Europe: Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations

 

When it comes to the world’s most iconic landmarks, Europe comes to mind: the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, and Big Ben, to name a few.

These are the lesser-known destinations that provide interesting experiences, beautiful scenery and authentic part of European culture.

Europe’s off the beaten path destinations have a nature lover, a history buff, or someone looking for some peace in store for your next adventure.

1. The Enchanting Faroe Islands, Denmark

The Faroe Islands are an island archipelago consisting of 18 rugged islands tucked away in the North Atlantic Ocean and are a nature lover’s paradise of tranquility and dramatic landscapes.

As one of the last and smallest towns in Iceland without mass tourism, this borough has a population of just 50 700 and plenty of that world undiscovered.

Natural Beauty and Hiking Trails

The Faroe Islands boast some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in Europe.

The islands boast towering cliffs and waterfalls, green hills and pristine fjords that act as a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

The hike to the top of Slættaratindur, the highest peak in the archipelago, offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands and ocean.

Unique Wildlife and Coastal Villages

The islands are home to thousands of seabirds to wildlife enthusiasts, including puffins which nest along the dramatic cliffs.

Visitors can also see some coastal villages such as Gásadalur, with its property located into the cliffs and waterfall flowing right into the sea.

With their isolation, the islands are virtually a world in themselves and they’re an experience like going back in time.

2. Albania’s Secret Beaches

However, while Greece and Croatia command the Mediterranean coastline, Albania is one of Europe’s best kept secrets when it comes to beaches.

Extended along the Ionian Sea, the Albanian Riviera provides completely virgin cleanliness, pristine beaches, and turquoise water, which is difficult to find in the rest of Europe.

Hidden Coves and Secluded Beaches

Indeed, Albania’s beaches are fairly untouched, offering you no more than the peace and quiet you want in a beach where you can completely be yourself.

Zip to Dhermi, Jale or Ksamil and find yourself in serene sandy stretches with dramatic cliff backdrops or virgin nature.

A retreat away from the rest that these hidden gems provide for travelers wanting to escape the crowds.

Rich History and Culture

But beyond the beaches, there is much cultural and historical wealth in Albania.

Also visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of the medieval, well preserved Ottoman era town of Gjirokastër or the ancient city of Butrint, with its ruins stretching from the settlement of the ancient Greeks and Romans.

As a prime example of a location where natural beauty is combined with historic mystery, Albania is a one of a kind European destination.

3. The Unspoiled Wilderness of Slovenia’s Triglav National Park

Slovenia’s Triglav National Park is Europe’s last remaining wilderness area in the heart of the Julian Alps.

A park named after Mount Triglav, the highest peak in the country allows nature lovers to escape into tranquillity with an extensive choice of activities including hiking and cycling to kayaking and wildlife watching.

Majestic Mountains and Crystal-Clear Lakes

A hiker’s paradise, the Triglav National Park covers mountainous submarine forests and alpine meadows as well as tracks around beautiful glacial lakes.

With an iconic church placed on a small island in the middle, Lake Bled is certainly one of Slovenia’s most popular natural attractions.

However, the nearby Lake Bohinj, a quieter and equally beautiful spot, offers a more peaceful experience, with the majestic Julian Alps as a backdrop.

Traditional Alpine Villages

If you wish to observe Slovenia’s cultural heritage, you can find charming alpine villages such as Kobarid and Soča, both of which are also located in Slovenia.

Also known as Kobarid Museum, this place offers information about the history of the area and its involvement in World War I. Soča River is famous for its emerald waters and is well known from activities such as rafting and kayaking.

4. The Mystical Isle of Skye, Scotland

Belonging to Scotland, the Isle of Skye is a magical place that often gets lost in the bogey of the more famous Scottish Highlands.

Skye is known as having the rugged beauty of dramatic cliffs, and the majestic buildings of ancient castles which gives a taste of the wild and untamed Scotland.

If you are walking the Fairy Pools or touring the iconic Old Man of Storr, Skye delivers a landscape that is lifted from the pages of a fairy tale.

Ancient Castles and Historical Sites

Some of Scotland’s most iconic castles are scattered around Skye, including Dunvegan Castle, the seat of Clan MacLeod for more than 800 years.

With beautiful gardens surrounding it and a look into the beautiful history of the island, the castle is definitely something to see.

Furthermore, the island is rife in stories due to mainstream mythology and there are many sites that have been linked to legends from ancient times.

Dramatic Landscapes and Outdoor Adventures

Other than that, it is famous for those otherworldly landscapes. The Old Man of Storr, a towering rock formation, offers one of the best hikes on the island, with panoramic views of the surrounding sea and mountains.

Also for travelers more adventurous, Skye is ideal for climbing, kayaking and tours by boat, deepening the experience of a European destination, one of the most beautiful in the continent.

5. The Colorful Village of Burano, Italy

If you are lucky enough to visit, there is an island of Italy’s hidden gems located just a short boat ride from Venice.

The charming canals of Burano are famous for their brightly colored houses, with less bustling streets than Venice.

Vibrant Architecture and Artisan Craftsmanship

Burano feels like a painting come to life with its streets lined with houses in all the colours of the rainbow.

It is also famous for its lace-making industry and visitors can find good handmade lace in island’s shops.

Colorful buildings and artisan shops are as far from tourist crowds as one can get and give them a unique cultural experience.

A Peaceful Escape from Venice

Though crowded and busy with its alleyways, Venice is nothing compared to the peaceful retreat of Burano, which also provides its guests with leisurely walks down the canals, fresh seafood at restaurants, and the authentic cute charm of this island village.

6. The Mysterious Caves of Postojna, Slovenia

The sprawling underground network of tunnels, chambers and passageways is one of Slovenia’s most fascinating natural wonders: the Postojna Cave system.

The caves, first discovered in the 18th century cover more than 24km and consist of a huge variety of wildlife, including the famous human fish an albino salamander native to the area.

A Journey Into the Depths

The caves may be explored by guided tour, travelling on a special electric train which will take you deep to the caverns within the cave system.

Marvel at the extraordinary stalactites and stalagmites which have been taking shape over countless years inside.

A visit to the Great Hall, one of the largest cave chambers in Europe, surrounded by towering rock formations, is the highlight of the tour.

A Historical Gem

Predjama Castle is another highlight, it is an amazing fortress built into the wall of a cliff. It is indeed one of the most unique castles in Europe thanks to the castle’s strategic location and fascinating history.

Both the visits to the cave and the castle are a perfect blend of historic and natural wonder.

Conclusion: The Hidden Wonders of Europe Await

Just when you think you have seen it all, Europe’s off the beaten path destinations have something that you just won’t believe.

From a wild beauty of the Faroe Islands to the secret beaches of Albania, traveling through Slovenia’s Triglav National Park, discovering the mystical Isle of Skye or just looking at the colorful streets of Burano — these ‘missed’ places will sure make great memories and keep you feeling original.

Therefore, pick up your luggage, leave the crowd behind, and go on an adventure to find Europe’s hidden treasures!