While there are many benefits to following a well thought out travel itinerary when visiting the continent, sometimes it’s worth leaving the flocks of tourists behind to take a trip off the beaten track in Europe. Some of Europe’s most remote regions are often the most memorable, and when you take a holiday with P&O Ferries, it’s easy to visit the continent’s most iconic locations.
The fact that you can explore Europe in the comfort of your own car brings the unique opportunity to visit lesser-frequented areas of France, Germany, Northern Ireland and beyond. At P&O Ferries we believe this freedom is where the magic of travel resides. Intrigued by a characterful side street or spied something interesting on the horizon? Take a detour! If you need some pointers on where to start your off-the-beaten-track discovery of Europe, read on and rediscover travel in the process.
Off the Beaten Track: France
For British explorers with a keen interest in history, France is a truly unmissable travel destination. Rich history is preserved throughout the land in places you may never have thought about visiting. Stop at Normandy for a glimpse of the beaches that provided the setting of the epochal D-day landings, or take a road trip through the sumptuous Loire Valley region, once home to Anne Boleyn as Queen Claude’s Maid of Honour.
Marvelling at Amiens cathedral never gets old, but there are many hidden spots within reasonable driving distance from the port of Calais. While the bright lights of Paris beckon millions of tourists every year, a visit to the French capital brings the opportunity to absorb yourself in oddities beyond the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe. Discover another side to the city in our guide to secret Paris. For other off-the-beaten-track adventures, lose yourself on a bracing walk in the magical forest of Broceliande in Brittany, or bypass Versailles and head for the enchanting wonders of the beautiful Seine-et-Marne region instead.
Off the Beaten Track: Germany
When it comes to exploring Germany off the beaten track, you might wish to avoid big cities like Berlin and Hamburg and opt instead for a road trip that meanders prominent locations in the lives of the Brothers Grimm. This fairy tale driving route is better known to natives than tourists, so you’ll have plenty of opportunity to mingle with locals along the way. Start at the town of Hanau in Hesse, the birthplace of Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, then head around 300-miles to the south-eastern corner of Germany, which will bring you across dreamy landscapes that inspired their famous collection of fairy tales.
Picturesque towns make perfect stopping points along the way, from Steinau (where the Brothers grew up) to quaint locations like Rothernburg ob der Tauber and Dinkelsbuhl, which feature opulent churches, chocolate-box homes and medieval castles. The most dramatic fortress of them all is 19th Century Neuschwanstein castle, a guaranteed highlight of any fairy tale trip of Europe. Located on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau, this lavish landmark is well worth a drive off the beaten track.
Off the Beaten Path: Northern Ireland
Upon arriving at the port of Larne, you might be tempted to drive straight to Belfast. We’re not going to try to discourage you – Northern Ireland’s capital is a delight, but don’t forget that the rest of the country is a haven of pristine and captivating landscapes and rugged coastlines. For amazing views across the city, head to the National Trust’s Divis and the Black Mountain. Here, you’ll find hiking opportunities that lead to a summit offering amazing panoramas of Belfast and beyond.
A land of folklore and myths, the wild landscape of Northern Ireland has inspired many fascinating legends, from the Giant’s Causeway to a host of other wonders. Of course, it’s also a place of more recent fantasy tales too. If you’ve ever dreamed of following in the footsteps of Jon Snow, check out our guide to Game of Throne locations in Ireland. From walking along the Kingsroad to exploring Winterfell, you’ll feel like you’re one of the characters in no time.
Thinking of going off the beaten track in Europe? Don’t delay – book your journey with P&O Ferries today!
