Travelers' Favorite Journey Finds of This Year: Hidden Gems Around the Globe
Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a forgotten mountain railway in France, explorers revealed their most unforgettable finds from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after stepping off the bus, one visitor questioned about their decision. But the first doubts quickly faded upon entering Piran. This charming settlement offers beyond just swimming. Guests are able to stroll through ornate public squares and cobbled lanes housing bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points make the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Places in town offer flaky pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.
Vintage Music in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized club is a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, complete with a DJ playing only records. Seating are often moved to create dancing. Staying open late, the bar sometimes hosts performances, guaranteeing a memorable night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Journeying into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a peaceful retreat. Travelers can hike to the summit of a slope and go up a large wooden lookout for stunning panoramas over verdant fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. Their culture can be felt through rustic restaurants offering substantial food and traditional music. A gallery showcases the work of a renowned painter, and the main area features a number of spring water sources to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful discovery. Featuring three wonderful white sand beaches, its vibrant centre comes alive in the evenings with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot offered a local feel at a a quarter of the price. A hotel offered direct access to the beach and a stylish but welcoming environment.
A Historic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from nearby cities. Yet, this line is potentially at risk of closure. The ride features photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Travelers are urged to experience this picturesque railway while they can.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The landscape is striking, featuring coastline, forests, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century fortress built by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is free, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can walk for hours along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering anyone. This secret world offers sweeping views, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birds. The trail follows along marshes bordering an estuary, where remains of ships are visible. A walk can begin at a very old chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and end in a pretty coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt mountain road. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in June. The trip requires constant bends to ascend the steep southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible views. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, by car. The journey also presents the potential for seeing animals, completing the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief journey from a vibrant city takes people to a tranquil getaway. As the evening approaches, the urban energy fades for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, guests stroll along historic lanes flanked by grand mansions. The feel is slow, frequently paused by friendly cats and chances to stare back at the far-off mainland. The return journey is often spent planning ideas for a future return to this unique place.
Top Discovery: 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 14th-century church is a library that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds a vast collection of magnificent volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display showcases exquisite 16th-century maps and
