Crowds

Tucked between Austria and Switzerland, this tiny principality is perfect for nature and history lovers seeking a peaceful escape.

If you’re keen to book in a springtime getaway but fancy steering clear of the typical tourist hotspots, then there’s one destination that should be on your list. Nestled between Austria and Switzerland is Liechtenstein, a small yet affluent principality that’s a dream come true for nature enthusiasts and history buffs.

While Italy and Spain might typically be your first port of call, overcrowding can sometimes put a damper on your holiday relaxation. So, for those planning a break this year, cruise and tour operator Riviera Travel has gone through European tourism data to help holidaymakers discover peaceful destinations, far away from the crowds.

And it was Liechtenstein that came out as the winner, attracting the fewest visitors by a long way.

According to the travel gurus, in 2024 tourists clocked up just over 200,000 overnight stays in this principality. Tucked away between two landlocked nations, this hidden treasure boasts stunning Alpine landscapes and a rich culture too.

Lonely Planet described a trip to Liechtenstein like ‘stepping into a bedtime story’, thanks to its majestic castles and jaw-dropping views. Despite being the smallest country in Europe, it’s well worth a visit, boasting a unique charm unlike anywhere else, reports the Express.

Liechtenstein is split by the River Rhine, with the capital city Vaduz serving as the perfect base to explore the river and its nearby attractions.

For hiking fans, the area boasts stunning trails suitable for all abilities. A standout option is the Liechtenstein Trail, which starts in Balzers on the Swiss border to the south and ends in Schaanwald up north.

Along the way, you’ll encounter mountains, woodlands and waterways, alongside medieval castle remains and charming villages. The route winds through the capital, offering an excellent opportunity to experience much of what this nation provides.

History lovers will want to visit the Liechtenstein National Museum. Housed in a striking 15th century structure, visitors can explore the country’s fascinating past through exhibits and artworks.

Food and wine play a significant role in the Liechtenstein experience. The nation’s weather conditions are perfect for producing wine, with numerous vineyards dotted across the rolling hillsides and valleys.

The Hofkellerei of the Prince of Liechtenstein in Vaduz stands out as an extremely popular choice, offering tours and tastings for individuals or groups of up to nine visitors. TripAdvisor users have been full of praise for the experience, giving it an average score of 4.2/5.

One satisfied visitor commented: “Great tour of the winery and some very tasty wines to taste! Staff were amazing too. Very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Well worth a visit.”

For the very best dining experience in Liechtenstein, the Michelin-starred Restaurant Marée is essential. The spot has collected countless awards over the years, with chef Hubertus Real and his team serving seasonal delicacies throughout the year.

Among the restaurant’s glowing five-star testimonials, one person wrote: “Great service, delicious, beautifully presented cuisine, interesting and varied menu. Flawless execution highlighted by a sincere and charming greeting from the hotel’s owner. A very memorable experience – I’d recommend eating in the heated, outdoor space as it’s quite pleasant.”

Since Liechtenstein doesn’t have its own airport, the easiest route is via Zurich, which sits just an hour’s drive away.

European destinations

1. Liechtenstein – 228,579

2. North Macedonia – 2,180,510

3. Luxembourg – 3,684,469

4. Latvia – 4,692,213

5. Montenegro – 5,200,576

6. Estonia – 6,645,908

7. Albania – 7,445,714

8. Lithuania – 8,640,124

9. Malta – 11,320,179

10. Serbia – 12,662,151

This idyllic village offers a peaceful escape from bustling crowds while still being conveniently accessible for travellers.

A stunning village tucked away in East Yorkshire is the hidden treasure you need to discover for the ultimate weekend retreat.

Often overlooked in favour of the more renowned Yorkshire regions like North York Moors and the Dales, this peaceful village brims with charm within its modest confines – making it a prime choice for your next UK staycation.

Nestled between Pocklington and Driffield, this idyllic village offers a serene escape from bustling crowds while still being conveniently accessible for travellers.

Huggate village in East Yorkshire is often touted as the highest village on the Yorkshire Wolds, sitting approximately 558 feet above sea level. However, the nearby village of Fridaythorpe also frequently stakes this claim.

Situated 13 miles north-west of Beverley and nine miles west of Driffield, this petite village boasts another unique distinction: it’s home to one of England’s deepest wells, plunging 116 yards deep. It was reportedly the primary water source for the village’s inhabitants before modern systems were introduced, reports Yorkshire Live.

Another must-see attraction in this captivating village is St Mary’s Church. This 12th-century church, a Grade I Listed building – a rarity for a High Wold church – features a towering, commanding spire that can be seen from miles around.

The graveyard offers breathtaking panoramas across the Wolds, whilst the heritage-listed village War Memorial stands proudly on the southern flank at the church entrance. This memorial serves as a tribute to Huggate’s thriving community and their spirited nature, having been built following a fundraising drive by local villagers.

Both Huggate and St Mary’s Church have featured as subjects in two artworks by celebrated painter David Hockney.

