Readers' Favorite Journey Revelations of This Year: Secret Spots Around the Globe
Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked alpine train line in France, explorers have shared their standout discoveries from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Right after arriving, one visitor wondered about their decision. But the first doubts soon dissipated upon discovering Piran. This charming town offers more than a swim. Tourists are able to stroll through elaborately decorated piazzas and narrow passageways filled with busy eateries. Concrete diving platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Nearby establishments offer flaky pastries and refreshments with friendly hospitality.
Retro Music in Berlin
For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized venue promises great enjoyment. The atmosphere is terrific, complete with a DJ spinning exclusively records. Seating are often pushed aside to create dance floor. Staying open late into the night, the bar sometimes hosts performances, making for a great experience.
Cultural Legacy in a Poland's Health Resort
Crossing into the Polish town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene escape. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a hill and go up a large twisting lookout for magnificent vistas over lush fields. This area is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. Lemko culture can be felt through traditional restaurants serving robust fare and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the town centre boasts a number of spring water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent find. With several beautiful white sand shores, its vibrant center comes alive nightly with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this location delivered a more authentic experience at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation offered direct access to the sea and a elegant and warm ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a little-known rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a perfect day trip from a nearby city. But, the route is said to be under threat of closure. The trip passes over breathtaking bridges around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to see this special line before it's too late.
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, offers notable museums and is reachable by boat from nearby countries. The natural surroundings is beautiful, with shores, forests, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical fortress constructed by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is without charge, with a ticket for the information center.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
One can hike for hours along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without encountering another person. This undiscovered landscape offers sweeping vistas, seals offshore, and an profusion of birds. The trail follows along estuarine next to an estuary, where wrecks of ships can be seen. A walk can commence at a 7th-century church, reportedly the oldest in England, and conclude in a charming coastal town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The journey involves numerous bends to ascend the steep southern section of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking vistas. Drivers can reach a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The journey also presents the opportunity for wildlife sightings, enhancing the memorable adventure.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A short boat trip from a major metropolis takes travelers to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the urban energy dissipates for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, guests meander along tree-lined roads flanked by grand mansions. The feel is relaxed, often interrupted by local cats and chances to look back at the distant mainland. The ferry back is usually accompanied by ideas for a next visit to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Housed behind a historic church is a archive that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It houses a vast collection of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display showcases exquisite 16th-century maps and
