As Robert Frost once proclaimed, taking the road less travelled can make all the difference. Lesser-known destinations can offer fewer crowds, pristine landscapes, and unique experiences to enjoy. However, visiting places off the beaten track doesn't mean sacrificing luxury.
Below is a selection of our favourite European destinations where you can enjoy an indulgent villa escape away from the masses.
Cassis, France
Lesser known than its famous Cote d’Azur neighbours St Tropez and Cannes, Cassis has a relaxed, authentic vibe. The hub of this charming fishing village is its colourful harbour lined with pastel-coloured buildings. Friendly locals fill the bustling cafes and bars overlooked by the stunning 14th-century chateau.The standout feature of the area is its famous Calanques – a series of high limestone cliffs and beautiful bays that run from Cassis to Marseille, making for a truly scenic drive.
Explore villas in Cassis
Domaine de Canaille
Bedrooms: 12, Guests: 24
From 42,000
to 98,000 EUR
per week
Villa Cala Bianca
Bedrooms: 4, Guests: 8
From 35,000
to 52,000 EUR
per week
Kea, Greece
Despite being one of the closest to Athens, Kea is one of the lesser-known islands of the Cyclades. It is popular with Athenians but is yet to be discovered by the masses, offering a more authentic Greek Island experience. Nature - not nightlife - is the focus here. Peaceful coves and rocky hills are perfect for hiking and cycling, whilst the surrounding waters are great for snorkelling, diving and boating.
History buffs will find many sites to explore, including the ancient city of Karthea, the Monastery of Agia Anna, and the Stone Lion - an impressive lion head carving dating back to Prehistoric times.
Explore villas in Kea
Villa Naos
Bedrooms: 9, Guests: 18
From 8,400
to 28,000 EUR
per week
Villa Nomios
Bedrooms: 4, Guests: 10
From 17,500
to 23,800 EUR
per week
Comporta, Portugal
A pretty seaside village on Portugal’s west coast, Comporta is around an hour’s drive from bustling Lisbon. The 10 km sandy beach is perfect for fishing and horse riding, whilst its quiet waters are ideal for surfing and kite surfing.
Comporta is the ideal destination for nature-lovers as much of the region is a protected nature reserve. Grassy dunes flank the beach, pine forests are perfect for hiking, whilst the freshwater Sado Estuary is home to dolphins, otters, flamingos, plus more than 200 other bird species.
Brač, Croatia
Located just off the coast of Split, Brač is Croatia’s third-largest island. It is renowned for its beautiful white stone used to build the historic Diocletian’s Palace in Split, much of which still stands today.
The island boasts pretty harbour towns, beautiful pine forests, and calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing. Other famous draws are the pebble beach of Zlatni Rat with its tapered cape extending out into the Adriatic Sea and the imposing Vidova Gora - the highest peak in the Adriatic and a favourite amongst hikers.
Explore villas in Croatia
Casa del Mare
Bedrooms: 5, Guests: 10
From 19,950
to 22,400 EUR
per week
Lopud 1483
Bedrooms: 5, Guests: 10
From 91,000
to 112,000 EUR
per week
Villa Amelie
Bedrooms: 6, Guests: 12
From 12,600
to 42,700 EUR
per week
Villa Pugliesi
Bedrooms: 6, Guests: 12
From 16,100
to 32,200 EUR
per week
Menorca, Spain
Although it has more beaches than neighbouring Ibiza and Mallorca combined, Menorca is far less touristy; rather than party-goers or resort-seekers, it draws those looking for nature.
The whole island has been a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since the early 90s due to its diverse native flora and fauna. The stunning wetlands of Parc Natural de S’Albufera des Grau are ideal for exploring by foot, mountain bike or kayak, whilst Mahon Harbour is great for snorkelling and diving with its plethora of marine wildlife.
Explore villas in Menorca
Villa Binigaus Nou
Bedrooms: 7, Guests: 14
From 10,590 EUR
per week,
to price on request
Villa Es Bec d'Aguila
Bedrooms: 11, Guests: 22
From 42,220 EUR
per week,
to price on request