Yet arguably the most celebrated aspect of Huggate village is its circular route, which draws walkers and ramblers from throughout the nation annually. In fact, this East Yorkshire walking path previously secured a spot in The Times’ top 20 “best walks” nationwide.

Whilst the Huggate Circular might not claim the title of the Yorkshire Wolds’ most frequented trail, it has cultivated a devoted following through the years, thanks largely to its tranquil appeal and spectacular vistas. This uncomplicated four-mile loop proves ideal for novices and seasoned walkers alike who relish magnificent scenery in peaceful surroundings.

During this tranquil ramble, visitors can also savour the striking panoramas of Holme Dale and Horse Dale, whilst marvelling at the splendour of the Yorkshire Wolds’ limestone peaks. These picture-perfect undulating hills and valleys maintain their verdant appearance year-round, even during winter months, making this an excellent walking route for every season.

Those embarking on The Huggate circular hike will undoubtedly encounter several of the renowned poetry benches that embellish the Wolds Way. However, be mindful of the mud and rain during winter, and dress appropriately before setting out.

Just 3.7 miles from Huggate lies another hidden treasure: Waves and Time. This understated earthwork by artist Chris Drury takes the form of a colossal spiral, located at the intersection of three popular Wolds dry valleys – Bradeham Dale, Thixendale, and Worm Dale.

Enhanced by the stunning backdrop of panoramic blue skies, Waves and Time was crafted by digging a curving trough to a depth of roughly 400mm, followed by the formation of a curving mound approximately 500mm high using the soil excavated from the troughs.

BEFORE I headed to the Greek island of Alonissos, a waiter in neighbouring Skiathos told me: “It’s too quiet there, I prefer to party here.” 

Now I was looking forward to the trip even more. 

While most tourists tend to land at Skiathos airport and stick to that lively destination, many are making the short ferry ride to Alonissos or Skopelos, where scenes for 2008 film Mamma Mia! were shot. 

These two beautiful islands rising out of the Aegean sea offer alternatives to bars and restaurants blasting out music from competing sound systems. 

My first stop was the relatively untouched Alonissos. 

With just 5,000 beds for tourists and 3,000 locals living on this slender, 12-mile-long island, I was immediately struck by how quiet and unhurried everything is. 

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Even though there is only one main snaking road, I hardly encountered another car.

And at the first beach I tried, Agios Dimitrios, to the north of the island, the chatter on the sun loungers was soft, no phones rang and no music disturbed the peace at the closest taverna. 

The tourists had sensibly decided that the pristine turquoise waters, facing another island so that you might think you are in a lake, were captivating enough.

Other beaches to lay your towel on include the crescent of pebbly sand at Kokkinokastro, backed by towering red cliffs, and Chrisi Milia, with its shallow water.

Further down the coast, the tiny port of Kalamakia is well known for its fresh fish restaurants.  

One such restaurant is Corali, overlooking the tranquil bay and run by two sisters. They served us the delicious local specialty — a cheese pie, which is fried rather than baked.  

Up above the main port of Patitiri, its old town, thoughtfully rebuilt following a 1965 earthquake, is pedestrianised and you won’t be harassed by scooters while attempting to navigate the steep stone steps. 

Rarely have I relaxed into holiday mode so quickly on a break. 

If you want maximum splendid isolation, join Albedo Travel’s day trip to meet the sole monk living at a 17th century clifftop monastery on the otherwise uninhabited Kyra Panagia island. 

With 90 per cent of the guests at the Atrium hotel where I stayed hailing from Britain, it is clear that I was not alone in wishing to escape the crowds

The excursion, which takes in three breathtaking swimming stops, is led by the white-bearded maritime entertainer Captain Pakis, who has honed his patter such as “GMT time is Greek Maybe Time” to perfection. 

If you are more adventurous, Alonissos has become a popular scuba-diving spot due to the presence of a 5th century BC shipwreck 66ft underwater.

The island is also home to Europe’s first national marine park, established in 1992 to protect the endangered population of Mediterranean monk seals. 

With 90 per cent of the guests at the Atrium hotel where I stayed hailing from Britain, it is clear that I was not alone in wishing to escape the crowds. 

This lovely little hotel’s hillside location means there are stunning sea views from all of the rooms.  

Travellers seeking a middle ground between party Skiathos and quiet Alonissos can opt for Skopelos, which sits between them. 

Chic pool area 

With 30,000 tourist beds and 4,500 locals, it is far more developed, with busy bars, coffee shops and restaurants vying for your custom at the harbour to the main port, Skopelos town.  

One of the big attractions is its connection to hit musical Mamma Mia!, starring Meryl Streep and Amanda Seyfried. 

As I sat on a small coach waiting for my four-hour Mamma Mia! tour of the island to begin, I started to get nervous because the music sounded like someone had asked ChatGPT to play Abba in a Greek style.

Every detail of the boutique hotel and spa has been immaculately planned, from the modern take on colonial styling to the best breakfast buffet I’ve experienced

But Dolphin Of Skopelos’ trip proved to be enormous fun, taking in Saint John’s Chapel’s 199 steep steps, which Donna (Streep) climbed for the wedding of Sophie (Seyfried), and Kastani beach, which was the backdrop to the Does Your Mother Know sequence. 

