Globetrotters' Favorite Adventure Finds of This Year: Hidden Gems Worldwide
Starting with a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a forgotten mountain railway in France, explorers have shared their most unforgettable encounters from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Right after stepping off the bus, a traveler questioned about their choice. But the initial doubts soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This charming town offers more than a swim. Tourists are able to stroll through elaborately decorated public squares and stone-paved lanes filled with busy places to eat. Man-made diving platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for all ages. Local spots provide crisp pastries and refreshments with genuine hospitality.
Retro Tunes in Germany's Capital
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a true find can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed music bar promises immense fun. The vibe is terrific, complete with a DJ using only vinyl. Chairs and tables are often pushed aside to make dancing. Open until the early hours, the bar sometimes hosts live music, ensuring a great evening.
Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Resort Town
Traveling into the Poland's destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a quiet retreat. Guests are able to climb to the summit of a slope and ascend a giant twisting platform for stunning views over verdant fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. Lemko culture is on display through rustic restaurants with substantial food and folk music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned painter, and the town centre features multiple mineral water sources to sample.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent discovery. Boasting several wonderful pristine coastlines, its bustling centre thrives in the evenings with families. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this location offered a genuine feel at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation featured easy entry to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Scenic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a great journey from nearby cities. Yet, this line is potentially at risk of shutting down. The trip passes over spectacular viaducts around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Tourists are encouraged to ride this picturesque line while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The capital, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is reachable by ferry from several countries. The countryside is striking, characterized by coastline, woods, and farmland. A notable site at Bomarsund marks a historical naval base constructed by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is free, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Coastal Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to stroll for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This hidden world provides wide-open vistas, marine life in the water, and an abundance of birds. The path meanders along estuarine flanking an estuary, where wrecks of boats can be seen. A walk can begin at a 7th-century place of worship, reportedly the earliest in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt mountain road. Closed during the colder months, it typically opens in early summer. The drive requires constant bends to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent scenery. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, directly. The drive also offers the potential for seeing animals, enhancing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Escape Near a Major City
A brief journey from a major city transports travelers to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, guests walk along historic roads lined with grand mansions. The pace is leisurely, often paused by resident felines and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is usually spent planning ideas for a future return to this unique place.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a library that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses thousands of rare tomes, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The display features detailed old cartography and
