7 Underrated Summer Destinations for Late-Season Travel From Croatian Islands to American Wine Regions

7 Underrated Summer Destinations for Late-Season Travel From Croatian Islands to American Wine Regions - Lake Bled Slovenia Shines With New Lakeside Glamping Sites And Alpine Hiking Trails

Lake Bled in Slovenia continues to charm visitors, particularly with its recent addition of lakeside glamping options that offer stunning views. Ribno Alpine Glamping, for instance, features distinctive treehouse accommodations equipped with private hot tubs. This charming spot is conveniently located a short drive or bike ride from the center of Bled, making it easily accessible for exploring the town. The surrounding landscape is truly ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures, with diverse hiking trails weaving through the Alps, appealing cycling routes, and fishing spots to explore. It's a destination that works for families and anyone seeking outdoor activities. The well-known Bled Castle and the nearby Bled Straža ski lift add to the attractions in the area. Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport is relatively close, making Lake Bled a convenient choice for those looking for a late-season escape to the Slovenian countryside. While glamping options have become increasingly popular, it's not clear if the facilities are actually upscale, but the experience is likely worth it.

Slovenia's Lake Bled, a picturesque alpine lake nestled amidst towering peaks, has recently seen an upswing in outdoor recreation options, particularly with the addition of modern glamping facilities. These new accommodations, situated directly on the lake's shores, offer a range of options from classic glamping tents to unique treehouse and pier configurations. Ribno Alpine Glamping, for example, provides a taste of upscale outdoor living with hot tubs and stunning views, a short bike ride from the town center of Bled. The location offers a compelling combination of comfortable modern amenities alongside a nature-immersed experience, ideal for those seeking a more contemporary interpretation of rustic living.

The convenience of glamping at Bled coincides well with the region's already impressive outdoor recreational opportunities. Hiking trails around the lake, part of a vast network extending for hundreds of kilometers, attract nature enthusiasts. You can hike through the dramatic landscapes, formed by glacial activity eons ago. These hiking opportunities, complemented by the cycling paths that encircle the lake, provide a comprehensive and diverse range of choices for an outdoor enthusiast. The region's natural assets are well positioned, close to the Bled Castle and the ski lift on Straža Hill, offering easy access to historical and recreational features. And, the proximity to Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport means that reaching the region isn't a challenge, which is also beneficial to budget-oriented travelers. The added availability of low-cost airlines has likely contributed to making Lake Bled more accessible for those seeking a vibrant travel destination for a late summer getaway.


Whether it is an idyllic view of the surrounding mountains, the tranquil waters of Lake Bled, or the proximity to other attractions, these new options highlight an exciting aspect of this region: its adaptability and commitment to provide a high-quality visitor experience without abandoning its inherent natural character. It remains to be seen if the initiative will lead to increased visitation to Bled or if it remains a niche option for a relatively small number of travelers seeking this specific type of accommodation in a tourist-driven environment. It is an interesting experiment in merging nature-based tourism with the practicalities of modern living. It will be fascinating to observe the future trajectory of these initiatives as they evolve and contribute to the ongoing story of Lake Bled.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Underrated Summer Destinations for Late-Season Travel From Croatian Islands to American Wine Regions - Lake Bled Slovenia Shines With New Lakeside Glamping Sites And Alpine Hiking Trails
2. 7 Underrated Summer Destinations for Late-Season Travel From Croatian Islands to American Wine Regions - Vis Island Croatia Opens Direct Ferry Service From Split With 30% Lower Hotel Rates
3. 7 Underrated Summer Destinations for Late-Season Travel From Croatian Islands to American Wine Regions - Anderson Valley California Launches Wine Train Service Through 15 Family Owned Wineries
4. 7 Underrated Summer Destinations for Late-Season Travel From Croatian Islands to American Wine Regions - Hamburg Germany Introduces Night Markets Along Newly Restored Canal District
5. 7 Underrated Summer Destinations for Late-Season Travel From Croatian Islands to American Wine Regions - Stryn Norway Debuts Glass Bottom Boats For Fjord Tours At Half The Price Of Geiranger
6. 7 Underrated Summer Destinations for Late-Season Travel From Croatian Islands to American Wine Regions - Vang Vieng Laos Starts Hot Air Balloon Tours Over Limestone Mountains For $85
7. 7 Underrated Summer Destinations for Late-Season Travel From Croatian Islands to American Wine Regions - Porto Covo Portugal Maintains Empty Atlantic Beaches And Fresh Seafood Markets In September

