Top 10 beaches in Europe. The best beaches in Europe: a choice for sophisticated travelers. Rantum, island of Sylt, Germany
Typically people travel to Europe for sightseeing, festivals or cultural experiences. However, there is also a sea here, where you can relax no worse than in warm countries. We present to your attention a list of the 20 best beaches in Europe. The rating is mainly based on beauty, since only beaches in cities, filled with people and with not very clean water, can often boast of developed infrastructure.
Italy
Torre Guaceto
Nature reserve near the city of Ostuni. Its territory is 1200 hectares, and there are several small bays on it. There are also fresh waters in the park - lakes. But the main thing here is the beach with golden sand and clear sea water with beautiful corals. There is almost no entertainment or infrastructure here, but it is very beautiful and there are great opportunities for diving and cycling.
Rabbit
The most popular beach on the island of Lampedusa in Sicily. It is distinguished by very clear water and an interesting underwater world, for which it is beloved by divers.
Greece
Egremni, Lefkada island
It is located on the southwestern coast of the island and has become accessible since an asphalt road was built here in the 1990s. You will have to go down the steps from a height of 150 meters. The main attraction is very beautiful sunsets and an interesting coating of small white pebbles. The water is deep almost immediately, there are high waves, so it is not suitable for families with children. Due to its length and distance, it is usually not overcrowded.
Myrtos
An excellent place for a beach holiday in Europe, it has a blue flag for its very clean sea. There are beautiful mountain views all around. Unfortunately, you can only get here by car. There is a small cafe, a lifeguard tower, and changing cabins. Some sand here and there, but mostly pebbles. There is an opportunity to go paragliding for 50 euros and it is really worth it.
Navagio
A beautiful place on Lake Zakynthos with bright azure waters and a picturesque wreck of a smugglers' ship. You can get there by excursion boat. It all looks especially beautiful at dawn.
Balos, Crete
Very inaccessible, but beautiful, tourists usually come here for the best beach holiday in Europe as part of organized excursions. Three seas meet here, thanks to which you can find dozens of shades of water. A plus is snow-white sand and an excellent bay for swimming kids. There are sun loungers and umbrellas, but no noisy entertainment - the holiday is calm and measured. There are no cafes or restaurants either, so take food and water with you.
Spain
Rodas Beach, Cies Islands
Looking for the best beach in Europe? In 2007, this one received the title of best in the world. It is a sand spit connecting the islands of Faro and Monte Agudo. At low tide you can see beautiful rocks here, and at high tide a gorgeous lagoon is filled with water. The sand is soft, snow-white, the water is clean. This is all complemented by beautiful nature and eucalyptus groves. It's good to relax with children, although sometimes it can be very crowded.
Beach of the Cathedrals in Galicia
It is interesting mainly not because of the water and sand, but because at low tide, huge stone columns, similar to Gothic pillars and arches, appear from under the water. People rarely swim here, but they take great photos. The main thing is not to miss the tide and climb the stairs higher in time.
Cala Turqueta, Menorca
Located near the city of Ciutadella. It is only about 100 meters long, but is well equipped - there are toilets, cabins, garbage cans, lifeguards and even water activities. The water is calm, swimming is comfortable - in general, one of the good beaches in Europe, quiet and calm.
France
Rondinara, Corsica
Recently ranked third in the ranking of the best beach holiday destinations in Europe by Lonely Plane. Sandy, with azure waters, well protected from wind and waves. In summer it can be very crowded, as locals and tourists love to come here, especially since there is even a restaurant and a camping spot.
Plumanak
A good place for swimming, but tourists come here rather to admire the bizarre boulders made of rare pink granite. It looks especially beautiful at dawn and sunset.
Salezia, Corsica
One of the “secret” beaches - can only be reached by yacht or on foot, through 10 kilometers of sultry “desert”. But the place is very secluded and beautiful, with warm azure water and snow-white sand. There are no amenities, but it is very beautiful.
Other countries
Dona Ana, Portugal
It has the Blue Flag for the purity of its waters; some magazines consider it the most beautiful in the world for its golden sand, rocks and emerald waters. You can get there from the center of Lagos on foot or by special bus. True, due to its accessibility, it is very crowded during the season. But the infrastructure is developed - there are many cafes, boat rentals and diving.
Rantum, island of Sylt, Germany
The entire coast of this island is a fairly good beach more than 100 meters wide. Suitable for surfing and swimming - even in hot weather the water is slightly cool. The resort has nightclubs, cafes, restaurants and places for wellness; in general, the holiday is calm and even secluded.
