For UK travellers who want to avoid common tourist spots, numerous hidden gem destinations remain undiscovered. These locations present genuine experiences along with beautiful scenery or compelling adventures away from the usual packed tourist hubs.
I have compiled a careful selection of five excellent spots that belong on your next travel list. Each provides access to untamed shores, remote islands as well as historic settlements that mass tourism has left alone.
1. The Azores, Portugal β Europeβs Secret Garden of Eden
Why Visit?
The Azores archipelago stands apart from mainland Portugal as a destination for people who love nature. The islands offer volcanic craters along with emerald lakes, cliffs that reach high into the sky next to thermal pools. The place combines features of Iceland or Hawaii but receives far fewer visitors.
Top Activities:
- Hike around Sete Cidades β A pair of crater lakes with jaw-dropping views.
- Whale Watching (April to October) β The waters welcome majestic blue whales as well as other sea creatures.
- Take a Dip in Terra Nostraβs Thermal Pools β A volcanic pool sits in the middle of a lush garden.
- Explore SΓ£o Miguelβs Lava Tubes β The caves underneath show traces of old volcanic activity.
Best Time to Visit:
- Spring (AprilβJune): Lush landscapes, fewer crowds.
- Autumn (SeptemberβNovember): Great weather with warm ocean temperatures.
Travel Tips:
- Flights: Direct flights from London to Ponta Delgada take around 4 hours.
- Packing Essentials: Comfortable hiking shoes, a waterproof jacket, and a swimsuit for the hot springs.
- Tourist Info: Visit Azores
2. Albaniaβs Riviera β The Mediterraneanβs Best-Kept Secret
Why Visit?
Imagine Greece, but without the crowds and hefty prices. The Albanian Riviera is a stretch of untouched coastline with crystal-clear waters, dramatic mountains, and ancient ruins, all at a fraction of the cost of its famous neighbours.
Top Activities:
- Swim at Gjipe Beach β A secluded cove between towering cliffs.
- Explore Butrint National Park β A UNESCO-listed ancient city surrounded by lagoons.
- Drive the Llogara Pass β One of Europeβs most scenic coastal roads.
- Visit Ksamilβs βMaldives of Europeβ β Tiny islets with white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.
Best Time to Visit:
- MayβJune & September: Warm weather, fewer tourists, and cheaper prices.
Travel Tips:
- Flights: Direct flights from London to Tirana, then a 4-hour scenic drive to the coast.
- Currency: Albanian Lek (cash is king in rural areas).
- Tourist Info: Albania Tourism
3. The Faroe Islands, Denmark β A Nordic Fairytale
Why Visit?
Tucked between Iceland and Norway, the Faroe Islands are one of Europeβs last true wildernesses, with dramatic fjords, tiny villages, and puffin-filled cliffs. Itβs an adventure loverβs paradise, yet remains surprisingly under-visited.
Top Activities:
- Hike to SΓΈrvΓ‘gsvatn βLake Above the Oceanβ β A mind-bending optical illusion.
- Visit GΓ‘sadalur Village β A postcard-perfect village with a waterfall cascading into the sea.
- Road trip through 17 Islands β Bridges and tunnels connect this breathtaking archipelago.
- Spot Puffins at Mykines β The best place to see these adorable birds up close.
Best Time to Visit:
- Summer (JuneβAugust): 24-hour daylight and best hiking conditions.
- Winter (NovemberβMarch): For dramatic storms and the chance to see the Northern Lights.
Travel Tips:
- Flights: Direct flights from Edinburgh or Copenhagen to VΓ‘gar Airport.
- Weather Warning: Itβs famously unpredictable β pack layers and waterproofs!
- Tourist Info: Visit Faroe Islands
4. Kotor, Montenegro β Europeβs Hidden Medieval Gem
Why Visit?
Nestled in a fjord-like bay, Kotor is a stunning medieval town that feels like a mix of Croatia and the Swiss Alps, but with far fewer tourists. Its cobbled streets, historic forts, and sparkling Adriatic waters make it a dream destination for history buffs and adventure seekers alike but also a range of adventure activities to make the experience unforgettable.
Top Activities:
- Hike the Kotor Fortress β 1,350 steps lead to an unforgettable view.
- Take a boat to Our Lady of the Rocks β A floating church on a tiny island.
- Explore LovΔen National Park β Stunning mountain landscapes and local villages.
- Day trip to Perast β A beautiful old town with Venetian-style architecture.
Best Time to Visit:
- Spring (AprilβJune): Warm but not too hot, with fewer cruise ship crowds.
- Autumn (SeptemberβOctober): Similar to spring but with golden hues.
Travel Tips:
- Flights: Direct flights from London to Tivat (10 minutes from Kotor).
- Currency: Euro (β¬), even though Montenegro isnβt in the EU.
- Tourist Info: Montenegro Travel
5. Raja Ampat, Indonesia β The Last Paradise
Why Visit?
This remote Indonesian archipelago is considered the most biodiverse marine ecosystem on Earth, making it heaven for divers and snorkelers. With hidden lagoons, untouched beaches, and colourful coral reefs, itβs like stepping into a David Attenborough documentary.
Top Activities:
- Snorkel or dive in the worldβs richest reefs β Over 75% of the worldβs coral species are found here.
- Hike to Piaynemo Viewpoint β Stunning panoramic views of limestone islets.
- Meet Indigenous Tribes β Experience the culture of the Papuan people.
- Kayak through Hidden Lagoons β Paddle past secret caves and rock formations.
Best Time to Visit:
- OctoberβApril: Best underwater visibility and marine life encounters.
Travel Tips:
- Getting There: Fly from the UK to Jakarta, then take a domestic flight to Sorong and a speedboat to the islands.
- Remote Travel: Very few ATMs, so bring cash. Basic infrastructure, but 100% worth it!
- Tourist Info: Indonesia Tourism
Final Thoughts
For UK travellers eager to step off the beaten path, these hidden gem destinations offer extraordinary experiences for uk travellers without the usual tourist crowds. Whether itβs whale watching in the Azores, hiking through the Faroe Islands, or diving in Raja Ampat, these destinations promise unforgettable adventures.
So, where will your next adventure take you? πβοΈ
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