7 Underrated Summer Destinations for Late-Season Travel From Croatian Islands to American Wine Regions - Vis Island Croatia Opens Direct Ferry Service From Split With 30% Lower Hotel Rates

Vis Island, a Croatian gem, has recently gained easier access with the introduction of a direct ferry service from Split. This new route not only simplifies travel but has also resulted in a significant drop in hotel rates, with prices reportedly 30% lower than before. This makes Vis a more attractive destination for travelers who are on a budget. Vis Island, historically a restricted military zone, has now opened its doors to the public, inviting explorers to uncover its unique blend of history and natural beauty. Its proximity to other popular destinations like Hvar, which is connected by frequent ferries, also makes it ideal for exploring the Croatian islands. As tourism to this region increases, it remains to be seen if Vis can sustain its appeal beyond the initial surge of interest that the new ferry service and lower hotel costs have created. The popularity of the area has been steadily increasing as it becomes better known to travelers and potentially it will soon become an equally popular destinations as Dubrovnik or other destinations.





Vis Island in Croatia has seen a boost in accessibility with the introduction of a direct ferry route from Split. This new link might potentially lead to a 15% rise in tourist numbers, based on historical trends observed after the introduction of similar transportation connections. It's interesting to see how a new ferry route can influence visitation patterns and tourism on a smaller island.


This improved access has also led to a 30% decrease in hotel prices on Vis. This makes the island more appealing to budget-conscious travelers, and it's intriguing to see how this pricing strategy will affect the local accommodation industry in the longer term. Lower prices may attract more visitors outside the peak season.


The lower prices are particularly beneficial for travelers who want to take advantage of the island's cuisine, especially considering the emphasis on locally-sourced seafood. Restaurants may adapt their menus or offers to accommodate more late-season visitors and create unique culinary experiences for visitors, often at competitive prices.


Vis Island also has a strong wine-producing culture. With more travelers potentially coming to the island, it would be interesting to see the impact on wine tourism revenue, which currently accounts for approximately 4% of the island's economy. Will the newly introduced ferry connection increase this revenue stream?


The ferry itself has a significant capacity of 300 passengers per trip, offering an improved way to explore Vis's historical highlights such as ancient Roman ruins and the unique geological features. It's interesting to consider whether the island's infrastructure is sufficiently equipped to handle a significant increase in the number of visitors.


To handle the anticipated increase in tourism, Vis has already begun to upgrade its infrastructure, with improvements to the road network and various public facilities. How visitor satisfaction will be affected by these upgrades will be an interesting measure of success.


Ferry transport in this region, compared to using roadways, has an advantage of being more energy-efficient. This makes it a more sustainable option for environmentally conscious travelers. One could analyze how the choice of transport influences the carbon footprint of travelers visiting the island.


The shift to off-season travel is an interesting phenomenon, driven by factors like the desire to avoid crowds and the increasing popularity of travel during shoulder seasons. It's fascinating to see how such shifts in travel preferences could influence tourism in areas like Vis, which are traditionally dependent on the peak summer season.


Vis Island has an increasingly important role in preserving its heritage. Archaeological discoveries in recent years have added to its cultural significance, and with the growth in tourism, new resources could be directed towards preserving these sites for future generations. It will be interesting to follow the impact that tourism growth has on conservation efforts.



While the ferry service provides an opportunity to make Vis Island more accessible, it's crucial that the local authorities carefully manage the influx of tourists. The island's unique character and charm must be preserved for both residents and future visitors. A critical aspect will be to monitor how visitor numbers and tourism impact the overall ecosystem and environment. It's essential to find a balance between economic development and the protection of the natural resources of the island.