Bantham Beach, UK
The best place in Britain for family holidays and surfing. The dunes and sands look especially gorgeous.
Golden Horn, Croatia
A gorgeous beach that resembles a horn stretching into the sea. Winds and currents constantly change its shape. Ideal for water sports, and you can relax from the heat in the shade of a nearby forest.
Jaz Beach, Montenegro
Another good beach in Europe, with sand, quite popular, although difficult to access. The color of the water is beautiful, there are umbrellas and sunbeds for rent, showers, restaurants, rental of water equipment and a place for nudists.
Golden Sands, Bulgaria
The beach stretches the entire length of the resort of the same name. The sea near the coast is shallow, the bottom is clean, but there are strong waves - a good place for water sports. Developed infrastructure, but due to the large number of guests it is a little dirty. On the outskirts of the coast it is cleaner and quieter, but there are nudists.
Falsterbo, Sweden
It’s a very beautiful place – it’s a bit cold to swim, but in the summer you can, it’s clean and free. Separated from the rest of the world by forests and high dunes, the coastline is lined with cute hotel houses. It is forbidden to ride motorboats in the water, so you can relax in peace.
Vik, Iceland
When it comes to beach holidays in Europe, hardly anyone thinks about Iceland. You really can’t swim here - the sea is very cold - but you can admire the unusually rare and beautiful beach covered with black sand. It’s very clean, and the unusual picture is complemented by interesting boulders and landscapes around.
Over the course of several years, we have visited many countries and cities in Europe and are not going to stop there!
✔ May 2014 - Montenegro (Kotor, Perast, Budva, Herceg Novi)
✔ 2014 July - Türkiye Kemer)
✔ 2015 January - Helsinki
✔ January 2015 - Prague
✔ 2015 July - Helsinki
✔ 2015 July - Rome
✔ 2015 July - Croatia (Dubrovnik)
✔ 2015 September-October - Montenegro (Kotor, Budva, Petrovac, Bar, Ulcinj)
✔ 2015 September-October - Croatia (Split, Trogir, Bol, Dubrovnik)
✔ 2016 February - Budapest
✔ 2016 February - Venice
✔ 2016 February - Rome
✔ 2016 July - Prague
✔ 2016 July - Munich
✔ 2016 July - Schwangau
✔ 2016 July - Barcelona
✔ 2016 July - Calella
✔ September 2016 - Montenegro
✔ 2017 January - Budapest
✔ 2017 January - Porto
✔ June 2017 - Amsterdam
✔ 2017 July - Paris
✔ 2017 July - Montenegro (Budva)
✔ 2017 July - Croatia (Dubrovnik)
✔ March 2018 - Prague
✔ March 2018 - Czech krumlov
✔ March 2018 - Karlovy Vary
✔ March 2018 - Riga
✔ 2018 July - Madrid
✔ 2018 July - Lisbon, Sintra, Cascais
✔ 2018 July - Porto
✔ 2018 July - Barcelona
✔ January 2019 - Tallinn
✔ 2019 July - Türkiye (Alanya)
1. Prague, Czech Republic)
We visited here for the first time during the New Year holidays in 2015. We visited again in the summer of 2016 and spring of 2018.
The main advantages of Prague are, firstly, accessibility (there are daily flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg for 6-7 thousand rubles) and budget (prices correspond to Russian ones, and for some cost categories they are even lower). Secondly, in addition to the huge number of attractions of Prague itself, there is also a lot of interesting things in its surroundings and neighboring cities.
- Prices in Prague
2. Montenegro
We discovered this country in May 2014, when it was just gaining popularity among our compatriots. Since then, we have visited it several times, both at the height of summer and during the velvet season. Last visit - July 2017. We traveled the entire coast of the country, from Herceg Novi to Ulcinj, in different companies (with friends or with children) and without undue modesty we can assure you that we have penetrated into almost all aspects of the holiday here :)
- Cities and resorts of Montenegro
- Beaches of Montenegro
- All about Montenegro for tourists
3. Budapest
In February 2016 we decided to visit Budapest and were very pleased. We went to the capital of Hungary again in January 2017.
- 10 things to do in Budapest
- Budapest route for 1 day + map
4. Rome
We’ve been to Rome twice and only briefly, so we don’t have a lot of material on this topic, but we can still tell you about the main nuances of the trip. In addition to Rome, we also spent several days in Venice.
