Since time immemorial, travelers have been in pursuit of new and uncharted locations to explore and experience magical nature at its best. Europe has always been a hot favorite for tourists and rightly so. What can be more beautiful than the mystical Swiss Alps, Norway’s spectacular Northern lights, Italy’s spellbinding coastlines, France’s incredible countryside, and so much more?

Apart from these popular spots, there are many hidden gems in Europe that are still pure and unfiltered and should be on your travel bucket-list. Simply login to Holidu for detailed information about these places and choose which one you would like to visit next.

Let’s have a look at a few offbeat destinations in Europe to add to your next travel plan.

1. Batumi, Georgia

Batumi is the capital of the Azara region in Georgia and is aptly named “the pearl of the Black Sea”. A vibrant town dating back to more than 2000 years, this place is the perfect combination of ancient structures and a modern lifestyle. The main streets are all leading to the port area so it is fondly called the ‘city which looks at the ocean’.

The best part is that the climate here is subtropical so you can visit anytime and enjoy the many fun activities like hiking, cycling, canyoning and swimming. Not to forget, there are old churches, museums and other historical monuments to explore as well.

Batumi beach is a great place to relax while gazing at the clear blue waters with soft sand caressing your feet. The national parks located here are protected under UNESCO and are rich with flora and fauna.

2. Vipava Valley, Slovenia

Nestled in between the Trnovo Forest Plateau and the Karst Plateau, Vipava valley in Slovenia is undoubtedly a marvel of nature. The region is known for its picturesque vineyards, adorable medieval castles and churches and spectacular limestone landscapes. The place is best explored on a bike and you will be rewarded with breathtaking views all around.

On a bright sunny day, plan a fishing expedition on the Vipava river. It is said that Slovanian wines are highly underrated so a visit to one of the vineyards is a must to know more about the unique qualities and taste the best of local and traditionally prepared dishes. A visit to Vipava valley will surely leave you with some long-lasting memories of a wonderful holiday.

3. The Azores, Portugal

An archipelago of 9 islands right in the middle of the Arctic Ocean, the Azores is a haven for nature lovers. Adventure sport fans will have a gala time here with plenty of options like scuba diving, kayaking, canoeing, biking, cycling, parasailing and much more. There are more than 30 Blue Flag beaches and many vast wetlands. Three of the nine islands have been declared geo reserves by UNESCO.

The topography mainly represents its origin from volcanic eruptions and you will be amazed to see hot springs, rock formations and land covered with lava patches and craters, and cones. The Azoreans are very high on sustainability and understand the importance of rightly preserving the natural wonders in their truest form.

4. South Coast of Iceland

This amazing area is scattered with wonders of nature like black sand beaches, glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls. Starting from the Greater Reykjavik in the west, the south coast stretches up to the incredible Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon in the east. The landscape is largely formed by the lava flows of the volcanoes. Eyjafjallajökull and Hekla are two notable active volcanoes in the area.

You can visit Blue lagoon Spa, a hot spring for some relaxing time. Mýrdalsjökull glacier which covers the Katla volcano is the base for many glacier hikes. Another notable town is Skogar which hosts Skogafoss, a cascading waterfall, and a few interesting museums where you can learn more about the history, traditions, and cultures pertaining to the region.

5. The Lofoten Islands, Norway

Surrounded by a string of rustic mountain ranges, Lofoten Islands in northern Norway is one of the best kept secrets in the Scandinavian region. A cluster of islands, this place will leave you amazed by its serene beauty. The islands are connected to each other by bridges and you will have to take a ferry to go to more remote locations.

To make the most of your stay here, you can go for scenic drives, take a stroll on the white sand beaches, explore hiking trails, rock climbing, and try surfing. These islands have some unique fisherman’s cabins on the beach called Rorbu. They have been renovated and are available to rent for tourists.

Conclusion

The excitement in pursuing something unconventional is enthralling and your happiness increases manifold when you witness some of the most magical sights unfold before your eyes. So which offbeat destination in Europe are you going to choose next to experience this magic?