Avoiding Overcrowding: How to find Hidden Gems in the Summer

July 3, 2025

Avoiding Overcrowding: How to find Hidden Gems in the Summer

When the summer holidays roll around, it often feels like the entire world has the same idea. Beaches are packed, queues stretch endlessly outside attractions, and the joy of escaping is dampened by the sheer volume of fellow travellers. But there’s another way to experience the magic of the season—without the crowds. Discovering summer hidden gems allows you to enjoy unique destinations that are often overlooked, giving you peace, authenticity, and something truly unforgettable.


Why Travel to Summer Hidden Gems?


There’s a certain charm in going off the beaten path. Summer hidden gems offer experiences that are just as enriching as the big-name hotspots but without the stress of overcrowding. These places often offer:


  • Better value for money
  • More authentic local experiences
  • Easier access to nature
  • Less strain on infrastructure
  • Quieter, slower-paced holidays


You might just find that your favourite trip was the one nobody else was talking about.


Discovering Europe’s Best-Kept Secrets


Europe is full of tucked-away destinations that still feel untouched. While everyone else flocks to the Amalfi Coast or the French Riviera, you could be enjoying similar views and warmer welcomes elsewhere.


Puglia, Italy


Swap the overcrowded Amalfi Coast for Puglia in the south of Italy. This sun-drenched region boasts whitewashed villages, olive groves, and turquoise waters without the tourist hordes. Alberobello’s trulli houses are postcard-perfect, and Polignano a Mare’s cliffside charm is hard to beat.


For a relaxed yet stylish stay, check out Masseria Torre Coccaro. This converted farmhouse has rustic elegance, a beach club, and spa—all set among ancient olive trees.


Thinking of staying here? We have some excellent offers on Italian escapes this summer. Just ask us to see what’s available.


Dinant, Belgium


Often skipped for Brussels or Bruges, Dinant is a fairytale town nestled beside the River Meuse. With its dramatic cliffside citadel, saxophone heritage, and riverside cafés, it’s a picture-perfect place to unwind.


Stay at La Merveilleuse by Infiniti Resorts, a boutique hotel housed in a former convent. The views are stunning, and the atmosphere is serene.


If you like the sound of Dinant, we can check current availability and package deals for you—there are always surprises in store.


Going Beyond Europe: Hidden Summer Escapes Worldwide


Not all summer hidden gems are found in Europe. Some of the most rewarding adventures are found in far-flung corners of the world.


Salalah, Oman


You might not associate Oman with lush greenery, but Salalah during the summer monsoon season transforms into a tropical paradise. Think waterfalls, mist-covered mountains, and coconut-lined beaches.


The Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara offers beachfront luxury and spa indulgence just minutes from archaeological treasures.


Want to explore this Arabian secret? We’ve got a range of customisable options—let us show you what’s possible.


Kotor, Montenegro


Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor feels like a secret version of Lake Como. Enclosed by steep cliffs and medieval villages, it’s peaceful yet dramatic.


Stay at Forza Terra Boutique Hotel & Spa, where the views from your private terrace are unforgettable.

There are great summer offers on Montenegro escapes—get in touch to learn more about your options.


Island Getaways Without the Crowds


Everyone heads to Santorini or Ibiza. But why not choose a quieter island that still delivers that sun-kissed magic?


Koufonisia, Greece


This tiny Cycladic island has clear waters, laid-back tavernas, and no cars. Life slows right down, and beaches like Pori rival anything found in Mykonos.


For a boutique experience, try Portes Houses, a whitewashed hideaway just steps from the sea.


We can create a tailor-made package to Koufonisia and other quiet Greek islands—just let us know your dates.


Boipeba, Brazil


On Brazil’s coastline, Boipeba offers palm-lined beaches, calm waters, and barely a footprint in sight. It’s eco-friendly and virtually crowd-free.


Stay at Alizées Moreré, an intimate retreat with bungalows overlooking the ocean.


Tempted by tropical tranquillity? We’ve got options that combine Brazil’s highlights with beach bliss.


Colmar, France


Colmar may look like it’s been lifted from a storybook, but this Alsatian town remains under the radar compared to Paris or Strasbourg. Winding canals, timber-framed houses, and flower-filled balconies make it a joy to explore in summer.


Stay at La Maison des Têtes, a historic boutique hotel blending charm and comfort.


Let us know if Colmar caught your eye—we have a variety of offers that pair it with other French countryside gems.


Why Book with Jamie Wake Travel?


Finding summer hidden gems isn’t always easy. That’s where we come in.


When you book with Jamie Wake Travel, you get more than a holiday—you get peace of mind. As an independent travel agency based in the UK, we are members of Protected Trust Services and hold an ATOL licence, which means your money is 100% financially protected.


