Readers' Most Cherished Journey Finds of This Year: Secret Spots Worldwide
Starting with a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a little-known mountain train line in France, explorers revealed their standout encounters from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor pondered about their decision. But the first doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This charming location presents more than swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful piazzas and cobbled lanes housing busy eateries. Man-made platforms render the stunning Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Local spots offer delicious pastries and drinks with friendly hospitality.
Vintage Sounds in Germany's Capital
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized venue promises a lot of fun. The vibe is fantastic, complete with a DJ playing just records. Seating are routinely moved to allow for dancing. Operating late, the bar at times features performances, making for a great evening.
Cultural Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a quiet retreat. Visitors are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and climb a tall wooden lookout for breathtaking panoramas over verdant fields. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be experienced through rustic dining serving robust dishes and music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a noted folk artist, and the town centre features a number of medicinal water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant discovery. With three stunning pristine shores, its vibrant center comes alive nightly with locals. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location offered a genuine atmosphere at a much lower of the cost. The lodging featured easy a path to the beach and a elegant and warm environment.
A Historic Alpine Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a scenic railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect excursion from nearby cities. Yet, this service is potentially at risk of closure. The ride passes over spectacular bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to experience this unique railway soon.
Island History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting attractions and is reachable by ferry from several countries. The countryside is attractive, featuring coastline, forests, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the site is complimentary, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can stroll for miles along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This hidden world provides sweeping vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birds. The trail follows along marshes bordering an estuary, where remains of old vessels lie. A hike can commence at a ancient place of worship, among the earliest in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Inaccessible during winter, it typically reopens in early summer. The trip requires many bends to climb the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible scenery. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The journey also presents the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the memorable experience.
Ferry Escape Near a Major City
A quick boat trip from a major metropolis takes visitors to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the urban energy dissipates for an peaceful setting. Exploring the island, visitors walk along quiet lanes lined with grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, frequently broken by resident felines and chances to look back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is often accompanied by ideas for a future return to this unique place.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a historic church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses numerous of rare books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases exquisite old maps and
