Globetrotters' Favorite Adventure Finds of The Past Year: Secret Spots Around the Globe

From a Venice-like Slovene seaside settlement to a overlooked alpine railway in France, explorers disclosed their standout finds from recent travels.

A Touch of Venice on the Slovenian Coast

Right after getting off the bus, a traveler wondered about their decision. However the initial hesitations quickly faded upon experiencing Piran. This delightful settlement presents more than a swim. Guests can wander through elaborately decorated Venetian squares and narrow lanes housing bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made jumping points turn the majestic Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Local spots provide delicious pastries and refreshments with warm hospitality.

Vintage Sounds in Berlin

For fans of 1950s rock 'n' roll, 60s pop music, and soul, a real discovery awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a specialized club offers a lot of fun. The ambiance is fabulous, with a DJ spinning just records. Furniture are routinely moved to make dancing. Staying open late into the night, the bar at times hosts live bands, making for a great experience.

Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Health Resort

Crossing into the Polish spa town of Krynica-Zdrój in spring presents a serene retreat. Guests can hike to the peak of a hill and go up a giant twisting viewing tower for breathtaking views over lush landscapes. This region is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. Lemko culture is on display through rustic restaurants with hearty fare and traditional music. A gallery displays the work of a prolific folk artist, and the main area has multiple medicinal water fountains to sample.

Sardinian Coastal Beauty

The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia emerged as a wonderful discovery. With several beautiful white sand shores, its lively centre thrives nightly with families. While the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this spot delivered a local feel at a fraction of the cost. Accommodation provided direct entry to the sea and a chic yet friendly ambiance.

A Historic Mountain Train Ride in France

Nestled in the Jura mountains by the Swiss border is a rural rail route known as the Swallows' Line. This is a great day trip from nearby cities. However, the route is reportedly threatened of shutting down. The trip features photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Tourists are advised to see this unique railway before it's too late.

Island Heritage in the Baltic Sea

The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a strong identity. The capital, Mariehamn, features notable museums and is reachable by boat from multiple countries. The natural surroundings is attractive, featuring shores, forests, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century outpost established by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the site is free, with a small fee for the information center.

Coastal Tranquility in England

One can hike for hours along a section of the English coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This hidden landscape boasts sweeping vistas, seals offshore, and an array of birdlife. The path follows along marshes bordering an river mouth, where wrecks of old vessels can be seen. A hike can commence at a 7th-century chapel, one of the most ancient in England, and finish in a quaint town with inns, galleries, and wineries.

Engineering Marvel in Romania

Widely regarded as a masterpiece of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's high-altitude asphalt road. Inaccessible during winter, it typically opens in June. The journey features constant bends to ascend the steep mountainous slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible scenery. Visitors can drive up to a mountain lake, often surrounded by snow, by car. The drive also offers the opportunity for wildlife sightings, adding to the unforgettable adventure.

Island Getaway Near a Metropolis

A quick journey from a bustling metropolis takes visitors to a car-free island. As the evening approaches, the hustle and bustle is replaced for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, visitors walk along historic lanes lined with grand mansions. The rhythm is relaxed, with time broken by friendly cats and opportunities to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The ferry back is often filled with thoughts for a next visit to this unique sanctuary.

Winning Tip: Medieval Treasures in Alsace

Within the historic city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection can be found. Located behind a historic church is a library that is open to the public to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains a vast collection of magnificent books, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The collection features gorgeous Renaissance-era cartography and