Readers' Top Journey Discoveries of This Year: Secret Spots Across the World
From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known mountain railway in France, explorers disclosed their most memorable discoveries from the past year.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor questioned about their selection. Yet the early hesitations quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This picturesque town provides more than a swim. Tourists are able to stroll through beautiful public squares and narrow alleys housing bustling places to eat. Concrete jumping points make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Local spots provide flaky pastries and refreshments with warm service.
Classic Tunes in Berlin
For fans of classic rock, 60s pop music, and Motown, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed club offers great enjoyment. The ambiance is terrific, complete with a DJ playing only records. Chairs and tables are sometimes cleared to allow for dance floor. Operating late, the bar sometimes hosts live bands, guaranteeing a fantastic night out.
Cultural Traditions in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a serene escape. Visitors may walk to the summit of a hill and ascend a giant twisting lookout for stunning views over green landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be felt through traditional cuisine offering robust dishes and music. A museum showcases the work of a noted naive artist, and the central spa boasts multiple mineral water sources to try.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful find. With multiple stunning pristine beaches, its bustling center thrives every night with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location delivered a more authentic experience at a much lower of the cost. A hotel featured direct access to the shore and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.
A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect day trip from the region. But, this service is reportedly threatened of shutting down. The trip includes photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Visitors are urged to see this unique railway while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The countryside is beautiful, featuring shores, forests, and farms. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost constructed by Russia and then attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is complimentary, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in England
It is possible to hike for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula without seeing another person. This hidden area boasts sweeping views, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birds. The coast path winds along marshes next to an estuary, where remains of ships are visible. A journey can commence at a very old chapel, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely described as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Closed during winter, it usually opens in late spring. The journey involves many switchbacks to ascend the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often covered in snow, without a cable car. The route also offers the opportunity for spotting bears, enhancing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis
A brief ferry ride from a bustling city transports visitors to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the city chaos dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers walk along historic roads lined with beautiful homes. The feel is leisurely, with time paused by friendly cats and opportunities to stare back at the skyline of the city. The trip home is usually filled with ideas for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Housed behind a 14th-century church is a archive that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It holds thousands of rare tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection includes gorgeous 16th-century cartography and