7 Underrated Summer Destinations for Late-Season Travel From Croatian Islands to American Wine Regions - Anderson Valley California Launches Wine Train Service Through 15 Family Owned Wineries

Anderson Valley in California has introduced a new wine train service that connects 15 family-owned wineries, promising a unique way to explore the region's renowned wine scene. The valley, situated about 2.5 hours north of San Francisco, is known for its excellent Pinot Noir and Chardonnay production, along with its beautiful blend of vineyards, forests, and fruit orchards. The wine train's purpose is to enhance the appeal of wine tourism in Anderson Valley, offering a scenic and enjoyable method for exploring the different wineries and tasting the diverse range of wines the area offers. This new attraction is part of a growing trend to highlight less-traveled summer destinations, giving wine lovers a fresh choice for late-season getaways in America. However, one might wonder if this train will truly enhance the visitor experience or simply contribute to more tourist congestion in an already popular area.

Anderson Valley in California has introduced a novel approach to wine tourism: a train service that connects visitors with 15 family-owned wineries. It's a fascinating project that leverages the region's unique landscape and the appeal of a vintage rail experience. The train, reportedly using restored early 20th-century cars, adds a historical layer to the overall journey.

Each winery along the route benefits from the varied microclimates within the valley. These differences, caused by factors like elevation and the Pacific Ocean's influence, result in distinct flavors and characteristics for each winery's output. One interesting aspect is how the train schedule is coordinated with the individual wineries' operating hours, which must be a logistical challenge for the organizers.

The valley's cooler climate is advantageous for growing certain grape varieties, such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. It's an interesting illustration of how climate can directly affect wine production. Furthermore, it appears that the wine train's pricing strategy is aimed at attracting a wider range of visitors, with various options including wine tastings at an affordable rate, potentially increasing engagement with the local wine community.

It's expected that the train service will contribute to the valley's economy, an aspect which is relevant considering California's wine industry as a whole generates significant revenue. While larger producers have a larger influence on the market, smaller ones like many in Anderson Valley can benefit from this increased tourism.

The train route itself, meandering through the scenic vineyards and forests, presents unique engineering and maintenance challenges due to the landscape. It is a demonstration of how the railway network interacts with the surroundings. This initiative is in line with a wider trend toward more interactive, authentic travel experiences rather than traditional sightseeing, highlighting a change in how people approach tourism.

Furthermore, Anderson Valley's less crowded nature compared to places like Napa and Sonoma may attract visitors who desire a more peaceful, less congested experience. The introduction of the train service could potentially create some interesting competitive dynamics in the wine region market.

Finally, the integration of culinary experiences, including locally sourced food pairings, offers possibilities for evolving culinary tourism strategies. This approach, including collaboration with local artisans and chefs, has the potential to enhance the traveler's experience and create an interesting integration of wine and gastronomy.


It will be intriguing to observe how this train initiative develops and influences the tourism landscape of Anderson Valley in the years to come.

7 Underrated Summer Destinations for Late-Season Travel From Croatian Islands to American Wine Regions - Hamburg Germany Introduces Night Markets Along Newly Restored Canal District

Hamburg has been enhancing its appeal as a summer destination by introducing night markets in its revitalized Canal District. The aim is to boost tourism during the evening hours and give visitors a taste of local culture. A key feature is the St. Pauli Night Market, which pops up every Wednesday in the Spielbudenplatz area, providing a unique mix of open-air shopping and a beer garden. This addition fits into Hamburg's existing vibrant nightlife scene, which includes a wide range of bars, pubs, and other evening activities.

It's not just the nighttime scene that adds to the city's appeal: Hamburg has a thriving market culture with over 100 markets operating each week. This illustrates how engaged the community is with the marketplace, offering a great way to discover the local culinary scene. And to top it off, Hamburg boasts a number of summer festivals and traditional events, enhancing the overall atmosphere and helping to cement its position as a distinctive destination for travelers seeking something special during their late-season trips. Whether it's the new night markets, the diverse market scene, or the festive atmosphere, Hamburg is making a strong case as a compelling option for late-season travel.

Hamburg, Germany's canal district, recently underwent a significant restoration project that has brought new life to the area, both architecturally and in terms of its appeal to visitors. This revitalization effort included modernizing infrastructure while respecting the historical character of the buildings and the surrounding environment. The city has capitalized on this by establishing a series of night markets along the canals, creating a new dimension to the area's allure, especially during the warmer months.

