More to explore: Lakes & Mountains spots to shake up your summer

Fancy trying a trip to somewhere new this summer? From Saas-Fee in Switzerland and Bad Gastein in Austria to Zakopane in Poland, these are the best new TUI Lakes & Mountains spots to add to your wish list.

High-altitude hikes and mountain bites in Saas-Fee, Switzerland

On a high mountain plateau surrounded by some of Switzerland’s highest peaks, Saas-Fee delivers truly off-the-scale scenery. This is a place to get out amongst it, whether that’s hiking between high-alpine glaciers via cosy mountain restaurants, or feeling your senses come alive with a lake dip. The village itself is car-free and oozes traditional Swiss charm, right down to the soundtrack of clinking cow bells that’ll make you think you’ve stepped into a scene from Heidi.

Spa days and waterfalls in Bad Gastein, Austria

Bad Gastein is steeped in spa heritage thanks to the Gastein valley’s mineral-rich springs that have attracted wellness lovers for generations. Drift between steaming outdoor pools with mountain views and unwind in saunas carved into the rock. And you can’t miss the waterfall cascading through the centre of town, casting a haze of mist into the air.

Picnic spots and playgrounds in Les Houches, France

Life moves at a relaxed pace in this laid-back village, but the big mountain views definitely don’t hold back. Ride cable cars and historic trains to sky-high viewpoints, family-friendly walks and wild animal-spotting, plus outdoor play areas and climbing walls. Trying the local Savoyard food and drink’s a must, whether that’s at a mid-walk mountain hut or a picnic with fresh baguettes, local cheese and charcuterie.

Storybook scenes and unique culture in Zakopane, Poland

At the foot of the Tatra mountains, Zakopane’s home to rugged peaks and emerald-green lakes, with hiking trails and cable cars giving way to sweeping views that look like something out of fairytale. Another reason to visit Zakopane is to experience the local Goral highlander culture. Look out for the wooden homes with pointed turrets and ornamental carvings, and keep your ears open for traditional highlander music wafting from the town’s taverns.

Cobbled streets and castles in Padenghe, Lake Garda, Italy

Padenghe sul Garda’s one of Lake Garda’s lesser-known spots, filled with narrow streets and something pretty round every corner. Standing tall above town is the ancient Padenghe Castle, which is still home to some of the locals and gives you spectacular lake views from its tower. Down by the water, you’ve got a colourful harbour, pebbly beaches and a lakeside path dotted with cafés and bars.

Local markets and café-hopping in Bad Ischl, Austria

Days spent in this leafy spa town – once a summer favourite of Austria’s Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Sissi – are all about slowing down and soaking up the charm of your surroundings. Elegant, pastel-coloured buildings, pavement cafés and soft notes of live music set the scene, while twice a week you can browse market stalls piled high with fresh local produce, artisanal cheese and regional wines.

Take a look at all our latest deals to get your summer holiday ball rolling, or feed your wanderlust with more lesser-known places to visit in Europe.

Author: Polly Bryan

Last updated: 14.05.2026