There’s nothing better than discovering a quiet spot on holiday that’s not as popular with tourists meaning you can explore at your own pace and take in everything it has to offer with no interruptions. You’ll have your friends and family green with envy when they see your stunning holiday snaps of hidden gems they maybe haven’t heard of before!
Here’s some of our favourites, but we’d love to know if you have any other hidden gems!
Torrevieja
When flying into Alicante, most holiday makers are heading off to Benidorm, or of course Alicante itself. But if you’re looking for a quieter spot that’s filled with beauty, with a sprinkling of late night bars, then why not try Torrevieja? Torrevieja is around 40 minutes away from Alicante Airport, and is home to some of the most gorgeous spots in Spain. A must visit during your stay is the pink lake!
At Laguna Rosa, the waters are as warm as bath water, and as the name suggests, the lake is a beautiful pink colour that looks like something out of a fairytale. The lake is a pink colour due to its high salinity and glorious temperatures of the area make it the ideal ecosystem for some species of microalgae that release the reddish pigment which stains the entire body of water.
There’s plenty to do and enjoy in Torrevieja. The town has one of the biggest open-air markets in Spain where you can shop for textiles, clothes and souvenirs. You’ll also find lots of locally-grown produce. There’s a host of evening entertainment, including a lively nightclub scene. If you prefer a quiet night out, enjoy a long evening at one of the many restaurants serving traditional Spanish tapas or English home comforts.
Skopelos
When you think of a holiday to gorgeous Greece, lots of the more popular islands spring to mind before Skopelos, but if you’re looking for a traditional Greek getaway with stunning beaches then this is the perfect choice. Skopelos is the largest island in the Northern Sporades archipelago and is a wonderfully natural destination filled with miles of vibrant greenery, fantastic golden beaches and traditional white-washed villages.
For Mamma Mia! fans out there, the island of Skopelos was the main filming location for the 2008 movie, so you’ll see many recognisable sites from the big screen. Skopelos boasts beautiful traditional Greek streets and buildings, helping visitors to enjoy the authentic side of Greece. Thanks to being a relatively small island in the Aegean Sea, Skopelos has a ton of sandy spots to enjoy. The sandier beaches are mostly found on the south and west coasts of the island, the opposite side to Skopelos Town. These beaches can fill up fast during the popular summer months so those looking for serenity by the sea can sunbathe on the beaches on the north coast.
Montenegro
When you set your heart on a summer holiday, Montenegro probably won’t be at the top of your bucket list, but let us tell you, you’re missing out!! Rugged mountains, medieval villages, a forest drenched landscape and Adriatic beaches are all on the menu for your holiday to Montenegro, as well as some amazing tourist-focussed resorts that are ideal for a memorable family getaway.
If topping up your tan is your idea of a good time, then the Budva Riviera should be at the top of your wishlist. It has its own 320-kilometre strip of coastline, which is split into 100 separate beaches as well as pine woods, waterways and craggy canyons. Petrovac has a fantastic beach, and it’s not usually overcrowded, meaning it’s the perfect spot for rest and relaxation.
Lake Skadar is located in southern Montenegro, just inland and is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Balkans. The waters are backed by towering mountains, while just metres from the bank sit lily-pads that stretch out into the water like a field of grass. Among the many spots along the bank of Lake Skadar, one of the most picturesque is Kotor Bay. Here you’ll find rows of terracotta roofs and a sandy beach which is ideal for swimming.
Formentera
Formentera is the smallest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, and is perfect for those who want to escape from it all on a serene sandy beach. Formentera doesn’t have its own airport, so you’ll need to fly into Ibiza and take a boat from there, but this helps to add to the secluded and serene feeling that Formentera boasts.
Thanks to its location, the island has toasty temperatures all year round, but September is a favourite month for holidaymakers thanks to the summer rush dying down. If you’re hoping for wild nightlife like you can find on Formentera’s Balearic brothers and sisters, you’ll be slightly disappointed! But those who are ready for a glass of wine in front of a peaceful coastline will be in their element!
Formentera holidays are not complete without a visit to some local markets.You can find handmade jewellery, ceramics, clothing and art made by local craftsmen to take home as a special souvenir of your trip. Visit the art-filled artisan night market in San Fernando, open every day from 8.30pm to midnight (except Wednesdays and Sundays), while the San Francisco morning market is a great stop for those into all-things crafts.
Neapolitan Riviera (Italy)
Italian holidays often consist of tourist filled cities and rich historical sites to explore, but if you prefer a more laid back vibe, then you’ll love the Neapolitan Riviera, also known as the Amalfi Coast. It is home to the picturesque cities of Amalfi, Ischia, Naples, Positano, Ravello, Sant Agnello, and Sorrento. Holidays to the Neapolitan Riviera consist of good food, great wine and even better company, and with instagram-worthy scenery, there’s no doubt that it makes for the perfect summer holiday destination.
If you want a break from consuming your body weight in delicious pasta and wine, the region also has centuries of fascinating history and nearby is the famous archaeological site at Pompeii. The bustling city of Naples is around 90 minutes drive away from Neapolitan Riviera resorts and is an excellent destination for a day trip. If you want to take in breathtaking views of Mount Vesuvius, head to the whitewashed coastal town of Amalfi.
Brac Island (Croatia)
Brac Island is one of the largest islands in Croatia, and has a famous reputation for its award-winning beach. Zlatni Rat is one of the most famous beaches in the Adriatic, with a pebbly shore and crystal clear waters. If your idea of the perfect holiday is lounging at the beach with a book in one hand and an alcoholic drink in the other, you’ll feel right at home here!
Equally, for the adrenaline lovers out there, Brac Island offers tons of opportunities to get your fix! You can take to the waters and enjoy a spot of kayaking, jet skiing, paddleboarding or even windsurfing. If your adrenaline rush is found back on land, Vidova Gora will have you feeling on top of the world. It is one of the highest peaks to exist in the entire Dalmatian Islands, 780m to the top to be precise! You can drive up there, or if you feel up to it, why not challenge yourself to the two hour trek to the top?!
Discover More Hidden Gems
If you have any more hidden gems in Europe, or from around the world, be sure to let us know via social media! Don’t be shy and keep them to yourself, we’d love to hear from you.
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