5. Croatia
We have been to Croatia, as well as Montenegro, more than once. We stopped three times at the main resort of the country - Dubrovnik, spent several days in Split and took a short trip along the coast. Are you ready to answer the burning question: Where is it better to relax - Montenegro or Croatia?
6. Barcelona, Catalonia
In the summer of 2016 we went to Spain and spent several days in the wonderful city of Barcelona. After that we went to the Catalan coast, the small town of Calella, where we arranged a week-long resort holiday :)
We visited Barcelona again in the summer of 2018.
- Walking routes in Barcelona
- Barcelona on your own: step-by-step trip organization
7. Munich
- Where to go from Munich
- Top 10 attractions in Munich
8. Amsterdam (Netherlands)
In the summer of 2017 we went to Amsterdam. This city left us an unforgettable impression and became one of our favorites among those we visited. As an experiment, we decided to make a separate guide site for Amsterdam.
9. Paris (France)
After Amsterdam, Paris awaited us, which left us with rather contradictory impressions. Currently, work is underway on a guide to the capital of France, information will be updated gradually.
10. Portugal
In February 2017, I visited Porto for the first time. The city became a real discovery for us. In the summer of 2018 we revisited Porto, as well as Lisbon and its surroundings. Currently, work is underway on a separate travel guide website for Portugal.
11. Helsinki (Finland)
As advocates of smart consumption, we often try to budget wisely for our travels, which is why we have repeatedly used Helsinki Airport as a starting point. During all this time, we have managed to get to know this city quite closely and we are ready to give some useful advice.
Popular and idyllically secluded, wild and equipped with everything you need for a quality holiday. Those that will appeal to a tireless traveler, a risky athlete, a responsible family man, an incorrigible romantic or a couple in love. What are the best beaches in Europe?
Plage de Palombaggia
The most famous and best beach of Corsica is located in France, in the city of Porto-Vecchio, on the southeast coast. The two-kilometer coastline of fine golden sand is surrounded by mountains and pine forests, where you can hide from the hot rays of the sun. This is a paradise with clear turquoise water, pink porphyry boulders, national flavor and a wide range of activities, including boat trips to the islands of Cerbicales and Lavezzi. People often come here with children - parents like the cleanliness of the beach and smooth slopes to the water.
Elafonisi
A fabulously beautiful beach with pink sand is the decoration of the island of the same name and the whole of Crete. You will find it in the southwest of, visiting the snow-white stone monastery of Panagia Chrysoskalitissa along the way. Since Elafonisi is located in a protected area, the beach has only the essentials - sunbeds and umbrellas, showers and toilets, small cafes. But vacationers have access to crystal clear warm water and a coastline that, due to tiny fragments of shells, seashells and corals, turns soft peach or purple.
Spiaggia dei Conigli (Rabbit Beach)
The beach, located on the Italian island of Lampedusa (south of Sicily, between Malta and Tunisia), has more than once been recognized as one of the most beautiful not only in Europe, but on the entire planet. You can get to it only by sea, but the distance from civilization, the impressive landscape, the abundance of coral reefs, gentle sand and amazingly colored water are worth it. Spiaggia dei Conigli attracts lovers of natural beauty, scuba diving fans and those looking for an opportunity to relax and have fun.
Playa de ses Illetes
The beach, which is located on the quietest of the Balearic islands, Formentera, can be reached by ferry from Ibiza, traveling from the port by car or bicycle. The reward will be a protected place - a beautiful beach with silver sand and soft blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. There are always a lot of people here, so regulars recommend spending time on a yacht. In terms of infrastructure development, Formentera is inferior to Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza, but there are many good hotels and fish restaurants near Playa de ses Illetes.
Cala Mariolu
Mariolu Bay is located 50 km from the Gennargentu National Park with mountain lakes and snow-capped peaks. The small Italian beach, surrounded by brutal cliffs, is reached by boat or private vessel, which regularly leave from the port of Cala Gonone (a seaside town in Sardinia). This tropical idyll is memorable for its smooth white marble pebbles - on the shore it appears pink, but in the water it shimmers with millions of shades. It is quite shallow here, so vacationers often take children with them.
