The World’s Most Undiscovered Destinations—and How to Visit Them in Style

The true wonder of travel lies in confronting the unknown and becoming lost in the beauty of a place on the verge of discovery. There is no more satisfying feeling than being among the first few to arrive at and explore a location that others have yet to see. This magnificent planet is constantly at the ready with new untapped destinations to make even the most intrepid traveler swoon in awe-struck delight, from remote islands to unexplored deserts and jungles teeming with wildlife. Get out there, true adventurers, and discover this latest trove of unspoiled global treasures to find your own inspiration.

Puglia, Italy

Puglia, Italy’s fashionable boot heel, has a wonderfully distinct allure derived from its rural landscape and a patchwork past influenced by Norman, Spanish, Greek, and Byzantine influences. The region is quickly challenging Tuscany for the gourmet crown, providing a glimpse into true Italian traditions and values.

This pristine region produces some of the country’s best, often undiscovered wines and olive oils, thanks to miles of bountiful coastline and verdant landscapes of olive groves and vineyards. Enjoy Puglia’s famed cucina povera, a stripped-back, authentic style of Italian cooking focusing on simple, fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods–it’s the slow-food movement at its best.

Borgo Egnazia, a stone-carved haven set amongst Puglia’s shady olive groves, is one of the region’s most luxurious accommodations. Borgo Egnazia is the creation of one of the most creative hoteliers, Aldo Melpignano, and his family, and is modeled after a traditional Apulian borgo (village). The cream-colored estate features romantic suites and villas decorated in soothing tones and elegantly equipped to meet every creature comfort. While in town, visit their stunning sister boutique property, Masseria Torre Maizza, which reopened in May 2019 under the illustrious Rocco Forte banner and is already establishing itself as a very chic oasis.

Faroe Islands, Denmark

The Faroe Islands, located in the chilly waters between Scotland and Iceland, are a true retreat. The dramatic landscapes completely redefine the concept of a ‘untouched archipelago,’ allowing visitors to experience a more wild side of the Danish Kingdom.

Natural wonders best explored via old fishing boats for a mystical effect can be found along rugged coastlines once considered Viking territory. But the Faroes are also beginning to modernize, with chic shops and the island’s two Michelin-starred restaurant, KOKS, serving up inspired Faroese delicacies.

Stay at the newly opened boutique Hotel Havgrim Seaside Hotel, a beautifully restored historic home right on the water that exudes Nordic charm. The design is inspired by the calming seas, with large glass windows and private balconies with breathtaking views. The property exudes a palpable sense of calm, reminding you that you are exactly where you should be. The Faroe Islands are restricting tourism for good reason in order to preserve the ecosystem and authentic culture, so plan ahead (far ahead) if this adventure piques your interest.

Madagascar

Look no further than wild and virtually unexplored Madagascar for a “still relatively off the radar” escape. This thriving biodiversity hotspot is a naturalist’s and adventurer’s dream; the island is teeming with endemic wildlife, 80% of which can be found nowhere else on the planet.

Most people are unaware that Madagascar has some of the best beaches in the Indian Ocean. Nosy Be is Madagascar’s most scenic coastal location, where visitors can spot humpback whales and lemurs on the shoreline.Miavana, located on the island’s north-eastern coast, is the ideal private retreat. With only 14 private villas, staying at this luxurious eco-lodge will feel like you’ve discovered your own Robinson Crusoe paradise. Consider spending the day exploring lush tropical rainforests and watching turtles nest on deserted white sand beaches.

Georgia

With the renewed interest in this country and its significance in the Silk Road’s history, now is the time to visit Georgia while it is still very ‘in the know.’ Underneath the surface of this mostly rural country is a unique European culture that few visitors are aware of, where hospitality and warmth shine as visitors and guests are regarded as “gifts from God.”

Georgia will easily capture your attention with its rich history, unique culinary traditions, green hilltops, snow-capped mountains, and spring waters. Signagi, Georgia’s birthplace of wine, has a history of producing wine dating back to the fifth millennium BC, and many vintners still use the traditional methods of their forefathers. Oenophiles will be enchanted by the rare opportunity to stay at Chateau Svanidze, which is owned by its namesake family of winemakers, a truly captivating way to learn about the importance of wine (and even bring back a bespoke bottle).

Georgia’s decadent culinary specialties, such as cheese-filled khachapuri and mtsvadi skewers cooked on aged grapevine, only leave room for a glass of chacha, a local whiskey that is frequently on the menu for Georgians, so visit the local watering holes.

The art-deco Stamba Hotel in Tbilisi, a converted Soviet printing house headquarters, now serves as a testament to modern Georgia’s growing art and design interests, providing an inspiring backdrop to the city’s historic churches, iconic statues, and 11th century castles.

Wadi Rum, Jordan

For millennia, Jordan’s dramatic and desolate desert landscapes have enticed explorers to trek through its unforgiving landscapes. But what most visitors don’t realize is that it’s closer than you think; unlock the area’s hidden gems and Bedouin culture via Wadi Rum, a must-see on any adventurous traveler’s bucket list.

