This summer forget about the overcrowded beaches and overpriced mediocre food (if we’re being honest) – it’s time to up your travel game. In this edition, we’re bringing you hidden gems for relaxation, exploration, and culinary delights. We’re all about underrated destinations that bring the views, the vibes, and the kind of food that makes you want to write poetry (or at least aggressively post on Instagram).

From Norway’s midnight sun to Italy’s secret coastal towns, and even a European island that feels like Hawaii – these places have everything: stunning landscapes, rich culture, and just enough exclusivity to make your friends jealous. So pack your bags (and your appetite), because we’re spilling the tea on this summer’s best kept secrets!

Up First: Puglia, Italy

Explore Italy without the crowds this summer? We’re sold already. While we adore our more popular Italian towns, I personally want to be able to stuff myself with as much pasta as possible, experience the true Italian affection, and get a spot on the beach without having to fight someone.

Why go?

Think whitewashed villages, coastal towns, and some of Italy’s best food without the crowds that comes with Amalfi. Seafood risotto anyone?

Where to stay:

Castle Elvira

Want the ultimate queen experience? Stay in a castle!

Grand yet homey, with a welcoming feel – this is a true fairy tale in the beautiful town of Puglia. Wrapped in idyllic landscaped grounds, dotted with olive groves and with a terraced pool at its heart, this storied former fortress is now enjoying a new chapter as a boutique hotel. Stroll the gardens to come across impromptu alfresco wine tasting or open air massages. Or make your way to the rooftop where a chic bar promises a backdrop of classic Puglian views with cocktails.

Inside there are hints of the former castle in the beautifully preserved original features, such as the Salon that remains a refined place for gathering together with a Bechstein grand piano for a spot of Puccini before dinner. Suites here at Castle Elvira are storybook stylish, each with its own personality – from turret bedrooms to beautiful garden views. However, rest assured it will have elevated ceilings, a super king bed for the sweetest dreams, and Carrara marble tubs for immersion in luxury.

Palais Gentile

Looking some something cozy and homey?

What started as a project to build a family house turned into a space where they can share the beauty of this town with all. Think charming and cozy, with a warm and friendly welcome. They work with local artisans and designed the home keeping as much of the original architect in place as they could. Enjoy champagne on the rooftop during sunset overlooking the sea, feast on local foods and explore the town all with a relaxing vibe of slowing down and enjoying your vacation.

What to do:

• Visit the white city of Ostuni and sip wine in a vineyard

• Relax on the beaches of Baia dei Turchi (crystal-clear waters)

• Enjoy all of the local cuisine

Up Next: The Lofoten Islands, Norway

Looking for something a little different this summer? Think rugged Arctic beauty meets Scandinavian charm and truly a hidden gem. We just love a good vibe.

Why go?

The Lofoten Islands feel like a dreamscape, with white-sand Arctic beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an endless golden glow during the Midnight Sun which is an experience in itself. It’s remote yet inviting, wild yet cozy – perfect for travelers who crave adventure, solitude, and soul-stirring scenery without the crowds. While in the Arctic, summers are very mild at 50-70F on average making this a very popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking and even surfing.

Where to stay:

Hotel Lofoten

The Hotel Lofoten is just a few metres away from Hurtigruta and within walking distance of all of Svolvaers various attractions. Think large windows with incredible Artic views that will stop you in your tracks. The 163 modern rooms are cozy and warm – providing a perfect base for exploring the scenery and feeling like you’re getting away from the world.

What to do:

• Hike to Reinebringen at midnight for jaw dropping views of Norway (and you’re hiking at midnight how fun!)

• Kayak through Reinefjord & explore hidden beaches

• Go whale watching in Andenes

• Obviously a polar plunge in a must – followed by a cozy evening in the sauna

Finally: The Azores, Portugal

Known as Europe’s Hawaii, and best kept secret for relaxation, adventure and nature. Imagine Iceland, Hawaii, and New Zealand had a love child – that’s the Azores. A lush, volcanic archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic, this is Portugal’s wild side, where emerald crater lakes, bubbling hot springs, and black-sand beaches create a paradise for nature lovers. Think fewer tourists (win), jaw-dropping landscapes (never hate it), and an adventure-meets-wellness vibe (we love balance).

The best part? It’s only a five-hour flight from the East Coast of the U.S., but it feels like you’ve been transported to another planet. In comparison a flight from the East Coast to Hawaii could take 8+ hours.

Where to stay

White Exclusive Suites & Villas

Will let the pictures speak for themselves. Sitting just steps away from the Atlantic, this is where magic and relaxation come to life. Think yoga in the hut, followed by a cocktail by the pool overlooking the ocean, heading to dinner at their very own farm-to-table restaurant and finally ending the night cozied up next to the fire pit watching the sunset. Composed of only nine suites and two villas each with sea views and modern details – providing an elegant and spa like feel. Oh and you can get one of these suites for ~$350 USD a night (at the time of writing this) – excuse us while we go book our flight right now.

What to do

• Hike to the twin lakes of Sete Cidades – one blue and one green crater lake dividied by a lush ridge

• Take a scenic road trip through São Miguel

• Go wine tasting on Pico Island – one of Europe’s most unique vineyards growing in volcanic rock formations (we never need an excuse to enjoy wine but this is the cooler way to do it)

Have we convinced you yet? Not sure about you but I’m drooling a little over Azures.

Looking for a full itinerary on these special spots? Reach out to us!

Perks when working with us:

• Free room upgrades (upon availability at check in)

• Early check in /late check out

• Hotel credits for dining, drinks, spa etc.

• Welcome gift

• VIP treatment

Xo Holly