Going to Europe? Want to find the paths less traveled—to avoid the crowds and seek out the charms and local flavor beyond the over touristed cities. Here are a few of the continent’s best-kept secrets to avoid the travel stampede this year. Check out some of your options.
Annecy, France
In the Haute-Savoie heart of the French Alps, Annecy is a medieval old town where the mountain-fed lake is popular for swimming, kayaking, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Cyclists circle the shore, and hikers (and cows) use the Alpine meadow footpaths. The culinary popularity of Lyon is an easy day trip.
Ascona, Switzerland
Palm trees and a mild climate give a Mediterranean atmosphere to this lakeside town, in the Swiss canton of Ticino, that draws artists and intellectuals. Lake Maggiore’s shoreline is divided between Ticino and Italy, and the waterside promenade is more intimate than Lake Como’s. It’s a quieter spot for Alps hiking and landscapes, and for sampling out-of-this world cheeses from the lush valley pastures. Nearby Locarno is a gem too.
Faroe Islands
This autonomous collection of 18 small volcanic islands in the northeast Atlantic are a study in extremes: steep coastal cliffs, narrow fjords, birdwatching, nightlife, turf-roofed houses, sophisticated digital technology, shaggy grazing sheep, and advanced renewable energy.
Formentera, Spain
This Mediterranean island is not as well-known as other Balearic islands such as Mallorca and Ibiza—and that’s a good thing. There’s no airport, which keeps the tourist masses away; Formentera is reached by 30-minute ferry from Ibiza. Both land and sea are nature preserves, retaining an unspoiled-chic vibe, with lovely beaches and great hiking.