Readers' Top Adventure Finds of This Year: Hidden Gems Worldwide
From a Venice-like Slovene coastal town to a little-known alpine train line in France, explorers have shared their most memorable encounters from their journeys.
A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore
Shortly after getting off the bus, one visitor questioned about their choice. But the early doubts rapidly vanished upon discovering Piran. This delightful location presents more than swimming. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated public squares and cobbled passageways filled with vibrant places to eat. Man-made diving platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea enjoyable for all ages. Local spots serve up flaky pastries and drinks with friendly service.
Classic Tunes in Berlin
For aficionados of 50s rock and roll, 1960s pop, and Motown, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A evening at a themed club offers immense fun. The ambiance is terrific, complete with a DJ using just vinyl. Chairs and tables are routinely pushed aside to create space to dance. Staying open until the early hours, the bar at times has performances, guaranteeing a fantastic evening.
Ethnic Legacy in a Poland's Resort Town
Traveling into the Polish destination of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a peaceful retreat. Visitors can hike to the summit of a hill and ascend a large spiral viewing tower for magnificent vistas over lush pastures. This mountain range is home to the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture is on display through traditional restaurants with substantial dishes and folk music. A gallery displays the work of a noted naive artist, and the main area boasts multiple mineral water fountains to taste.
Sardinia's Seaside Beauty
The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a brilliant discovery. With multiple stunning pristine coastlines, its bustling center thrives every night with families. Although the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot provided a genuine atmosphere at a fraction of the price. A hotel featured easy entry to the sea and a elegant and warm atmosphere.
An Iconic Mountain Rail Line in France
Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This makes for a perfect day trip from nearby cities. But, the route is potentially at risk of closure. The trip passes over photogenic bridges around the locality of Morez, which are seen as photographic gems. Visitors are advised to ride this unique railway while they can.
Archipelago Heritage in the Baltic Sea
The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous archipelago of Finland with a distinct culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has interesting sites and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The countryside is attractive, featuring rocky inlets, forests, and farms. A significant location at Bomarsund marks a historical outpost established by Russia and subsequently attacked during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is free, with a ticket for the information center.
Seaside Solitude in England
One can walk for miles along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing anyone. This undiscovered landscape offers sweeping vistas, marine life bobbing in the sea, and an profusion of birdlife. The coast path follows along marshes next to an river mouth, where remnants of boats lie. A journey can begin at a ancient place of worship, one of the oldest in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.
Automotive Feat in The Carpathians
Widely regarded as a feat of road engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular asphalt route. Shut during the colder months, it typically reopens in June. The journey involves constant switchbacks to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding excellent views. Visitors can reach a mountain lake, sometimes covered in snow, without a cable car. The drive also presents the potential for spotting bears, completing the unforgettable adventure.
Island Getaway Close to a Major City
A short journey from a major metropolis transports visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the day ends, the urban energy fades for an oceanic calm. Exploring the island, guests stroll along historic roads flanked by beautiful homes. The rhythm is relaxed, with time broken by local felines and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The trip home is usually filled with plans for a comeback to this incredible place.
Top Discovery: Ancient Treasures in Alsace
Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Tucked away behind a Gothic church is a archive that is free to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds thousands of ancient volumes, with a highlight being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The collection features gorgeous 16th-century cartography and