Globetrotters' Top Journey Discoveries of This Year: Secret Spots Across the World

From a Venetian-style Slovene town by the sea to a overlooked alpine train line in France, visitors have shared their most unforgettable discoveries from their journeys.

Venetian Flair on the Slovenian Coast

Right after stepping off the bus, a traveler wondered about their selection. Yet the early hesitations soon dissipated upon entering Piran. This picturesque location presents more than a swim. Guests are able to stroll through beautiful piazzas and cobbled alleys filled with vibrant places to eat. Concrete diving platforms render the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for everyone. Local spots provide crisp pastries and refreshments with genuine service.

Retro Sounds in The German Capital

For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 1960s pop, and soul music, a true find exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a specialized club offers great enjoyment. The vibe is fantastic, featuring a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Seating are routinely cleared to allow for dance floor. Staying open until the early hours, the bar occasionally features live bands, making for a fantastic experience.

Ethnic Traditions in a Poland's Resort Town

Traveling into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring provides a quiet escape. Guests can hike to the top of a ski run and climb a giant spiral viewing tower for stunning vistas over green landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a Carpathian community. The local heritage can be experienced through traditional dining serving substantial dishes and traditional music. A gallery celebrates the work of a renowned folk artist, and the main area has a number of spring water fountains to try.

Sardinian Coastal Beauty

The place of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a brilliant choice. Boasting multiple wonderful pristine coastlines, its vibrant center is active nightly with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a genuine experience at a a quarter of the cost. The lodging offered direct access to the shore and a elegant and warm environment.

An Iconic Mountain Train Ride in France

Tucked away in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a scenic train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great excursion from nearby cities. Yet, the route is said to be under threat of being closed. The ride features breathtaking stone arches around the town of Morez, which are seen as beautiful sights. Tourists are encouraged to see this special line before it's too late.

Archipelago History in the Baltic Sea

The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting museums and is reachable by boat from several countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, featuring coastline, woods, and farmland. A historical site at Bomarsund marks a historical fortress established by Russia and later destroyed during the Crimean War. Visiting the fort ruins is without charge, with a ticket for the on-site museum.

Coastal Solitude in Essex

One can walk for hours along a stretch of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not encountering another person. This secret world offers sweeping vistas, marine life in the water, and an profusion of birds. The coast path meanders along estuarine flanking an estuary, where remains of ships can be seen. A journey can commence at a 7th-century chapel, reportedly the most ancient in England, and finish in a charming coastal town with inns, galleries, and wineries.

Automotive Feat in Romania

Widely known as a feat of engineering, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude paved mountain road. Closed during the colder months, it typically reopens in late spring. The drive requires many switchbacks to climb the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, rewarding breathtaking scenery. Visitors can drive up to a high-altitude lake, still surrounded by snow, directly. The drive also includes the opportunity for seeing animals, adding to the memorable experience.

Ferry Escape Close to a Metropolis

A brief boat trip from a major metropolis takes people to a car-free island. As the day ends, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an oceanic calm. Arriving on the island, guests meander along tree-lined lanes featuring historic houses. The rhythm is slow, often interrupted by friendly felines and moments to look back at the far-off city. The return journey is usually spent planning plans for a next visit to this special retreat.

Editor's Pick: Ancient Treasures in Alsace

Within the half-timbered city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a remarkable treasure resides. Housed behind a Gothic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains a vast collection of rare books, with a centerpiece being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection showcases detailed 16th-century maps and