5 Alternative Destinations If You Want To Avoid Mediterranean Hotspots This Summer

Often called Europe’s most stylish new riviera, the setting of One&Only Portonovi is at the entrance of Boka Bay, the largest bay on the sublime, meandering Adriatic coast. Here, indigo waters glitter below wild conifer-covered peaks, while a drive or boat along the coastline reveals picturesque, cobbled medieval towns, hidden coves and unspoiled beaches. With stunning vistas of sea and mountains from every corner, the elegant rooms, suites and private-pool villas at One&Only give an enchanting basis to experience this lesser-discovered European jewel. There is also a state-of-the-art Chenot Spa, offering world-renowned health and wellness programs.

The small and wild island of Folegandros in the Cyclades stands out among its Greek-island counterparts for its dramatic, jagged landscape (interluded by just a few charming villages) – and is still much less crowded than its better-known neighbors. From its Aegean-facing cliffside locale, Gundari is a heavenly recent opening, boasting 25 dream-worthy suites, each with its own infinity pool. With a sprawling 80 acres of land, the hotel also has its own organic farm (feeding its sumptuous farm-to-plate restaurant), a tiny wine bar and a striking cliff-edge infinity pool with swim-up cocktail bar.

So breathtaking that it’s been called the European answer to Hawaii, the magical Azores archipelago, secluded in the middle of the Atlantic, is made up of nine islands, with volcanic landscapes, verdant hills, crater lakes and thermal springs. São Miguel is the largest, with the most exciting hotel and restaurant offering (though the smaller islands are well worth a visit too). On the south coast, with a soaring cliffside perch, White Suites & Villas is an idyllic, contemporary island hotel. There’s a stunning infinity pool, farm-to-table restaurant, breezy white-washed and driftwood-decked interiors, and numerous spots to enjoy a sundowner as the sun melts into the horizon. The sleek minimalist accommodation is comprised of nine suites and two villas, all with picture-perfect ocean panoramas.

Camber Sands on the East Sussex coast is a favorite escape of Londoners, with its undulating sand dunes and bracing English-Channel waves for those who brave enough to take a dip. Here, The Gallivant is an intimate, boutique beach house hotel with a prime position for the fresh sea air, where design-led interiors and stylishly appointed bedrooms meet a sense of seaside nostalgia. It’s also well situated to explore the nearby historic town of Rye, as well as the surrounding English wineries (including the natural and biodynamic Tillingham vineyards). Back at the hotel, Harry’s restaurant is a beautiful coastal eatery nestled behind the dunes.

While beach lovers in France are often drawn to the famous shores in the south, there are enthralling alternatives to explore. The wonderful Pink Granite coast in Brittany takes its name from the rose-hued rock formations that punctuate it, and it is here that Les Bassans has recently opened its doors. Taking inspiration from its setting, the hotel’s Breton architecture, 25 sea-facing rooms and suites and 1930s nautical-influenced seafood restaurant immerse guests in the ever-changing scenery. To get even closer to nature’s wilds, the rugged landscape is best explored by bike, foot or boat.

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