Looking for an idyllic boating holiday? Europe has an extensive palette of islands at its disposal, from rugged islands with rock formations to tranquil, paradisiacal islets. Read on to find out what the most beautiful islands in Europe are for a boating holiday. Time to update your bucket-list!
Corsica, France
Corsica, the island where Napoleon Bonaparte was born, is known in France as ‘Ile de Beaute’. This means ‘the island of beauty’ and Corsica certainly lives up to this name. You can expect nothing but beauty on this island, with spectacular cliffs and pristine beaches. Hiking enthusiasts have nothing to complain about here either, with beautiful natural parks, such as on the magical Scandola peninsula. In Corsica, there is more to do during your boating holiday than just enjoying nature and sailing along the beautiful beaches: you can admire beautiful Roman and Greek buildings in the beautiful towns and villages.
Sicily, Italy
Sicily should not be left out of our list. This Italian island has everything you need on a boating holiday: beautiful beaches to sail along, a rich history and, of course, delicious Italian food. If that's not enough, you can also climb the volcano Etna, where you will be rewarded with spectacular views after a brisk hike up to the top. Renting a boat in Sicily gives you the opportunity to experience a wonderful boating holiday.
Santorini, Greece
Of course, the beautiful island of Santorini, one of Greece's gems, cannot be left out of the list. Rent a boat on the west coast of the island, and marvel at the cliffs and steep cliffs, with the typical Greek houses. The moon-shaped island sits on the edge of what was once a volcanic crater. The unusual volcanic landscape is special when combined with the charming Greek villages. You will also come across spectacular volcanic beaches on Santorini, which contrast sharply with the azure blue sea. It is also a suitable sailing destination for wine lovers; because of the volcanic eruptions, the soil is extra fertile and this produces delicious wine.
Azores, Portugal
The island archipelago the Azores also gets a well-deserved place in the list of Europe's most beautiful islands. This spectacular sailing destination a perfect place for a sailing holiday, as there are several islands to explore. All nine islands are of volcanic origin, and each has its own charm. One island has the white beaches, clear blue seas and vineyards, the other cute little towns with colourful houses and green hills and lakes. Go on a two-week boating holiday and you'll have plenty of time to explore all the islands!
Vis, Croatia
Croatia, a country with an awful lot of beautiful islands. In this top 10, however, we choose Vis, because it is the hidden gem of Croatia. Because the island paradise has not yet been discovered by mass tourism, you find yourself in an oasis of calm, and the island is popular among sailors. Beautiful, dreamy bays surrounded by cliffs and vineyards are found here at every turn. Rent a boat in Croatia, and sail to Vis and the beautiful islands nearby. If you feel the need to completely unwind, Vis is definitely a must for a boating holiday!
Bozcaada, Turkey
Located on the Aegean Sea, lies idyllic Bozcaada, a small island full of history and nature. You can enjoy beautiful hidden sandy beaches and clear blue waters. Rent a boat in Bozcaada and discover the charming little bays! Fun markets, cute streets and beautiful sunsets are also daily fare in Bozcaada. In addition, the cuisine there is special due to the mix between Greek and Turkish cuisine, and while strolling through the old centre you will come across plenty of tasty restaurants. The local wines are also excellent, as the island is covered with vineyards. There are countless fun activities to do on the island: hiking, diving, swimming, kite surfing and it's even a popular spot among scuba divers!
Faroe Islands
Located between Scotland and Iceland, this archipelago has varied landscapes with rugged nature on offer. It is the ideal holiday destination for nature lovers and adventurers, as the islands offer impressive rock formations, waterfalls, ominous cliffs and beautiful valleys. For instance, you have the spectacular 60-metre-high Múlafossur waterfall, in a special location among the cliffs. There are also beautiful lakes to explore, such as Sørvágsvatn. A surreal place, and you can spot a waterfall there too. Many villages on the Faroe Islands are set among spectacular nature, and the Viking culture is still tangible. With favourable weather conditions, you even have a chance of seeing the Northern Lights on the Faroe Islands!
Minorca, Spain
Minorca is one of the pearls of the Balearic Islands. This island is a haven of peace and nature together with its rocky, hilly landscape, hidden coves and azure sea make it a place where you can enjoy and explore while sailing. You will also find vineyards and authentic towns to wander through. Another advantage: the island is not yet super well-known by mass tourism, unlike the other Balearic Islands.
Spain, Ibiza
Of course, the versatile Ibiza cannot be left out of the list. Rent a boat in Ibiza and get a taste of the island's laid-back hippy atmosphere. For example, take a visit to Benirras beach, where there is drumming, dancing, drinking and eating. Of course, Ibiza is also known for its vibrant nightlife, and you can party all night here. There are also beautiful natural parks and reserves to explore on the island, and you can relax on its beautiful beaches. For example, the viewpoint at es Vedrá is one of Ibiza's highlights, here you will be rewarded with a magical view of the islet. Ibiza has it all!
Besides the islands on this list, there are SO many other beautiful islands in to discover in Europe. Tubber wishes you lots of sailing fun this summer!