Every tailor-made holiday we arrange includes Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance. So even in a changing travel landscape, you’re covered.


We work with over 200 trusted suppliers and tour operators, giving us access to exclusive deals and lesser-known properties that you won’t always find online.



And because we don’t believe one size fits all, we tailor each trip to suit your style, needs, and budget.


Jamie Says:

“Sometimes the most memorable holidays aren’t the ones with the biggest names—they’re the ones you discover by chance, on a quiet beach or in a sleepy village. That’s what I love helping my customers find.”


Jamie Says

Tips for Finding Your Own Summer Hidden Gems


Not every treasure needs to be kept secret. Here’s how to seek out your own quiet escapes:


  • Avoid school holiday peaks where possible
  • Travel midweek rather than weekends
  • Search for ‘alternative to [popular place]’ online
  • Use satellite view on maps to spot scenic towns
  • Ask your travel agent (us!) for expert suggestions


You don’t need to be a travel expert—we already are.


Hidden Gems Worth Considering in the UK


Not every summer hidden gem requires a passport. The UK has plenty of quiet corners perfect for escaping the summer rush.


The Northumberland Coast


With its vast beaches, medieval castles, and coastal villages like Bamburgh and Alnmouth, Northumberland feels like a world away. Even in peak season, you’ll find space to breathe.


Check out The Cookie Jar in Alnwick—a stylish and cosy former convent with boutique charm and easy access to the coast.


We have a range of offers for UK coastal escapes like this—get in touch to find out more.


Elan Valley, Wales


Often overshadowed by Snowdonia or the Brecon Beacons, the Elan Valley offers peaceful reservoirs, scenic drives, and walking trails. It’s the perfect base for nature lovers who want solitude.


Book a stay at Penbont House, a guesthouse nestled beside a reservoir with views that inspire calm.


If you’re dreaming of a quiet summer in the Welsh hills, we can help you build that perfect itinerary.


What Makes These Places So Special?


They tend to share a few traits:


  • Fewer big hotels
  • Strong local culture and heritage
  • Easy access to nature
  • Walkable towns and uncrowded beaches
  • Fewer cruise ships or big tour groups


These places invite you to slow down. To connect. To remember why you wanted to go away in the first place.


Many summer hidden gems also have deep cultural roots, some even recognised by global heritage organisations such as UNESCO.


Final Thought: Choose Something That’s Uniquely You


Holidays shouldn’t be about following the crowd. They should reflect who you are, what you love, and how you relax.


That’s why Jamie Wake Travel specialises in tailor-made escapes that feel personal and meaningful.

Whether you want an off-grid island, a sleepy seaside village, or a mountain retreat, we can build it for you.


Prefer to plan it yourself? You can now use the Jamie Wake Travel website to search and book your own tailor-made break—right from any page.


But remember: we’re just a call or message away if you want to leave the planning to us.


Phone us on 01495 400005 or complete our holiday enquiry form.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are summer hidden gems and why should I visit them?

    Summer hidden gems are lesser-known destinations that offer unique experiences without large crowds, making them ideal for a relaxing, authentic holiday.


  • Are summer hidden gems safe for families and solo travellers?

    Yes. We only recommend locations that are suitable for all types of travellers, including families and those going solo.


  • Can I find good beaches in summer hidden gems?

    Absolutely. Many hidden spots, like Boipeba in Brazil or Koufonisia in Greece, have stunning, uncrowded beaches.


  • Do summer hidden gems have enough to do?

    They do. From hiking trails and cultural landmarks to local cuisine and relaxing nature, there's plenty to enjoy without the stress of queues or crowds.


  • How far in advance should I book a holiday to a hidden gem?

    It’s best to book early. Although they’re less crowded, the best places still have limited availability—especially boutique hotels.


  • Can Jamie Wake Travel create a tailor-made trip to a summer hidden gem?

    Yes. We specialise in bespoke holidays, including lesser-known places that match your interests and travel style.


  • Is it cheaper to travel to summer hidden gems?

    Often, yes. You can get better value for money, with fewer mark-ups and less demand driving up prices.


  • How can I avoid tourist crowds when travelling in summer?

    Choose lesser-known destinations, travel midweek, and avoid school holiday peaks where possible.


  • Do summer hidden gems have luxury accommodation?

    Many do. From boutique hotels to private villas, we can recommend properties that offer comfort and exclusivity.


  • Can I book summer hidden gems online through Jamie Wake Travel?

    Yes, our website allows you to search and book your own custom holiday, but we’re always here if you'd rather let us do the planning.


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