Europe's uncrowded hidden gem destination where you can buy a beer for £1.25

Lithuania is a small country in the heart of the Baltic region that is fast emerging as Europe's hidden gem offering a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history

Lithuania, nestled in the heart of the Baltic region, is rapidly gaining recognition as Europe's hidden gem, boasting a unique fusion of natural splendour and rich history. Often bypassed by tourists who gravitate towards more renowned European destinations, this compact nation is quietly carving out a reputation as an unexplored paradise with a wealth of attractions.

From verdant forests and undulating hills to immaculate lakes, this breathtaking country offers an unparalleled opportunity for mental, physical and spiritual rejuvenation. Lithuania also presents an economical travel choice with affordable accommodation, dining and transport options.

It's straightforward to navigate via bus, train or bicycle and according to Budget Traveller, you could savour a refreshing Lithuanian beer for a mere £1.25. Ideal for nature lovers, Lithuania showcases a varied landscape of forests, lakes and coastlines.

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Its national parks provide opportunities for hiking, cycling and water sports, while the extensive coastline is perfect for wildlife spotting. One of the country's most remarkable natural wonders is the Green Lakes, a group of six inland lakes renowned for their distinctive emerald colour.

Located to the northeast of Vilnius, Lake Balsys reigns as the most frequented among the sextet of lakes adorning Verkiai Regional Park. Its tranquil waters, encircled by forest and hills, invite guests for activities such as swimming, hiking, or simply enjoying a quiet picnic while admiring the stunning vista, reports the Mirror.

Adding to the Baltic allure is the Curonian Split, a narrow stretch running betwixt the Curonian Lagoon and the Baltic Sea — a spectacle boasting UNESCO World Heritage status and steeped in myth.

It's a land where colossal dunes converge with pine forests and expansive sandy shores, nurturing an ecosystem rich in biodiversity, including hard-to-come-by flora, assorted fauna, and a habitat for over 200 avian species.

One can also uncover the distinctively titled 'Dutchman's Cap,' a prominent dune cliff that soars about 24-25 meters above the sea level, previously serving as a navigational aid for seafarers and remains an unspoiled gem for visitors to discover today.

The view offers visitors the sense that they stand at the very brink of our world.

For the wellness seekers, Lithuania does not disappoint, presenting an array of natural spa resorts. Famed for their curative mud, mineral-rich waters, and amber therapies, locales like Birštonas, Druskininkai, Palanga, and Anykščiai promise revitalising natural spa experiences.

Notably, Lithuania prides itself on housing the globe's inaugural "amber sauna," constructed from a huge three-tonne mass of amber, providing patrons with a refreshingly unique setting where they can bask amidst inherent splendour.

Other must-visit spots include the picturesque coastal village of Svencelė, Labanoras Regional Park with its 285 lakes nestled among charming Lithuanian villages, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kernavė, rich in ancient history. With its short, warm summers and cool, refreshing winters, it's an ideal location for outdoor activities.

Given all it has to offer, it's surprising that more Brits don't opt for a Lithuanian getaway over other destinations. The two-hour 40-minute flights from the UK to Vilnius, the capital city, are also a bargain, starting at just £17.99, with several services operating daily.