Globetrotters' Favorite Journey Finds of The Past Year: Lesser-Known Treasures Across the World

From a Venetian-inspired Slovene coastal town to a little-known alpine railway in France, visitors have shared their most memorable finds from their journeys.

A Slice of Venice on the Slovenian Coast

Right after getting off the bus, an explorer wondered about their choice. However the early suspicions soon dissipated upon experiencing Piran. This delightful town offers beyond just swimming. Visitors may meander through ornate piazzas and stone-paved alleys filled with bustling seafood restaurants. Man-made platforms turn the stunning Adriatic Sea accessible for people of every age. Local spots offer crisp pastries and refreshments with warm service.

Classic Sounds in The German Capital

For aficionados of 1950s rock 'n' roll, retro pop, and soul, a real discovery exists in Berlin's Neukölln district. A visit at a themed venue is immense fun. The vibe is terrific, featuring a DJ using only vinyl. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to make space to dance. Open late, the bar occasionally hosts live bands, guaranteeing a fantastic evening.

Ethnic Heritage in a Polish Health Resort

Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in late spring offers a quiet retreat. Travelers can hike to the peak of a slope and climb a giant spiral viewing tower for magnificent views over green landscapes. This region is the homeland of the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage can be experienced through rustic cuisine with hearty fare and music. A gallery celebrates the work of a noted naive artist, and the central spa has a number of spring water fountains to try.

Sardinia's Coastal Treasure

The destination of San Teodoro in Sardinia was a brilliant discovery. Featuring three wonderful sandy coastlines, its vibrant centre thrives nightly with locals. While the renowned Costa Smeralda is a short drive, this spot offered a genuine feel at a much lower of the cost. Accommodation provided convenient entry to the shore and a chic yet friendly atmosphere.

An Iconic Alpine Rail Line in France

Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border is a little-known railway line known as the Swallows' Line. This is a superb journey from a nearby city. However, this line is potentially threatened of shutting down. The ride passes over breathtaking bridges around the town of Morez, which are regarded as photographic gems. Visitors are encouraged to experience this special railway before it's too late.

Island Heritage in the Baltic

The Åland islands, located in the Baltic Sea, are an self-governing archipelago of Finland with a Swedish culture. The capital, Mariehamn, has notable museums and is reachable by boat from several countries. The landscape is beautiful, characterized by coastline, woods, and farms. A significant fort at Bomarsund tells the story of a 19th-century fortress constructed by Russia and later attacked during the mid-19th century conflict. Visiting the remains is without charge, with a charge for the information center.

Seaside Tranquility in England

One can hike for miles along a stretch of the UK coastline on the Dengie peninsula without passing another person. This undiscovered landscape provides expansive vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of wildlife. The trail winds along estuarine next to an estuary, where remnants of old vessels are visible. A walk can start at a 7th-century chapel, one of the oldest in England, and end in a quaint coastal town with pubs, galleries, and wineries.

Engineering Feat in Romania

Widely known as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's second-highest asphalt route. Closed during winter, it usually reopens in June. The journey features numerous turns to climb the dramatic mountainous section of the Carpathians, rewarding incredible scenery. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, sometimes ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also presents the chance for wildlife sightings, completing the remarkable experience.

Island Getaway Close to a Major City

A short boat trip from a major city transports visitors to a peaceful getaway. As the sun sets, the city chaos is replaced for an oceanic calm. Walking through the island, visitors walk along tree-lined lanes flanked by grand mansions. The feel is leisurely, often broken by resident cats and opportunities to gaze back at the distant city. The trip home is usually accompanied by ideas for a comeback to this incredible retreat.

Winning Tip: Ancient Manuscripts in France

Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a stunning collection awaits. Housed behind a Gothic building is a collection that is complimentary to enter and incredibly impressive. It holds a vast collection of rare books, with a highlight being over a thousand ancient texts. The exhibition includes gorgeous 16th-century cartography and