Readers' Favorite Adventure Discoveries of This Year: Hidden Gems Around the Globe
Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovene seaside settlement to a little-known alpine train line in France, explorers revealed their most memorable discoveries from recent travels.
A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast
Shortly after stepping off the bus, a traveler pondered about their decision. Yet the first suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This charming location provides more than a swim. Guests may meander through beautiful piazzas and stone-paved passageways filled with bustling eateries. Concrete diving platforms turn the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for people of every age. Nearby establishments offer flaky pastries and refreshments with friendly service.
Vintage Music in Berlin
For lovers of 50s rock and roll, 60s pop music, and Motown, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a specialized club promises great enjoyment. The atmosphere is fantastic, with a DJ using only vinyl. Seating are often moved to allow for space to dance. Staying open late, the bar occasionally features live bands, guaranteeing a fantastic experience.
Ethnic Heritage in a Poland's Spa Town
Journeying into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a quiet getaway. Guests may walk to the top of a slope and ascend a large wooden platform for magnificent vistas over lush pastures. This mountain range is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain community. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic dining offering substantial dishes and folk music. A museum displays the work of a renowned naive artist, and the central spa features multiple mineral taps to taste.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant discovery. Featuring multiple stunning sandy coastlines, its vibrant center thrives in the evenings with families. Although the popular Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a genuine feel at a fraction of the price. The lodging featured direct entry to the sea and a stylish but welcoming environment.
An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great excursion from nearby cities. However, this service is reportedly under threat of shutting down. The trip passes over spectacular stone arches around the area of Morez, which are considered architectural treasures. Visitors are encouraged to ride this special line soon.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing region of Finland with a distinct identity. The capital, Mariehamn, offers notable attractions and is accessible by boat from multiple countries. The countryside is striking, with rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A historical site at Bomarsund tells the story of a historical outpost established by Russia and later attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is without charge, with a ticket for the on-site museum.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to walk for hours along a part of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another person. This hidden world offers expansive views, marine life offshore, and an abundance of birds. The trail winds along salt marsh next to an estuary, where remnants of old vessels are visible. A journey can begin at a ancient chapel, reportedly the oldest in England, and finish in a quaint coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Engineering Feat in Romania
Widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Inaccessible during the colder months, it usually opens in June. The drive requires numerous bends to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, providing breathtaking vistas. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Getaway Close to a Major City
A short boat trip from a bustling metropolis takes people to a peaceful island. As the evening approaches, the city chaos fades for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, guests meander along quiet streets lined with beautiful homes. The feel is leisurely, with time broken by resident felines and opportunities to stare back at the distant mainland. The ferry back is usually accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this incredible retreat.
Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the medieval town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem can be found. Housed behind a Gothic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and absolutely stunning. It houses thousands of magnificent books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features gorgeous old cartography and
