10 Underrated Luxury Destinations You Probably Haven’t Considered

Photo by Maugli

Written by

Hunter Robinson

When it comes to luxury travel, the usual hotspots—the Amalfi Coast, Bora Bora, or the Swiss Alps—often steal the spotlight. But for discerning travelers who seek opulent experiences without the crowds, there are hidden gems around the world offering five-star accommodations, exclusive activities, and breathtaking scenery—minus the over-tourism.

From secluded island paradises to emerging wine regions and unspoiled wilderness retreats, here are 10 underrated luxury destinations where indulgence meets tranquility.

1. Montenegro – The Adriatic’s Hidden Riviera

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Often overshadowed by its neighbor, Croatia, Montenegro is a hidden Adriatic jewel with dramatic coastlines, medieval villages, and luxurious seaside resorts. The Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, rivals the beauty of Italy’s Lake Como—without the crowds.

Luxury Highlights:

  • Stay at One&Only Portonovi, Montenegro’s most exclusive resort, featuring private beach access, world-class dining, and a Chenot Espace wellness spa.
  • Sail the Bay of Kotor on a private yacht, stopping at island monasteries and secret coves.
  • Dine cliffside at Stari Mlini, a historic watermill-turned-restaurant serving fresh Adriatic seafood with views of the bay.

2. Sumba, Indonesia – The New Bali for Luxury Seekers

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For those who love Bali’s beauty but not its crowds, the remote Indonesian island of Sumba is a serene alternative. This off-the-grid paradise offers pristine beaches, lush jungles, and ultra-luxurious eco-resorts that focus on sustainability and exclusivity.

Luxury Highlights:

  • Stay at Nihi Sumba, named one of the world’s best resorts, offering private cliffside villas, horseback riding on the beach, and a world-class wellness spa.
  • Enjoy a private waterfall trek, where you can swim in untouched lagoons deep in the jungle.
  • Experience the Pasola Festival, an ancient tribal horseback ritual few travelers get to witness.

3. Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico – The Next Napa Valley

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Mexico’s Valle de Guadalupe is an emerging wine region that offers an intimate, world-class tasting experience without the crowds of Napa or Bordeaux. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and Baja California’s rugged landscapes, it’s a paradise for wine lovers and food enthusiasts.

Luxury Highlights:

  • Stay at Bruma Valle de Guadalupe, a stunning boutique winery-hotel hybrid with infinity pools overlooking the vineyards.
  • Book a private wine tasting tour, featuring exclusive access to boutique wineries and farm-to-table dining experiences.
  • Dine at Deckman’s en el Mogor, a Michelin-worthy outdoor restaurant serving locally sourced Baja Med cuisine.

4. Lofoten Islands, Norway – Arctic Luxury Amidst Dramatic Landscapes

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For travelers craving luxury in the wild, Norway’s Lofoten Islands offer jaw-dropping fjords, private lodges, and intimate Arctic adventures—without the tourist crowds of Iceland.

Luxury Highlights:

  • Stay at Nusfjord Arctic Resort, a secluded luxury retreat with waterfront cabins and private saunas.
  • Take a private midnight sun or Northern Lights tour, away from the usual tourist spots.
  • Dine at Børsen Spiseri, a fine-dining restaurant in a historic fishing village, serving freshly caught king crab and Arctic char.

5. Madagascar – Africa’s Best-Kept Secret for Exclusive Wildlife Encounters

Photo by milosk50

Madagascar is an exotic, off-the-beaten-path destination offering luxurious beachfront lodges, rare wildlife experiences, and secluded adventures.

Luxury Highlights:

  • Stay at Miavana by Time + Tide, a private island resort with infinity pools, personal butlers, and direct beach access.
  • Charter a private helicopter tour over the Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, an otherworldly limestone forest.
  • Embark on a private lemur-watching trek, where you can observe rare golden bamboo lemurs in untouched rainforests.

6. Puglia, Italy – An Elegant Escape from the Crowds of Tuscany

Photo by Maugli

For those looking for Italy’s charm without the tourist rush, Puglia offers rustic luxury, sun-drenched coastlines, and stunning Baroque architecture.

Luxury Highlights:

  • Stay at Borgo Egnazia, a stunning five-star resort that blends traditional Italian design with modern indulgence.
  • Enjoy a private olive oil and wine tasting at an ancient masseria (farmhouse estate).
  • Dine at Grotta Palazzese, a breathtaking restaurant inside a sea cave overlooking the Adriatic.

7. Bhutan – A Remote Himalayan Kingdom of Exclusivity

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Bhutan is one of the most exclusive destinations in the world, with a “high-value, low-impact” travel policy that ensures luxury travelers receive an unparalleled cultural and wellness experience.

Luxury Highlights:

  • Stay at Amankora Bhutan, an all-inclusive luxury lodge offering private temple visits and traditional Bhutanese hot-stone baths.
  • Take a private guided hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, one of the world’s most breathtaking spiritual sites.
  • Experience a traditional Bhutanese wellness retreat, featuring meditation, holistic therapies, and herbal treatments.

