Readers' Top Travel Discoveries of This Year: Hidden Gems Across the World
From a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a overlooked alpine railway in France, travelers disclosed their most memorable discoveries from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after getting off the bus, an explorer pondered about their selection. But the initial suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This delightful location provides more than a swim. Tourists can wander through ornate public squares and narrow alleys lined with busy places to eat. Concrete diving platforms render the impressive Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots offer flaky pastries and refreshments with genuine welcome.
Vintage Sounds in The German Capital
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized venue offers great enjoyment. The atmosphere is terrific, featuring a DJ playing only vinyl. Seating are sometimes cleared to create dance floor. Operating late, the bar occasionally hosts live music, guaranteeing a memorable evening.
Cultural Legacy in a Polish Spa Town
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May presents a quiet getaway. Travelers may walk to the summit of a hill and climb a giant spiral platform for magnificent views over verdant fields. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. Lemko culture can be felt through traditional cuisine offering substantial food and traditional music. A gallery showcases the work of a noted painter, and the main area features several mineral water sources to taste.
Sardinian Coastal Gem
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant discovery. Featuring three stunning sandy shores, its lively town center is active every night with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a more authentic experience at a a quarter of the price. The lodging featured convenient a path to the shore and a elegant and warm environment.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border is a rural train route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect excursion from the region. However, this service is potentially at risk of shutting down. The ride features photogenic stone arches around the area of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to experience this picturesque line soon.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is accessible by ferry from multiple countries. The countryside is beautiful, characterized by shores, forests, and farmland. A historical location at Bomarsund reveals a 19th-century naval base established by Russia and subsequently destroyed during the Crimean War. Walking through the fort ruins is without charge, with a small fee for the visitor centre.
Coastal Solitude in England
One can hike for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This hidden area boasts wide-open views, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birds. The coast path winds along marshes bordering an estuary, where wrecks of old vessels are visible. A journey can commence at a 7th-century place of worship, among the earliest in England, and end in a charming coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in The Carpathians
Widely known as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved road. Closed during winter, it usually opens in June. The trip requires numerous bends to climb the dramatic southern section of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking scenery. Drivers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, by car. The route also includes the chance for seeing animals, completing the remarkable experience.
Island Getaway Near a Major City
A brief journey from a bustling city takes people to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Arriving on the island, visitors walk along historic lanes featuring historic houses. The rhythm is slow, with time broken by friendly cats and opportunities to stare back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is usually spent planning thoughts for a next visit to this unique retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in France
Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Housed behind a Gothic building is a archive that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds thousands of ancient volumes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The display includes exquisite old maps and
