Globetrotters' Top Travel Finds of This Year: Lesser-Known Treasures Worldwide
Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian seaside settlement to a forgotten alpine railway in France, travelers disclosed their most memorable finds from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, one visitor wondered about their decision. But the first suspicions quickly faded upon entering Piran. This picturesque location presents more than a swim. Guests may meander through ornate piazzas and stone-paved passageways housing bustling places to eat. Concrete platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Local spots provide flaky pastries and beverages with friendly hospitality.
Vintage Tunes in Berlin
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a gem exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a dedicated music bar promises great enjoyment. The ambiance is terrific, with a DJ spinning just records. Seating are often moved to allow for space to dance. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times features live music, guaranteeing a great night out.
Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring presents a quiet retreat. Visitors may walk to the top of a ski run and go up a tall spiral platform for magnificent views over verdant pastures. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture can be experienced through rustic cuisine with hearty food and music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa features several spring taps to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a wonderful discovery. Featuring multiple stunning sandy shores, its bustling town center thrives every night with locals. While the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot provided a local atmosphere at a much lower of the price. The lodging provided easy access to the sea and a stylish but welcoming atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a scenic rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect excursion from a nearby city. Yet, this service is said to be threatened of closure. The journey includes breathtaking viaducts around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Tourists are advised to ride this special railway soon.
Archipelago History in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting museums and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is striking, featuring coastline, forests, and farmland. A significant site at Bomarsund marks a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the site is complimentary, with a ticket for the visitor centre.
Seaside Solitude in Essex
It is possible to stroll for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another person. This hidden landscape boasts wide-open vistas, seals offshore, and an profusion of wildlife. The trail follows along marshes flanking an estuary, where remnants of old vessels are visible. A walk can start at a very old church, reportedly the earliest in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with inns, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt route. Closed during the colder months, it usually reopens in early summer. The journey features constant bends to navigate the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent scenery. Travelers can access a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, by car. The journey also presents the opportunity for seeing animals, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Near a Metropolis
A quick ferry ride from a bustling metropolis transports people to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, explorers meander along historic roads flanked by historic houses. The feel is relaxed, often broken by local cats and chances to look back at the distant city. The return journey is often filled with plans for a future return to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Tucked away behind a historic building is a archive that is free to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses a vast collection of ancient tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection includes gorgeous Renaissance-era maps and
