These are the most beautiful island insider tips in Europe

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It is no coincidence that Sardinia, Crete or Mallorca are among the most popular holiday islands. After all, island paradises have everything from beautiful beaches and picturesque villages to delicious food. What still deters many is the crowds drawn to popular destinations each summer.
There are many islands in Europe that have a lot to offer but attract far fewer tourists. These are the insider tips we got.

It’s no secret that the beaches on the Côte d’Azur are wonderful. Most tourists visit Nice, St. Tropez or Cannes, few know that there are islands here too. For example, the Hyères archipelago, located off the coast of the port city of the same name. The largest of the three main islands is Porquerolles. It convinces with its white sand beaches and turquoise water. By the way, there are no cars here – instead, people often get around on foot or by bike. The two neighboring islands, Port Cros and Le Levant, are also definitely worth a stroll.

Getting to the island of Ponza is a bit of a hassle – the boat ride from Naples takes about three hours – but it’s worth it! Even in high season, almost exclusively local tourists can be found here. Authentic Italian Dolce Vita is clearly recognizable. However, if you want to relax and have a bay of your own, the best time to visit the island is during the off-season. In addition to fresh fish and seafood, highlights include historic caves and idyllic beaches. It’s also an ideal place for diving: you’ll often come across abandoned shipwrecks here.

The Canary Islands are not just Fuerteventura, Tenerife or Lanzarote. La Graciosa’s haven of tranquility is hidden right next to the latter. The small island is especially suitable for nature lovers: there are no asphalt roads here. Although there are still very few cars, the best way to get around is by bike or on foot. The island and the surrounding sea are part of a nature reserve where the pristine air of the landscape comes from. Canarian cuisine is also great to enjoy here.

In the middle of the Mediterranean, right next to the popular holiday island of Malta, lies the much smaller island of Gozo. Despite being known as the Maltese’s younger sister, this insider is in no way inferior to the classic. There’s just no trace of the tourist hustle and bustle that reigns in Malta – if you’re looking for peace and relaxation, this is the right place for you. There is so much to experience: everything is represented here, from rocky coves with crystal clear water to ancient historical temples and ruins, to walks in the countryside. Another plus point: Gozo is known as the perfect diver’s paradise!

With over 3,000 Greek islands, it’s not particularly difficult to find one that isn’t as crowded as the tourist leaders Mykonos, Santorini or Crete. One of them is the southern island of Karpathos, also known as the secret Santorini. Because here, too, there are typical blue and white villages, beautiful bays, breathtaking sunsets and traditional Greek delicacies. In Karpathos this means: Enjoy from start to finish!

If you don’t like a classic beach holiday, there are several islands in the English Channel between England and France that offer more than just beaches. The second largest of these is Guernsey. Especially St. Petersburg, the picturesque capital city with its cobblestone streets, charming shops and cafes. Peter Harbor invites you to explore.
The public Candie Gardens are among the oldest Victorian gardens and are considered to be prominent. From there you can also get a great view of the harbor and neighboring islands. Culture is not neglected in Guernsey either: the former home of writer Victor Hugo (1802-1885) is now a museum and definitely worth a visit!

Along with stretches of white dune landscapes and beaches as far as the eye can see, is the oldest lighthouse in the Netherlands – namely the island of Terschelling in West Frisia. The 30 km long beach not only invites you to walk and swim, but is also extremely popular among water sports enthusiasts. The density of butterflies and birds is particularly high, as parts of the island are considered nature reserves. These cannot be overlooked on a walk along the Wadden Sea. Also, don’t forget to try the various cranberry treats. They are the island’s trademark.

On the German North Sea island of Amrum is not only Europe’s largest beach, but also the most densely forested of the North Sea islands. So, whether you choose to be quiet and relax on the beach or take a walk in the dunes, the forest and idyllic villages are entirely up to you. The island has something for everyone. You have the best view of the entire island from the almost 65 meter high Amrum lighthouse. If you are interested in the history of the island, you should definitely take a detour to the village of Nebel – this is where the old windmill is now a local museum.

Source : Blick