The St. Pauli Night Market, held every Wednesday at Spielbudenplatz, stands out as a popular example. It's an open-air affair that starts in the afternoon and runs into the evening, offering a blend of shopping and entertainment. An adjoining beer garden adds to the unique atmosphere. The idea is to boost the local economy by providing a venue for vendors to display their wares and, perhaps, spur interest in the area, especially after dark when tourist traffic might otherwise decrease.


The emergence of these night markets in Hamburg highlights a larger trend of enhancing nighttime experiences in urban environments, drawing from ideas that have been implemented in other international cities. They are positioned as a way to enhance the overall experience of visiting Hamburg, especially for those who might be interested in shopping, local crafts, and experiencing the local culture after sunset.

While the introduction of night markets can help generate interest and bring a larger economic boost, there are also potential downsides. One concern is the impact on traffic and transportation, both in the canal district and surrounding areas. There's always a possibility that increased tourist activity could strain local infrastructure and lead to overcrowding, particularly if the night markets prove very popular.


The decision to initiate these night markets, however, seems aligned with the growing trend toward emphasizing the "authentic" side of a place for visitors. How effective this will be is debatable. These markets, along with other night-time events such as local performances and entertainment, contribute to a more vibrant and engaging urban atmosphere. It remains to be seen if they will result in longer visits by tourists or increased tourism, but the intent is to diversify the kinds of experiences that visitors have in the city beyond the expected sights, sounds and activities. It will also be interesting to observe how the events impact the seasonality of tourism in the city as a whole. In the past, festivals and fairs have sometimes led to greater tourist numbers during the normally less active periods, which can be a benefit to cities seeking to extend the overall tourism season and diversify the visitor demographics. It will be fascinating to see if the night markets in Hamburg achieve similar effects.

7 Underrated Summer Destinations for Late-Season Travel From Croatian Islands to American Wine Regions - Stryn Norway Debuts Glass Bottom Boats For Fjord Tours At Half The Price Of Geiranger

Norway's Stryn region has introduced glass-bottom boats for fjord tours, aiming to offer a different perspective on the country's famed fjords. This new approach to exploring the fjords provides a unique view of the underwater landscape, making it a more engaging experience for visitors. Interestingly, the tours are offered at half the price compared to similar tours in the well-known Geirangerfjord. This makes Stryn a more affordable and arguably more attractive option for those wishing to experience the beauty of the Norwegian fjords.

While Geirangerfjord has its appeal, mainly its dramatic scenery and popularity, Stryn also offers stunning views from its surrounding mountains and is located near Jostedal National Park. For many people, these scenic offerings are just as appealing as the established tourist destination Geiranger. In this respect, Stryn may be a more compelling choice for visitors seeking a quieter and more affordable summer experience in Norway, and may be an undiscovered gem for those who prefer to travel during the late summer season. If you're seeking a combination of outdoor adventures and authentic cultural encounters, Stryn is definitely worth considering. It is important to realize that the relative unknown status of Stryn may change in the future if the new boat tours prove very popular with tourists.

Stryn, Norway, has introduced glass-bottom boats as a way to see the fjords, offering a unique perspective on the underwater environment and the wildlife that lives there. This is an interesting development in how people experience the fjords, especially considering the innovative design that seems to reduce water distortion and maximize viewing angles.


It's noteworthy that these tours are reportedly half the price of comparable tours in Geiranger, a more popular fjord destination. This makes them a potentially attractive choice for cost-conscious travelers. The question is whether this strategy will encourage more tourists to choose Stryn over Geiranger or if it will simply create a niche market. It will be interesting to see how the pricing dynamics in the region shift as this new tourism option matures.

The design of the glass-bottom boat is an intriguing engineering feat, likely demanding the use of lightweight but durable materials for the hull to maintain a transparent view. They're undoubtedly subjected to harsher conditions compared to boats used in sheltered areas, raising questions about the long-term maintenance requirements in the fjord environment.


Stryn's proximity to the more popular Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, means it might benefit from the overflow of tourism in that area. However, it remains to be seen if Stryn can successfully reposition itself as a viable alternative to Geiranger. The potential for sustainable tourism in the region might be affected by the success of the glass-bottom boat operations.


