10 Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel Spots
Brief Overview
Finding a really original and off-the-beaten-path travel experience in today’s world of Instagram influencers and bucket-list destinations can be challenging. Nonetheless, there are still many undiscovered treasures out there for the taking. These 10 off-the-beaten-path tourist destinations provide something for everyone, whether you’re seeking for quiet beaches, quaint villages, or stunning natural attractions.
The Azores, Portugal
Located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are a group of nine volcanic islands that offer dramatic landscapes, unique wildlife, and a rich cultural history. Visitors can hike through lush green forests, soak in hot springs, and taste delicious seafood and wine.
Top Attractions in Azores:
- Parque Terra Nostra
- Caldeira das Sete Cidades
- Lagoa do Fogo
- Algar do Carvao
- Furnas
Jaffna, Sri Lanka
Jaffna, near Sri Lanka’s northernmost tip, is a lively and colourful city with a deep cultural history. Temples and museums have been preserved for future generations to visit, and tourists may also enjoy the region’s exquisite cuisine and distinctive cultural traditions.
Top Attractions in Jaffna:
- Nallur Kovil
- Neduntheevu (Delft Island)
- Casuarina Beach
- Nagadipa Purana Vihara
- Naga Pooshani Ambal Kovil
Wadi Rum, Jordan
This breathtaking desert landscape in southern Jordan has been inhabited for thousands of years by Bedouin tribes. Visitors can explore the sandstone cliffs, ride camels through the desert, and stargaze under the clear night sky.
Top Attractions in Wadi Rum:
- Wadi Rum Protected Area
- Jebel Khazali
- Lawrence’s Spring
- Wadi Rum Guide
- Jabal Umm ad Dami
Valletta, Malta
The beautiful Baroque buildings, bright balconies, and quaint tiny alleyways that make up the Maltese capital, Valetta are all reasons for the city’s inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Tourists can soak up some Mediterranean rays while visiting the city’s various museums and enjoying the delectable fare of local restaurants.
Best Things to Do in Valletta:
- St. John’s Co-Cathedral
- Grand Master’s Palace
- Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens
- Fort St Elmo
- National War Museum
Kotor, Montenegro
Nestled on the shores of a deep blue fjord, Kotor is a hidden gem on the Adriatic coast. Visitors can explore the winding streets of the medieval old town, hike to the hilltop fortress, and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the bay.
Top Attractions in Kotor:
- Kotor Old City
- Bay of Kotor
- City Walls
- Viewing Point at the Road Kotor-Lovcen
- St. Tryphon Cathedral
Plovdiv, Bulgaria
One of Europe’s oldest cities, Plovdiv is a hidden gem in the heart of Bulgaria. Visitors can explore the ancient Roman ruins, stroll through the cobblestone streets of the old town, and enjoy traditional Bulgarian cuisine and wine.
Top Attractions in Plovdiv:
- Plovdiv Old Town
- Plovdiv Roman Theatre
- Ethnographic Museum
- Alyosha
- Park Tsar Simeon
Amed, Bali
Located on Bali’s eastern coast, this fishing village is far apart from the island’s more popular destinations. Black sand beaches invite relaxation, coral reefs invite scuba diving and snorkelling, and local warungs serve up delicious seafood.
Top Attractions in Amed:
- Jemeluk Beach
- Japanese Ship Wreck Point
- Lipah Beach
- FreeBird Express
- Dana’s Paintings
Huacachina, Peru
Sandboarding and dune buggy trips are popular activities in this tiny oasis village in the heart of the Peruvian desert. In addition to visiting the adjacent Paracas National Reserve, tourists can soak in the natural hot springs, feast on authentic Peruvian cuisine, and relax on the water.
Top Attractions in Huacachina:
- Huacachina Oasis
- Peruvian Sand Adventure
- Tony SandRider
- Huacachina Tour Packages
- Buggy Huacachina
Haida Gwaii, Canada
Haida Gwaii is an isolated archipelago off the coast of British Columbia that is renowned for its unspoiled landscape, ancient First Nations culture, and plethora of animals. Guests may go whale-watching and bear-spotting in their natural habitats, as well as kayaking along the coast and hiking through old-growth rainforests.
Top Attractions in Haida Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands):
- Gwaii Haanas National Park
- Naikoon Provincial Park
- Haida Heritage Centre at Kay Llnagaay
Kep, Cambodia
This sleepy seaside town on Cambodia’s south coast is a hidden gem that offers a chance to relax and unwind away from the hustle and bustle of the country’s more popular tourist destinations. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, relax on secluded beaches, and explore the nearby Kep National Park.
Top Attractions in Kep:
- Sothy’s Pepper Farm
- Koh Tonsay (Rabbit Island)
- KepNational Park
- Kep Butterfly Farm
- Phnom Kampong Trach Cave
FAQ’s:
Q: Are these off-the-beaten-path destinations safe for travellers? A: While no destination is 100% risk-free, all of the destinations on this list are generally considered safe for travellers. As with any travel, it’s always a good idea to take common-sense precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.
Q: Will I miss out on popular tourist attractions by visiting off-the-beaten-path destinations? A: While it’s true that off-the-beaten-path destinations may not have the same level of well-known tourist attractions, they often offer their own unique charms and hidden gems that are worth exploring.
Q: Is it more expensive to travel to off-the-beaten-path destinations? A: Not necessarily. In fact, many off-the-beaten-path destinations can be more affordable than popular tourist destinations, as they may have lower accommodation and dining costs.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel: Why It's Worth It
While it can be tempting to stick to the tried-and-true tourist hotspots when planning a trip, venturing off the beaten path can lead to some truly unforgettable experiences. Here are just a few reasons why it’s worth taking the road less traveled:
Authenticity: When you visit popular tourist destinations, it can be hard to get a true sense of the local culture and way of life. Off-the-beaten-path destinations often offer a more authentic experience, allowing you to connect with locals and get a glimpse into their daily lives.
Adventure: Traveling to remote or lesser-known destinations often requires a bit of adventure and willingness to step outside your comfort zone. This can lead to some truly memorable experiences, from hiking to hidden waterfalls to trying new and exotic foods.
Sustainability: Popular tourist destinations can often become overwhelmed with visitors, leading to environmental degradation and strain on local resources. By choosing off-the-beaten-path destinations, you can help spread tourism dollars to lesser-known areas and support sustainable tourism practices.
Final Thoughts
These 10 off-the-beaten-path destinations are perfect for any type of tourist, whether you’re an extreme adventurer searching for a new challenge or a culture vulture hoping to get away from it all. These off-the-beaten-path gems, from the Azores’ volcanic islands to Kep’s tranquil coastal town, are just waiting to be discovered by the adventurists in search of something genuinely out of the ordinary. There’s no reason not to go on an adventure away from the crowds.
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