Travelers' Favorite Travel Discoveries of The Past Year: Hidden Gems Across the World
From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable finds from the past year.
A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after arriving, one visitor wondered about their choice. But the initial hesitations quickly faded upon entering Piran. This picturesque settlement presents beyond just swimming. Tourists may meander through ornate piazzas and narrow passageways filled with vibrant eateries. Concrete diving platforms make the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Nearby establishments serve up crisp pastries and refreshments with warm service.
Vintage Sounds in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul, a true find awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated club offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ playing just vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes moved to make space to dance. Open late into the night, the bar occasionally has performances, ensuring a fantastic evening.
Cultural Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful getaway. Visitors can hike to the top of a hill and ascend a tall wooden platform for magnificent panoramas over lush landscapes. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine offering hearty fare and traditional music. A museum showcases the work of a noted naive artist, and the main area features a number of spring taps to sample.
Sardinian Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant discovery. Featuring several beautiful white sand shores, its lively center is active in the evenings with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town offered a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the cost. The lodging offered convenient a path to the sea and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border runs a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from the region. Yet, this line is said to be under threat of shutting down. The journey features breathtaking bridges around the town of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Tourists are advised to ride this picturesque line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a strong cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is reachable by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is striking, characterized by shores, woods, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical fortress constructed by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Exploring the site is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to stroll for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another person. This undiscovered landscape provides wide-open vistas, seals bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of wildlife. The path winds along estuarine next to an estuary, where remains of old vessels lie. A journey can commence at a 7th-century place of worship, among the oldest in England, and conclude in a charming town with inns, museums, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved route. Closed during winter, it typically reopens in June. The trip features many switchbacks to ascend the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Drivers can reach a high-altitude lake, often surrounded by snow, directly. The route also presents the chance for spotting bears, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A short journey from a bustling city takes travelers to a tranquil island. As the day ends, the city chaos fades for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, explorers meander along tree-lined streets flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is leisurely, often paused by local cats and opportunities to stare back at the far-off city. The return journey is usually filled with ideas for a future return to this special sanctuary.
Winning Tip: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Tucked away behind a historic building is a library that is free to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of rare volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes gorgeous old cartography and