It seems like the introduction of the boats might fit into Norway's larger trend toward promoting outdoor adventures, encouraging interactions with the natural landscape and potentially fostering new forms of tourism. But it's important to consider the potential impacts on the environment, the infrastructure required to handle more visitors, and how it might affect local businesses.

Furthermore, the area's unique geography with mountains, glaciers, and fjords is well suited for geotourism. The new boat tours could potentially stimulate research and study into the geology of the region. It will be fascinating to see if this creates collaborations between academic institutions, research groups and the tourist operators.

It's also possible that the glass-bottom boats will increase interest in the marine and wildlife ecology of the region. If tourists are provided with information on the ecosystem and flora and fauna during the tour, it might spur a desire to help with conservation efforts. It would be intriguing to follow any initiatives related to this topic.

The emergence of low-cost air travel to Norway could also influence tourist traffic to Stryn and the fjord region. It's an interesting case study on how transportation costs can impact tourism in a region that may not have seen a significant increase in air travel in the past.

Stryn's growing reputation as a budget-friendly alternative to more developed destinations within the fjord region reveals a changing trend in tourism. It suggests that people are looking for unique and less-expensive travel experiences. This presents an interesting challenge for destinations that might be accustomed to a different sort of clientele.

Lastly, the introduction of glass-bottom boat tours could be a catalyst for new accommodation options in Stryn. Budget-friendly options like camper parks or affordable hotels might begin to emerge to accommodate a changing travel pattern. It'll be intriguing to observe if Stryn eventually establishes itself as a budget-friendly travel destination and diverges from the more well-known fjord destinations in the region.

7 Underrated Summer Destinations for Late-Season Travel From Croatian Islands to American Wine Regions - Vang Vieng Laos Starts Hot Air Balloon Tours Over Limestone Mountains For $85

Vang Vieng in Laos has introduced a new way to experience its stunning scenery: hot air balloon rides for just $85. This service, operated by the established Namthip Tours, offers a unique perspective on the region's landscape—a patchwork of rice paddies, rivers, and the iconic limestone karsts that define the area. The tours are designed to be safe, using French-built balloons and employing experienced, certified pilots.

The best times to go up are at dawn and dusk, when the light creates a golden glow that highlights the natural beauty below. For those who prefer a more secure experience, tethered rides are also offered, giving the opportunity to see the sunrise over the mountains. Unlike some popular destinations, the airspace over Vang Vieng isn't crowded with balloons, making for a more intimate and exclusive experience.

Located near the Blue Lagoon valley, about 7 kilometers outside Vang Vieng, these rides are being positioned as a way to share the magic of flight while highlighting the area's natural beauty. It will be interesting to see if this new option attracts a significant influx of tourists and how the region adapts to an increase in tourism. It's certainly an interesting development for late-season travelers looking for an adventure in Southeast Asia.

Vang Vieng, nestled in Laos's Nam Song River Valley, has introduced hot air balloon tours over its striking limestone karst landscape for a surprisingly affordable $85. These tours, offered by Namthip Tours, a company with 23 years of experience, leverage eight years of ballooning expertise. All pilots are fully certified and have logged over a thousand flights, using French-made balloons maintained to exacting safety standards, adhering to civil aviation rules.

The tours provide a unique perspective on the valley, revealing a patchwork of rice paddies, rivers, and the iconic limestone cliffs that are the hallmark of the region. The optimal viewing experiences, it seems, are during dawn and dusk when the soft, golden light accentuates the beauty of the landscape. One interesting aspect is that Vang Vieng's airspace doesn't seem overly congested with balloons, which may contribute to a more immersive experience for those who enjoy solitude. In addition to the standard balloon tours, tethered rides are available, allowing a calmer, safer, yet equally scenic experience, particularly for sunrise views.

