Readers' Most Cherished Journey Discoveries of This Year: Lesser-Known Treasures Around the Globe
Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a little-known alpine railway in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable encounters from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Right after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their decision. However the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This picturesque location presents beyond just swimming. Guests are able to stroll through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled lanes housing vibrant seafood restaurants. Concrete jumping points render the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Nearby establishments provide delicious pastries and beverages with warm service.
Retro Sounds in Berlin
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul music, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated venue promises immense fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning only vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to allow for dance floor. Staying open late into the night, the bar occasionally hosts live bands, making for a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a quiet escape. Travelers can hike to the peak of a hill and climb a large spiral lookout for magnificent vistas over verdant fields. This region is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage can be felt through rustic cuisine with robust dishes and folk music. A dedicated museum celebrates the work of a noted painter, and the main area has a number of medicinal water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Treasure
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful find. Boasting multiple stunning pristine coastlines, its bustling center comes alive nightly with families. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town offered a genuine feel at a much lower of the cost. The lodging provided convenient a path to the sea and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from the region. However, this service is potentially under threat of closure. The journey features breathtaking bridges around the locality of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to experience this unique line before it's too late.
Archipelago 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, features notable museums and is easy to get to by ferry from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, characterized by coastline, forests, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is free, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to hike for miles along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another soul. This secret landscape boasts wide-open vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an array of birdlife. The path meanders along estuarine next to an river mouth, where wrecks of boats can be seen. A hike can begin at a 7th-century church, among the earliest in England, and finish in a pretty town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved route. Shut during the colder months, it typically opens in late spring. The drive involves many bends to navigate the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing incredible views. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, still covered in snow, directly. The drive also includes the opportunity for wildlife sightings, completing the unforgettable experience.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief ferry ride from a major metropolis takes visitors to a car-free island. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, explorers walk along tree-lined streets flanked by beautiful homes. The feel is slow, with time paused by friendly felines and opportunities to look back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is often spent planning thoughts for a comeback to this special sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses numerous of magnificent volumes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection showcases gorgeous old cartography and