CROWD CONTROL

Tallis Marcus Boerne reveals the quieter European gems to visit.

/ Don’t go to Geneva,

go to Bohinj

While Lake Bled steals most of the travel-story headlines for Slovenia, Lake Bohinj is one of the most beautiful places on the continent. Bohinj perfectly positions you for days of detoxing from crowded European cities, as you take in the amazing surroundings while you swim, hike, kayak, cycle and relax.

/ Don’t go to Lisbon, go to Sao Miguel

A side of Europe that’s rarely seen, Portugal’s Azores Sao Miguel is a natural island paradise. With rich marine life, endless waterfalls, greenery and volcanic scenery, it’s a far cry from the concrete and cobblestones that usually comes to mind when you think of Europe.

European cities are becoming as crowded as they’ve ever been, particularly in the high season. The European Travel Commission is showing that most Europeans aren’t even planning on travelling around the continent during peak season, instead, they are opting to travel in shoulder months like April and September.

However, you can still easily find yourself in less frantic crowds, or even total seclusion by choosing alternative destinations. Here are some of the best off-the-beaten-path European cities to visit, not just to get away from the big crowds of tourists but also for different slices of culture and nature as well.

/ Don’t go to Berlin, go to Bamberg

In Germany, Bamberg is the sort of small city that will make you fall in love with Europe. The old town is straight out of a Disney movie, with every colourful corner beckoning you towards a new wafting scent or intriguing square. Whether you’re stopping by on a river cruise or have a few days to poke around, it’s hard to leave.

In a region with one of the highest density of breweries in the world, you won’t struggle to find somewhere to sample the local smoked beer, although the historic Schlenkerla brewpub is a nice start.

The big event: Bamberg hosts Sandkerwa in August, one of Germany’s biggest folk festivals.

A visit to the bright-blue Savica waterfall, a hike into the Triglav Lakes Valley in the Julian Alps and a local feast at Gostilna Mihovec restaurant are all a must. The big event: Every year Bohinj hosts the International Wild Flower Festival as the Julian Alps put on a show in May and June.

/ Don’t go to Santorini, go to Kastellorizo

It’s a bit of a journey to get to Kastellorizo, but then all the solitude and beauty of Greece’s most remote island awaits. The water is as clear as anywhere in Greece and the houses wear bright, beautiful colours.

You can visit the natural formations of the Blue Cave, devour seafood at the outdoor tavernas and check out the amazing castles and monasteries. The big event: Despite its tiny size and population, Kastellorizo hosts the International Documentary Festival each August.

You can spy humpback whales on a trip out from Ponta Delgada, see the incredible striking green of Lagoa de Santiago, soak in the natural hot springs and eat freshly picked delights at the pineapple plantations on this beautiful island.

The big event: On Sundays in April, May and June, you’ll see marches, shows and decorative ornaments as Sao Miguel holds the Holy Ghost Festival.

/ Don’t go to Paris go to Villefranche sur Mer

The kaleidoscope of colours that is Villefranche sur Mer makes for a magical town on the French Riviera. You can truly get lost in the stunning streets and amazing alleyways as you explore the photogenic city.

You’ll bite into your steak tartare at Le Trastevere, count the colours in the old town, enjoy the perfect beach day at Plage des Marinieres, venture around the medieval architecture of Eze and move onto the equally beautiful Menton.

The big event: The Crème Festival every summer lets you enjoy live music on sandy beaches while paying tribute to the Côte d’Azur. CT

Hidden gems

Clockwise, from top: Lake Bohinj, Slovenia; Villefranche sur Mer in the French Riviera; the lesser-known Greek Island of Kastellorizo; Bamberg in Bavaria, Germany.