Falesia
It’s hard to imagine the ranking of the best beaches in Europe without this section of the southern coast of Portugal. The main advantages of the beach are the small number of visitors, fine sand and picturesque coastal cliffs of all shades of ocher, descending steeply to the ocean. Its turquoise waters and clear skies are a luxurious frame for the endless number of layers of cut rocks. Let's add to this clear air, purified by spreading pine crowns, perfectly heated water, many bays for secluded relaxation, walking distance to hotels and transport stops.
Iztuzu (Iztuzu - Turtle Coast)
Spiaggia della Pelosa (Pelosa)
A beautiful beach on the Gulf of Asinara in Sardinia is a landmark of the city of Stintino, surrounded by cozy hotels and villas. This is one of the best sandy beaches in Europe with azure sea water, shallow depth and advanced infrastructure - sun loungers, umbrellas and boats are available for rent, and local restaurants and cafes invite you to have a delicious lunch. Spiaggia della Pelosa is protected from strong winds by the surrounding islands, so a pleasant holiday in the European Caribbean is guaranteed at any time of the year.
Praia Da Rocha
The most famous Portuguese beach is located in. It is famous for its long and wide strip of sand, surrounded by rocks of incredible shapes. The entire beach infrastructure is located on comfortable wooden paths, and along the road that goes around the embankment there are hotels, bars, cafes, restaurants, discos and casinos. The ocean is mostly calm and warm, and the shore has everything you need for volleyball, football and basketball matches. Praia Da Rocha is a real holiday for those who are in love with the vibrant atmosphere of Portugal and nature, which has preserved its pristine nature on the edge of Europe.
La Concha
This sandy beach gets its name from the Spanish word for “shell.” Its shape exactly repeats the bay of the same name. La Concha belongs to the city of San Sebastian and is a clear example of how perfect a holiday destination by the Atlantic Ocean can be - even in winter, when its waters are cool enough, you can find swimmers here. You'll find a beach of soft sand and tranquil views between the fishing port and the rocky outcrop of Pico del Loro, beyond which lies Ondaretta Beach.
Fig Tree Bay Beach
If you find yourself in the southern part of Cyprus, be sure to visit the beach at Fig Tree Bay. It is located in the small resort village of Protaras, part of the Paralimni community of the Famagusta district. Fig Tree Bay Beach pleases with its clean beaches and excellent conditions for children's recreation, soft sand of a strikingly light shade and well-thought-out infrastructure - cabanas, sun loungers with umbrellas and polite staff. Not far from the beach there is an ancient fig grove that blooms in the spring and fills the air with wonderful aromas.
Kleftiko (Kleftiko)
There is a very beautiful wild beach, which is almost impossible to get to on your own - it is better to hire a boat that quickly passes the high steep cliffs. It’s not for nothing that Kleftiko was included in the ranking of the best - this is the dream of those who like to relax away from busy resorts, enjoying the virgin sand and aquamarine waters in peace and quiet. Not far from the coast, the famous Meteora rocks rise; on the beach there are several real pirate caves - the whole atmosphere breathes romance and adventure. The main thing is to take everything you need with you, because Kleftiko Beach does not have any equipment.
Playa de Muro
On the Spanish island of Mallorca (north of the municipality of Alcudia) there is a quiet beach about 6 km long and about 25 meters wide. The smooth shallow water entry and microscopic sand made it ideal for parents with children. Playa de Muro Beach is divided into three parts: the western and middle parts, well-equipped with resort hotels, as well as the wild Es Comu with untouched territory, pine and juniper trees, sand dunes. Behind the beach is the Albufera Natural Park, where you can go boating, bird watching and paella.
Fistral Beach
The name of this beach, located in the fashionable seaside resort of Newquay (Cornwall, UK), evokes awe among surfers. The excellent surfing area, providing hollow waves of 6 to 8 feet, is surrounded by the towering cliffs and sand dunes familiar to all surf enthusiasts who flock to the beach to catch their luck. Fistral Beach is the venue for major competitions, and hotels, restaurants, cafes and shops are responsible for the convenience of athletes and tourists.
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Agios Pavlos
When listing the best beaches in Europe, one cannot fail to mention the Greek “St. Paul”, which got its name from the old Byzantine church. A hermitic place with small pebbles and beautiful water of rare purity sets the mood for relaxation and yoga. Near Agios Pavlos Beach there is a cool pine forest and a charming tavern, but the beach itself has no infrastructure, so you will have to take your own rugs and umbrellas. See our selection of the best beach spots in Crete
07.01.2019If you look closely at the map of Europe, you will see that most of its coastal areas are dotted with beaches. They are all very diverse. There are large beaches with snow-white sands, pebbly and rocky, romantically secluded and party-friendly. The choice is very extensive.
