If you’re keen to set sail for a different destination in Europe, you should try to steer clear of the Med, heading to the Adriatic Sea instead.

Photo: footprints*

There are some gorgeous destinations on the Adriatic, from Croatia to Slovenia and Montenegro, so you definitely won’t be stuck for places to visit when you dock.

Crystal-clear waters await sailors who head to the lesser-travelled sea in Europe, so anyone who goes there will definitely be rewarded by the experience.

Since many of the countries around that area haven’t quite been taken over fully by tourists just yet, you may even find a pretty little cove in which to put up some tents and spend the night in peace and quiet under the stars.

Check out a tent sale to get a bargain-priced piece of canvas to lie in when the temperatures drop a tiny bit late in the evening.

Photo: eddieedib

It’s well worth heading to the Balkan countries which sit on the Adriatic if you get a chance, which you almost certainly will if you head on a long sailing break.

All of the nations boast a rich history steeped in communism and numerous different colonisations, meaning they have an interesting mix of culture on offer to visitors.

There are also sweeping sandy beaches, tiny unexplored coves and mountain ranges in the background which will greet you in some of the countries along the beautiful coastline.

With more and more people purchasing properties in these countries, rather than those on the Med, you’d be wise to head there before tourism peaks there.

Photo: shchukin

If lazing around on the beach after sailing on the Adriatic doesn’t appeal, the great thing is there are plenty of other things to do, from hiking to skiing later on in the year, so you definitely won’t be stuck for ideas if you fancy trying something a bit different.