Top 5 Alternative European Getaways for Summer

Traveling to alternative destinations for your European summer breakaway is a growing trend. If you feel like avoiding crowds and over-subscribed tourism spaces, we’ve got you! Here is our list of some suggestions for lesser-known holiday spots, and the potential adventures you can enjoy here.

Island hopper: Visit Turku Archipelago, Finland  

This scenic place reminds one of a scattered diamond necklace across turquoise waters with its thousands and thousands of granite islands with soft sand beaches.

Your days can be filled with kayaking adventures – weaving between the islands and exploring hidden coves, and charming finishing villages. You can embark on the Archipelago Trail – a 200 km route of road and ferry (it begins in and ends in Turku), or hike or bike along marked trails on several islands, like Nagu or Kustavi. These trails offer breathtaking coastal views, lead you through charming villages, and provide opportunities to encounter diverse island ecosystems.

Experience the thrill of fishing in the crystal-clear waters, or consider diving  – allowing you to marvel at shipwrecks, colorful coral reefs teeming with fish, and unique marine life, or opt for snorkeling and get a glimpse into this stunning underwater world closer to the surface.

During the summer months, you can embark on a berry-picking adventure. The archipelago is abundant with wild blueberries and raspberries and foraging in Finland is free – but of course, remember to respect nature.

You can also consider indulging in a traditional Finnish sauna experience on one of the islands. Many island cottages or resorts offer private saunas, or you can visit public saunas located on some larger islands.

Finland’s Turku Archipelago can be your next dream escape if you are seeking a tranquil retreat surrounded by Nordic beauty. 

For more information, visit Explore Archipelago

Beach lover: Visit the Karpas Peninsula, Cyprus

This beautiful peninsula offers a taste of unspoiled Cyprus. Activities are numerous! From exploring ancient ruins to cooling off with a swim in hidden coves accessible only by dirt tracks.

 Bask in the golden sand and swim in the crystal-clear waters of Golden Beach, a protected natural paradise. Snorkel and explore the vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful fish and unique marine life.

Visit the Karpas Donkey Sanctuary and meet the adorable residents, and learn about their importance in the peninsula’s history and culture. At night, enjoy a stargazing extravaganza – the Karpas Peninsula’s remoteness offers a spectacular view of the Milky Way and countless twinkling stars.

Embark on a village-hopping tour, discovering traditional Cypriot life in some of the quaint settlements. Sample local delicacies like halloumi cheese and kleftiko (slow-roasted lamb) or seek out unique treasures in the villages – browse hand-woven tapestries, traditional ceramics, and locally made jewelry.

The Karpas Peninsula is a haven for nature lovers and history buffs seeking a tranquil escape on the shores of the Mediterranean.

For more information visit visitcyprus.com

Nature enthusiast: Visit the Black Forest, Germany

Spanning from Karlsruhe to the Swiss border, this vast forest offers many calm spots where you can relax or engage in numerous activities. As the forest is so vast (+/- 2 hours by car from the Swiss border to Karlsruhe), what you do depends on where you stay, but one thing is for sure, there is more than enough to serve all interests.   

Lace-up your boots and explore a network of scenic hiking trails – from gentle forested paths to challenging climbs like the Feldbergsteig, there’s a trail for every skill level. There are numerous marked mountain bike trails to cater to all experience levels, offering exhilarating descents through lush forests and breathtaking scenery.

You can also embark on tree-top walks – a unique adventure where you are suspended high above the forest floor. The Black forest spans an area of over 6000 square km, so if you are located near Triberg, you can witness the cascading power of Germany’s highest waterfalls, Triberg Waterfalls.

Visit the Black Forest Open Air Museum in Vogtsbauernhof, step back in time, and explore traditional farmhouses showcasing rural life in the Black Forest from centuries past. Explore the Baden wine route where you can delight in stunning landscapes and wine villages. There are also wine hikes on offer: Staufen Wine Hike or the Wine and Culinary Hike Müllheim-Badeweiler.   

Indulge in the rejuvenating waters of the Black Forest’s thermal baths, like those in Baden-Baden. Soak in the naturally heated pools, unwind in saunas, and experience the ultimate relaxation amidst stunning scenery.

