistas. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, without a cable car. The drive also presents the potential for wildlife sightings, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Near a Major City
A short ferry ride from a major city transports people to a car-free getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers stroll along historic roads lined with grand mansions. The pace is leisurely, with time broken by friendly cats and chances to stare back at the distant mainland. The return journey is usually accompanied by thoughts for a next visit to this special retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Tucked away behind a historic building is a archive that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses a vast collection of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition includes exquisite 16th-century cartography and