travel
‘Lapped by the turquoise, crystal seas’: readers’ favourite unsung European islands
From secluded coves in Ireland to an evening passeggiata on Italy’s Aeolian islands, readers share their discoveries. Tell us about your most memorable food and drink discoveries in Europe.
TL;DR
- Cres, Croatia: Wild beauty with olive groves, lavender, and turquoise seas.
- Valentia Island, Ireland: Secluded Glanleam beach offers stunning views of the Dingle peninsula.
- Karpathos, Greece: Remote Olympos village feels frozen in time; Apella and Achata beaches are exceptional.
- Île de Sein, France: A car-free island near Brittany with cowrie shell-rich beaches and rich history.
- Lipari, Italy: A volcanic Aeolian island with a historic castle, museums, and charming seaside town.
- La Graciosa, Spain: A tiny volcanic island near Lanzarote, offering peace, sandy streets, and fresh fish.
- Skomer, Wales: Famous for puffin-watching opportunities.
- Gotland, Sweden: Features the preserved medieval town of Visby and unique limestone formations called rauks.
- Saaremaa, Estonia: Home to the Kaali meteorite craters, with a small museum dedicated to the event.