Globetrotters' Top Travel Discoveries of This Year: Lesser-Known Treasures Around the Globe
From a Venetian-style Slovene coastal town to a forgotten mountain train line in France, travelers disclosed their most memorable finds from the past year.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast
Moments after stepping off the bus, an explorer questioned about their decision. However the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This delightful town provides more than swimming. Visitors may meander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and narrow lanes lined with vibrant seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for everyone. Local spots offer delicious pastries and drinks with friendly hospitality.
Vintage Tunes in Berlin
For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a dedicated venue is a lot of fun. The ambiance is fantastic, with a DJ using only vinyl records. Seating are routinely pushed aside to allow for dance floor. Operating late, the bar at times has live music, making for a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Resort Town
Journeying into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a quiet escape. Guests are able to climb to the peak of a slope and ascend a giant spiral viewing tower for stunning views over verdant landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional restaurants offering substantial dishes and traditional music. A dedicated museum displays the work of a prolific folk artist, and the town centre has multiple spring water sources to try.
Sardinia's Coastal Beauty
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. With three stunning pristine coastlines, its bustling town center comes alive nightly with locals. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot delivered a genuine feel at a a quarter of the price. A hotel offered convenient access to the beach and a chic yet friendly ambiance.
A Scenic Mountain Railway Journey in France
Tucked away in the Jura mountains near the Swiss border lies a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a perfect journey from the region. However, the route is potentially threatened of being closed. The ride features breathtaking stone arches around the locality of Morez, which are considered beautiful sights. Visitors are advised to see this special line while they can.
Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region 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 rocky inlets, woods, and farms. A notable site at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress established by Russia and later destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Exploring the remains is without charge, with a charge for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in England
One can hike for miles along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not seeing another soul. This undiscovered landscape provides sweeping views, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail meanders along estuarine next to an estuary, where remnants of ships lie. A hike can begin at a very old chapel, one of the oldest in England, and end in a charming town with pubs, museums, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt road. Shut during the colder months, it usually reopens in early summer. The journey features numerous turns to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible views. Drivers can drive up to a high-altitude lake, often ringed with snow, directly. The drive also includes the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A brief journey from a bustling city transports travelers to a car-free getaway. As the day ends, the city chaos fades for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined streets flanked by historic houses. The pace is relaxed, frequently broken by friendly felines and chances to look back at the far-off mainland. The ferry back is usually spent planning thoughts for a comeback to this unique sanctuary.
Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in France
Within the historic town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a library that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It holds numerous of rare books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition showcases exquisite Renaissance-era maps and