Globetrotters' Favorite Travel Discoveries of The Past Year: Hidden Gems Across the World
From a Venice-like Slovenian town by the sea to a overlooked mountain train line in France, explorers revealed their most memorable discoveries from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor questioned about their decision. But the initial suspicions quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful town provides more than a swim. Guests can wander through ornate public squares and stone-paved passageways filled with vibrant places to eat. Concrete diving platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Local spots serve up delicious pastries and refreshments with genuine service.
Classic Sounds in Germany's Capital
For lovers of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized club promises great enjoyment. The vibe is fantastic, complete with a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Furniture are often pushed aside to make dance floor. Open late into the night, the bar sometimes features live bands, making for a great evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a serene escape. Visitors are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and ascend a large spiral lookout for breathtaking views over verdant landscapes. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional restaurants serving robust food and folk music. A museum showcases the work of a renowned folk artist, and the central spa features several medicinal taps to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant choice. Featuring several beautiful white sand beaches, its bustling centre comes alive in the evenings with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town offered a local atmosphere at a fraction of the price. The lodging offered easy access to the beach and a elegant and warm environment.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from a nearby city. But, this line is potentially under threat of being closed. The ride includes breathtaking bridges around the locality of Morez, which are regarded as beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to see this picturesque railway while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable sites and is easy to get to by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is striking, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A historical fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical fortress constructed by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is complimentary, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
It is possible to walk for miles along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing anyone. This hidden landscape boasts wide-open vistas, seals offshore, and an array of birdlife. The path winds along salt marsh flanking an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A journey can begin at a very old chapel, reportedly the oldest in England, and conclude in a quaint town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Shut during the colder months, it usually opens in early summer. The trip requires numerous bends to navigate the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking views. Drivers can access a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The journey also includes the opportunity for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A quick journey from a bustling metropolis takes people to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers stroll along quiet streets featuring beautiful homes. The feel is leisurely, often interrupted by friendly cats and moments to look back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is usually filled with thoughts for a comeback to this special sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a historic building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds a vast collection of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition includes exquisite 16th-century maps and
