If you're planning a trip to Europe, you might want to consider exploring some of the continent's underrated islands. These destinations offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and authentic experiences, without the crowds and the high prices of more popular spots.
In this article, we'll share our top picks for underrated European islands, based on our own research and personal experience. We'll provide a brief overview of each island, highlighting its key attractions and activities, as well as practical tips for getting there, getting around, and finding accommodations and restaurants.
Pantelleria, Italy
Pantelleria is a volcanic island in the Mediterranean Sea, located between Sicily and Tunisia. It's known for its rugged landscape, thermal springs, and sweet wine, as well as its traditional architecture and cuisine.
Some of the must-see attractions on Pantelleria include the Mirror of Venus, a natural pool surrounded by black lava rocks and green bushes; the Specchio di Venere Lake, a volcanic crater filled with mineral-rich water; and the ancient gardens of Cossyra, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
To get to Pantelleria, you can take a ferry from Trapani or Marsala in Sicily, or fly from Milan, Rome, or Palermo. Once on the island, you can rent a car, a scooter, or a bike to explore the sights.
Vis, Croatia
Vis is a small island in the Adriatic Sea, known for its crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches, and rich history. It was a military base during the Cold War, and only opened to tourists in the late 1990s.
Some of the top things to do on Vis include visiting the Blue Cave, a natural wonder that glows with a surreal blue light; exploring the old town of Vis, with its charming alleys, churches, and museums; and tasting the local wine, made from the indigenous Vugava and Plavac Mali grapes.
To reach Vis, you can take a ferry from Split or Dubrovnik, or a catamaran from Hvar or Korčula. Once on the island, you can hire a taxi, a bus, or a bike to get around.
Saaremaa, Estonia
Saaremaa is the largest island in Estonia, located in the Baltic Sea. It's known for its unspoiled nature, rich folklore, and medieval castles and churches.
Some of the top attractions on Saaremaa include the Kuressaare Castle, a well-preserved fortress from the 14th century; the Panga Cliff, a dramatic limestone cliff that offers stunning views of the sea; and the Angla Windmill Hill, a scenic area with several traditional windmills.
To get to Saaremaa, you can take a ferry from Virtsu or Rohuküla on the mainland, or fly from Tallinn. Once on the island, you can rent a car, a bike, or a horse carriage to explore the countryside.
La Gomera, Spain
La Gomera is a small island in the Canary Islands, located off the coast of Africa. It's known for its lush forests, steep cliffs, and unique whistling language, which is still used by some locals to communicate across the valleys.
Some of the top things to see and do on La Gomera include hiking in the Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the ancient laurisilva forest; visiting the hamlets of Vallehermoso and Agulo, which offer stunning views of the sea and the mountains; and trying the local delicacies, such as almogrote, a cheese spread made with red pepper, garlic, and olive oil.
To reach La Gomera, you can take a ferry from Tenerife or Gran Canaria, or fly to La Gomera Airport from Tenerife North. Once on the island, you can rent a car, a scooter, or a bike to explore the winding roads and hidden corners.
Conclusion
These are just a few examples of the many underrated European islands that deserve more attention from travelers. By venturing off the beaten path, you can discover new horizons, meet friendly locals, and create lasting memories.
Remember, when planning a trip to an island, it's important to research the destination beforehand, and to respect the local customs and environment. Be sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear, and to follow the safety guidelines for water activities and outdoor sports.
We hope this article has inspired you to explore some of the underrated European islands, and to share your own recommendations with us. Happy travels!
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