5 Under-the-Radar Adventure Destinations in Europe
Get here before the word gets out.
Untraveled roads, said the poet Robert Frost, are where you find all the good things. We tend to agree, especially when it comes to hopping across the pond and exploring the mountains, rivers, and coastlines of our European neighbors. Europe's popular destinations are worth seeing—they are famous for a reason, after all—but when it comes right down to it, we love jumping on an airplane and checking out a place that flies under most traveler's radars.
If you're itching to explore somewhere off the beaten path, look no further than these five adventure hot spots that have yet to hit the mainstream.
Portugal
From the vineyards that produce their world-famous port wine to the wild solitude of the Algarve Coast, the Iberian beauty of Portugal will grab your attention and hold it fast. With plenty of winding mountain roads to bike, ocean-side cliffs to hike, rocks to climb, and rivers to paddle, you'll be amazed at the diversity of adventure in this quiet country on the Atlantic.
Slovenia
The first time I visited Slovenia—almost entirely by accident while on a trip to nearby Croatia—my first thought was, "Why don't I know about this place?" Slovenia is a tiny country with such extraordinary beauty that it's hard to believe that it flies under the radar. From hiking the Julian Alps soaring over beautiful Lake Bled to walking the fortress walls along the Adriatic Sea in Piran, you might never want to leave.
Slovenia is easy to navigate by rail and bus (bring along a versatile and compact piece of luggage, like the Eagle Creek Migrate Duffel, to make traveling by public transport less of a hassle), and is a quick hop from both Croatia and Italy.
The Faroe Islands
If you're one of those people who think getting somewhere is half the fun, then put the Faroe Islands on your list. Rugged, remote, and just on the brink of becoming a go-to destination (think Iceland in 2010), the Faroe Islands are worth the journey.
Located between Iceland and Norway, but technically part of Denmark, the Faroe Islands are full of steep cliffs, sweeping green meadows, waterfalls, and charming villages. It's so beautiful that you might get tendonitis in your shutter finger from taking so many pictures. Don't say we didn't warn you.
Malta
The Mediterranean Sea, beautiful beaches, and near-perfect weather year round. Need we say more?
Malta is an island country smack dab in the middle of the Mediterranean. Historic cities rise from the edge of crystal-clear, turquoise-colored water, and sandy beaches tuck between spans of rocky cliffs. The temperature rarely rises above 85 degrees or below 45 degrees, making this destination perfect for adventure any time of year.
Croatia
Croatia's reputation as an adventure destination is growing, but it's still just a little bit too hard to get to, and a little bit too mysterious, for many travelers to make the trek. But if you like wild landscapes, spectacular food, and more coastline and islands then you'll ever know what to do with, Croatia should be on your list.
Explore on land, explore by sea...just get there soon, before the word gets out!
Cover photo by Michael Matti
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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