The Black Forest is a fairytale land where dense, emerald forests cloak rolling hills and charming villages beckon exploration. A must-visit.

For more information, visit Black Forest Germany

Skip the beach: Visit Lake Annecy, France

Lake Annecy is one of Europe’s cleanest lakes, located in southeastern France. If you want to skip crowded beaches, then head to this stunning lake where you can experience medieval magic and outdoor adventure.

Lake Annecy’s pristine waters are a playground for water enthusiasts. Rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the calm shores, try your hand at windsurfing or kitesurfing for an adrenaline rush, or take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear water. Embark on a scenic boat tour or cruise on Lake Annecy. Discover hidden coves, admire charming lakeside villages, and learn about the history and ecology of this magnificent lake.

Scuba dive and explore shipwrecks and hidden underwater rock formations teeming with diverse fish life. For a more relaxed experience, try snorkeling in the shallower areas. Or, simply unwind on one of the many beaches that dot the shores of the lake, soak up the sun, listen to the lapping waves, or enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery.

Hit the trails with a bike rental. The surrounding area boasts a network of cycling paths for all skill levels, offering breathtaking lake and mountain views as you pedal along. Grab your hiking boots and explore the picturesque trails around Lake Annecy. Hike up to viewpoints for panoramic vistas, discover cascading waterfalls hidden within the forests, or embark on a challenging climb to a mountain peak for an unforgettable experience.

Hit the town – the Thiou River carries melted snow from the Alps’ peaks through the town’s alleyways, and therefore its reputation as the ‘Venice of the Alps”. It’s a stunning experience. In the Centre of the old town visit Palais de I’Ile (ship-shaped dungeon, now cultural museum) or Château d’ Annecy – a restored castle that was the residence of the counts of Geneva in the 13th century or a 20 minutes drive further, visit a medieval fortress – Château de Mentho-Saint-Bernard.

Don’t forget about culinary delights! Savor fresh, local ingredients in traditional dishes like “tartiflette” (a potato, cheese, and bacon gratin) or “fondue savoyarde” (melted cheese fondue). Don’t forget to sample the local wines of Savoie, perfectly complementing your meals.    

The waters of Lake Annecy range from aquamarine to vivid cobalt present unimaginable shades of blue shimmer, and has even inspired impressionists like Paul Cézanne – enjoy the beautiful scenery that this lake has to offer, a definite must-visit from CSL.

 For more information, visit Lac Annecy Tourism

City break: Visit  Bordeaux, France

Enjoy world class wine, fantastic food and 300+ historical buildings and monuments to see.  

Immerse yourself in wine culture. Embark on a cellar tour in a historic château, like Haut-Brion or Margaux. Learn about the meticulous winemaking process from grape to bottle, or delve into the world of wine at La Cité du Vin, a futuristic museum dedicated to wine culture. Venture beyond the city and explore the world-famous wine region, the Golden Triangle. Visit prestigious appellations like Sauternes and Saint-Emilion, discover charming vineyards nestled amidst rolling hills, and enjoy wine tastings amidst picturesque scenery.

Bordeaux also boasts a vibrant wine bar scene. Explore charming bars in the Quays district or the trendy areas like Chartrons. Sample diverse wines by the glass, learn from knowledgeable bartenders and soak up the lively atmosphere.

Explore the UNESCO-listed city center, marvel at the grand 18th-century architecture like the Grand Théâtre, and delve into the city’s Roman past at the Gallo-Roman Museum. Bordeaux offers a variety of museums catering to diverse interests. Enjoy the world of fine art at the Musée des Beaux-Arts, explore decorative art at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, or learn about maritime history at the Bordeaux Maritime Museum.

Enjoy the food. Consider wandering through bustling markets like Marché des Quais, brimming with fresh local produce and regional specialties for purchase. If you want to take it to the next level – book at a Michelin-starred establishment, or tone it down to charming bistros, and simply savor the renowned cuisine of the region, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients and Bordeaux wine pairings.

For more information visit Explore France

With 5 lesser-know vacations spots to choose from, we hope you discover the perfect location for your needs and wish you a relaxing, yet adventure-filled well-deserved holiday.