Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer
Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer - Hidden Gems of Southern Spain
Southern Spain is home to some of the country's most famous tourist destinations, including Seville, Granada, and the Costa del Sol. However, venture beyond the well-trodden paths and you'll discover a host of hidden gems waiting to be explored.
One such place is Las Alpujarras, a little-known mountainous region located between Granada and the Mediterranean. Dotted with sleepy whitewashed villages, this tranquil area feels far removed from the busyness of Spain's major cities. Spend a few days hiking through chestnut and oak forests, stopping to admire the stunning views across the Sierra Nevada. Make a base in one of the small towns like Capileira, Bubión or Pampaneira and sample delicious local produce like ham, cheese and wine.
Another under-the-radar spot is the province of Cádiz, found at the southern tip of Spain. As well as excellent beaches, this part of Andalucía has a fascinating history stretching back 3,000 years. Wander the atmospheric streets of old Cádiz, believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited city in western Europe. Or head to Sanlúcar de Barrameda for sherry tastings in bodegas overlooking the Guadalquivir River. Jerez de la Frontera is also a great place to try authentic flamenco dancing paired with tasty tapas.
Inland from the coast, the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park provides tranquility and stunning scenery. This protected area is home to rare wildlife including the iconic Iberian lynx and golden eagles. There are lots of great hiking trails to explore, like the route to the Garganta Verde canyon with its towering limestone cliffs. Stop for a break in charming 'pueblos blancos' (white villages) like Zahara de la Sierra and Grazalema to refuel on local olives, cheese and bread.
The region of Extremadura, bordering Portugal, is another part of Spain that tourists rarely experience. Here you'll find fabulous Medieval cities like Cáceres as well as the Monfragüe National Park, known for its spectacular birdlife including black storks and eagle owls. Try outdoor adventures like kayaking down the Almonte River or biking along the idyllic Via Verde cycling route, surrounded by green countryside. End the day relaxing in a paradores hotel, set inside a castle, palace or convent.
What else is in this post?
- Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer - Hidden Gems of Southern Spain
- Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer - Undiscovered Black Sea Coastlines
- Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer - Albania's Emerging Beach Towns
- Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer - Hiking Trails Through Slovenia's Forests
- Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer - Charming Villages of Central Italy
- Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer - Cycling Through Croatia's Countryside
- Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer - Camping in Sweden's Lakes Region
- Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer - Cruising Portugal's Douro River Valley
Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer - Undiscovered Black Sea Coastlines
The Black Sea coastline is one of the most underrated destinations in Europe. Stretching across six different countries, it offers incredible diversity, from the funky beach resorts of Bulgaria to the historic port cities of Ukraine. Yet most travelers visiting Europe never make it to the Black Sea, instead flocking to the overcrowded Mediterranean. But those willing to venture off the beaten path will be rewarded with deserted sandy beaches, majestic mountains, ancient ruins, and hospitable locals.
One of the top spots on the Black Sea is Sozopol, an ancient seaside town in Bulgaria. Wander the cobbled lanes of the Old Town, lingering over fragrant cups of coffee in cute cafes. The beaches here are sublime - golden sand fringed by pine forests that perfume the air. Follow the coastal path south to discover secluded coves perfect for swimming in the translucent water. Be sure to explore the ruins of the Apollonia Pontica archaeological site just outside Sozopol. Founded in 610 BC, it's an incredible place to delve into the history of the region.
Further up the coast, the Romanian seaside resort of Mamaia boasts eight miles of soft sand hugged by swaying palms. Its lively promenade comes alive in the summer months with open-air concerts and events. Mamaia is the place to try thrilling water sports like wakeboarding and fly-boarding. After working up an appetite, grab a table at one of the fish restaurants lining Lake Siutghiol and feast on the day's catch.
No exploration of the Black Sea is complete without a visit to Odessa, Ukraine's third largest city. This cosmopolitan port has stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and a laidback seaside vibe. Don't miss Odessa's most famous site - the Potemkin Stairs. Immortalized in Sergei Eisenstein's 1925 film Battleship Potemkin, this giant stairway offers sweeping views over Odessa Harbor. For the best sunset panorama, head to Odessa Lanzheron Beach with its old-fashioned Summer Theater and rows of shady trees.
Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer - Albania's Emerging Beach Towns
With its mix of mountainous terrain and Adriatic coastline, Albania has no shortage of natural beauty. Yet it remains one of Europe's least explored destinations, meaning its stretches of pristine beach are blissfully crowd-free. Intrepid travelers are starting to discover Albania's emerging beach towns, drawn by their affordability, local character, and gorgeous locations.
The Albanian Riviera in the south offers some of the country's loveliest coastal scenery. The village of Qeparo is one charming option, with ancient olive groves hugging the hillsides around a horseshoe bay. Wander along the waterfront, where old ladies sell homemade honey and cheese. Then pick a spot on Rana e Hedhun beach to swim in aqua waters with the rugged Karaburun Peninsula as a backdrop. Further south, the beach at Bunec teems with families in summer, and wooden boats bob off the white pebbles. Stop for fresh seafood at one of the shaded restaurants overlooking the water.
On the central coast, Drymades is a peaceful hideaway surrounded by farms growing olives, oranges and lemons. Its beach has fine white sand and photo-worthy views of the Dajti Mountains across the sea. For a livelier vibe, head to Durres, Albania's main port. People watch and sip iced coffee along the palm-lined promenade as cargo ships come and go. Make time to explore Durres's fascinating archaeological museum with Roman amphitheaters and mosaic floors.
Up in the north near the Montenegro border, Shëngjin reveals another side to Albania's coastline. Rocky cliffs plunge into the azure water at this quiet fishing village. Follow the wooden boardwalk out to an abandoned concrete pier, the perfect place to watch the sunset with Shëngjin's pastel-hued houses behind you. The walk south towards Vezi Bay leads through peaceful olive groves – keep an eye out for local shepherds herding their flock.
Albania's brand new coastal highway has opened up hard-to-reach areas like the Llogara National Park. The drive along this stretch is jaw-dropping, with heart-stopping hairpin turns revealing gorgeous views. Stop to hike through the fragrant pine forests to hidden coves like Jal Beach. Refresh yourself with a dip in the cold, clear water before heading to one of the excellent seafood shacks nearby.
Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer - Hiking Trails Through Slovenia's Forests
Tucked away between Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia, Slovenia remains an under-the-radar hiking destination for many travelers. Yet with mountains covering over two-thirds of its landscape, Slovenia is a paradise for avid hikers. Lace up your boots and head into Slovenia's verdant forests to discover cascading waterfalls, sweeping panoramas, and a wealth of wildlife.
One of the top hiking regions is the Julian Alps in northwest Slovenia. Here you'll find the Triglav National Park, named after the country's tallest mountain. Triglav itself is a challenging yet rewarding summit to conquer, with views extending all the way to the Adriatic Sea on clear days. Easier trails lead through the Radovna Valley dotted with traditional Alpine villages. Be sure to detour to Lake Bohinj, Slovenia's largest lake, overlooked by the steep north face of Triglav. The hike around its turquoise waters takes around six hours, passing streams, waterfalls and woods scattered with wildflowers in summer.
For a shorter walk with equally stunning scenery, head to nearby Vintgar Gorge. This rushing river carves its way through vertical rocks clad in moss and ferns. Stone bridges criss-cross the water, allowing you to marvel at the power of nature eroding the rock over centuries. On the 1.6 mile loop, you'll pass small rapids and a thunderous waterfall crashing into a crystal clear pool.
Further south, the karst caves and dense forests of Notranjska Regional Park offer hiking tranquility. The educational Krajinski Park Strunjan loop wanders through pine trees and Mediterranean vegetation to a coastal lookout point. Or for more of an adventure, tackle the demanding 5.5 mile Velika Milanja Circuit above the famous Postojna Caves, Slovenia's longest cave system.
Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer - Charming Villages of Central Italy
Dotted across the heart of Italy, charming villages offer a window into traditional ways of life. Cobblestone piazzas, ancient churches, and cozy trattorias characterize these rural retreats far from the crowds of Rome or Florence. Meandering along quiet alleyways past hanging flower boxes, it's easy to lose track of time. For the traveler seeking an authentic slice of Italy away from the tourist trail, central Italy's villages promise idyllic escapes full of beauty and nostalgia.
