Find all of the Mediterranean’s top hidden gems this year
It’s no secret that the Mediterranean is one of the best holiday destinations in the world, but some of its most beautiful villages and treasured gems can only be found by those willing to venture off the beaten path. From hidden beaches to lesser-known islands, the Mediterranean is the perfect setting for a journey to scout out the popularly undiscovered.
Allow us to guide you to the most underrated locations where you’ll be charmed by privileged views and locally beloved activities you won’t soon forget.
The best hidden gems in Italy
Italy is a country that needs no introduction, with its inspiring cities, picturesque countryside and world-renowned landmarks that have drawn millions of tourists for decades. However, beyond the popular destinations, Italy boasts a wealth of hidden gems that are often overlooked by visitors. From secluded beaches to charming villages, and gorgeous luxury villas that have many hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
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The best hidden gems in Sicily
Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean, known for its rich history, stunning landscapes and gastronomical reputation. While many visitors flock to popular destinations such as Palermo, Taormina and Siracusa, there are several hidden gems in Sicily that are worth the expedition.
Noto is a Baroque town in southeastern Sicily, often called the "Stone Garden" for its ornate churches, palaces and buildings made of local limestone. While you may recognize Noto for its presence in the second season of The White Lotus, Noto is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its annual Infiorata flower festival.
Lo Zingaro Nature Reserve is situated just 7 km from Scopello on the northwest coast of Sicily; a hidden gem for nature lovers. The reserve is home to several hiking trails, rich with flora, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. In just a 30 minute drift down the shoreline, you’ll have stumbled upon one of the many secluded beaches where you’ll be likely to have the entire bay to yourself.
The best hidden gems in Puglia
Puglia is a large region in southern Italy, making it home to countless hidden gems scattered in between the more popularly visited sites. Polignano a Mare is home to a town so close to the Adriatic Sea it might as well be submerged by the water. Unreal cliffside views over crystalline waters will make any traveller feel as though they’re living in a fantasy.
The best hidden gems in Greece
While popular destinations like Athens and Mykonos are certainly worth a visit, there’s a trove of hidden gems in Greece that offer travel experiences steeped in regional history and culture. In fact, some of the most treasurable destinations of Greece are actually Greek islands that remain mysterious outposts compared to their more frequently visited neighbours, complete with your choice from our signature collection of our luxury villas in Greece.
Hidden gems of the Greek islands
Though these Greek destinations may be lesser known than their more popular islands nearby, like Kefalonia and Zakynthos, the cultural significance and idyllic natural beauty of these Greek Islands have landed them a permanent place on our list of favourite Greek destinations.
Patmos is a petite, picturesque island in the Aegean Sea, known for its religious significance and stunning natural beauty. Home to the Monastery of St. John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse — where it’s believed that St. John the Apostle received the visions that inspired the Book of Revelation — Patmos welcomes thousands of travellers a year on a religious pilgrimage.
Hydra charms visitors with its inviting, cobbled streets and serene beaches free from crowds. For travellers seeking a peaceful and authentic experience far from the noise of everyday life, you’ll be happy to know that Hydra is primarily pedestrian only. The absence of cars and the use of donkeys as the main means of transportation allows visitors to immerse in the authentic atmosphere of this beautiful Greek island.
Hidden gems in mainland Greece
From secluded waterfalls to seaside towns with hidden hot springs, these exceptional locations in mainland Greece are as welcoming as they are extraordinary.
Evia is situated on the eastern coast of Greece and is home to the ever-inviting village of Edipsos, a seaside town famous for its thermal springs that have been attracting visitors since ancient times.
Porto Heli is a picture-perfect town surrounded by the sparkling teal water of the Gulf of Argolis, where you’ll want to take advantage of the shore. Secluded beaches like Bisti Beach and Agios Emilianos Beach offer serene sea vistas and are perfect for relaxation or an afternoon of water experiences.
The best hidden gems in Corsica
Corsica is a French island in the Mediterranean Sea, saturated with a rich history and some of our favourite luxury villas in Corsica. Bonifacio, for example, is an impressive fortified town located on the southern tip of Corsica. The narrow streets and captivating cliff top views of Bonifacio eclipse a modern holiday with mediaeval origins, making this town one of our favourite Corsican hidden gems.
For travellers looking for a hint (or heap) of nature in their holiday, Scandola Nature Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on the west coast of Corsica, that offers a unique landscape of red cliffs, turquoise waters, and diverse flora and fauna. While it cannot be accessed by car, booking a boat charter is the best way to explore the magnificent reserve.
The expert travel guides at The Thinking Traveller are on hand and ready to help you uncover some of the most precious hidden gems of the Mediterranean, including our luxury villas. If you want to discover the Med’s best kept secrets, contact our team for invaluable attention to detail in planning your next adventure.