A comprehensive trekking tour through this historic, otherworldly landscape is highly recommended, and it is the best way to explore the location where scenes from the film Lawrence of Arabia were filmed. The seven jagged rock columns natural landmark from which T.E. Lawrence’s famous novel, “The Seven Pillars of Wisdom,” takes its name is a cultural must-see for visitors. Adventurers can travel by camel or Jeep, stopping at Bedouin communities along the way and staying in luxury desert camps where traditional meals are served around a fire under the stars.

Sao Tome and Principe

The nation of Principe is an intimate, discreet island oasis surrounded by enchanting flora and fauna, ocean breezes, and lush tropical forests in the Gulf of Guinea off the coast of West Africa.

Eco-conscious visitors will appreciate the pristine, well-protected environment as a wonderful starting point for exploring this lost world of beaches, bays, and jungles. Sundy Praia’s luxurious tented accommodations on the wild northwest tip of the island of Principe will help you lose track of time and place while looking for turtles, whales, birds, and dolphins. True explorers will enjoy discovering historical churches on the island’s biosphere trails.

You can see the incredible hatching of sea turtles between September and April, and you can spot any of the 29 endemic bird species on the island all year. When you’re not lounging in a private tented villa or exploring the local plantations by four-wheel drive, dine at Sundy Praia’s fantastic restaurant, which has adapted local traditions and flavors like tuna, wahoo, passion fruit, and pineapple. A meal (or two) is a must here.

Stockholm Archipelago

The Stockholm Archipelago, located east of Stockholm, is where Sweden’s well-heeled flock for the summer. Setting sail is the best way to see all of the skerries and rocks in this Swedish gem, known locally as skärgrden.

The Stockholm Archipelago is a cluster of 3,000 islands that offer incredible views and access to Stockholm’s scenic soft sand beaches, historic castles, lush forests, and stunning coastlines. It is undiscovered by tourists and preserved by locals. Locals and visitors alike can cruise like royalty, spending mornings sailing through untouched, scenic waters and afternoons exploring storybook villages and Stockholm’s Old Town.

The Stockholm Archipelago’s magnificent views from the seas and cobblestoned streets from the land are simply enchanting, from the calm waters of Grinda to the charm of Wardhaus. Stay at the stylish and charming Rival Hotel, which is ideal for Swedish culture lovers because it is owned by ABBA’s own Benny Andersson.

Salta, Argentina

Argentine’s north-west, in contrast to the Italo-Spanish metropolis of Buenos Aires and the surrounding grassy Pampas, has a strong Andean and spiritual heritage as a meeting place for South America’s indigenous communities. The region is well-known for its breathtaking scenery and vibrantly colored landscapes, such as red rock valleys, multi-colored and monochromatic hills, and terra-cotta peaks magically set against stark blue skies. This area’s diversity makes it a haven for trekking, horseback riding, rafting, driving 4x4s, and a variety of other adventure activities.

Salta has some of Argentina’s best preserved colonial architecture, attractive plazas, and regional cuisine, making it an off-the-beaten-path cultural gem. As you enter La Merced del Alto in the heart of the Calchaqu Valley, you’ll feel as if you’re being let in on a local secret. La Merced del Alto, built as a traditional manor house with wide interior patios and tall galleries, is a beautiful reflection of its rustic surroundings in the heart of the Argentine countryside.

Mancora, Peru

Mancora, Peru is often overlooked, but it is home to the tranquil Mancora Beach and the stunning stone, wood, and mud boutique hotel, KiChic. Kichic, once the owner’s personal residence, is now a destination in and of itself for visitors to retreat and unwind with yoga, fish for the day’s catch, and dine on nutritious, pescatarian, and vegetarian soul food. Naturally, all of the dishes here make use of locally sourced ingredients and flavors like coconut and gomasio.

Mancora’s barefoot bohemian vibes, rooted in its love of the sun, fresh fish, and surfing, make it a must-visit destination for those with an uninhibited affinity for the natural world. Mancora, which appears to be in never-ending summer, is a year-round haven for kitesurfing, plunge pools, and new dining options. The humpback whale spotting season, which lasts from June to October, is a popular time to visit.

Southern Namib Desert, Namibia

This remote Namibian destination is known for its mesmerizing dark skies, making it a serene and inspiring backdrop for nightly stargazing (and one of the best places in the world to do so).

Sonop Lodge, a sophisticated, luxurious tented camp nestled in the Karis region perched above boulders with sweeping desert views, is truly the best place to experience this destination. Take in the fragrant scents wafting from the opulent cigar lounge while walking, biking, horseback riding, or hot air ballooning. Aromas and flavors abound at the lodge’s five-course gala-style dinner, which is served in white glove.

From here, you can easily travel to other Namibian destinations such as Sossuvlei, Windhoek, and Omaanda camp, or you can stay at the lodge and enjoy the majestic surroundings and wildlife. If you’re looking for the ultimate in tranquility, take a dip in the infinity pool overlooking Namibia’s enchanting desert.

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