8. Zambia – A Luxury Safari Alternative to Kenya and South Africa

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For an ultra-private safari experience, Zambia is Africa’s hidden luxury safari gem, offering fewer crowds and intimate, high-end lodges surrounded by pristine wildlife.

Luxury Highlights:

  • Stay at Chinzombo Lodge, a secluded retreat on the Zambezi River offering private game drives and spa treatments overlooking the water.
  • Experience a walking safari in South Luangwa National Park, led by expert trackers.
  • Enjoy a private sunset cruise on the Zambezi, complete with Champagne and gourmet dining.

9. Tasmania, Australia – Wild Luxury at the Edge of the World

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Tasmania is an under-the-radar luxury destination, where rugged wilderness meets world-class gastronomy and boutique lodges.

Luxury Highlights:

  • Stay at Saffire Freycinet, a stunning eco-lodge with private pavilions overlooking Freycinet National Park.
  • Book a private oyster farm tour, where you can shuck and eat oysters straight from the water with sparkling wine.
  • Indulge in a luxury hiking experience through Cradle Mountain, complete with gourmet picnics and lodge stays.

10. Uruguay – South America’s Chicest Coastal Getaway

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Uruguay is South America’s best-kept luxury secret, offering secluded beaches, stylish boutique hotels, and a world-class wine scene.

Luxury Highlights:

  • Stay at Playa Vik in José Ignacio, a modernist oceanfront villa with infinity pools and curated art collections.
  • Sip wine at Garzón Winery, owned by celebrity chef Francis Mallmann.
  • Enjoy a private horseback ride along the Atlantic dunes, guided by local gauchos.

Hunter is a travel enthusiast with a passion for uncovering hidden gems and sharing unforgettable destinations with others. From sun-soaked beaches to vibrant cities, Hunter loves exploring the unique stories each place has to offer and inspiring others to embark on their own adventures.

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How I Plan to Travel Stress-Free This Thanksgiving

ByWill Tracy

Thanksgiving travel is always a challenge, and this year, it’s shaping up to be busier than ever. According to AAA, nearly 79.9 million people are hitting the road or flying this holiday season—a new record! This is an increase of 1.7 million travelers compared to last year and even more than pre-pandemic numbers in 2019. With so many of us trying to get to our loved ones, staying calm and prepared is key. Here’s how I’m approaching my travel this Thanksgiving with less stress and more success.

Hitting the Road
For trips under 200 miles, I’m choosing to drive. Road trips offer flexibility—you can leave on your own schedule and take breaks as needed. But I know that flexibility won’t help if I hit the Thanksgiving Eve traffic jam, so I’m planning to leave early to avoid the worst of it.

Before setting out, I’m making sure my car is in top shape. That means checking my tires, topping off all fluids, and testing my battery. If the battery shows any signs of age, I’ll replace it now rather than risk being stranded on the road. I’ve learned the hard way that skipping these checks can turn a smooth trip into a stressful ordeal.

Weather is another factor I’m keeping an eye on. Winter storms are expected in parts of California and the Northeast, bringing snow, freezing rain, and icy conditions. I’ll be checking the forecast right up until I leave and packing essentials like blankets, snacks, and a fully charged phone in case of delays.

On the road, I plan to stop every couple of hours to stretch and grab a coffee. Trying to power through an eight-hour drive without breaks isn’t just exhausting; it’s unsafe. I’ll also be mindful of where I fuel up—gas stations near highway exits are notoriously expensive, so driving just a mile or two further could save a few bucks.

Taking to the Skies
Flying this Thanksgiving? So am I! I know the airport is going to be packed, so my number one rule is to get there early. There’s no way I’m adding unnecessary stress by rushing through security or scrambling to find parking. In fact, I’ve already reserved my airport parking to ensure I have a spot. If you haven’t, you might need to park farther away and take a shuttle—plan for that extra time.

I’m also packing light. If I can avoid checking a bag, I will. A carry-on not only saves time but also eliminates the worry of lost luggage. To make sure I’m not caught off guard, I’ve double-checked the airline’s size and weight requirements for carry-ons.

While at the airport, I’ll do my best to stay patient and kind, especially with airline and airport staff. They’re dealing with thousands of travelers like me, and a little kindness goes a long way in making everyone’s day better.

Lastly, I’m keeping my schedule relaxed. By arriving at the airport with plenty of time, I can avoid the stress of rushing through check-in and security. It’s all about planning ahead and giving myself the breathing room to deal with any surprises.

Staying Calm and Enjoying the Journey
AAA spokesperson Andrew Gross puts it perfectly: “Everybody’s trying to get home for the holidays, so just be aware and try to be in your best spirits.” Whether I’m driving or flying, I’m reminding myself that travel is part of the holiday experience. With a little planning, patience, and positivity, I’m confident I’ll reach my destination with less stress and more joy.

If you’re traveling this Thanksgiving, I hope these tips help you too. Let’s all stay safe, enjoy the journey, and make the most of this time with our loved ones!