When we think of islands it is usually the tropical kind but travellers looking for island
destinations should not overlook Europe. Some of Europe’s islands offer
enormously diverse scenery, fascinating history and incredible beaches with
crystal clear water. Here are my favourites.
Santorini
If you have ever
been seduced by an image of the Greek Islands, it was most likely by a
photograph of Santorini. Nestled amongst the Cyclades islands, Santorini was
created by volcanic activity that left the island in the semi circle shape it
is today. Settlements are on the clifftops making for spectacular sunset photos
but also making beach access a bit of a mission. Santorini offers beaches of
several colours though, such as red, black and white, so make sure you get to
them. You can always ride a donkey back up the hill. Santorini is also known
for local produce. Make sure you try the local wine and tomatoes.
Lanzarote
The Spanish
island of Lanzarote is one of the largest of the Canary Islands in the Atlantic.
The island is famous for it’s weird lunar landscapes and dark sand, on account
of volcanic activity, and is a destination for Europeans looking for winter sun
on account of it’s average year-round temperature of 22 degrees Centigrade. The
island has caves to explore, beaches, parks and gardens, and offers other
activities including theme parks, diving, golf and bowling.
Ibiza
The party island
of the Balearics, Ibiza leads the way for clubbing holidays in Europe. The
island is a magnet to DJs who flock there in summer to showcase new tunes.
Ibiza’s nightclubs are especially famous for their house, techno and trance
music and live music events are held in summer. Away from the partying Ibiza
also has an impressive history and large portions of the island are declared
UNESCO World Heritage sites.
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| Ibiza, Balearics, Spain |
Rhodes
Greek island Rhodes,
in the Dodecanese islands, is one of the most popular destinations in the
Mediterranean. Having been inhabited since the 16th century BC,
Rhodes is full of history. The walled city contains many examples of historic
architecture from different periods and there are several museums. Lindos and
Faliraki are two of the smaller settlements on the island. It is also possible
to make a daytrip visit to Fethiye or Marmaris in Turkey from Rhodes.
Malta
The island of
Malta, just east of Libya and south of Italy, offers a fantastic mix of culture
and adventure. Archaeological finds indicate Malta was inhabited as early as
5200 BC and the island offers plenty of art and architecture for history buffs.
Nearby island Gozo is a haven for divers, offering spectacular underwater tunnels,
caves and beautifully clear visibility. Above water Malta offers sightseers
cathedrals, forts, museums, caves, beaches and even an air-raid shelter.
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| Valetta, Malta |
Corsica
Although
technically French, Corsica’s culture contains elements from both France and
Italy. The island is less developed than mainland parts of the Mediterranean
and boasts spectacular natural scenery such as cliffs, gorges, caves, valleys,
forest and beaches. Corsica also has a nature park and UNESCO listed nature
reserve that offers protection to rare animals and plant species.
Sicily
Not only can
Sicily boast of being the largest island in the Mediterranean but it is also
home to Mount Etna, an active volcano that burps out clouds of black smoke occasionally.
Mount Etna stands over 3,000 metres above sea level and hikers on Sicily are
rewarded for their efforts with magnificent views. Cave drawings on the island
indicate it has been inhabited since around 8,000 BC and as if to prove the
point, there are six UNESCO World Heritage sites on Sicily including a roman
villa, an ancient necropolis, islands and of course Mount Etna.
Have you got a
favourite European island? Please let the rest of us know about it in the
comments section below.
