4 European destinations that deserve a place on your holiday wish list

07 July 2026

Europe is packed with iconic destinations, but some of its most rewarding holidays begin just beyond the well-trodden tourist trail. If you've already ticked off the big-name cities or simply fancy somewhere that feels a little different, there are plenty of places offering beautiful scenery, fascinating history, and memorable food without the queues. From medieval towns on the Adriatic coast to volcanic islands in the Atlantic, these lesser-known corners of Europe prove that sometimes the best trips are the ones you weren't expecting.

4 European destinations that deserve a place on your holiday wish list

Kotor, Montenegro: Adriatic charm without the crowds

While many travellers head straight for Dubrovnik, neighbouring Kotor offers a similar blend of ancient streets and spectacular coastal scenery with a more laid-back atmosphere. Sitting at the edge of the Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town is enclosed by impressive Venetian walls that climb steeply into the mountains above. Wander through St Tryphon's Cathedral, stop for a coffee in one of the stone-paved squares, or tackle the climb to San Giovanni Fortress for sweeping views across the fjord-like bay. Beyond the Old Town, nearby villages such as Perast offer waterfront restaurants and easy boat trips to the tiny island church of Our Lady of the Rocks.

Girona, Spain: A different side to Catalonia

Barcelona may attract the headlines, but Girona offers a slower pace while still packing plenty into a compact city break. Its colourful houses line the River Onyar, while the beautifully preserved medieval quarter is filled with narrow alleyways, hidden courtyards, and independent cafés. Climb the city walls for panoramic views, visit the striking Girona Cathedral, or follow in the footsteps of Game of Thrones through streets that doubled as King's Landing and Braavos. Food lovers are equally well looked after, with bustling food markets, traditional Catalan restaurants, and the world-renowned El Celler de Can Roca all calling the city home.

São Miguel, Azores: Portugal's wild Atlantic escape

Often overlooked in favour of mainland Portugal or Madeira, São Miguel is an island shaped by volcanic landscapes and Atlantic weather. The twin lakes of Sete Cidades, one blue and one green, sit inside an enormous volcanic crater, while Furnas is known for its steaming hot springs and traditional cozido, a hearty stew slow-cooked underground using geothermal heat. Along the coast, natural swimming pools carved into black volcanic rock offer a refreshing alternative to sandy beaches, and whale and dolphin watching excursions regularly head out from Ponta Delgada. It's an excellent choice for travellers who enjoy dramatic scenery alongside relaxed towns and excellent local food.

Ljubljana, Slovenia: One of Europe's most underrated capitals

Compact, easy to explore, and full of character, Ljubljana often surprises first-time visitors. The emerald-green Ljubljanica River winds through the city centre, crossed by landmarks including the Triple Bridge and Dragon Bridge, while Ljubljana Castle overlooks the rooftops from its hilltop position. Open-air markets fill Vodnik Square, riverside cafés spill onto pedestrian streets, and Tivoli Park provides plenty of green space just minutes from the Old Town. It's also perfectly placed for day trips to Lake Bled, the dramatic Vintgar Gorge, or the underground world of Postojna Cave, making it an ideal base for seeing more of Slovenia without constantly changing hotels.

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Escape to Niva Labriz Seychelles, where rainforest meets the Indian Ocean

20 July 2026

If you've ever dreamed of escaping to a tropical island where nature takes centre stage, Niva Labriz Seychelles is exactly that kind of place. Set on the untouched shores of Silhouette Island, a protected national park just off Mahé, it's the only 5-star resort on the island. Reached by a scenic 45-minute boat journey or a short helicopter flight, Niva Labriz feels wonderfully secluded, surrounded by lush rainforest, towering granite peaks, and a spectacular stretch of white sand overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Five eco-lodges for a quiet escape in nature

16 July 2026

Travel is one of the most meaningful ways to connect with the world, and these magnificent lodges can help you do just that amongst some of the world’s most arresting scenery. What’s more, these lodges are all actively contributing to the preservation of the landscapes you’ve travelled to enjoy. These aren’t just places to stay, they’re destinations that inspire, whether through their endemic wildlife or unique cultural practices. From the rugged coastlines of South Africa to the serene valleys of Bhutan, here are six exceptional eco-lodges to add to your ‘must-visit’ list.

Two sides of the Maldives: which Six Senses island is right for you?

10 July 2026

The Maldives has no shortage of exceptional resorts, but Six Senses has carved out a reputation for doing things a little differently. Here, luxury goes hand in hand with sustainability, wellness is woven into every stay, and experiences are designed to help guests reconnect with nature rather than simply admire it. Two of the brand's most remarkable island escapes are Six Senses Laamu and Six Senses Kanuhura. While both deliver the barefoot luxury that Six Senses is known for, each offers its own distinct personality. Whether you're dreaming of pristine reefs, laid-back island living, or some of the Maldives' finest beaches, here's how these two extraordinary resorts compare.