UK Travel Blogger Recommends 4 Hidden European Gems – 40-Story-High Sand Dunes Amaze the Eyes

Travel Center / Comprehensive Report

When traveling in Europe, if you’ve had enough of popular tourist spots like the Louvre, the Colosseum, and Sagrada Família, Amanda Stathamthen why not consider these four lesser-known hidden gems in Europe recommended by renowned UK travel blogger

▲ France – Pilat Dune. (Photo / from Wikipedia)

This towering sand dune, nestled in the forest of Arcachon Bay in southwestern France, is currently the largest sand dune in Europe. With an unexplained origin, this dune stretches 3 kilometers long and rises 107 meters high (about 30 to 40 stories), surrounded by lush woods. When you climb to the very top, you can gaze at the stunning Atlantic coastline—its majestic beauty is truly breathtaking. Amanda Statham mentioned that when she visited, she saw only a handful of tourists, so if you want to avoid the crowds at popular destinations, this is a great alternative where you can enjoy nature away from the hustle and bustle.

▲ Spain – Carmona, featuring a local church view. (Photo / from Wikipedia)

Located about 30 kilometers from Seville—the art, culture, and financial hub of southern Spain—this quaint little town of “Carmona” is not only famous for its olive oil and wine production but also boasts numerous remnants of castles, palaces, city gates, and mosques. One particularly impressive sight is a hotel renovated from a 16th-century palace, where a night’s stay costs around £80 (approximately NT$4,120).

▲ Italy – Norcia. (Photo / from Wikipedia)

Located about two hours by car from Rome in central Italy, the town of Norcia is home to many ruins of castles dating back to the 14th century, exuding a deep sense of historical accumulation over time. Close to the Apennine Mountains, it’s also a popular spot for hiking and mountaineering. The area is especially known for outdoor activities such as hunting, with wild boar hunting being particularly popular.

▲ Spain – Arrieta, a small fishing village on Lanzarote Island. Photo shows the island’s coastal scenery. (Photo / from Wikipedia)

Lanzarote Island itself is a volcanic island featuring spectacular rock formations, volcanoes, and desert landscapes, and it’s also a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve. After being awed by the island’s breathtaking natural wonders, Amanda recommends visiting the small fishing village of Arrieta, which has a population of just around 400, to enjoy surfing and water play. She also suggests staying at the uniquely styled “Lanzarote Retreats” hotel, where you can choose to stay in a yurt, a windmill cottage, or a wooden cabin—all powered by solar or wind energy. The property also features a heated swimming pool and free WiFi, with nightly rates starting from about €175 (approximately NT$7,130).