Header: Gianluca Schembri
In just a few weeks, summer will be upon us in Europe once again.
This time of year, travellers from all over the world flock to the continent to get a taste of the local cuisine in Southern Italy, hike the Swiss Alps, visit quaint and historical villages in France, and unwind on pristine beaches of the Balearic Islands in Spain, along with a myriad of other destinations.
While that may sound ideal for some, there’s also beauty in pulling away from the crowds and exploring off-the-beaten places that offer one-of-a-kind experiences.
If that sounds like your cup of tea, take a look at these unique hotels and resorts across the continent that will change the way you experience a European summer.
4 Unique Stays to Elevate Your European Summer This Year
The Boc Beach – Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Photo courtesy of: Ilmiodesign Diseño A Medida S.L.
When you think about hostel living while on holiday, the first few things that usually come to mind would be dull interiors, uninspiring design, little to no amenities, and uncomfortable bunk beds with no privacy, amongst many other things.
But the Boc Beach by The BOC Hostels group is reimagining the hostel experience by bringing a taste of luxury to co-living and shared accommodations. Here, there’s inspiration all around.
Located in the Balearic island of Mallorca, one of the most popular summer destinations in Spain, this property is catered towards young, adventurous guests with a zest for “sharing spaces and experiences” with fellow like-minded international travellers.
“Focused on the most adventurous travelers, eager to share spaces and experiences, this accommodation displays its jovial, Mediterranean, cosmopolitan, open and international character.”
From the vibrant colour palette featuring pastel hues and contrasting deep blues, to the undeniable playful personality of the space, Boc Beach’s visual narrative is what draws guests in the moment they step foot into the space.
Madrid-based design firm Ilmiodesign ensured that the fresh and youthful character of the hostel shone through various design elements such as the retro photographers reminiscent of the roaring ‘20s and eclectic paintings and murals, exuding a Wes Anderson-inspired interior design approach defined by distinct lines and symmetry.
While the space only features shared accommodation options, all bunk beds in the bedrooms have been specially designed with rounded-edge wood veneer along with deep blue opaque curtains to complement the space.
Ferrano Boutique Hotel – Tuscany, Italy
From Siena to Florence and all the way to Lucca, there’s nothing quite like spending warm summer days in the Tuscan countryside.
Atop rolling hills in the heart of Tuscany, the Ferrano Boutique Hotel by ALTER EGO Project Group is an embodiment of thoughtful architecture in dialogue with nature. Making use of its hilly topography and natural landscape, the property is seamlessly integrated into the terrain, giving the illusion that the hotel is “embedded into the earth”.
One of the key elements evident throughout the space is the contemporary approach to traditional architecture, where its design draws inspiration from classic forms and is given a modern twist.
“Hotel Ferrano seamlessly blends its architectural design with the surrounding landscape, ensuring the hotel complements and becomes an integral part of its natural environment.”
With little to no neighbouring structures in sight, this gives guests panoramic, uninterrupted views of the surroundings. Perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature and want a quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. What’s more, the hotel also offers wellness experiences to provide a holistic and immersive stay for all of its guests.
To top it all off, what’s a trip to Tuscany without a little vino? The Ferrano Boutique Hotel is home to an extensive curated collection of aged wines from local vineyards in the region, bringing guests a taste of Tuscany’s finest.
Ghajn Tuta Agri / Tuta Agritourism – Gozo, Malta
While places like Valetta, Mdina, and Comino often draw visitors to Malta, there’s a hidden gem on the island of Gozo that passionately champions agrotourism.
Designed by Carlo Schembri &bold., Ghajn Tuta Agri or Tuta Agritourism is a unique on-site farm stay experience in the village of Kerċem, inspired by a traditional Gozitan-style farmhouse. Typically, these farmhouses are characterised by thick-stonned walls, paired tiles, central courtyards, and other rustic features—all of which can be seen in the space, but with a modern twist.
“Tuta is a unique holiday stead that connects you to a history long past but kept alive through its practices and food.”
More than just a summer retreat, Tuta Agritourism shares its region’s long history and traditions with each guest, bringing Gozo’s rich agricultural heritage to the forefront.
Guests can enjoy a host of nature-filled activities including hikes and leisurely walks around the three hills of Gozo, educational talks on farming and agriculture, hands-on farming experiences, as well as a personalised culinary experience with Head Chef Stephan Tabone, where he takes guests on a forage for the freshest ingredients through the farm, followed by a visit to the local market to experience the daily lives of the village folk.
A charming accommodation with immersive experiences for all; what’s not to love?
Gundari – Folegandros, Greece
Just a stone’s throw away from Santorini and Milos island, Folegandros Island in Greece boasts a serene escape with its charming cobblestone streets, historical sights, and of course, its pristine beaches.
Still relatively untouched by mass tourism, this makes for the perfect getaway to experience the beauty of the Greek islands, still away from the crowds.
“Gundari is more than a destination—it’s an embodiment of architectural balance and natural beauty, preserving core Cycladic proportions while offering a contemporary retreat.”
On the island, you’ll find Gundari—an 80-acre five-star luxury hotel perched on top of a cliffside, bringing dramatic views of the Aegean Sea.
Taking cues from its natural surroundings, the resort features minimalist architecture with a colour scheme filled with warm grays and soft beiges inspired by the sea and rocks, as well as grounding materials like marble, wood, and clay to give it a raw and authentic feel.
The Athens-based studio Block722 thoughtfully crafted each of the resort’s 27 suites and villas. The architecture relies on natural and recycled materials, embracing a philosophy of sustainability and seamlessly blending modern design with environmental consciousness. Sotiris Tsergas, Katja Margaritoglou, Elena Milidaki, and Francesca Balfoussia led the project. Their combined vision brings a refined yet grounded character to every space.
Other features not to miss include their open-air bar-restaurant, which serves contemporary Greek cuisine using only their own organic produce; the Gundari spa, which allows guests to sink into relaxation by combining ancient Greek rituals with native herbs and tonics; and the stunning infinity pool, which sits against the ocean’s blue backdrop, framed perfectly like a work of art.
