For those who are planning a trip to Europe during the warmer months of the northern hemisphere, the search for beaches outside the radar of mass tourism becomes an irresistible adventure.
Therefore, this time we are not talking about the Balearic Islands (Ibiza, Mallorca, Menorca and Formentera), the famous Itzurun, in the Basque Country (it gained worldwide fame thanks to the series Game of Thrones), from the Amalfi Coast or from southern Italy (from Polignano a Mare or Castle Beach, in Puglia, as well as Calabria and Sicily).
On this occasion, we chose certain refuges on the Costa Brava in Spainsome small town Franceand picturesque islands of Italy, Croatia and Greece.
These are destinations that combine historical vestiges, particular geographies, excellent gastronomy and great cultural wealth.
Below, seven selected beaches to enjoy the summer in Europe.
1) Chiaia Beach, Ischia, Italy
The Chiaia beach (Chiaia Beach), located near Forio, in Ischia, is one of the most charming on that Italian island. Recommended for its fine sand and crystal-clear waters in turquoise tones, this beach has an idyllic setting to enjoy the sun and the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Surrounded by green hills and dotted with colorful fishing boats, the Chiaia beach It is ideal both for families looking to relax and for those who want to snorkel in the calm waters with good visibility.
As for Ischia, it is famous for its stunning landscapes and rich history. Located in the gulf of naples, the island is known for its natural hot springs, which have attracted visitors since the time of the Roman Empire. At different points there are spas and thermal baths so that both tourists and locals can relax and receive the benefits of the healing properties of the mineral waters.
In addition, Ischia has varied beaches: golden sand and calm sea like the Chiaia beach or hidden coves and cliffs that give vertigo.
Sun and sea lovers find here a quiet environment, rich in culture and with panoramic views.
2) Cavoli Beach, Elba Island, Tuscany, Italy
Also in Italy, Cavoli beach, located in the spectacular Elba island and in the Tuscany region, is an incredible destination that captivates everyone with its natural beauty. Its calling card is the transparent waters with turquoise touches that bathe the golden sand.
Cavoli is one of the most impressive beaches on the island, among hills covered in Mediterranean pine trees. The beauty of the landscape is an invitation to rest and disconnect from screens.
In addition to its surroundings, Cavoli is perfect for swimming and water sports, thanks to its shallow waters and gentle slope.
During the summer it becomes a meeting point for tourists and locals looking to enjoy the warm climate and the impressive postcards of the Tuscan coast.
For those who have an exploring soul, from Cavoli you can discover other beautiful and secret corners of the island of Elba. Within a short distance there are beaches and charming towns with trails that allow you to contemplate the seascapes.
Cavoli is located in Campo nell’ Elba, with other splendid beaches such as Campo and Fetovaia, and ancient villages such as San Piero and San Hilario, which sit on the hills overlooking the Gulf of Marina di Campo.
For those looking for nightlife and entertainment, Marina di Campo is an option frequented by young tourists, with numerous bars, restaurants and clubs that liven up summer nights on the island.
3) Calella de Palafrugell, Catalonia, Spain
On the stunning Spanish Costa Brava, Calella de Palafrugell emerges as a must-see destination in the heart of the Iberian Peninsula. But the great advantage for Argentine travelers is that It is only an hour and a half by car from tourist Barcelona.
In Calella de Palafrugell you can breathe its essence in every corner, remembering its past as a old fishing village. Therefore, it is highly recommended to get lost in its streets and enjoy the local architecture.
For history buffs but also nature lovers, the watchtowers route proposes a 15-kilometre circular walk along the coast, revealing the scenic beauty of the region and leading to the emblematic Calella Tower. . It is a protected historical monument that in other times served to monitor the entire coast against possible attacks.
Calella de Palafrugell not only represents a valuable getaway from bustling Barcelona, but it is also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the tranquility of a coastal town full of history and natural beauty.
4) Cala de Aiguablava, Girona, Spain
The photos of the sea are reminiscent of the Caribbean. The fact is that the Aiguablava cove, in Gironais distinguished by its natural environment and its crystalline waters that are hypnotic for the gaze of any visitor.
In turn, the cliffs covered with vegetation that surround the beach create a dream setting in this small bay in Catalonia.
In between pine forests, cliffs and golden sands, Aiguablava and its serene atmosphere become an unmissable destination. Although its location is somewhat remote, it is not far from the urban center of Begur, which is a tourist center with good infrastructure.
Aiguablava Beach is small in scale, less than 100 meters long, making it a perfect refuge away from the hustle and bustle of the most touristy areas.
Regarding the tones of the sea, the waves of the cove are gentle and Aiguablava can be translated as “blue water” in Catalan.
For all this and much more, it is not surprising that this beach will soon become the favorite destination of those who discover it accidentally and those who value serenity in contact with nature.
5) Playa de Sakarun, Dugi Otok, Croatia
Located in the Zadar regionnorthwest of the isla de Dugi Otok over the Adriatic Sea, Sakarun Beach is a stunning destination that has recently been gaining popularity in Croatia.
With a length of 800 meters, this beautiful beach is located near several attractive tourist towns, such as Veli Rat, Verunić, Soline and Božava.
Visitors are struck by its white sands – some parts have pebbles – and super crystal-clear waters, which create a dreamlike environment.
In addition to the Agrapidia port, the surroundings of Sakarun feature several vineyards and a dense forest that provides pleasant shade during the hot summer months.
This contrast between the beach and the forest creates a landscape that transmits peace, ideal for a quiet getaway. The combination of nature with proximity to tourist cities makes Sakarun beach one of the must-see destinations on the Croatian coast.
6) Playa Voutoumi, Isla Antipaxos, Greece
It is a hidden treasure that has managed to stay away from mass tourism due to the low population density of the area. isla Antipaxosin the west of Greece3 kilometers south of Paxos.
This corner is a good destination for those looking for an exclusive adventure, sailing by boat to discover its wonders before the rest of the world does. It is easily accessible by boat from the port of Gaios, on the neighboring island of Paxos, so this virgin beach is a great option to spend an unforgettable day.
Surrounded by green hills, Voutoumi stands out for its sapphire waters.
Snorkeling fans will find their place in the world in Voutoumi: just put on your frog legs, mask and tube to admire the spectacular seabed on this virgin sand beach.
In short, it is a place to disconnect and immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of Greek nature.
7) Buse Beach, Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, France
Roquebrune-Cap-Martinknown only as Roquebrune until 1921, is a commune located in the southeast of Francebetween Monaco and Menton.
It is a charming place, known in the area for Buse Beachwhich is accessed via a long series of steps.
This beach is a well kept secret among the inhabitantsand those who already know her usually come back.
Plage du Buse is a gem of the Cabbé area, one of the most beautiful coastal paths in the region. The large white stones on the beach inspired the famous architect Le Corbusierwho built his small cabin on the heights of the site he chose for his retirement on the Côte d’Azur.
Beaches of Europe
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It also inspired the architect and designer Eileen Gray, who designed the famous mansion E-1027a villa built between 1926 and 1929 in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, which adapts to the terrain.
From the sea, the house looks like a ship stranded on the shore, and gives the impression of having the mast on the deck next to the metal railings. It is conceived under the principles of the “maison minimum”, optimizing spaces and using prefabricated elements, in accordance with the ideals of a post-war society.
In addition, the wooded park of the former residence extends along almost the entire beach, offering shade and creating a silent atmosphere that invites rest and contemplation.