Home » Lifestyle » From the Purple Hills to Bath, here are some of the best-hidden gems in Europe 

From the Purple Hills to Bath, here are some of the best-hidden gems in Europe 

Europe has plenty of hidden gems for tourists besides the London Eye or the Colosseum. Pico Island, León and Peak District are some of the most remarkable natural spots in the country, whose history and importance date back a few centuries. But besides their past, they’ve come now to become great tourist spots. 

Indeed, Europe is famous for its old and massive spots, but also for its walkable cities and great dish culture. You’ll definitely taste the most delicious Parmigiano Reggiano in Italy, Pastel de Nata in Portugal or Khinkali in Georgia. So, if you’re up for some adventure and want to see what’s around Europe, here are some impressive spots you must check out for a memorable experience. 

beige concrete building under white clouds during daytime

The Purple Hills in the Netherlands 

Starting off strong with some colour, we’ve got the Purple Hills in the first National Park in the country, Veluwezoom, which has numerous heathlands and dunes. The best time to visit it is at the end of August when the heathers transform the area into an entirely purple hilly terrain. Since it can get quite busy due to high traffic, you might want to rent a car Eindhoven airport in order to avoid trouble if you’re travelling with family or friends. 

Of course, there are more colourful places in the Netherlands that you may want to see. For instance, the Rainbow Houses in Utrecht are fabulous even for walks around the lake, as their reflection makes the scenery unique, especially before dawn. The WaalCrossing Memorial and Oversteek Bridge in Nijmegen is an essential historic spot but also incredibly beautiful at night when the light falls over the monument. Indeed, for visiting so many locations, you may need to check out BB&L car rental to be on top of your schedule and not miss your trip to the airport. 

Bath in the United Kingdom 

Bath City in the UK is unique due to its Georgian architecture and rich ecosystems. The South West town is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its cultural significance and plenty of spots to see. For instance, in the middle of the city there’s the best-preserved place, the Roman Baths that were once religious spas. If you’d like to bathe as Romans did, stop at the Thermae Day Spa, the only natural thermal spring in the UK. 

Of course, it’s best to go around and notice how the prominence of Georgian architecture influenced the city’s development at the Royal Crescent, which has a 30-based terrace row in a crescent. Still, the countryside is considerably better, where you’ll find the chocolate box villages and unique rural landscapes. Luckily, the city is not that big, so you can explore it in one day if you’re on a run. 

León in Spain 

Moving to a more Mediterranean side, where the weather is warm, and the food is always nourishing, we’ve got the city of León whose fame comes from the architecture of Antoni Gaudí, known as the most significant Catalan architect in Spain. Here in León, you’ll find some of his works at Casa Botines but also at the Hotel Real Colegiata San Isidoro. 

However, what’s best to see around the city includes the cathedrals, from Santa Maria de Leon Cathedral to La Basilica De San Isidoro De Leon. Besides, many parts of the city are great for walks, such as Plaza Del Grano and Plaza Mayor de Leon. Be sure you’ll have plenty to eat when it comes to food. In Leon, you must try the blood sausage, Gazpacho and the tapas in the neighbourhoods. 

The Asitz Mountain in Austria 

If you’re fond of hiking, we can assure you that no place is like Asitz Mountain. With a height of 655 metres, the spot is known as “the mountain of senses.” Asitz is perfect for any type of tourist since you can bike, ride the gondola, paddle or participate in an outdoor concert in the same place. Cultured wooden huts are standard on the mountain, and they’re made for tourists to listen to concerts through headrests while chilling. 

Of course, there are many cultural events during the summer when different artists come to showcase their best and entertain customers. On the other hand, winter in Asitz is all about skiing and snowboarding. You can elevate the trip by travelling with the Alpine Express. In Austria, there are even more irresistible dishes to try, such as the Viennese Apfelstrudel, the Knödel and Tiroler Gröstl. 

Vipava Valley in Slovenia 

Slovenia has one of the most beautiful green lakes and rivers, along which impressive mountains lay over the complex cave systems. The incredible natural diversity and protected areas will impress you, but Vipava Valley is on top of the country’s hidden gems. The spot is known for its expanded vineyards on the hills, so prepare yourself for the best wine you’ve ever tasted.

You can enjoy the area better if you cycle or hike around the mountains because nature offers so much to see, which is why choosing this spot for your Spring or Autumn vacation is best. However, it might be challenging to reach the place considering the country’s limited flights. So, you can take the path from the Italian city of Trieste and then rent a car or maybe participate in a wine tour to make the holiday less stressful. There are also e-bike tours provided around town, so you’ve got plenty of activities in Slovenia. While you’re there, try the Štruklji rolled dumplings, Žganci, which is a corn mush and the sweet Potica. 

Wrapping up 

Europe has numerous hidden gems in the countries with the most famous locations. We encourage you to seek more than popular, crowded and sometimes underwhelming spots and visit the countryside, participate in food tours offered by plenty of small businesses and try foods from the local restaurants. Hence, take some time to research these spots, and we assure you that reaching and visiting them will be a remarkable adventure. 

Andy Macpherson

Andy Macpherson is a Brighton-based blogger, amateur golfer and photographer with a passion for capturing the essence of his surroundings. Born and raised in Hove, he has spent almost his entire life exploring the streets and beaches of Brighton, always with a DLSR in hand. When he's not out taking photos or hacking his way around the golf course, Andy can often be found gorging on Pad Thai. As a self-proclaimed foodie, Andy is always on the lookout for new restaurants and dishes to try, which is the main reason behind why he loves reviewing food places for the site.