Let's explore some of the loveliest options for a village getaway. In the region of Umbria, Bevagna transports you back to Medieval times with its well-preserved defensive walls and Romanesque buildings. Have an al fresco lunch on Piazza Silvestri, watching olive skinned nonnas chat on benches beneath Gothic arches. Then walk off your pasta strolling around the medieval quarter's narrow lanes. The Botanical Path along the old town's perimeter rewards with pretty views over the Umbrian countryside. Don't miss the Roman mosaic floors inside the Churches of San Silvestro and San Michele.
Over in Le Marche, the charming hill town ofGradara sits in quiet countryside with incredible views from its imposing castle. Inside the 13th century fortress, exhibits bring battles of the past to life. Back outside, the shady garden is an oasis of tranquility. Stroll down Via Roma to reach Gradara's picturesque historic center ringed by walls with unusual zigzag formations. Pop into quaint shops selling ceramics and handmade pasta before settling in for an al fresco dinner as the sun sets.
The classic Tuscan village of Montepulciano perches atop a hill in the Val d'Orcia region. Meandering along its Renaissance streets lined with elegant palazzos allows you to soak up the ambiance. Piazza Grande is the social hub with cafés perfect for people watching. Wine aficionados shouldn't miss the underground cellars aging the town's famous Vino Nobile. Sample a glass at an enoteca while snacking on pecorino cheese and salami. The surrounding landscape is characterized by endless rolling hills and cypress-lined country roads—quintessential Tuscany at its finest.
Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer - Cycling Through Croatia's Countryside
With its Mediterranean climate and diverse landscapes, Croatia is an ideal destination for a cycling adventure. While many travelers flock to the beaches and islands, getting off the beaten path to explore the countryside by bike opens up a whole different side of Croatia. Pedaling along quiet backroads lined with stone walls and olive groves is a wonderful way to experience rural life. You can easily escape the crowds and cruise through charming villages where locals still embrace a traditional way of life.
One great area for cycling is the Istrian Peninsula in northwest Croatia. Its gentle hills, valleys and medieval towns like Motovun, Grožnjan and Oprtalj are perfect for leisurely rides. Don't miss the scenic trails through the bucolic Mirna River Valley blanketed in vineyards. Stop at family-run wineries for tastings and lunch on their shaded terraces. The Parenzana cycling route follows a former narrow-gauge railway along the Istrian coast. Highlights include the lovely seaside towns of Novigrad, Poreč and Vrsar as well as views across to Italy.
Inland Croatia also holds lots of cycling appeal. The Zagorje region north of Zagreb offers a lovely patchwork of forests, hills and farmland to traverse. Base yourself in the town of Kumrovec to ride the surrounding country lanes, passing traditional wood and stone cottages. Stop to admire the pastel-hued Baroque churches dotting the villages. Foodies should factor in time to sample hearty cuisine like štrukli dumplings, turkey with mlinci noodles and Zagorje-style pork chops.
Down in Slavonia, Croatia's fertile plains between the Drava and Sava rivers, consider the 140-mile CroCycling Greenway. Starting in the city of Osijek, it follows the Drava River through forests and fields of sunflowers and corn. Quaint villages like Ernestinovo and Bilje provide enchanting rest stops along the way. For history buffs, detour to the monumental fortress town of Vukovar with its water tower pockmarked by war damage—a poignant reminder of Croatia's difficult past.
Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer - Camping in Sweden's Lakes Region
With over 100,000 lakes dotted across its landscape, Sweden offers endless opportunities for memorable camping trips. While many travelers flock to popular spots around Lake Vänern or Lake Mälaren, venturing into Sweden's lesser-known lakes region provides a blissfully peaceful camping experience surrounded by pristine nature.