The review contains a list of the best European beaches of past years. This includes places that appeal to risky surfers and family people, restless travelers and those who like to spend their holidays in solitude, romantics and couples in love. Everyone will find something suitable on this list.
1. Italy, Apulia, Gargano National Park. Orange Bay (Baia delle Zagara)
A picturesque place located in the Gargano Park. The high cliffs surrounding the bay are so stunning and memorable that they are considered one of the natural attractions of Puglia.
The bay owes its name to the evergreen orange tree. Essential neroli oil is extracted from its fragrant flowers. The sea here has turquoise shades, the sand on the beach is snow-white.
Along the coastline of Gargano there are many tourist places - Vieste, Mattinata, Peschici. In the north of the peninsula there are several salt lakes - Varano and Lesina.
2. Montenegro. Jaz Beach
The beach is located 3 kilometers from the famous Budva. You can get here by bus from the city center, by car or by sea on a taxi boat. It is problematic to do this on foot - Yaz is hidden behind a cape rugged by the sea.
The place is considered the most beautiful beach on the Montenegrin coast. There are always a lot of people here. The beach consists of two zones - fine pebble and sand. There are few sandy beaches in Montenegro and this is the main advantage of this place. The infrastructure is well developed. Several restaurants are open during the season. Catamarans and jet skis are available for rent. Various musical events take place throughout the summer. It was here that in the old days Madonna and the Rolling Stones gathered crowds of thousands of fans.
3. France, Porquerolles island. Beach Our Lady
Porquerolles is famous for its almost pristine nature; it is considered the largest island of the Hyères Islands, located in the south of France.
The state acquired most of Porquerolles - 80% of its territory - in 1971 from a private owner in order to prevent development of the island and preserve nature. Now there is a national park here.
Conservation of the island's nature is placed above all else. You will have to pay a large fine for leaving garbage, and smoking is also prohibited. Pets can only walk on a leash.
There are three wineries on the island that produce the famous wines of Provence. This attracts wine lovers here. To get to Porquerolles, you need to take a boat departing from Toulon or Hyères.
4. Portugal. Peniches
Beach with ideal conditions for surfers. Located in a northwest direction from Lisbon, at a distance of 60 miles. This place deserves attention even if you are not into surfing. In addition to beach and sea activities, guests can take a tour of the historical center of Peniche and see the fort built in the 16th–17th centuries. and ancient churches. Inside the fortress there is now a museum, and until the 20th century. the fort served as a prison for political prisoners.
Baleal and Consolasan bays are suitable for beginner surfers as well as family travelers. Experienced surfers should head to the west coast. Medan Grande Beach, called “Supertubos”, is famous for its tube-shaped waves. The World Surfing Championship, called the Rip Curl Pro Portugal, is held here and on the beach of Praia do Lagido.
Divers should go to the protected area of Berlengas Island - the underwater kingdom there is pristinely beautiful. You can get to this place by rented boat or speedboat.
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5. Greece, Lefkada island. Porto Katsiki beach
The beach is included in the list of the most beautiful places in the country. Its location is the island of Lefkada (Ionian Sea). Transparent blue water, white rocks combined with the surrounding greenery. This place consistently receives top marks in the annual list of the best beaches in Europe.
The name Porto Katsiki means "Port of Goats". In the old days, only goats got here.
There are parking lots and places for snacks near the beach. But there is nowhere to live or stay overnight here. A staircase leading down from the parking lot leads to the beach.
6. Greece, Zakynthos island. Navajo Beach
The place owes its name to a ship that sank here and was carrying smuggled goods. The word "navayo" means "shipwreck" in Greek. The incident occurred in the 80s of the last century. The discovered violators sank the ship with smuggled cigarettes and escaped on boats. When a big storm began, the ship washed up on the shore of the bay. It is still there today.
The water in this place has an incredibly rich blue color, which is given by underground mineral springs. In the district of Aspros Vrachos, near Cape Skinari you can find the Blue Caves. They got their name because of the color of the sea.
7. Croatia. Golden Horn
The Golden Horn beach is considered one of the most beautiful places in Croatia. It is located in the south of the island of Brac (Dalmatia).
