4 Off-the-Beaten Track European Retirement Destinations

There are millions of Brits spread out around the world, although there's a few places they seem to gravitate to most. There are significant expat communities in places like Spain, Australia, Canada, and America. It seems like it's still worth emigrating for the average retiring Brit, so what if you want somewhere a bit different?

Here's a rundown of four places that might not spring to mind straight away.

Greece

This country has been lacking in positive headlines the last few years. Wracked with debt brought on by the recession, large anti-government protests, and an economic crisis may have caused you to disregard it as a place to live, but it's not all doom and gloom.

For a start, property prices here are some of the lowest in the world. That means you can snap up a place you'd never dream of affording back in the UK. That's a decent enough incentive on its own, but head far enough south and you can enjoy decent and warm weather. That's without the incredible landscapes and islands to enjoy too.

The culture and food here is top notch as well, while who can ignore their rich history? The cradle of democracy and philosophy. How can you resist that?

Hungary

Hungary is a country you might know little about past its capital being Budapest. It has its own very unique language which is unlike any other. This might make it seem impenetrable to the average UK resident, but you couldn't be more wrong.

This country perfectly combines the cultures of Eastern and Western Europe, so it won't be as much of a culture shock as you might think. If you're adventurous, you have a lot to choose from here with impressive mountains, the incredible Danube River, and large expansive forests.

We won't claim it's the easiest country in the world to get settled in, but it's worth the extra effort in the end. There's a reason the place is so popular with tourists and it's those same reasons that make it a great place to call home.

Iceland

Now, this is for the ones who really want to step out of their comfort zone. Iceland boasts the most northerly capital in the world and some freezing weather. Just like the Norwegians, they've adapted to it perfectly, but this country is far wilder.

Reykjavik, the capital, is modern and advanced, so don't worry about missing out on any creature comforts. It's also just a 40 minute drive from the Blue Lagoon spas where, if you'd like, you could while away your days drinking cocktails in water warmed by the nearby volcanoes. Speaking of volcanoes, there's a number of which are still active.

There's also the chance to see the wondrous Northern Lights in Iceland, which is a sight to behold. In the end, it's an excellent place to call your home, but you'll need to be tough if you're going to get used to the cold. But no pain, no gain, right?

Norway

You might be wanting to leave the UK to get away from the weather, so you could have scratched Norway off your list straight away. Obviously it's much colder over there, but that's not a reason to discount it. They know how to keep their homes and buildings fully heated - even by using ice cold water - while their infrastructure doesn't collapse as soon as there's a bit of snow.

You might have been put off by the cost too, we have to admit that Norway can be a pretty expensive place to live. It's not impossible though, while if you wanted to do a bit of work while you were there, you get to enjoy some of the highest wages in the world. That's not to mention it has one of the best public health services on the planet so no matter what happens, you'll be looked after when you're there.

In the end though, it's a breathtakingly beautiful country with a welcoming and friendly people - many of whom speak English which is great while you're trying to pick up the lingo.