Why Europe’s hidden corners are the smart choice for summer travel | News

From Albania to Montenegro, here are Europe’s ‘secret’ alternative summer hotspots we should definitely book this summer.

As uncertainty increases around some long-haul routes, more British travelers are reconsidering 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 and highlights five alternative European short-haul flights that combine sun, culture and affordability.

Portugal: Ericeira is a coastal surf town that combines the dramatic Atlantic coastline with chilled cafes and yoga culture. Clarissa says: “Ericeira is Europe’s answer to Bali, without the long-haul flights.”
Albanian Riviera. Albania is still relatively under the radar compared to its Mediterranean neighbors. 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 and less crowds.”
Montenegro (Bay of Kotor and Luštica Peninsula): Enjoy tranquil beaches, sailing and hiking, as well as the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kotor with dramatic mountain scenery. Describing Montenegro as the perfect swap for Thailand, Clarissa says: “Montenegro is perfect for both adventure and culture. Swap Phuket and Krabi for Montenegro closer to home. The Bay of Kotor feels like an incredible fjord-island hybrid, with clear waters and the addition of beautiful medieval towns – and much less mass tourism than Thailand.”
Sardinia: Clarissa describes Sardinia as “a perfect destination for beach life”. Snorkel at Rena Majore and Del Principe beaches, and go kayaking in Casteldoria, or visit Liscia Ruja – the largest beach on the Costa Smeralda.
Romania: Bran Castle is breathtaking, but Romania has so much more to offer than just the legend of Dracula. The Transfăgărăşan Highway is a ‘bucket list road’ – with some of the most striking mountain scenery in Europe (open from June to October). Head to Therme Bucharest, one of the largest spa and wellness complexes in Europe. It’s more like a tropical indoor water park + luxury spa hybrid than a traditional spa and is conveniently located to the airport. Clarissa says, “You may come for Dracula and the castles, but you’ll stay for the mountains, the stories and the feeling that you’ve driven straight into a living fairy tale.”