Globetrotters' Favorite Journey Finds of The Past Year: Secret Spots Worldwide
Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a forgotten mountain railway in France, visitors disclosed their most memorable encounters from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after arriving, one visitor wondered about their decision. However the first doubts quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This charming town presents more than a swim. Guests are able to stroll through elaborately decorated public squares and narrow passageways housing vibrant eateries. Concrete diving platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea manageable for people of every age. Nearby establishments provide flaky pastries and drinks with friendly service.
Vintage Music in Germany's Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a gem can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed music bar is a lot of fun. The ambiance is terrific, featuring a DJ spinning just records. Furniture are often moved to make dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar sometimes features live music, guaranteeing a great evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a serene retreat. Visitors can hike to the top of a hill and ascend a tall wooden platform for magnificent views over lush pastures. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain community. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine offering hearty dishes and folk music. A gallery showcases the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre has a number of spring water fountains to sample.
Sardinia's Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a excellent choice. Boasting three beautiful pristine coastlines, its vibrant town center comes alive nightly with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this town delivered a genuine experience at a much lower of the cost. A hotel provided direct access to the shore and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
An Iconic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from nearby cities. Yet, this service is said to be threatened of being closed. The journey includes breathtaking stone arches around the area of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to see this picturesque line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is accessible by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is beautiful, characterized by rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and then destroyed during the Crimean War. Exploring the fort ruins is complimentary, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Tranquility in England
One can hike for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another person. This hidden area boasts sweeping vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of birdlife. The coast path meanders along salt marsh bordering an river mouth, where remnants of ships are visible. A walk can start at a very old chapel, reportedly the earliest in England, and end in a pretty town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest paved mountain road. Closed during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The journey requires constant bends to ascend the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent views. Travelers can access a high-altitude lake, still ringed with snow, by car. The drive also includes the potential for spotting bears, adding to the unforgettable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A quick ferry ride from a major metropolis takes travelers to a tranquil island. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle fades for an peaceful setting. Walking through the island, explorers stroll along tree-lined streets featuring grand mansions. The rhythm is leisurely, with time interrupted by friendly felines and opportunities to gaze back at the distant mainland. The ferry back is usually filled with plans for a comeback to this incredible sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure awaits. Housed behind a historic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The display showcases exquisite Renaissance-era maps and
