Not sure how off the beaten path you want to be, but I have become a fan of northern Italy. Bologna (not off any path but very nice) and the whole food valley is lovely.
Beerman has some lovely pictures of the lake region from his trip last year I think. Lots of small towns in northern Italy that do not get a lot of attention from tourists.
I also really liked Portugal, though considering my daughter is there now, it's probably on the path too. I think though, there are still many little towns to be explored there.
Off the beaten path to me is almost an attitude that where ever you travel, your goal is to live there like a local.
Not sure I helped at all, but happy planning and I'll be curious what others say and I can add those places to my list.
Ellen
