Globetrotters' Most Cherished Journey Finds of The Past Year: Secret Spots Worldwide

From a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a forgotten alpine railway in France, explorers revealed their standout finds from the past year.

A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Shoreline

Moments after getting off the bus, a traveler pondered about their choice. But the initial hesitations rapidly vanished upon experiencing Piran. This charming town offers more than swimming. Visitors can wander through beautiful Venetian squares and cobbled passageways housing busy places to eat. Man-made jumping points render the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Local spots offer delicious pastries and refreshments with warm welcome.

Retro Tunes in Germany's Capital

For fans of 50s rock and roll, retro pop, and soul music, a real discovery can be found in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed music bar offers a lot of fun. The vibe is fabulous, featuring a DJ using only vinyl. Chairs and tables are often moved to allow for dancing. Operating late into the night, the bar occasionally has live bands, guaranteeing a great night out.

Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town

Traveling into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a serene getaway. Travelers are able to climb to the summit of a ski run and go up a large spiral platform for magnificent views over green landscapes. This region is home to the Lemkos, a mountain ethnic group. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic restaurants with robust fare and music. A gallery celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the town centre boasts a number of mineral water sources to try.

Sardinian Seaside Beauty

The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a excellent discovery. Boasting multiple wonderful pristine beaches, its bustling town center thrives nightly with residents. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is nearby, this spot delivered a more authentic experience at a a quarter of the price. The lodging offered convenient entry to the beach and a elegant and warm environment.

An Iconic Alpine Train Ride in France

Hidden in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border lies a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a superb excursion from nearby cities. Yet, this line is reportedly at risk of closure. The ride passes over photogenic bridges around the area of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Visitors are encouraged to ride this picturesque line before it's too late.

Island Heritage in the Baltic

The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish cultural heritage. The main town, Mariehamn, offers interesting sites and is reachable by ferry from nearby countries. The landscape is attractive, featuring coastline, woods, and farms. A notable location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress constructed by Russia and later demolished during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is free, with a small fee for the information center.

Coastal Solitude in Essex

It is possible to stroll for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing anyone. This hidden area boasts sweeping views, seals offshore, and an array of birdlife. The coast path winds along marshes bordering an river mouth, where remains of ships are visible. A walk can commence at a ancient place of worship, one of the earliest in England, and end in a quaint town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.

Automotive Feat in The Carpathians

Widely described as a masterpiece of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in early summer. The trip requires many bends to navigate the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, providing excellent vistas. Travelers can reach a high-altitude lake, often covered in snow, by car. The drive also presents the potential for wildlife sightings, adding to the unforgettable experience.

Ferry Getaway Near a Major City

A quick journey from a vibrant metropolis takes visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, visitors stroll along tree-lined lanes lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is leisurely, frequently interrupted by resident felines and moments to look back at the far-off mainland. The trip home is often accompanied by thoughts for a comeback to this unique place.

Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in France

Within the half-timbered town of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection resides. Housed behind a 14th-century church is a collection that is open to the public to enter and incredibly impressive. It houses thousands of ancient books, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features detailed old cartography and