These operations typically take place near the Blue Lagoon valley, some 7 kilometers from Vang Vieng, offering a fresh angle on the topography. This is a region with intriguing geological history. The karst landscape formed over eons due to chemical weathering of the rock, making it a fascinating area for those interested in the long-term dynamics of the Earth. It remains to be seen if the ballooning initiative will have any impact on the geological studies of the area. It is also worth questioning whether the infrastructure in and around Vang Vieng is truly adequate to sustain a surge in tourism related to these balloon rides, given that the nearest airport is a significant distance away. These operations tout the chance to experience the magic of "being lighter than air," while presenting the enchanting beauty of Vang Vieng. But will this attract the masses or be a relatively niche tourist activity? Only time will tell. It is intriguing to consider how these newer tourism initiatives change the local tourism ecosystem in Vang Vieng, which in the past has seen more adventurous forms of tourism.

7 Underrated Summer Destinations for Late-Season Travel From Croatian Islands to American Wine Regions - Porto Covo Portugal Maintains Empty Atlantic Beaches And Fresh Seafood Markets In September

Porto Covo, nestled on Portugal's Alentejo coast, remains a hidden gem, especially during September. The village, with its roots in the 18th-century fishing industry, retains a peaceful atmosphere and offers a refreshing contrast to larger, more crowded resorts. Its wide, empty Atlantic beaches, like the beautiful Praia Grande with its golden sand and towering cliffs, attract those seeking a tranquil getaway. The connection to the sea remains prominent in Porto Covo, with local seafood markets showcasing fresh catches and a strong emphasis on local culinary traditions. The markets themselves offer a unique opportunity to immerse in the local culture and experience the vibrant taste of the sea.

Beyond the beaches and culinary experiences, Porto Covo serves as the starting point for the Fisherman's Trail, a picturesque coastal hike that unfolds over four days. The trail offers a unique way to appreciate the rugged, untouched landscapes of the Portuguese coast, providing a chance to escape the crowds and enjoy the region's natural beauty in its purest form. The colorful buildings and constant scent of sea air add to the quaint atmosphere of the village, with stunning sunsets painting the sky in breathtaking hues. It's an ideal destination for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace, seeking a quiet escape to enjoy the beauty of nature and savor authentic Portuguese life during the late summer season.

Porto Covo, a small fishing village situated on Portugal's western coast, south of Lisbon, offers a tranquil escape during September. It's a destination that's seemingly untouched by the summer rush, with beaches that often have just a handful of visitors per kilometer. This low tourist density makes it an excellent option for those seeking a genuinely peaceful connection with the Atlantic Ocean and its diverse marine life.


The region's fishing history is deeply rooted in its identity, which is reflected in its lively seafood markets. Fresh catches, including sardines, octopus, and clams, are a staple, often at lower prices than during the height of tourist season. This makes it an interesting location for exploring Portuguese cuisine, particularly the renowned "Sardinha Assada" – grilled sardines – a classic representation of the region's traditions. Pairing these dishes with wines from the nearby Alentejo region further elevates the culinary experience without breaking the bank.


September offers pleasant weather in Porto Covo, with average temperatures hovering around 21°C. It's ideal for enjoying outdoor activities like cycling, exploring the scenic coastline, and enjoying the relatively deserted beaches, without the sweltering heat of summer's peak.


Porto Covo itself is a charming, low-key village with a population of around 1,000. This intimate scale creates a more genuine interaction with the local community and culture, which might be something to explore. September often hosts local festivals celebrating the maritime heritage of the area, a unique cultural insight often missed by the typical tourist.


The area's geology is also worth considering. The coastline showcases the effects of thousands of years of erosion and deposition, creating stunning cliff faces and hidden coves. Additionally, it's part of a larger natural park that extends along a vast stretch of the coastline, with a rich diversity of flora and fauna.


Flights to nearby Lisbon are easily accessible, especially with the abundance of budget airlines that are often a good option during the off-season. While there are cheaper flight options to Lisbon, there could be a challenge for someone who wants to visit Porto Covo as it requires another transport mode.


The reduced crowds that typically arrive during the off-season also translate into potentially lower accommodation costs, potentially making it more accessible to stay in a slightly more luxurious setting. It's interesting to analyze if and how that changes the demographics of visitors and what long-term impact it might have on Porto Covo.


In conclusion, while Porto Covo is a less-known destination, its serene environment and authentic cultural elements make it an interesting choice for late-season travelers, particularly those who prefer a slower pace and enjoy experiencing a destination outside the typical tourist circuit. However, one might wonder how long this tranquility will last if the popularity of this type of experience increases.