Globetrotters' Top Travel Revelations of The Past Year: Lesser-Known Treasures Around the Globe
Starting with a Venice-like Slovene town by the sea to a forgotten mountain train line in France, visitors revealed their most memorable encounters from their journeys.
Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Shoreline
Moments after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their decision. However the initial suspicions quickly faded upon discovering Piran. This delightful town presents beyond just swimming. Guests are able to stroll through beautiful Venetian squares and cobbled lanes lined with bustling places to eat. Man-made platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Nearby establishments serve up crisp pastries and drinks with friendly service.
Vintage Sounds in The German Capital
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed music bar offers immense fun. The atmosphere is fabulous, complete with a DJ spinning exclusively vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to allow for dance floor. Operating late, the bar at times features performances, making for a memorable night out.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Spa Town
Traveling into the Poland's spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring provides a serene getaway. Guests can hike to the summit of a hill and climb a large spiral lookout for stunning views over verdant pastures. This area is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Lemko culture can be experienced through traditional cuisine serving hearty food and folk music. A gallery displays the work of a renowned folk artist, and the town centre boasts multiple medicinal taps to taste.
Sardinia's Coastal Treasure
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful find. Boasting three beautiful white sand shores, its bustling centre is active nightly with locals. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this location delivered a more authentic feel at a a quarter of the price. A hotel provided easy entry to the shore and a elegant and warm ambiance.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a rural railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect excursion from a nearby city. However, this service is reportedly under threat of being closed. The trip includes spectacular viaducts around the town of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Travelers are encouraged to ride this picturesque railway before it's too late.
Island Heritage in the Baltic
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is striking, characterized by rocky inlets, woods, and farmland. A historical fort at Bomarsund reveals a historical outpost built by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is without charge, with a charge for the on-site museum.
Coastal Solitude in Essex
It is possible to hike for hours along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another soul. This undiscovered world offers expansive views, seals bobbing in the sea, and an abundance of birdlife. The trail meanders along estuarine bordering an estuary, where remains of boats can be seen. A journey can commence at a very old church, among the oldest in England, and finish in a pretty town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Marvel in Romania
Widely known as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in June. The trip features constant switchbacks to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing incredible vistas. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, sometimes surrounded by snow, directly. The route also presents the chance for seeing animals, completing the remarkable experience.
Island Escape Close to a Major City
A short journey from a major metropolis transports people to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an peaceful setting. Arriving on the island, visitors stroll along quiet streets featuring grand mansions. The rhythm is relaxed, frequently paused by friendly felines and moments to stare back at the distant mainland. The ferry back is usually filled with thoughts for a next visit to this special retreat.
Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in France
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure can be found. Tucked away behind a Gothic building is a library that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It contains a vast collection of ancient tomes, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection showcases detailed Renaissance-era cartography and
