Globetrotters' Favorite Journey Finds of The Past Year: Lesser-Known Treasures Across the World
Starting with a Venetian-style Slovenian seaside settlement to a overlooked alpine railway in France, travelers have shared their standout finds from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after arriving, one visitor questioned about their selection. But the initial hesitations quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This delightful location offers more than a swim. Guests may meander through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled passageways lined with busy places to eat. Concrete jumping points render the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Local spots provide flaky pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.
Vintage Tunes in Germany's Capital
For fans of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul music, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized music bar is great enjoyment. The vibe is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning exclusively records. Seating are routinely cleared to create dancing. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times has live music, ensuring a memorable evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Spa Town
Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a quiet getaway. Guests can hike to the top of a ski run and ascend a tall spiral platform for stunning views over lush pastures. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage can be felt through rustic cuisine offering substantial fare and traditional music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a noted naive artist, and the central spa boasts several spring water fountains to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant discovery. With three wonderful pristine coastlines, its lively center thrives in the evenings with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this town delivered a genuine experience at a a quarter of the cost. Accommodation featured easy access to the shore and a stylish but welcoming ambiance.
A Scenic Alpine Rail Line in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border runs a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from a nearby city. But, the route is reportedly threatened of being closed. The trip passes over spectacular viaducts around the area of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are urged to ride this unique line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The landscape is striking, featuring rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is without charge, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
One can hike for miles along a part of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another person. This secret landscape boasts sweeping vistas, seals offshore, and an array of wildlife. The coast path follows along marshes next to an river mouth, where remains of old vessels can be seen. A walk can commence at a 7th-century church, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved mountain road. Shut during winter, it usually reopens in late spring. The trip involves many switchbacks to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent vistas. Visitors can access a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, by car. The route also offers the potential for seeing animals, adding to the remarkable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Major City
A brief journey from a major city takes visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an serene atmosphere. Exploring the island, guests walk along historic streets flanked by beautiful homes. The pace is relaxed, with time interrupted by friendly cats and opportunities to look back at the distant mainland. The trip home is often accompanied by ideas for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a 14th-century building is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains thousands of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases exquisite old maps and
