Spring has finally arrived, which means summer is just around the corner. The UK is blessed to have so many gorgeous countries to explore, right on the doorstep, and if you’re wondering where to go this year you’re in luck.

One of the worst things about booking a holiday is trying to figure out where to go – and with so many tourists hitting all the hotspots, it can be even harder to find somewhere quiet and relaxing. If you’re looking for coastal charm, without thousands of tourists on the beaches with towels and umbrellas, these are the three European destinations you need to have on your radar.

La Gomera, Canary Islands

Unlike Tenerife or Lanzarote, this beautiful island is not as well known and has fewer crowds in the high season than the British favourites. Laura Evans-Fisk from eurochange said: “It’s the perfect tranquil, peaceful alternative to the more popular islands. You could stay here for a restful few days or make a day trip from Tenerife by hopping on the ferry.

“La Gomera is also a great spot for hikers and nature lovers, home to the lush UNESCO-listed Garajonay National Park. Its beaches are much more secluded than the ones you’ll find on the other islands, and you’ll encounter no large-scale resorts or nightlife.

“Like other islands in the region, La Gomera benefits from pleasant temperatures throughout the year too. And, its low light pollution means it’s an excellent spot for stargazing.”

Ksamil and Porto Palermo, Albania

Known for its jaw-dropping turquoise waters and white sand beaches, this part of Albania is known as the “Albanian Riviera”. It’s growing more popular with tourists, but still parts of it are rarely visited.

Laura said: “Ksamil, an area often coined the ‘Maldives of Europe’, is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches, with white sands and strikingly clear waters.

“For a more relaxed vibe, visit Porto Palermo – this stunning bay has a small peninsula connecting it to the mainland, and an impressive 19th-century castle, Ali Pasha.”

Alentejo, Portugal

The Algarve is often teeming with tourists, but further north in Alentejo there’s a much more relaxed vibe. With its beautiful coastal landscapes and stunning beaches it makes for the perfect summer holiday.

Laura said: “Further North than the Algarve, this coastline surrounds the city of Lisbon, making charming towns like Cascais, Estoril and Azenhas do Mar perfect day excursions from the capital.”