Long sidelined, this region of Europe has become one of the inexpensive holiday destinations for families looking for crystal clear waters, unspoilt nature and a rich heritage to visit. Two countries in particular stand out.
When looking for a holiday destination in Europe, which ticks the boxes of sunshine and warmth, sea and transparent waters, nature and historical and cultural heritage, we usually think straight away to Italy, Sardinia, Corsica, Ibiza and even certain islands of Portugal. Destinations which are all in Western Europe, and yet a completely different European region, located in the south-east, has all the desired criteria.
Essentially mountainous, it benefits from a Mediterranean climate on its coast and continental inland, and is bounded by the Danube, Sava and Kupa rivers to the north. It is rich thanks to its languages, its culture and its religions… it’s the Balkans! This part of Europe geographically includes Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and partly Croatia, Serbia, Slovenia, Romania and European Turkey.
According to the travel agency Responsible Travel, this region is attracting the interest of more and more families and the year 2024 will undoubtedly be no exception. According to their observations, some parents are attracted to Bosnia and Slovenia, while others aim for other Balkan territories, bordered by the sea and nature.
On these criteria, two countries in the Balkans stand out, Albania first. According to specialist Emma Heywood, who works in this sector for Responsible Travel, “Albania is an under-explored destination in Europe (…) which offers sun, sea, mountains, lakes, canyons and a fascinating and friendly culture”. The second preferred destination is Montenegro. A country which is gaining in popularity and which attracts travelers for its outdoor activities and its places to discover, in particular its lakes, its rivers and its sublime beaches.
Additionally, in terms of cost, Montenegro is much cheaper than Croatia, which is often a top destination for families and is also in the Balkans. If you want to discover new territories this summer with your family, you now know where to focus your research!