Rejoice! Millions of Brits with itchy feet may now realise their wish of a summer holiday beyond these shores in 2021. Earlier this month, the government announced they were scrapping quarantine rules for travellers returning from Amber List countries after 19th July, as long as they’d been double vaccinated.
For travellers feeling trepid about far flung flights of fancy and nervous about braving the crowds, global luggage storage network Stasher has shortlisted a selection of EU destinations that are scenic, culturally rich and also (relatively) off the beaten path.
So, if you’re keen to dip your toes back in the waters of travel in a comfortable, convenient way, then why not check them out? Here are 4 short haul hidden gems in Europe, IDEAL for a summer getaway in 2021.
ALBANIA
Albania may be something of an enigma in terms of European holiday destinations, but with over 27% of its GDP coming from tourism pre-pandemic, your visit will have a positive impact.
The country boasts rugged mountain scenery, sparkling Ionian and Adriatic coastlines, fortress towns and ancient Greek and Roman sites. All of which you can explore without the crowds you’d expect in tourist hotspots like Greece, Italy or Turkey.
The most widely spoken foreign language in Albania is English, so you shouldn’t have a problem getting to know the local people and their culture. Although, if you’re keen to ingratiate yourself further, then…
Përshëndetje is a cheerful, informal ‘hello’, Gëzohem që ju takoj is ‘nice to meet you’, and Faleminderit is ‘thank you’. You’re welcome. Or, as the Albanians like to say, Ju lutem.
Albania also boasts a warmer summer climate than the UK, with an average temperature of around 30°C during July and August. For the perfect day in the Albanian sun, it’s almost imperative that you visit ‘The Blue Eye’. This famous deep water spring pool, around four hour’s drive from the capital Tirana, is filled with perfectly clear, turquoise water, making it impossible to resist taking a dip.
Flights from London to Tirana take around three hours and start from £100 return.
CYPRUS
A Mediterranean gem, rich in culture and history, Cyprus is a great alternative to other more traditionally popular European islands this summer like the Balearic, Canary and Greek Islands.
But to overlook Cyprus would be to miss out on the country’s unspoiled green landscapes dotted with wineries and its rugged coastlines blessed with crystal clear waters.
For the adventurous tourist, you can try your hand at a new water sport, off-road cycling and scuba diving, all of which are widely accessible in Cyprus.
Although much favoured for its relaxing beach holidays, don’t underestimate Cyprus’s rich history, too. Visit The Tomb of Kings, dating back to the 4th century, for a day of culture. Only two kilometres away you’ll find the Paphos harbour and Castle. Wind down here with the gorgeous views of the sun setting over the boats and you’ll forget all about the trials and tribulations of the past 18 months, if only for a little while.
The island boasts glorious weather all summer long, with average temperatures peaking at around 30°C in July and August and remaining in the mid twenties into September and October.
Flights from London to the capital Paphos can be nabbed for as little as £40 return, and take around four a half hours.
MONTENEGRO
Montenegro, nestled in the Balkans, is famed for its wild beauty, rugged mountains, medieval villages and a narrow strip of beaches along its Adriatic coastline. As such, this fantastic destination is a brilliant alternative to its busier, brasher neighbour Croatia. If you do wish to visit the Land of a Thousand Islands, the popular tourist destination Dubrovnik is only a two hour drive from Montenegro.
Or, you could simply explore all that Montenegro has to offer. Because as a small nation boasting a big personality, Montenegro is the perfect summer holiday spot for couples or families looking to get outdoors and explore. It’s home to breath-taking national parks, lakes, canyons and coastlines which rival the best in Europe. For those looking to explore the natural landscape, head to Durmitor. This mountain range encases beautiful natural pools with crystal clear waters and is as tranquil as it comes.
For the culture vultures among us, Montenegro is steeped in rich heritage, too. Ostrog Monastery – Montenegro’s holiest site – with its cave chapels covered in centuries-old frescos – is a particular highlight. This religious landmark is cleverly built into its surrounding rocks – something you don’t see every holiday, hey?
In summer, tourists can enjoy a Mediterranean climate with an average temperature of 27°C in coastal locations.
Flights from London to the city of Tivat start at £200 return, and take around three hours.
Read: 5 romantic things to do in Montenegro
ESTONIA
Estonia, in Northern Europe and bordering the Baltic Sea, ranked as one of Europe’s least visited countries in pre-pandemic times, with 3’000’000 tourists visiting in 2018.
What’s more, Estonia is one of the world’s least crowded countries, with a population density of just 31.29 per square kilometre. By comparison, the UK has 280.6 per square km and Monaco has a whopping 26’337!
Yep, if you’re keen for some tranquility and R&R, thanks to its thriving spa and cafe culture, Estonia could be the escape you’re craving this summer.
For those looking for an action-packed trip, you can explore Estonia’s vast woodlands and island-hop on a yacht during its ice-free summers. Unknown to many, Estonia has over 1,500 islands, many uninhabited, should you be keen for some proper isolation!
The country also boasts a rich history to uncover. Head up the Tallinn TV Tower – this gives you a panoramic landscape view of the capital, with rolling hills, expanses of field and views of the old town.
Although Estonia has very cold winters, its summers are on par with the UK and you can expect maximum daytime temperatures in the mid twenties (°C) and cool, pleasant evenings.
And the best bit? Incredibly, flights to Estonia’s capital Tallinn start at just £18 return, and take around two and a half hours.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Always remember to check the latest guidelines and COVID-19 restrictions, issued by both the UK Government and the host country, when booking a holiday abroad.
And finally, consider the most eco-friendly way of getting to your chosen destination. If you have no option but to fly, why not sign up to a carbon reduction platform, like Treepoints? This can help offset your flight’s carbon footprint by donating to certified eco projects on your behalf.