Soorts-Hossegor, Cadaqués, Panormos Beach, and More Escape the Booming Crowds of Europe’s Popular Hotspots and Relax on These Tranquil, Undiscovered Beaches

Soorts-Hossegor, France: A Quiet Surf Town
In recent times, the issue of overtourism has been plaguing numerous European destinations. With places like Barcelona, Majorca, and Santorini grappling with overwhelming crowds, the travel industry is starting to focus on the growing need for sustainable tourism options. According to some European travelers, one such hidden gem is Soorts-Hossegor, located on the southwestern coast of France. A part of the La Côte d’Argent, one of Europe’s longest uninterrupted stretches of sandy beaches, it offers ample space for beachgoers to enjoy the sun without the usual chaos. Matty Townsend, a regular visitor, described it as a “very chill surf town” that does not get overrun by tourists. Not only does it host the free Quicksilver Festival every September, but it also offers a blend of live music, surfing competitions, and a beach atmosphere that is hard to find in crowded coastal towns.

For those looking for additional options in France, Saint-Georges-d’Oléron is also a recommended stop. It is the largest commune on the Île d’Oléron, and the beaches there are almost deserted, offering a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts who enjoy bike trails through forests and coastal exploration.

The Tranquility of Cirali and Adrasan, Turkey
Özge Björnesson, a Turkish native, points to the tranquil towns of Cirali and Adrasan as alternatives to the more tourist-heavy spots in Turkey, such as Antalya and Bodrum. These areas remain relatively unexplored by international tourists, providing a peaceful escape with authentic local vibes. These hidden gems offer serene beaches and an authentic Turkish experience, far removed from the crowds that are now common in other well-known Mediterranean destinations.

A Sun-soaked Hidden Gem: Isle of Wight, UK
The Isle of Wight is another destination that often gets overlooked. Located just 10 minutes from Portsmouth, this UK island boasts several lesser-known beaches with beauty comparable to the Caribbean. Sophie-May Williams, a resident of the island, highlights the stunning hidden beaches and suggests they are perfect for travelers seeking quiet and scenic beach escapes. Its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty provide a wonderful alternative to more mainstream beach destinations in the UK.

Marbella Beach in Biarritz, France: A Beach with Few Visitors
In the Biarritz region of France, Marbella Beach remains a somewhat secluded spot despite being within proximity to town. Accessing it requires passing through two larger beaches in the center, which may deter some tourists. This characteristic keeps the beach peaceful and less crowded, making it a favorite for those in search of solitude and natural beauty.

Cadaqués, Spain: A Hidden Artistic Paradise
Down south in Spain, Cadaqués, located in the Costa Brava region, stands out as an unexpected and serene retreat. Its artistic heritage, whitewashed buildings, terracotta rooftops, and clear blue waters make it a dreamy location. Brooke Johnson, a travel enthusiast, notes that the beach at Cadaqués is surprisingly tourist-free compared to other spots in Costa Brava. Travelers can also venture into the Cap de Creus Natural Park, which features nearly 100 rugged coves, providing ample opportunities for hiking and nature exploration.

Another significant draw in Cadaqués is the Casa Dalí, the former home of surrealist artist Salvador Dalí. The house is a must-visit for anyone intrigued by art and history. A short trip from Cadaqués, visitors can immerse themselves in the surreal atmosphere of the house, which is filled with eccentric furniture and fixtures that reflect Dalí’s imaginative genius.

Sampieri, Sicily: An Undisturbed Italian Village
On the island of Sicily, Sampieri offers a quintessential Italian beach experience. This quaint fishing village, with cobbled streets and charming stone houses, is nestled between two serene beaches. It remains relatively quiet, even during the summer months, making it an ideal destination for travelers who want to escape the crowds. According to Adam, a visitor to Sampieri, the main beach stretches 2km long, and the surrounding pine forests add to the tranquil ambiance. He also recommends enjoying the local seafood at Carallo, a beachfront restaurant renowned for its delicious offerings like seafood gnocchi and tuna carbonara.

In terms of attractions, Sampieri is located close to the famous Scicli fishing village, known for its Baroque architecture and historical significance. Visitors can explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, which holds several festivals, including the Festa delle Milizie, a local celebration in honor of the historical battles fought against the Saracens.

Cartagena, Spain: Europe’s Sunniest City
For those looking for sun, Cartagena, located in the Murcia region of Spain, is an excellent choice. It holds the title of the sunniest city in Europe, receiving around 283 hours of sunshine per month. During the summer months, temperatures can peak at 29°C, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers and sun-seekers. Jessica Hamilton recently highlighted this underrated gem, praising the city’s stunning little bays and coves. Visitors can also explore nearby areas such as Cullera, a peaceful beach town just outside Valencia that offers a more tranquil alternative to the city’s busier beaches.

Kastrup, Denmark: Scandinavia’s Best Kept Secret
Further north in Denmark, Kastrup, close to Copenhagen, remains an undiscovered gem for many international travelers. While the city is near the bustling capital, Kastrup remains largely overlooked by tourists. One of its key attractions is a stunning sea bath where visitors can swim in the calm, clear waters of the Øresund Strait.

Skopelos, Greece: A Quiet Paradise
In the Aegean Sea, Panormos Beach on Skopelos, famous for being the location for the 2008 film Mamma Mia!, remains a hidden paradise. Visitors can reach the beach by a short bus ride or taxi from Skopelos Town, making it less frequented than other more popular Greek islands. The white pebbled beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery surrounding the bay provide a serene atmosphere that travelers can truly enjoy.

Impact on the Travel Industry
As overtourism continues to plague popular destinations across Europe, travelers are increasingly seeking out quieter, lesser-known alternatives. For the travel industry, this represents an opportunity to promote sustainable tourism by shifting attention to more off-the-beaten-path locations. The success of these lesser-known destinations will likely encourage more countries to preserve their natural and cultural landscapes while offering authentic travel experiences.

Key Takeaways:

• Soorts-Hossegor (France) and Saint-Georges-d’Oléron (France) provide quieter beach experiences compared to other French coastlines.
• Cirali and Adrasan in Turkey remain undiscovered by mass tourism, offering peaceful retreats.
• Cadaqués and Sampieri offer artistic and cultural escapes, with little tourist congestion.
• Cartagena (Spain) boasts Europe’s sunniest weather, ideal for outdoor activities.
• Kastrup (Denmark) and Skopelos (Greece) are hidden gems in Scandinavia and the Aegean, respectively.