7 off-the-beat destinations to visit in 2026

Here’s a curated list of the 7 off-the-beat destinations to visit in 2026.

1. Sigulda, Latvia
- Known as the “Switzerland of Latvia” with medieval castles and chocolate-box villages.
- Unique experiences: traditional Latvian pirts sauna ritual, bobsleigh track, zipline across the Baltics’ only aerial cableway, and views of Gauja Valley from Paradise Hill.

2. Ningaloo Reef, Australia
- UNESCO World Heritage site, less crowded than the Great Barrier Reef.
- Swim with whale sharks (March–July), spot humpback whales and manta rays.
- Inland highlights: Cape Range National Park’s gorges and ochre desert, plus off-grid glamping at Sal Salis.

3. Constantine, Algeria
- Dubbed the “City of Bridges”, built across a dramatic gorge.
- Rich history: Roman ruins, Palace of Ahmed Bey, Emir Abdelkader Mosque.
- Algeria now offers visa-on-arrival for tours, making it more accessible.

4. Mumbles, Wales
- A quintessential seaside town on the Gower Peninsula.
- Attractions: Oystermouth Castle, MumblesFest, surfing at Gower Surf Academy, and the legendary “Mumbles Mile” pub crawl.

5. Mitchelstown Cave, Ireland (Tipperary)
- One of Europe’s most spectacular caves, with calcite curtains and the Tower of Babel column.
- Located in scenic Tipperary, recently named by Lonely Planet as a top global destination.
- Nearby: Rock of Cashel and Galtee Mountains.

6. Caldas de Rainha, Portugal
- A spa town on Portugal’s quieter Silver Coast.
- Highlights: Parque Dom Carlos I, historic thermal hospital, buzzing daily fruit market (Praça da Fruta), and famous sweet pastry Beijinhos das Caldas.
- Known for its ceramics, especially Bordallo Pinheiro designs.

7. Rodrigues Island, Mauritius
- Remote “sleepy sister” of Mauritius, only 25,000 international visitors in 2024.
- Best for hiking: volcanic peaks, tropical forests, and the Trail de Rodrigues festival.
- François Leguat Reserve with 3,000 tortoises and caves like Grande Caverne.
- Secluded beaches such as Trou d’Argent.

✨ These destinations are perfect if you want to avoid the crowds and discover authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences in 2026.