While iconic cities like Paris, Venice, and Barcelona hold undeniable allure, a seasoned travel expert suggests venturing off the well-trodden tourist paths to discover Europe’s most enchanting, lesser-known destinations. Helana Jackson, a flight attendant turned travel influencer, advocates for spontaneous road trips and exploring areas beyond the typical itinerary, especially as overtourism impacts popular locales. She believes these detours not only help alleviate pressure on crowded spots but also lead to unexpected discoveries and personal favorite locations.
The Allure of the Detour
Jackson, who has cultivated a significant following by highlighting unique travel experiences, often rents a car after exploring a major city to seek out hidden gems. “Unplanned stops are some of the best parts of a trip,” she explains. “Not only does it help spread out tourism, but you end up finding places you’d never heard of, or didn’t expect, and can sometimes discover your new favourite part of the world.” This philosophy has led her to identify several breathtaking locations that offer a refreshing alternative to mainstream tourism.
Detour 1: Lake Molveno, Italy (From the Dolomites)
The Dolomites, a stunning mountain range in Northern Italy, have become a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts and ‘coolcation’ seekers. Known for their dramatic peaks, lush valleys, and pristine lakes, the region offers world-class activities like hiking, climbing, and skiing. During a recent visit, Jackson discovered the serene beauty of Lake Molveno, located in the Trentino province, nestled between Lake Garda and the Dolomites.
Initially planning a scenic drive towards Milan for her flight, Jackson decided to explore Lake Molveno after consulting a map. This detour, while taking her off the direct toll roads, proved to be a highlight. “It was so pretty everywhere you looked,” she recalls. The lake is surrounded by charming restaurants and buildings, with locals and visitors enjoying activities like boating, swimming, and paddleboarding on its clear waters. Visitors can relax on the pebbly shores or the adjacent grassy lawns.
For active travelers, the “lake loop” offers a pleasant, relatively flat walk or cycle around the perimeter. For those seeking elevated perspectives, the Molveno-Pradel Cableway provides access to the Pradel Plateau, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Detour 2: Berchtesgaden, Germany (From Salzburg, Austria)
Salzburg, Austria, a city famed as Mozart’s birthplace and the setting for ‘The Sound of Music’, attracts millions of tourists annually. While the city itself is rich in history and culture, its proximity to the German border offers a compelling day trip opportunity. Jackson discovered the historic alpine town of Berchtesgaden, located just a 30-minute drive from Salzburg.
Berchtesgaden, situated in Bavaria, is renowned for its dramatic mountain landscapes and the breathtaking Königssee Lake. Jackson was particularly struck by the lake’s stunning emerald-green waters, framed by towering mountains. “My favourite part was Königssee Lake, a stunning emerald green lake surrounded by mountains,” she shared. Visitors can experience the lake’s tranquility via traditional wooden boat tours, which glide past steep rock faces to reach the picturesque St. Bartholomä church.
The town of Berchtesgaden itself exudes a fairytale charm, with traditional alpine architecture. Jackson enjoyed relaxing in local cafes and exploring the area, even hiking to a mountain hut for a meal with a view. The wider Berchtesgaden region is also Germany’s only alpine National Park, boasting over 260 kilometers of hiking trails for all levels of experience.
Detour 3: Gosausee, Austria (From Hallstatt, Austria)
Hallstatt, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Upper Austria, is celebrated for its picturesque pastel-colored houses and idyllic lakeside setting. While highly recommended by Jackson, she points to another nearby gem: Gosausee, a cluster of alpine lakes located about a 30-minute drive from Hallstatt.
The Salzkammergut region, where Gosausee is located, is recognized for its stunning alpine scenery and deep-rooted salt-mining history. Upon visiting Gosausee, Jackson was captivated by the crystal-clear, turquoise waters, reportedly so pure they are drinkable, and the awe-inspiring views of the Dachstein glacier mountains. “It has to be seen to be believed,” she remarked.
Gosausee is a protected nature reserve, offering opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, and boating during the summer months. For hikers, the Gosaukammbahn cable car ascends to the Zwieselalm ski resort, which transforms into a beautiful hiking area in warmer seasons. A popular, low-effort option is the 2.7-mile trail encircling the Vorderer Gosausee lake, taking approximately one hour. More challenging routes, such as the trek to the Hinterer Gosausee, traverse mountainous terrain and lead past traditional alpine huts.
Planning Your European Detours
For travelers inspired to explore these destinations, here are some logistical tips:
- Salzburg and Hallstatt: Direct flights are available from London Stansted to Salzburg, with journey times around two hours.
- Dolomites: The closest major airport to the Dolomites is Venice Marco Polo Airport. Flights from London Stansted to Venice are also available, with a flight time of approximately two hours. From Venice airport, direct seasonal express buses run to Cortina d’Ampezzo, taking about two and a half hours and costing around €15 (£13) one-way.
By incorporating these detours, travelers can enrich their European adventures, discovering breathtaking landscapes and authentic experiences away from the crowds.
