After years of travel restrictions and disruption due to the pandemic, discovering unknown lavish destinations is something that many people will be looking forward to in 2023. Since many popular luxury holiday sites are getting more and more crowded, venturing off the beaten path is a great way to find some less-traveled yet still luxurious destinations.
Whether you're looking for cultural immersion, adventure, or a quiet getaway, here are five hidden yet lavish destinations that will make your journey unforgettable. From the Omani highlands to the Sardinian beaches, these are the locations that discerning travelers should not miss.
Kotor, Montenegro
If you are searching for a lesser-known lavish destination in Europe, you can't go wrong with
Kotor, Montenegro, where you'll find the perfect blend of old history, harsh terrain, and unspoiled beauty. This hidden gem is located on the shores of the Bay of Kotor and is ideal for luxury travelers looking for peace and quiet without sacrificing their quality of life. There are also plenty of things to keep you occupied while you are there.
You can book a private helicopter tour to take in the beautiful scenery and explore its rugged mountains and coastline from above. You can also indulge in a relaxing spa treatment at a world-class wellness center in Kotor, visit the quaint coastal villages of Perast and Herceg Novi on a private boat trip of the Bay of Kotor, or check out the array of high-end restaurants, boutiques,
and entertainment options at Porto Montenegro's luxury marina.
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Once you are done exploring the medieval alleys, churches, and Kotor's historic Old Town, which is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can revel in a fine lunch at one of the area's finest establishments like the Cattaro Restaurant or the Galion Restaurant.
Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands are a stunning archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean. With daily direct flights from Copenhagen and short flights from Edinburgh, Bergen, and Reykjavik, getting to the Faroe Islands has become more accessible. If you prefer a more adventurous way to arrive, the Smyril Line ferry offers passenger and car services between Denmark and Iceland with a stopover in the Faroe Islands. This option provides a unique opportunity to experience the excitement of discovering land after days at sea, with the added bonus of being able to bring your own vehicle.
These islands are a natural beauty with a rare combination of untamed, rocky landscapes and a lively cultural legacy, yet they are frequently neglected as a travel destination. The Faroe Islands are heaven for nature-loving luxury travelers with their stunning cliffs, fjords, and waterfalls.
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You can also find several hiking paths with breathtaking views at every turn. For a more luxurious experience, take a boat excursion to
explore the islands from a new angle and get a closer look at the abundant marine life, which includes puffins, seals, and whales. Moreover, the Faroe Islands have an active cultural scene with a thriving music and arts culture despite their isolation. The bustling Tórshavn capital is home to important historical sites, including the Cathedral and the Nordic House cultural complex.
You can also partake in traditional Faroese cuisine, which frequently features uncommon regional specialties like fermented lamb and whale blubber and is based on fish and lamb. For anyone prepared to step off the main road, the Faroe Islands offer a singular and remarkable experience, whether seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a calm vacation.
Oman
Oman is another lavish destination for high-end travelers looking for an exotic location with an intriguing blend of traditional charm and modern luxury. Oman is a destination that will leave an indelible mark on even the most seasoned of visitors because of its magnificent natural splendor, which includes rocky mountains, wide deserts, and exquisite beaches.
Particularly,
Muscat, the capital of Oman, is a popular tourist destination due to its blend of modern conveniences and historic sites. You can go on tours of the old forts and palaces, relax in a spa, and eat at some of the best restaurants in the world, which serve both traditional Omani food and specialties from across the world.
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Adventuresome desert safaris, mountain treks, and swimming in the blue water of the Arabian Gulf are some of the best ways to truly experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Oman. Even more, the Hajar Mountains are a must-see for any affluent visitor looking to get away from the ordinary. Oman is truly a wonder to behold and a lavish destination that no luxury traveler should miss out on.Â
You can also find several hiking paths with breathtaking views at every turn. For a more luxurious experience, take a boat excursion to
Aitutaki, Cook Islands
Aitutaki in the Cook Islands is the kind of place that high-end tourists who are seeking a picture-perfect getaway might think about visiting next. This undiscovered treasure is a veritable paradise, boasting blue seas that are as transparent as glass, untouched beaches, and breathtaking coral reefs that provide some of the greatest opportunities for snorkeling and diving in the whole world.
Aitutaki can only be accessed through Rarotonga, the main island in the archipelago. To get to Aitutaki, you can take direct flights from Los Angeles, New Zealand, Australia, and Tahiti via Air New Zealand. Once in Rarotonga, Air Rarotonga, the local airline, offers daily flights to Aitutaki and 8 other islands in the region. The short flight from Rarotonga to Aitutaki takes under an hour, giving you ample time to take in the breathtaking views of the crystal clear waters and sandy beaches.
Plus, the opulent resorts in Aitutaki, such as the Pacific Resort Aitutaki, will provide you with world-class amenities, allowing you to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Cook Islands while being pampered like royalty. Suppose you are in the mood for some adventure during your luxury vacation. In that case, there are many aquatic activities, such as stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing, that you can try out.
It's, without a doubt, a great place to go if you're looking for some excitement in your life. Imagine exploring the picture-perfect beaches and crystal-clear lagoons of the nearby remote islands on a private yacht while soaking up the sun and breathing in the fresh, salty air. Who wants to miss out on that?
Sardinia, Italy
Lastly, for luxury travelers looking for a lavish destination that combines pristine beaches, fascinating history, and opulent facilities,
Sardinia, Italy, should not be overlooked. The island is renowned for its stunning coastline, untamed mountains, and prehistoric remains from the Neolithic era.
The Michelin-starred restaurants that serve delectable regional cuisine, luxurious spa treatments, and private boat tours, along with an ample array of outdoor activities, await you in Sardinia, Italy. You can go hiking in the Gennargentu National Park, enjoy a picturesque drive along the coast, and see ancient ruins like the Nuraghe di Barumini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to learn more about the island's rich past.
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Don't forget to explore the exclusive Costa Smeralda part of the island, which is renowned for its opulent resorts, high-end stores, and upscale nightlife. This lavish destination provides a range of experiences guaranteed to please
even the most discriminating tourists, from its immaculate beaches to its rich history and opulent amenities.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many lavish destinations that are unknown to many. Even the most experienced travelers will be enchanted by the Faroe Islands' untamed landscapes, Oman's fusion of conventional and modern luxury, Aitutaki's peaceful paradise, Kotor's combination of history and beauty, and Sardinia's ancient ruins. So, if you are looking for a more unique and luxurious travel experience to have this year, these destinations may be the perfect fit!
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