Readers' Most Cherished Journey Discoveries of 2025: Secret Spots Around the Globe

From a Venetian-inspired Slovenian town by the sea to a little-known mountain train line in France, explorers have shared their most memorable finds from the past year.

A Touch of Venice on the Adriatic Shore

Shortly after arriving, one visitor wondered about their decision. But the initial doubts rapidly vanished upon entering Piran. This charming town offers beyond just swimming. Tourists are able to stroll through ornate public squares and cobbled alleys filled with vibrant eateries. Man-made diving platforms make the impressive Adriatic Sea manageable for everyone. Nearby establishments offer flaky pastries and beverages with friendly service.

Retro Tunes in Germany's Capital

For fans of classic rock, 60s pop music, and soul music, a gem awaits in Berlin's Neukölln district. A night out at a themed venue promises a lot of fun. The vibe is fabulous, with a DJ using exclusively vinyl records. Chairs and tables are sometimes pushed aside to allow for space to dance. Open late into the night, the bar sometimes hosts performances, making for a great night out.

Ethnic Legacy in a Polish Resort Town

Traveling into the Poland's town of Krynica-Zdrój in mid-May provides a peaceful retreat. Visitors may walk to the peak of a slope and go up a giant spiral viewing tower for magnificent views over lush fields. This area is inhabited by the Lemkos, a mountain people. The local heritage is on display through rustic dining with robust fare and folk music. A dedicated museum showcases the work of a prolific naive artist, and the main area boasts several spring taps to sample.

Sardinia's Coastal Treasure

The town of San Teodoro in Sardinia proved to be a excellent find. Boasting three wonderful sandy coastlines, its bustling centre comes alive every night with families. Although the world-famous Costa Smeralda is an hour's drive, this town provided a more authentic atmosphere at a a quarter of the price. The lodging featured direct access to the beach and a chic yet friendly environment.

A Historic Mountain Rail Line in France

Tucked away in the Jura mountains close to the Swiss border lies a little-known train route known as the Swallows' Line. This provides a great journey from nearby cities. But, this service is said to be under threat of being closed. The journey includes photogenic viaducts around the town of Morez, which are seen as architectural treasures. Visitors are advised to see this picturesque line soon.

Island History in the Baltic

The Åland islands, situated in the Baltic Sea, are an autonomous region of Finland with a Swedish identity. The main town, Mariehamn, features interesting sites and is reachable by ferry from multiple countries. The landscape is striking, characterized by shores, woods, and farmland. A significant location at Bomarsund reveals a historical naval base established by Russia and then destroyed during the mid-19th century conflict. Walking through the site is free, with a charge for the visitor centre.

Coastal Solitude in England

One can hike for hours along a part of the British coastline on the Dengie peninsula and not passing another soul. This hidden landscape provides wide-open vistas, marine life in the water, and an array of birds. The coast path winds along salt marsh bordering an estuary, where remnants of old vessels can be seen. A hike can commence at a ancient place of worship, among the earliest in England, and conclude in a quaint coastal town with inns, museums, and vineyards.

Engineering Marvel in The Carpathians

Widely regarded as a feat of construction, the Transfăgărășan Highway is Romania's spectacular paved route. Shut during winter, it typically opens in late spring. The drive requires numerous bends to navigate the dramatic southern slopes of the Carpathians, offering incredible views. Travelers can drive up to a mountain lake, still ringed with snow, without a cable car. The drive also offers the chance for wildlife sightings, adding to the memorable experience.

Ferry Getaway Close to a Metropolis

A quick ferry ride from a major city transports travelers to a tranquil getaway. As the sun sets, the hustle and bustle dissipates for an serene atmosphere. Walking through the island, guests meander along tree-lined lanes flanked by grand mansions. The rhythm is slow, with time interrupted by resident felines and moments to gaze back at the skyline of the mainland. The ferry back is usually filled with plans for a comeback to this unique sanctuary.

Top Discovery: Medieval Treasures in Alsace

Within the medieval city of Colmar in the Alsace region, a true hidden gem awaits. Housed behind a Gothic church is a collection that is complimentary to enter and truly breathtaking. It contains numerous of rare tomes, with a star attraction being over a thousand hand-decorated books. The exhibition showcases detailed 16th-century cartography and