The place owes its name to its shape resembling a horn. A 634 m long spit stretches from the shore into the sea with beaches on both sides. The length of the braid may vary. This feature is related to tides, wind directions and sea currents. The cape is protected by the state due to its geomorphological properties. It is located 2 km from the city of Bol, to the west of it. It is considered the hallmark of the island.
Tourists are offered water attractions - jet skis, skiing, windsurfing. You can hide from the scorching sun in the pine forest located at the beginning of the cape.
We recommend booking cheap air tickets on websitesAviasales Skyscanner
8. France, Corsica. Rondinara beach
The beach is located between the towns of Porto Vecchio and Bonifacio at the end of highway number 198. This place cannot be called secluded. In July and August it is especially crowded here - there are many people who want to sunbathe on the fine sand. Some of them sail on their own yachts.
The beach is shaped like a horseshoe and is located on the shore of an azure bay. There are no strong waves here. Not far from the beach you can find a convenient campsite (its website camping-rondinara.com ) , there are also parking spaces and a restaurant open during high season.
9. Portugal. Marinha Beach
A narrow strip of sand under a sheer cliff is what the Portuguese Marinha Beach is, which is called one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. It is located on the Atlantic coast in the vicinity of the resort town of Albufeira.
You will have to travel 20 km to the beach by car - public transport does not go there. Then you need to find a ladder along which you can go down from the high steep bank. There are paths, but they are very winding and steep, leading to no one knows where.
The second way to get to the beach is to book a boat excursion. Then there will be an additional opportunity to explore the local grottoes and coast. This will no longer be a simple floundering in the water, but a whole adventure. In any case, you will not find such landscapes anywhere else; everyone will be pleased with a visit to this beautiful place.
We recommend booking apartments in Europe on the websites Vrbo
10. Italy, Sardinia. Kala Goloritze
We can recommend this beach to those who love hiking along rocky paths. All of Sardinia is a huge stone covered with forest. To get to Kala Goloritze beach you need to go down from the Golgo plateau, located at an altitude of 400 meters. Another way is to arrive by boat.
The beach is located on the coast of the Gulf of Orosei (Golfo di Orosei) and is covered with tiny white pebbles. Transparent water, white pebbles and a high rocky shore create a special serene atmosphere. A very beautiful and unusual place!
The starting point of the walking route begins at the rural church of San Pietro, the journey time is about 2 hours. There are quite a lot of people who want to see Kala Goloritze. The path to the beach is well trodden, so you won't get lost.
11. France, Brittany. Ole Vierge
A small cozy place with clean yellow sand. On one side there is the boundless Atlantic, on the other there is a high, steep coast, beautiful and protective. You can go down to the beach along a narrow path or by sea by boat. The second method is much easier. The place is reminiscent of Crimean beaches.
12. Iceland. Vik Beach
Black sand beach! Who doesn't want to lie on this?! If you want to do this, you need to go to Iceland, get to the village of Vik, which is 180 km from Reykjavik, and then go to the beach. This is the southernmost tip of Iceland.
The beach stretches for 5 kilometers. There are no pebbles or debris. The sand is very clean and has a true black color. Formed from volcanic lava. The sea is cold, the climate is damp and humid, and it rains often. Only winter swimming enthusiasts decide to swim here. But the local landscapes are so unusual and fascinating that the place constantly attracts people from different countries. Cinematographers who make science-fiction films especially like to visit it.
Local folklore is replete with legends about trolls and sea monsters. For those who don’t take their word for it, local residents will show you the fossilized remains of ancient trolls, rising in the form of basalt pillars in the sea not far from the beach. At low tide you can visit caves formed in ancient times from cooled lava. Previously, numerous mythological creatures took refuge in them, but now they have disappeared somewhere. In general, there are plenty of miracles on these black sands.
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13. Italy, Sicily. Beach of Isola Bella island
The islet of Isola Bella is located near the eastern coast of Sicily, opposite the town of Taormina. They get here along a narrow sand spit connecting the island with the city. Until the 90s of the last century, the island was private property. The owner built herself a house and brought in various exotic plants. The island is home to lizards and birds. Now it belongs to the city municipality. There is a nature reserve there, which is supervised by the World Wildlife Fund.
On weekends, the rocky beach is filled with city dwellers. It is especially revered by snorkelers - the sea around Isola Bella is replete with myriads of marine organisms and algae.
