Secret Summer Escapes: Where to Go When Everyone Else Goes Elsewhere
Tourism is booming, and this is more and more clear over the summer when school is out, the sun is shining and everyone is ready for a break.
With popular destinations, and even those that used to be “hidden gems”, becoming increasingly crowded, it is getting harder and harder to find places to avoid summer crowds.
But, luckily, we have the insider scoop on the best summer vacation alternatives to avoid the masses and truly enjoy your getaway.
These are our top recommended alternative summer destinations:
Though growing in popularity, Slovenia remains an underrated Central European gem.
This little country packs a bug punch with a vast array of things to enjoy for any traveler. Offering active experiences in nature, city breaks packed with culture, relaxing spa centers and gastronomic pampering with local flavors in first-class restaurants, Slovenia is truly a destination with it all.
While Slovenia boasts some remarkable skiing and winter activities, it is also home to some of Europe’s most picturesque lakes and some small but stunning beaches that offer rest and relaxation on the Adriatic coast.
The Albanian Rivera has become increasingly popular, with visitors from throughout Europe joining Albanian vacationers in enjoying the beaches and myriad of bars and restaurants in the area.
Taking one look at the crystal-clear water, striking coastline, and budget-friendly price tags, it is easy to see why the Albanian Rivera is seeing a tourism boom. Even with increased interest, this area remains on our list of summer destinations to avoid summer crowds because there are still plenty of beaches and areas that remain undiscovered.
Head to Krorëza Beach or the secluded paradise of Dafina Bay to enjoy undisturbed beach time. The Thermal Baths of Bënjë also remain a hidden gem and are worth the trip to discover and bath in the naturally heated sulfur springs.
While popular cities like Tbilisi and Batumi are putting Georgia on more tourists’ radar, Javakheti Plateau, Tusheti National Park, and the Svaneti region remain undiscovered treasures entirely deserving of visits.
Javakheti Plateau is a tranquil lake district offering a peaceful escape from the crowds.
In Northeastern Georgia, you will find Tusheti National Park, a true off-the-beaten-path adventure destination.
Known for its dramatic mountains and medieval watchtowers, Svaneti is a remote region offering a more rugged experience free of crowds.
While areas like Banff, are summer travel hotspots in Canada, there are plenty of alternatives that offer more secluded and peaceful Canadian summer holidays without the crowds.
Kananaskis Country in Alberta offers a similar experience to Banff but with significantly fewer tourists. It boasts pristine lakes, hiking trails, and wildlife sightings. Kananaskis is also within close enough proximity to popular areas of Alberta to visit then retreat back into the calm of Kananaskis for tranquility.
Gaspé Peninsula in Quebec, is home to numerous quaint villages that will take you back to a simpler, quieter time. Here you will find Miguasha National Park, UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing fossil evidence of the Devonian period.
You will be surrounded by breathtaking mountains and an endless coastline, which is home to numerous ecosystems. Dine on the freshest seafood and dive in to the historical and cultural experiences this Canadian peninsula has to offer.
If you are lucky, you may even see caribou, moose, bears, and unique bird species.
Scotland
If the only herds you are looking to see is highland coos, skip the throngs of visitors in Edinburgh and head to Angus Glens, the Torridon/Applecross area, or the Galloway Forest Park which all offer stunning landscapes and a variety of activities from relaxing to outdoor adventures.
These areas have all the beauty of the highlands and Scottish charm without the masses, offering a charming peaceful Scottish getaway.
While Scotland may not be the first place you think of when planning a summer beach getaway, Aberdeenshire Coast offers rugged cliffs and imposing sand dunes overlooking golden beaches. The city center beach, lined with seaside cafés and restaurants leads onto many untouched beaches further along the 165 miles of Aberdeenshire coast making it an ideal, and much lesser known, destination.
England
The north-east Cotswolds feel like stepping back in time with it’s old world charm. This region is known for its picturesque towns and villages, including Chipping Campden, Moreton-in-Marsh, and Stow-on-the-Wold, but is also full of hidden gems and tiny villages that make for perfect, quiet getaways amidst the summer crowds.
These charming little villages, such as Bourton-on-the-Hill and Naunton, offer quaint B&B and guest house stays, surrounded by rolling hills and lush green fields, that will make you feel like you are in a movie.
For stunning coastal scenery, consider the Slieve League Cliffs in County Donegal, an alternative to the popular Cliffs of Moher.
While Donegal is the closest town to these stunning cliffs, Killybegs and Ardara are also quaint towns within close proximity. The region has more to offer than just Slieve League Cliffs. Here you will find all the Irish charm, markets and food, as well as remarkable natural scenery and outdoor activities.
Filled with medieval fortresses, blue river trails, and quaint villages, the Irish Midlands still remain a hidden gem and are far less visited than other parts of Ireland.
This remarkable area offers a quieter, less crowded, and more authentic Irish experience than the more popular tourist destinations in Ireland, making them an ideal getaway for those looking to escape summer travel crowds and enjoy a slower paced vacation.
Best known for skiing and winter activities, Jackson Hole, Wyoming is much more peaceful in the summer months and is one of the least crowded National Parks in the summer, making it a far more enjoyable and accessible experience than some of it’s counterparts.
Much like Jackson Hole, many popular winter destinations in the Colorado Mountains are calm oasis in the Summer season, but those mountains aren’t just great for skiing, snowboarding and tubing! They are ideal for hiking, nature walks, and enjoying the great outdoors in the sunshine.
Those cabins and ski lodges? Become perfect peaceful summer escapes surrounded by greenery and nature.
If you are ready to ditch the crowds and discover charming, under-the-radar summer destinations perfect for peaceful getaways, cozy vibes, and quiet adventures, reach out to us today to start planning!
Our friendly and knowledgeable team is ready to plan the perfect, peaceful, summer getaway for you!