Tucked away in Småland province, Lake Åsnen is Sweden’s sixth largest lake but remains mostly under the radar. Its shores are fringed by deep forests perfect for secluded wilderness camping. Wake to the sound of birdsong rather than crowds of people. Days here are spent canoeing across the tranquil water, fishing for pike and perch, and swimming from one of the lake’s smooth granite islands. Keep an eye out for ospreys, cormorants and other birdlife drawn to Åsnen’s rich ecosystem. Pitch your tent at Asenbrygga Camping on the lake’s southern shore, where amenities like canoes, kayaks and fishing gear await.
Over in the Bergslagen region, Lake Värmulen is another idyllic Swedish lake with spacious camping grounds. Surrounded by undulating woodlands, its location within Värmulen Nature Reserve means limited motorboat traffic. The peaceful atmosphere makes Värmulen a joy to explore by Stand Up Paddleboard or rowboat. Don’t miss the gorgeous hiking trail through birch and pine forest to Gammelstilla, remnants of an old ironworks from the 17th century. Campers staying at STF Värmulen Skinnarvikens Camping have access to rowboats, fishing licenses and miles of cycling trails from their forested tent sites.
Up north, the massive Lake Hornavan is known for its unique turquoise hue caused by glacial clay particles suspended in the water. Its shores are home to Hornavan Nature Reserve, boasting old growth forests, rare orchids and plentiful birdlife. Campers are rewarded with sublime views across the jewel-toned lake from secluded spots like Inkoviken Bay. Pack your binoculars to try and spot wildlife including moose, lynx, brown bears and the elusive wolverine. STF Inre Gapiets Camping is perfectly situated for aquatic adventures with amenities like canoes, fishing gear and swimming pontoons steps from your tent flap.
Off the beaten track in Swedish Lapland, Lake Akkajaure lies in the shadow of lumbering Mount Akka. This is the place for those seeking remote Nordic tranquility far from any crowds. The Sami community here still herd reindeer across ancient migration routes, coexisting harmoniously with nature. Witnessing their traditional lifestyle is a privilege. Days are spent hiking trails highlighting Sami culture and wilderness, plus paddling across Akkajaure’s mirror-like surface. Campers bed down in recently renovated cottages or tent pitches at STF Kebnekaise Turiststation, the jumping off point for Kebnekaise, Sweden’s highest mountain.
Off the Beaten Path: 10 Underrated European Destinations Worth Exploring This Summer - Cruising Portugal's Douro River Valley
Far from the tourist-clogged cities, Portugal's scenic Douro River Valley tempts travelers with its bucolic vineyards, charming ports, and languid pace. Hopping aboard a cruise is the ultimate way to soak up the laidback atmosphere, feasting on fabulous food and wine as the riverbanks drift lazily past. From the deck of your boat, there’s little to disturb the tranquility except for the occasional puttering car or rumbling train along the shore.
Many find cruising the Douro to be a highlight of travel in Portugal. Winding through terraced hills blanketed in orderly rows of vines, this designated UNESCO World Heritage Site has an enduring beauty. The Douro River itself is reliably low-key, avoiding the summer party crowds drawn to European hotspots like the Danube. Relaxation is unavoidable gliding along its tranquil trajectory.
Travelers rave about experiencing the Douro Valley from the water, an ever-changing canvas of colors and textures sliding past. The greenery turns golden under the intense Portuguese sun while white stucco houses provide contrast against the slate hills. Seeing this scenery unfold uninterrupted makes the intimacy of river cruising so special. It allows details to register that would be missed zipping by in a car.
The pace is leisurely with plenty of time to soak up scenic vistas along the Douro’s 125-mile length. Most journeys start at the Spanish border and terminate at the river’s mouth in Porto. Along the way, guided shore excursions might include a Porto wine tasting at a prestigious estate like Quinta do Seixo or a scenic train ride from Pinhão. Visits to picture-perfect towns like Lamego, perched on a hillside with sweeping valley views, offer insight into local life.
Simple pleasures also abound onboard Douro riverboats, whether peering through binoculars to spot eagles wheeling overhead or grabbing a shady spot for reading and relaxation. The intimate size of the ships, typically carrying less than 150 passengers, enhances the laidback ambiance. New friendships form over lively dinners of fresh seafood and robust Portuguese wines. The hardest decisions are which peaceful corner of the deck to occupy next.