15 Travel Destinations You Must Visit Before They Become Mainstream

1. Hushinish Beach, Scotland

If you’re seeking a serene spot for your next adventure, add Hushinish Beach on the Isle of Harris to your list. Tucked away in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, it’s a captivating destination with powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters.

Once you’re there, nature’s soundtrack is all around, with waves lapping the shore and seabirds calling overhead. For wildlife lovers, the area is a haven where you can spot seals basking on the rocks.

2. Lofoten Islands, Norway

Nestled above the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten Islands are a feast for your eyes with their dramatic peaks and open sea. Your days can be filled with adventures like kayaking around the jagged coastlines or hiking up to panoramic views that stretch for miles.

Explore the charming fishing villages with their colorful wooden houses. For art lovers, the galleries in Henningsvær shouldn’t be missed. Let the midnight sun guide your visit during summer, or chase the Northern Lights in winter for a magical display over the snow-dusted landscapes.

3. Faroe Islands, Denmark

While exploring the Faroe Islands, you’ll discover natural beauty that still feels like a well-kept secret. Imagine lush green landscapes that seem to roll on forever, with dramatic cliffs that give way to the deep blue of the North Atlantic Ocean. I

Witness the Múlafossur Waterfall spill into the ocean at Gasadalur, a site that’s as peaceful as it is picturesque. The small villages dotted across the islands welcome you with open arms, ready to share their rich history and culture.

4. Socotra, Yemen

Socotra, Yemen is a rare gem, offering landscapes filled with alien-like dragon blood trees, famed for their umbrella-shaped canopies and reddish sap. With pristine beaches like those at Shu’ab, your days could be spent swimming in warm waters or just relaxing on the sand.

Inland, the Diksam Plateau presents a world that feels a step back in time, with panoramic views that are nothing short of breathtaking. Don’t miss out on the Wadi Dirhur Canyon, where the natural beauty is so outstanding, it’s like a live painting sprawling before your eyes.

5. Lord Howe Island, Australia

Nestled in the shimmering Tasman Sea, this World Heritage-listed paradise remains relatively untouched. This enchanting island invites you to explore its crystalline waters and lush forests. With only 400 visitors allowed at once, you’ll enjoy unspoiled natural beauty and a quiet that’s becoming increasingly rare.

Scale Mount Gower for panoramic vistas, or unwind on white sandy beaches. Immerse yourself in the local culture and connect with friendly faces at a fish fry.

6. Svaneti, Georgia

If you’re keen on an adventure off the beaten track, Svaneti in Georgia should be on your radar. Nestled in the rugged Caucasus Mountains, this area boasts towers built in medieval times, adding a touch of mystique to the landscape.

Visitors to Svaneti can hit the slopes for some great skiing or relax in a local banya, a traditional Georgian sauna. The region’s safety has improved tremendously, making it a hospitable place for travelers seeking serenity and a warm welcome from the mountain-dwelling Svaneti people.

7. San Juan Islands, USA

Tucked away in the northwest corner of Washington State, the San Juan Islands await your discovery. If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, the islands offer a serene retreat with views that will take your breath away. Picture gentle waves lapping against rugged coastlines and bald eagles soaring overhead.

Embrace the relaxed island life by exploring the charming Eastsound Village on Orcas Island, known for its mix of arts, culture, and nature. Don’t miss the chance to see orcas in their natural habitat—a truly mesmerizing sight.

8. Aeolian Islands, Italy

The Aeolian Islands offer a serene escape, tucked away in the Tyrrhenian Sea close to Sicily. These volcanic isles are known for its natural beauty, from clear waters to black sand beaches.

If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, you can hike up active volcanoes and indulge in the panoramic sea views that follow. The surrounding sea is perfect for an afternoon dip, or for the more adventurous, some snorkeling to explore the vibrant marine life below.

9. Alacati, Turkey

If you’re craving a sunny escape, tucked away from the usual tourist spots, set your sights on Alacati in Turkey. This charming town is a breath of fresh air with its cobblestone streets and rustic windmills that dot the skyline.

You can catch some waves on the Aegean Sea, as Alacati is a haven for windsurfers thanks to its breezy conditions. Adore good food and wine? You’ll be treated to the town’s burgeoning culinary scene. When the sun sets, the town’s nightlife sparkles just like the stars.

10. Flores Island, Azores, Portugal

Flores Island is a hidden gem tucked away in the Azores, a spot that feels like your own slice of paradise. If you love getting out in nature, you’ll be thrilled by Flores’ lush landscapes and abundant waterfalls. Lagoa Negra and Lagoa Comprida are two natural wonders that are must-sees, each boasting its own unique color.

Flores has a fascinating cultural side too. Catch a glimpse into traditional butter making at Museu do Laticínios da Lomba.

11. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

Nestled in the heart of Uganda, this lush expanse is a marvel of biodiversity. As you wander through the dense foliage, the chatter of exotic birds fills the air, and the chance to meet mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is just a trek away.

The thrill of locking eyes with these majestic creatures is truly remarkable. With a gorilla trekking permit, the moment you cross paths with a gorilla family becomes a vivid chapter in your travel story. Spotting rare fauna and flora in a serene atmosphere, you’ll quickly appreciate why this forest is dubbed ‘impenetrable’.

12. Gjirokastër, Albania

Discover Gjirokastër, a town draped in history that sits in the heart of Albania. Visit the Blue Eye spring, where crystal clear waters create a serene spot ideal for refreshment from your adventure. Wander through the Old Bazaar for a taste of local crafts and history.

For a moment of awe, the hilltop castle of Gjirokastër reveals sprawling views and tales of the past. And for a unique underground exploration, the city’s cold war bunker is open for you to uncover secrets beneath the cobbled streets.

13. Comino, Malta

Nestled between Malta and Gozo, Comino is your escape into a more peaceful haven. This tiny island is a blissful retreat with the famous Blue Lagoon, offering you a dip into some of the clearest waters you’ll ever see.

With an area of just 3.5 square kilometers, you can explore it all without missing a thing. Since it’s car-free, you’ll enjoy the sounds of nature without the buzz of engines. The best part? With only a handful of residents, Comino feels like your own private island escape for the day.

14. Bozcaada Island, Turkey

If you’re on the hunt for a place where you can enjoy sun-soaked beaches and a taste of local wine, Bozcaada Island is your spot. It’s an island with a rich history you can feel while exploring its medieval castle.

Be sure to wrap up your day by watching a spectacular sunset at Polente Feneri, a charming lighthouse with a view that’s just as lovely. Your time on Bozcaada Island promises to be as relaxing as it is captivating.

15. Tetouan, Morocco

Tucked away in the north of Morocco, Tetouan is a city that offers a mosaic of cultural influences, which shape its architecture and food. If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant market scene, Tetouan’s Medina is your go-to. Here, you can find a colorful array of spices, intricately woven textiles, and handcrafted treasures.

In need of a breath of fresh air? You’re in luck, as the city is just a stone’s throw from the rugged Rif Mountains and the serene Mediterranean coast. While there, you can also embrace the outdoors at Al-Hoceima National Park, ideal for hiking and appreciating nature’s best.