From Albania to Montenegro: here are Europe’s ‘secret’ alternative Summer hotspots Brits should consider booking this Summer.
With growing uncertainty around some long-haul routes, more UK travellers are rethinking how far they want to travel this summer.
Travel expert Clarissa Cappelletti, International Regional Manager at solo group travel company WeRoad, looks beyond the usual summer hotspots to highlight five alternative short-haul European escapes that blend sunshine, culture and affordability.
1. Portugal: Ericeira is a coastal surf town that balances dramatic Atlantic coastline with chilled cafés and yoga culture.. Clarissa says, “Ericeira is Europe’s answer to Bali, without the long-haul flights.”
2. Albanian Riviera. Albania is still relatively under the radar compared to its Mediterranean neighbours. The Albanian Riviera offers turquoise waters, dramatic mountain backdrops, and affordable beach towns. Clarissa says, “It’s like Greece 20 years ago – think island hopping & fewer crowds”.
3. Montenegro (Bay of Kotor & Luštica Peninsula): Enjoy quiet beaches, sailing and hiking as well as UNESCO-listed Kotor old town with dramatic mountain scenery. Clarissa describes Montenegro as the perfect swap for Thailand, saying: “Montenegro is perfect for both adventure & culture. Switch Phuket & Krabi for closer to home Montenegro. The Bay of Kotor feels like an incredible fjord-meets-island hybrid, with clear waters & the addition of stunning medieval towns -and far less mass tourism than Thailand.”
4. Sardinia: Clarissa describes Sardinia as “A perfect beach life destination”. Snorkel at Rena Majore and Del Principe beach, and go kayaking in Casteldoria, or check out Liscia Ruja – the biggest beach on the Costa Smeralda.
5. Romania: Bran castle is stunning – but there’s so much more to Romania than just the legend of Dracula. The Transfăgărășan Highway is a ‘bucket list road’ – with some of the most striking mountain scenery in Europe (open June -October). Head to Therme Bucharest, one of Europe’s biggest spa and wellness complexes – it’s more like a tropical indoor resort waterpark + luxury spa hybrid than a traditional spa and is conveniently located by the airport. Clarissa says, “You may come for Dracula and the castles, but you stay for the mountains, the stories, and the sense that you’ve driven straight into a living fairytale.”
For further information visit : www.weroad.com
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