Readers' Top Journey Revelations of This Year: Secret Spots Worldwide
From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked mountain train line in France, explorers disclosed their most unforgettable discoveries from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after getting off the bus, one visitor questioned about their selection. But the first hesitations quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque settlement offers more than a swim. Visitors are able to stroll through beautiful public squares and stone-paved alleys lined with vibrant places to eat. Man-made platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Nearby establishments offer flaky pastries and drinks with genuine service.
Vintage Tunes in The German Capital
For aficionados of classic rock, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized music bar is immense fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning only vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to create space to dance. Operating late into the night, the bar occasionally hosts live music, ensuring a great experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a peaceful retreat. Visitors may walk to the top of a slope and go up a giant spiral lookout for breathtaking vistas over green landscapes. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional restaurants with hearty fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a prolific naive artist, and the town centre has a number of mineral water fountains to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent find. Boasting multiple stunning sandy beaches, its vibrant center thrives in the evenings with locals. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location provided a local feel at a a quarter of the price. The lodging provided direct access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Historic Alpine Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect excursion from a nearby city. However, the route is reportedly under threat of closure. The ride features spectacular viaducts around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Tourists are advised to see this unique line soon.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, found in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting museums and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is attractive, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress established by Russia and subsequently demolished during the Crimean War. Exploring the remains is free, with a small fee for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
One can hike for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This hidden world boasts expansive vistas, marine life offshore, and an profusion of wildlife. The coast path meanders along marshes next to an estuary, where remnants of boats are visible. A journey can begin at a very old place of worship, among the oldest in England, and conclude in a pretty town with pubs, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Closed during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The journey involves numerous turns to climb the dramatic mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible scenery. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The route also presents the potential for wildlife sightings, adding to the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A quick boat trip from a major metropolis takes travelers to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, explorers walk along quiet roads featuring beautiful homes. The feel is relaxed, often paused by friendly cats and moments to stare back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is usually spent planning thoughts for a future return to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Housed behind a Gothic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition includes exquisite 16th-century cartography and