The tiny Saint John’s church has incredible views that shouldn’t be missed. 

The party vibe is more obvious here, with a DJ on the decks at the bar behind Kastani.

But when I drove to Panormos beach on another day, the atmosphere was relaxed as a waitress brought drinks to the free sun beds in front of the serene bay. 

And at the new 5-star Minno hotel in Skopelos town, the chic pool area makes you feel you’re winding down with the jet set. 

Every detail of the boutique hotel and spa has been immaculately planned, from the modern take on colonial styling to the best breakfast buffet I’ve experienced. 

The restaurant offers fine dining for a price comparable to burger and chips in a London pub. 

If you are looking for amazing food, quiet, clean beaches and welcoming locals you should be saying I Do, I Do, I Do to both islands. 

Bangladesh bade farewell to former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia in a state funeral that drew vast crowds mourning a towering political figure whose leadership shaped the nation for decades.

Zia, the first woman to serve as prime minister in the South Asian nation of 170 million people, died on Tuesday aged 80. Flags flew at half-mast across the country on Wednesday as thousands of security personnel lined Dhaka’s streets while her flag-draped coffin travelled through the capital.

Massive crowds gathered outside Bangladesh’s parliament building for the funeral prayers. People from Dhaka and beyond streamed towards Manik Mia Avenue, where the parliament building is located, since early morning to pay their last respects.

Retired government official Minhaz Uddin, 70, came despite never having voted for her. “I came here with my grandson, just to say goodbye to a veteran politician whose contributions will always be remembered,” he said, watching from behind a barbed wire barricade.

Zia entered politics following her husband’s death and rose to prominence opposing a military ruler who was ultimately ousted in a 1990 mass uprising. She first became prime minister in 1991 after a landslide victory when parliamentary democracy was introduced, and remained leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party until her death.

Known for her calm demeanour, Zia maintained a strong political rivalry with her archrival Sheikh Hasina, who led the Bangladesh Awami League party and ruled for 15 years before being ousted in a 2024 mass uprising.

Security was extensive, with authorities deploying approximately 10,000 personnel, including soldiers, to maintain order. Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus’s interim government announced three days of mourning and declared Wednesday a public holiday to honour the three-time prime minister’s legacy.

Whitby was named the most in-demand UK destination over the summer holidays, but if you prefer to explore at a more relaxed pace then winter is a perfect time for a last-minute getaway

Winter often presents an opportunity to take things easy and relax, but if you’ve got some spare time on your hands, it could also be the ideal moment to fit in a spontaneous break before the new year arrives.

The UK boasts numerous stunning destinations, yet during the warmer months, these spots can become swamped with holidaymakers, frequently pushing up costs and making it more challenging to truly savour your travels.

If you’d rather explore without the hustle and bustle, then Emma, a travel specialist and founder of That Travel, has revealed that now is an excellent time to discover Whitby, which earned recognition as one of Britain’s most sought-after staycation destinations.

This past summer, Sykes Holiday Cottages crowned the Yorkshire coastal town as the nation’s top pick for the summer holidays. According to their findings, it emerged as the most coveted destination during the school break, with reservations climbing by 4% compared to the previous year.

She explained: “While Whitby gets masses of crowds in summer, winter remains a pretty peaceful time of year, and they don’t even experience the same Christmas chaos that many other towns and cities in the UK do. In other words? It’s a perfect little Christmas break – just be sure to wrap up warm to survive the crisp sea air.”

Whitby stands out as a distinctive town renowned for its spectacular coastline featuring breathtaking clifftop panoramas, while also carrying an eerie legacy due to its ancient Abbey and links to Dracula. Bram Stoker, the mastermind behind the iconic vampire novel, was so taken by Whitby during his visit in the late 19th century that he wove several of the town’s landmarks into his narrative.

This connection has given birth to the renowned Whitby Goth weekend, a biannual event where the town dons black attire to celebrate alternative cultures through music festivals and various activities.

While Whitby might not be your typical winter getaway, it’s known for its eccentric festivals and hosts an array of intriguing events around the Christmas period.

One such unique activity is the town’s Krampus Run, a parade where participants dress as the mythical creature from folklore.

The festival boasts fire breathers, drummers, and other eye-catching performances, culminating in an effigy burning on the cliffside to ward off the winter chill.

Additionally, the North Yorkshire Moors will be operating a Santa Express this year, offering a stylish way to appreciate the surrounding countryside and partake in a festive sing-along.

For those who relish Christmas tunes, Whitby Abbey will host numerous carol services and be adorned with stunning decorations, allowing visitors to marvel at the vibrant light display.

A winter visit to Whitby provides a stark contrast to the bustling summer season. For those seeking a more tranquil, cosy experience, securing last-minute accommodation during this time is often a breeze.

With its quaint cobbled streets, striking coastline, and delightful independent shops, Whitby is a picturesque destination and an ideal pick for a spontaneous winter getaway.