14. Great Britain. Bantham Beach
The most beautiful places are usually where rivers flow into the sea. One such place is Bantham Beach on the southwest coast of England. It doesn’t matter that there aren’t many hot days here suitable for non-stop swimming. The surrounding landscape can calm any worried soul: the vast sea, sands, dunes, a wonderful view of the coast of Bigbury Bay... All residents of small coastal towns love to visit this beach. It is considered the best place for family holidays, as well as for surfers.
On the opposite shore of the bay is the elegant Burgh Island Hotel. At high tide it becomes cut off from the mainland, a fact that guests like. At various times, the hotel's guests included royalty and famous writers.
15. Scotland. Sandwood Bay
People come here not to sunbathe and swim, but to admire the views and take photographs. Despite the nearby Gulf Stream, the water in Sandwood Bay, located in the northwest of the country, is quite cold. The fascinating thing is that the depths of the sea extend all the way to the Arctic: water, water, water, ending in eternal ice. The beach is large, surrounded by rocks. Behind it is a picturesque freshwater lake. The sand on the beach has a pinkish tint.
You can only get here on foot. The beach is separated from the nearest highway by 4 miles, which must be covered along a narrow path winding through grassy dunes and swamps. A walk can turn into a little adventure, especially if you have read Conan Doyle or listened to local legends beforehand.
16. Spain, Menorca. Kala Macareya
Cala Macareia is a horseshoe-shaped bay on the island of Menorca. There are many beaches on the island, but this one is the most popular. The sea here is always calm, the sand is clean and fine, and pine trees grow along the shores of the bay.
It is good to swim here with a mask and fins (so-called snorkeling), because the water is teeming with marine life. The bay is located in the southwest of the island, making it convenient to watch the sunset.
It’s also nice to wander along the picturesque shores. There are many roads and paths in the area, one of which leads directly to a nudist refuge - the tiny beach of Cala Macarelleta.
17. Greece, Antipaxi. Voutumi
A beach on a small, or rather, the smallest of the Ionian islands. Its size is only 3 x 4 km, the local population is very small - less than two dozen. Nevertheless, the land is well-groomed, there are vineyards, orchards and small fields everywhere.
If you get tired of sunbathing, you can walk around this island up and down, admiring the local nature. The island is located south of Corfu. It is easily accessible by ferry or boat. The beaches are very beautiful, the water shimmers with emerald hues and, most importantly, it is always deserted here. This place is visited only by those who want to enjoy the sea and sun in silence, value their own privacy and do not disturb someone else’s.
To satisfy your hunger, you can enjoy fresh island food at local taverns. It is believed that the most delicious squid is served here.
18. France. Dune du Pilat
You have to climb stairs to get to this beach because it is a huge sand dune: 2900 m long, 660 m wide, 100 m high. This remarkable place on the Arcachon Bay is one of the main attractions of France. On one side there is the ocean, on the other there is the same vast forest, and in the middle there is sand, sand, and nothing but sand.
Dune is located 60 km from the city of Bordeaux, where you can fly by plane and then get to the beach by train or car. To get to the dune itself you will have to climb over loose sand or take a long walk along the stairs. But the views from the top are worth it.
Of course, you can swim and sunbathe here - there is enough space for everyone. But people come here to admire nature and breathe clean sea air. Young children are especially at ease here: a sandbox with an area of 2 million square meters! It is also a favorite place for paragliders and hang gliders, as it offers ideal flying conditions.
19. Lithuania. Curonian Spit
The Curonian Spit is a narrow strip of land about 2.5 km wide and 96 km long, stretching in the Baltic Sea from south to north. The southern part of the spit is connected to the Baltic coast of the Kaliningrad region of Russia. The northern part ends in the sea. The last 50 km of the spit belong to Lithuania. The western part of the spit, which borders the Baltic Sea, is a long sandy beach consisting of dunes. The eastern part, overlooking the Curonian Lagoon, is overgrown with forest. On this side there are houses of local residents and holiday homes.
Even during the times of the Soviet Union, the Curonian Spit was a famous and elite vacation spot. Everyone tried to get to the famous Nida - a large village, near which the highest dunes are located and the “dancing” forest begins. In this forest, the trunks of the pine trees are bent in the most bizarre way, and no one knows why this happens. The “dancing” forest leaves an eerie impression, but has a strange attractive force - all tourists consider it their duty to visit it.
The moving dunes are no less attractive. They are formed from white sand. When you are among them, an absolutely surreal state arises. One forgets that on one side there is the sea, and on the other there is a forest. Because of the dunes, neither one nor the other is visible. It seems that you are left alone in the middle of a white desert, and there is only the sun and the sound of the wind. And this is forever.
