Readers' Favorite Adventure Finds of This Year: Hidden Gems Worldwide
Starting with a Venetian-inspired Slovenian coastal town to a overlooked alpine railway in France, visitors disclosed their most memorable encounters from recent travels.
A Slice of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Right after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their decision. But the early suspicions rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This delightful location provides more than swimming. Tourists are able to stroll through beautiful Venetian squares and cobbled passageways housing busy places to eat. Man-made jumping points make the impressive Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Nearby establishments offer flaky pastries and beverages with genuine service.
Vintage Music in Berlin
For lovers of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and Motown, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue offers immense fun. The vibe is fantastic, featuring a DJ spinning only vinyl records. Furniture are often pushed aside to create space to dance. Open late into the night, the bar at times hosts performances, making for a great evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Health Resort
Crossing into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring offers a peaceful getaway. Visitors may walk to the summit of a slope and climb a large wooden viewing tower for magnificent panoramas over green fields. This mountain range is the homeland of the Lemkos, a Carpathian people. Their culture can be experienced through traditional cuisine serving substantial food and folk music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a prolific painter, and the central spa boasts a number of mineral taps to sample.
Sardinian Seaside Gem
The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a wonderful find. With several beautiful pristine beaches, its lively centre is active nightly with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town delivered a local feel at a much lower of the price. A hotel featured convenient a path to the shore and a chic yet friendly environment.
A Historic Alpine Railway Journey in France
Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border runs a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb day trip from a nearby city. But, this service is said to be at risk of being closed. The trip passes over breathtaking viaducts around the area of Morez, which are considered photographic gems. Tourists are encouraged to experience this special railway before it's too late.
Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a distinct cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers notable museums and is easy to get to by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is striking, featuring coastline, woods, and farmland. A notable location at Bomarsund reveals a historical naval base established by Russia and then demolished during the Crimean War. Visiting the remains is free, with a small fee for the information center.
Seaside Tranquility in Essex
It is possible to stroll for miles along a stretch of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This hidden area boasts sweeping vistas, marine life offshore, and an profusion of wildlife. The path meanders along marshes next to an estuary, where remnants of boats are visible. A journey can begin at a ancient chapel, reportedly the most ancient in England, and conclude in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and vineyards.
Automotive Feat in Romania
Widely known as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in late spring. The journey requires constant switchbacks to climb the steep mountainous section of the Carpathians, providing incredible scenery. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, without a cable car. The route also includes the chance for spotting bears, completing the memorable adventure.
Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis
A brief boat trip from a bustling metropolis takes people to a tranquil getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy is replaced for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, explorers stroll along quiet lanes featuring beautiful homes. The pace is relaxed, often interrupted by friendly cats and chances to look back at the skyline of the city. The ferry back is usually filled with plans for a comeback to this incredible retreat.
Editor's Pick: Medieval Manuscripts in Alsace
Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem resides. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a collection that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses numerous of magnificent volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand illuminated manuscripts. The exhibition features detailed old maps and
