Hidden Gems in Holiday Hotspots
While it’s always lovely to get away, sometimes you really want to get away and seek out those secret, unspoilt and secluded spots that other holidaymakers leave alone.
It’s perfectly possible to combine an affordable break somewhere easily accessible with a more authentic holiday experience. Take a look at these hidden gems in some of the most popular holiday hotspots and book a break that gives you the best of both worlds:
Greece
Greece
The Greek islands have long been a top holiday destination, thanks to their appealing mix of culture and nature (and plenty of sunshine, of course!). On Crete, for example, the crumbling Royal Palace of Knossos is an archaeological treat sitting among rolling green hills, within easy reach of the beaches, pretty marina, shops and attractions of lively Heraklion. However, if you want to escape the crowds, consider Skiathos. This small Greek island packs a big punch when it comes to breathtaking scenery, from the gorgeous golden sands to the white-washed hillside villages.
To really get away from it all, a short ferry ride will take you from Skiathos to neighbouring Skopelos – a tiny island made famous as the location for the Mamma Mia movie. You can rest easy that you won’t find any tacky movie merchandise or Abba theme bars here; Skopelos has worked hard to keep its traditional, unspoilt feel, and refuses to cash in on its Hollywood credentials.
Egypt
Egypt
The all inclusive hotels on Egypt’s Red Sea Riviera have everything you need for an amazing pool to beach holiday. So much so that the temptation can be to not leave the hotel at all! Don’t miss the opportunity to see a little of Egypt away from the pristine beach resorts. Leave the sunlounger behind and head for Old Hurghada, where you’ll find fruit stalls stacked high and all the vivid colours, sounds and smells of an Egyptian bazaar. The contrast between the ramshackle souks and the gleaming white mosques is stark!
If you’re tempted by the incredible hotel deals available in Sharm El Sheikh, don’t worry – there are still places to escape your fellow holidaymakers, even in the number one Red Sea resort. The Sharks Bay and Nabq Bay areas of Sharm are quieter and more low key, with both boasting beautiful beaches and easy access to the amazing dive sights that Egypt’s spectacular coastline is famous for.
Canary Islands
Canary Islands
The Canary Islands of Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura have long been go-to holiday destinations for those looking for year-round sunshine, miles of beautiful beaches and dramatic landscapes, but this cluster of islands also has three much smaller siblings that are far less well known and beg exploration. Ferry crossings or short flights can take you to the volcanic islands of El Hierro, La Gomera and La Palma from whichever Canary Island you’re staying on, whisking you away to an experience that’s largely untouched by tourism.
El Hierro is a UNESCO protected Biosphere Reserve, meaning it’s a real beauty for hikers and cyclists to explore, and La Gomera is postcard-perfect, laid back and a dream destination for a spa or craft break. La Palma lives up to its nickname ‘the pretty island’ with its vast national park, endless green pine forests, volcanic peaks and impressive craters. The island’s capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma, is also completely charming – all cobbled streets, colourful Colonial houses and craft markets. If you only get chance to visit one of the alternative Canary Islands during your holiday, La Palma would be a great choice.
Even the most well-known holiday resorts have secrets to hide. Seek them out and enjoy all of the facilities and attractions of popular holiday spots, while discovering their hidden gems.
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