The European Hidden Gem Index ranked 50 of what they described as “Europe’s best-kept secrets” – and one UK spot made the top 10 with its historical landmarks and impressive vistas
Coastal resorts are a fundamental element of the UK, with countless options scattered throughout the nation. From those featuring pristine stretches of sandy coastline, to destinations complete with Victorian piers and amusements that often transport you to bygone eras, some undoubtedly attract more visitors than others.
These locations can become rather crowded during summer months as Britons seek seaside relief, resulting in a less tranquil experience than expected. Venturing to lesser-known destinations and escaping the masses and expensive tourist hotspots can provide a much-needed respite instead, and one UK coastal town has officially been named one of Europe’s best kept secrets.
HomeToGo has published a list of underrated European towns, cities and villages frequently ignored by holidaymakers that merit exploration, and Beaumaris in Wales cracked the top 10. This comes as a heatwave forecast with maps reveals the exact date a 39C heat plume will scorch the UK.
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The European Hidden Gem Index named 50 locations as “Europe’s best-kept secrets” after assessing destinations according to various criteria including weather, accommodation costs, dining choices and landscape.
Situated on the Isle of Anglesey, recently crowned Britain’s best island by The Telegraph, the Welsh coastal town received a score of 9.48 out of 10 for its scenery alone.
Featuring a fascinating blend of medieval, Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture, HomeToGo described this coastal town as a perfect spot “for the explorer who’s enchanted by rugged shorelines, medieval castles, and boat trips to wild islands.”, reports the Express.
The location boasts a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with Beaumaris Castle built between 1295 and 1330, and although it remains incomplete, it’s regularly hailed as a masterpiece and amongst the most impressive Edwardian castles in Wales.
Also dubbed the greatest castle never built, it stood as the final and most substantial of the fortifications erected by King Edward I in Wales, and it’s still lauded for its almost flawless symmetry.
But there’s more to explore beyond ancient strongholds, as this charming coastal town sits along the banks of the Menai Strait which divides Anglesey from mainland North Wales.
Maritime excursions run by Sea Coast Safaris enable tourists to view Beaumaris from the water, gliding past Victorian piers, the town’s exclusive Millionaires Row and The Swellies, recognised as the most treacherous stretch of the Menai Strait.
Puffin Island is also accessible from Beaumaris. Called Ynys Seiriol in Welsh, this island serves as a protected sanctuary and nesting site for various seabirds, whilst also housing Atlantic grey seals.
With its sand and pebble coastline, those who favour dry land can enjoy Beaumaris Beach, which provides stunning vistas across the Menai Strait towards Snowdonia.
Beaumaris is just a two-hour drive from both Manchester and Liverpool, for would-be road-trippers. The nearest railway station is in Bangor, with bus services available to take visitors directly to Menai Bridge.
Europe’s top 10 hidden gems
- Tomar, Portugal
- Brisighella, Italy
- Nafplio, Greece
- Puy-l’Évêque, France
- Bremm, Germany
- Beynac-et-Cazenac, France
- Valdoviño, Spain
- Sibiu, Romania
- Labeaume, France
- Beaumaris, Wales