My Top Travel Picks for 2025 – Hidden Gem Hotels, New Destinations, Tailored Road-Trips

My New Favorite Hotel on My Favorite Island, Sylt

The island of Sylt has always held a special place in my heart. As a child, I spent every summer holiday here. I got married in Keitum and celebrated my wedding on the beach in Rantum. Even today, nothing beats a long weekend on this North Sea island, just a three-hour trip from Hamburg.

One of my favorite restaurants on Sylt, the legendary Sturmhaube at the Red Cliff in Kampen, recently underwent a stunning transformation - and the result is truly impressive. The new team has taken a bold step, converting the upper floor of this iconic thatched-roof building into six premium suites with sea views. Each suite is more beautiful than the last, offering breathtaking views, stylish bathrooms (many with bathtubs), luxurious beds, and exceptional design. The Sturmhaube is also family-friendly, with baby cots or extra beds available on request for little ones.

Downstairs, the Sturmhaube features a charming restaurant where hotel guests are treated to breakfast each morning - served on the sunny terrace during the summer months. And in the basement, there’s yet another highlight: the in-house brewery, crafting its own beer for guests to enjoy.

What makes this place unforgettable? The fresh sea breeze, the stunning views of the North Sea and Sylt’s 30 kilometers of beaches stretching from Hörnum to List, and the exceptional breakfast on the sunlit terrace.

For me, Sylt is a place filled with cherished memories and the perfect destination to recharge and find inspiration. Sturmhaube is a true gem - a boutique concept that’s intimate, refined, and warmly welcoming. Once you’ve been, you’ll want to return again and again.

When booking a stay at Sturmhaube, all Niche Travellers can use the exclusive Niche x Sturmhaube code to enjoy a special treat: a Sturmbräu Tasting Set, featuring three of the brewery’s finest beer varieties presented in an elegant sampler—perfect for a private tasting experience. Families are also in for a treat! Children will receive a freshly baked waffle from the cozy beach kiosk, adding a sweet touch to their seaside adventure.

Why the Region Around Tangier and Tétouan on Morocco’s Mediterranean Coast is the Next Must-Visit Destination

I’ll be visiting Morocco in early 2025, and I couldn’t be more excited. It’s been far too long since my last trip to this vibrant country. Morocco’s commitment to supporting local communities resonates deeply with me, and there’s so much to explore.

While the hotel and hospitality scene in northern Morocco, particularly around Tangier, is thriving, Marrakech and the coastal charm of Essaouira remain timeless. From hidden riads to bespoke experiences, Morocco offers endless opportunities for discovery.

I’m looking forward to adding even more hotel recommendations and travel advice for this enchanting destination. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling streets of Marrakech or the tranquil coastal retreats, I’ll be sharing some of my top picks and tips to make your visit unforgettable. For those inspired to join me, our membership offers curated hotel selections and tailor-made travel planning to Morocco’s finest locations.

A Tailored Road Trip Across Brittany and Normandy

Brittany and Normandy boast some of the most charming coastlines in Europe, making them ideal for a tailored road trip. Easily combined with a visit to Paris, this journey offers a mix of culture, history, and breathtaking scenery. Starting in Honfleur or Deauville, with its elegant beaches and historic charm, the route takes you through Saint-Malo’s fortified walls, along the dramatic Granite Coast, and to picturesque islands further south.

The blend of rugged landscapes, quaint fishing villages, and gourmet dining experiences make Brittany and Normandy an absolute delight. It’s a trip that promises to reveal the true essence of French coastal beauty while offering endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

To receive access to our tailor-made itinerary for a road trip across Brittany and Normandy, complete with charming hotel recommendations and insider tips, simply register for membership and send us an email with the subject "Brittany Road Trip" at membership@niche-traveller.com

The Allure of Cyprus and the Amara Hotel

Cyprus is a destination that offers the perfect balance of relaxation and activity, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking both leisure and adventure. The Amara Hotel stands out as a chic and luxurious beachfront escape, with excellent cuisine, superb family facilities, and breathtaking sea views.

What makes the Amara Hotel and Cyprus in general even more appealing for my family is its proximity to fantastic golf courses, a newfound passion shared by my two sons. Whether you're indulging in the hotel’s world-class amenities or enjoying a round of golf in the mild Mediterranean winter, Cyprus promises an unforgettable experience.

Experiencing Venice’s Grandeur in Early Summer

Venice has always been magical, and in early summer 2025, I’ll be revisiting this iconic city. This time, I’ve chosen to stay on the Lido at the Hotel Excelsior Venice. The hotel’s unique blend of beachfront luxury and classic Italian grandeur is captivating.

What makes this stay even more exciting is that our colleague and travel scout, Kirsten Lindemann, has already tested the hotel and described it as excellent. Picture waking up to serene sea views, taking a morning stroll along the Lido’s golden sands, and spending evenings immersed in Venice’s rich cultural offerings. The charm of this hotel lies not only in its elegance but also in its ability to offer tranquility while being just a short boat ride away from Venice’s bustling heart.

The Greece Breeze

Greece has always been a top choice on the travel list, and with its easy accessibility from most European cities, it’s a priority destination for us at The Niche Traveller. We’re currently expanding our selection of chic, sustainable and family-friendly hotels and resorts on the islands of Kefalonia, Folegandros, Corfu, and Spetses, while our beloved destinations like Paros, Antiparos, Crete, Andros, Naxos, Kastellorizo and Tinos continue to remain popular and important. The most crucial part of our mission is finding the perfect place for you and your family to enjoy.

For those looking to travel slightly off-season, we recommend combining your Greek island stay with a visit to Athens. This vibrant capital is rich in history and perfect for children with adventurous minds. It also offers all the flair that teens and adults will appreciate, from its bustling bar and café scene to its stunning cultural landmarks. Greece truly offers something for everyone, and we’re excited to share these diverse experiences with you in 2025.

Heading North to Scandinavia in Summer

Due to climate change, summers in Scandinavia are now warm and mild, often more appealing than the intense heat of the Mediterranean - especially for summer holidays. With new direct flights from the US to Denmark, the region is even more accessible for international travellers seeking remote nature adventures by car.

As a family, we are still deciding between renting a typical summerhouse in Denmark, heading further north to experience Norway’s breathtaking fjords, or exploring the up-and-coming coast and city of Gothenburg. Along the way, the Baltic offers countless charming islands waiting to be discovered. Scandinavia’s unique blend of serene landscapes, outdoor activities, and cultural treasures makes it a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Starting this year, we are partnering with a company that offers online motorhome rentals for road trips worldwide. For more information, assistance with planning, or additional recommendations, please contact our membership team at membership@niche-traveller.com or register for membership.

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In our selection process and travel consulting, we strive to be as precise and detailed as possible. If you didn’t find what you were looking for in this report, feel free to explore our other destinations for inspiration or contact us directly with specific questions or travel requests. For direct access to our online portfolio of over 250 accommodations, you can register for a membership here.