Once you have visited the Curonian Spit, you want to come here again and again. You can get there by ferry from Klaipeda, which runs every half hour.
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20. Cyprus. Nissi Beach
This beach is located near the popular resort town of Ayia Napa, sharing a coastal bay with another Nissi Bay beach. Noisy Nissi Bay is more suitable for young people with their irrepressible energy. Nissi Beach is a calm, beautiful place for comfortable swimming and sunbathing.
The sand on the beach is white and clean. The bottom is flat with a slight slope. Simply an ideal place for kids and adults who love sea water and don’t like the depths. Most of the time the sea in the bay is calm - it is protected by an island.
Here you can ride on catamarans and banana boats. The beach has volleyball courts and places where you can play beach soccer. There are a sufficient number of umbrellas and sun loungers. The beach is literally surrounded by hotels. You can stop in them and run out to the sea straight from bed. Tourists who have visited Cyprus consider this beach to be the best.
There is no shortage of beautiful beaches in Europe, but some are more beautiful than others. From Italy to Iceland (yes, you read that right), we've rounded up the 10 best beaches in Europe and the most photogenic beaches across the continent.
Cale Goloritzé, Sardinia, Italy
It's no secret that Cale Goloritzé, located at the base of a cliff on Sardinia's windswept northeast coast, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy. However, it is a hidden oasis: a tiny stretch of white sand with azure blue water between soaring limestone cliffs. The beach is considered so special that it was awarded World Heritage status by UNESCO in 1995.
Cala Macarella, Menorca, Spain
Situated on the sun-baked southwest coast of Menorca, the tranquil beach of Cala Macarella is ideal for those looking to escape the crowded beaches of nearby Mallorca and Ibiza. To get there there are several options: walk three kilometers along the cliffs from the nearby beach of Cala Galdana, or take the winding road from Ciutadella, and then walk another 20 minutes through the pine forest. Not close, but its ultra-fine sand and calm turquoise waters are worth the effort.
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Navagio beach, Zakynthos island, Greece
Also known as Shipwreck Beach due to the ancient ship buried in the heart of the beach, Navagio is the most beautiful sandy beach in Greece and one of the best beaches in Europe. It is nestled among steep limestone cliffs and is so isolated that it can only be reached by boat. You can spend the whole day sunbathing on the powdery sand, but the best way to appreciate its beauty is from the viewpoint above the cliffs near the monastery of Agios Gergio Kremnao.
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Gulf of the Virgin Islands (Île Vierge), Brittany, France
Brittany's Crozon Peninsula may not be as glamorous as Biarritz or the Côte d'Azur, but it is more beautiful and much quieter. The Gulf of the Virgin Islands, with its white sandy shores and ultra-blue waters, rivals any beach on the Riviera. Plus, it has a breathtaking view - it's located at the base of a cliff and surrounded by maritime pine trees, making it a photographer's dream.
Black Beach Vik, Iceland
Iceland may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of beaches, but it is undoubtedly famous for its beautiful and picturesque coastline. You won't see the usual palm trees and white sand here: on Vik the sand is black as caviar and the beach is dotted with high basalt columns, which makes it even more special and beautiful.
Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape or Golden Horn), Brac Islands, Croatia
Croatia is full of stunning beaches and boasts some of the best beaches in Europe, but Golden Cape stands out from the rest with its striking and unusual shape (which actually changes depending on the surf). Although it looks like a golden sandy beach, its coastline is all smooth, small pebbles and stretches for a kilometer on either side of the headland. Not only is it a beautiful place, Zlatni Rat is a great place for windsurfing, water skiing and SUP surfing.
Marinha Beach (Praia da Marinha), Algarve, Portugal
It's no secret that Marina Beach is Portugal's most photogenic beach - a classic Algarve beach set in a bay, with its golden sand, turquoise waters and rugged limestone cliffs. The beach is popular with families for its sea caves and rock pools, while the calm waters make it ideal for snorkeling.
Marasusa Beach, Tropea, Italy
Marasusa beach is located in the beautiful town of Tropea, which is recognized as the pearl of Calabria and is proudly called “La Costa degli Dei” - the Coast of the Gods. It's easy to see why the gods would love it: Marasusa is made up of picturesque cliffs with silky sand and calm turquoise water, making it one of Italy's most beloved beaches.