Best kept secrets of popular destinations

Deià and Valldemossa | Mallorca

A day trip to Deià and Valldemossa in Mallorca is part picturesque landscapes, part culturally rich towns and completely and totally enchanting. Deià, nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Tramuntana mountains, captures the essence of a Mediterranean paradise with its olive groves, citrus orchards, and a coastline that sparkles under the sun. With a bohemian vibe, it's long been a haven for artists, musicians, and writers, often inspired by the golden hue of the buildings at sunset.

Valldemossa is a short drive away. Characterised by stone streets and lush greenery, it's home to the Royal Charterhouse of Valldemossa, where Polish composer Frédéric Chopin and writer George Sand once stayed. The cafes and shops offer delightful local crafts and treats, including the famous coca de patata, a soft, sweet roll that uses potato to give it a unique texture.

The journey between Deià and Valldemossa is itself a highlight. The road winds through the Tramuntana mountain range, offering spectacular views of the rugged landscape and the sea. It's no surprise the area is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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Soca River | Slovenia

The Soca River region in Slovenia is absolutely stunning. The turquoise waters of the Soca River carve through the heart of the Triglav National Park, creating jaw-dropping landscapes perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, kayakers, and fly fishers. The region's rugged terrain is a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers too, with trails winding through lush forests, over alpine meadows, and alongside the river.

The Soca Valley played a significant role in the First World War's Isonzo Front and you can find open-air museums and memorials dotting the landscape, all detailing this brutal period of history. Keep an eye out for a sprinkling of traditional Slovenian architecture too as you explore.

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Masca | Tenerife

In the northwest corner of Tenerife lies the remote village of Masca. Much of the appeal is the sheer difficulty of getting there - the road to Masca is infamously winding and steep – the drive is not for the faint-hearted!

The tiny village perches precariously on the edge of the rugged Teno Mountains, and is often described as Tenerife's Shangri-La, thanks to its remote and untouched beauty. The winding roads up to it cut through steep cliffs and offer panoramic views of the lush valleys and the Atlantic Ocean beyond.

You'll be greeted by the sight of traditional Canarian houses clinging to the hillside, their stone and whitewashed walls contrasting with the vibrant green of the surrounding flora.

The hike from Masca down to the beach below is just as thrilling. Navigate through a dramatic gorge that cuts deep into the heart of the landscape and take in stunning vistas at every turn. Finally reaching a secluded bay where the towering cliffs meet the crystal-clear waters of the ocean.

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Khao Sok National Park | Thailand

Khao Sok National Park in Thailand is an enchanting sanctuary of natural beauty, renowned for its ancient rainforest, towering limestone karsts, and the serene Cheow Lan Lake at its heart.

This lake, with its emerald waters, is dotted with floating bungalows that offer a unique and peaceful retreat amid the park's breathtaking scenery. These bungalows provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to wake up to the sound of gibbons calling while the morning mist peels back to reveal the scenery beyond.

Trek through the jungle in search of wildlife like elephants, leopards, and countless bird species. Or explore the waters on a traditional long-tail boat. Either way this combo of adventure and serenity perfectly captures what a trip to Thailand should be all about.

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Goslar | Germany

This picture-perfect town sits at the foot of the Harz Mountains, offering centuries and centuries of history – enough to earn it UNESCO protection and then some.

The well-preserved medieval streets and the imposing Imperial Palace all hark back to the town's importance during the time of the Holy Roman Empire. Combined with a charming marketplace, quaint shops and traditional German eateries, it makes for a lovely little city break.

Beyond its historical allure, the town is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Harz National Park, providing a gateway to outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and, in winter, skiing.

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Annecy | French Alps

Annecy, or the 'Venice of the Alps', has oodles of fairy-tale charm, set against the stunning backdrop of the French Alps. Famed for its crystal-clear lake, Lac d'Annecy, it becomes a hub of activity in both summer and winter. The lake's azure waters tempt visitors with swimming, sailing, and kayaking, while its surrounding paths and gardens offer serene walks and picnics.

The vieille ville (old town) is the heart of Annecy, with its flower-adorned canals, pastel-coloured buildings, and cobbled streets, offering a step back in time. The iconic Palais de l'Isle, a 12th-century prison on a tiny island in the Thiou canal, and the imposing Château d'Annecy, perched high above the town, showcase the area's rich history.

Annecy's vibrant markets, where locals and visitors alike gather to sample regional cheeses, wines, and produce, add to the town's lively atmosphere. Beyond its natural beauty and historic sights, Annecy is celebrated for its cultural events, including the famous Annecy International Animated Film Festival, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe.

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Hallstatt | Austrian Salzkammergut

Hallstatt, a postcard-perfect village between the dramatic Dachstein Alps and the serene waters of Lake Hallstatt in Austria, is a destination that seems lifted from the pages of a storybook.

Renowned for its breathtaking beauty, Hallstatt is a UNESCO World Heritage site that perfectly captures the essence of Austrian charm. It has an idyllic setting, with 16th-century Alpine houses and historic funicular railway offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lake.

Hallstatt also has a fascinating history of salt production, which dates back thousands of years. Explore the world's oldest salt mine, venturing into underground tunnels and discovering the ancient salt lake within. Combine this with the historic churches and the plenty of outdoor activities like hiking and cycling in summer to skiing and snowshoeing in winter, and you've got a unique little village with a bit of everything.

Olhão | Portugal

Olhão, a coastal town in the Algarve, is a vibrant testament to the country's rich maritime history. Known for its bustling fish market, one of the best in Portugal, Olhão is a haven for seafood lovers, offering the freshest and most delicious catches.

The town's unique architecture, characterised by Moorish influences with white-washed houses and intricate tile work, invites exploration through its narrow, cobbled streets. It's also a gateway to the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a series of barrier islands that boast some of the Algarve's most secluded beaches and abundant wildlife – keep an eye out for the flamingos.

The town's waterfront, lined with palm trees and overlooking a marina filled with traditional fishing boats, is the perfect place to soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Take a boat tour to discover the hidden beauty of the nearby islands, such as Ilha da Culatra and Ilha da Armona, with their pristine sandy stretches and crystal-clear waters.

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Skradin | Croatia

Skradin, a hidden gem nestled on the banks of the Krka River in Croatia, is your gateway to the enchanting Krka National Park. This quaint town, with its rich history stretching back to Roman times, boasts charming stone houses, narrow winding streets, and a tranquil marina that reflects the pastel hues of the sunrise and sunset.

Skradin's appeal extends beyond its picturesque setting – it offers an array of local delicacies and wines that are as much a draw as the scenic beauty surrounding it. The nearby Krka National Park, with its cascading waterfalls, lush greenery, and serene swimming spots, is easily accessible by boat, providing a natural playground for adventurers and nature lovers.

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Tokaj wine region | Hungary

The Tokaj wine region of Hungary is celebrated worldwide for its exquisite sweet wines, most notably the legendary Tokaji Aszú which is often hailed as the 'King of Wines'.

Set in the northeastern part of Hungary, this UNESCO World Heritage site is characterised by its rolling hills, rich volcanic soil, and a unique microclimate ideal for grapes to thrive in. The vineyards of Tokaj date back more than 1,000 years, making it one of the oldest wine regions in the world.

Dive into this rich heritage with a tour of the historic wine cellars, many of which are carved into the mountainsides. Beyond wine, the region offers picturesque landscapes, traditional Hungarian cuisine, and a warm welcome from the local communities, making it a compelling destination for both wine enthusiasts and travellers seeking the charm of Hungary's countryside.

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