The Top 10 Most Beautiful Islands in the Mediterranean

Want to drop anchor in a different bay every night, snorkel in the beautiful blue waters and enjoy a delicious dinner on board in the evening? The Mediterranean offers plenty of fantastic places to set sail to. There are thousands of islands, with Greece alone boasting 6,000. The climate has hot dry summers and moderate winters with rainy periods. Read on quickly to discover the most beautiful islands.

1. Ionian Islands, Greece

The sailing vacation. The islands are located on the west coast of Greece in the Mediterranean Sea. This archipelago consists of 7 major islands, namely Kefalonia, Lefkas, Corfu, Zakynthos, Ithaca, Paxos and Kythira. Despite the relatively small distance between the islands, they differ in atmosphere.

Kefalonia

For example, the largest island of Kefalonia is characterized by its high expansive mountainous landscape and long coastline with many sandy beaches. For a beautiful sunset, go to Myrtos Beach. This is 1 of the most famous beaches of Kefalonia. The nearby village of Assos with its many flowers, pastel-colored houses and cozy bay is also worth a visit.

Lefkas

port of Lefkas town. Although mostly monohulls are offered here, some catamarans are also available.

Corfu

For a perfect blend of rich history and nature, Gouvia and start your sailing vacation!

Zakynthos

The southernmost island, Zakynthos, is characterized by the wide range of flora and fauna. On this island you will find all the ingredients for a real Greek vacation feeling. Clear blue water, sun, beautiful beaches and plenty of sights, who wouldn't want that? You can even fly directly to Zakynthos from Amsterdam, how nice is that!

2. The Dalmatian Islands, Croatia

This region, the Dalmatian coast, is located in southwestern Croatia and runs from the island of Rab in the north to the Bay of Kotor in the south. Off this relatively narrow coastal strip are 600 islands, including the Kornati Islands. These 89 uninhabited islands lie within Kornati National Park. To protect this nature reserve, rules have been established and you will have to purchase a ticket to enter the park. However, there are no restrictions for admiring the natural beauty from a boat as well as a fantastic underwater world during a snorkeling trip. The amount of hidden and secluded coves makes this a popular Mediterranean destination for the sailors among us.
 

Pag

Visit one of the most beloved islands on the Dalmatian coast. Discover the special lunar landscape and delicious goat cheese of the island Zrće beach where international DJs come to spin during the summer months.

Brač

Anchor the boat at one of the many beautiful bays the island of BioMania here .

Hvar

Located south of Brač, lies the island of Hvar. Hvar town is a historic port town, with a modern touch.

In addition to these popular islands, the following towns are also eagerly visited:

• Split
• Dubrovnik
• Zadar
• Šibenik

3. Sardinia, Italy

The (north) east coast is very rocky, which contrasts with the south coast. Indeed, here you can find miles of sandy beaches and bays with shell and pebble beaches. At the end of a day's sailing, there are therefore plenty of opportunities to spend the night at anchor. Tip! In the autumn you can have a good stay from Cagliari.

Sardinia has been a battleground for a long time, so its inhabitants always remain focused on their own culture. Therefore, the sailor will be introduced to ancient folklore. So not only is there sailing, but you will also find some kind of folkloric festival almost in every port.

4. The Sporades Islands, Greece

Yes, you read it right, we ended up in Greece again. Besides the Ionian Islands, the Sporades is also a very popular sailing destination in the Mediterranean. Located on the eastern side of the mainland, this group of islands is the ideal place to go island hopping!

Skiathos

We start with the most touristic island, Skiathos. With the presence of an international airport and numerous beautiful beaches, the island fills up with tourists during the summer. The capital of this island is Skiathos town. The town has a beautiful harbor and narrow picturesque streets. For the movie connoisseurs among us, it is a nice trip to visit some of the locations of the famous movie “Mamma Mia.”

Skopelos

Skopelos is the second largest island of the Sporades. This greenest island in Greece is very popular with tourists. The capital Skopelos Town is located north of the island and is also called Chora. The Venetian Kastro is built on the highest point of the town. Remains can be found here, but you also have a beautiful view of Chora. Rent a yacht from Skiathos or Volos and sail to Skopelos and/or the following islands.

Alonissos

The next island is Alonissos. The capital, or rather town, of this island is Alonissos Town and is located on a rock in the south of the island. Therefore, when you walk through the old town, you will have a breathtaking view with a magnificent sunset. In addition, Alonissos has a dense pine forest and is one of the best diving destinations in Greece.

Skyros

Skyros is one of the lesser known islands of the Sporades, perfect for the peace seekers among us! Although the advantage of sailing is that you can always find the tranquility yourself of course. The capital of Skyros is Skyros town. This city is also located on the slopes of a hill, giving you a beautiful view of the Aegean Sea. Visit the Medieval Castle at the very top of the hill and wander the narrow streets. Also, don't forget the beautiful secluded and hidden beaches, such as Molos.

5. The Balearic Islands, Spain

The Balearic Islands are six Spanish islands located in the Mediterranean Sea. The four largest islands are Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera. The two smaller islands are Dragonera and Cabrera. You can enjoy the islands any way you want: relax and enjoy the peace and quiet or party until the late hours. The islands have a total of 40 ports, from small fishing ports to large luxury ports.

Ibiza

anchor your boat.

Formentera

Sail with half an hour from Ibiza to the smallest island of the four, namely Formentera! This island has beautiful sky-blue seawater. It is a flat island, except for 2 hills namely the Cap de Barbaria and the La Mola Plateau. In addition, Formentera has a fairly rugged landscape, with many forests and different vegetation, such as fig trees. You can also find salt mines and for art and culture you can also visit this island.

Menorca

Menorca gets its name from the larger nearby Mallorca. The island has not yet really been discovered by the tourist and is unique in its own way. Therefore, the island also has a peaceful character. The wild flowers, colorful birds and clean beaches also contribute to this. Also, the island is clean and non-commercialized. In Menorca you will find beautiful mountains, rock formations, beaches, hills with pine trees and geysers that spout up water.

Mallorca

cruising itinerary in Mallorca!

6. Corsica, France

Ajaccio is located west of the island. Here you will find soft pastel-colored houses, many attractions and a wonderful climate. For example, visit Palais Fesch-Musée des Beaux-Arts, Maison Bonaparte, Place d'Austerlitz and more. Other major cities include Porto-Vecchio, Calvi and Bastia. Like Mallorca, its economy runs mainly on tourism. Therefore, the island is eagerly visited by campers.

Incidentally, the island is best known for its nature. Corsica has a rocky coastline, impressive mountains and several nature reserves. The beautiful sandy beaches are not lacking here either! So be sure to pack snorkeling and diving gear as well. Monte Cinto and Monte Rotondo are the highest mountains on the island. In winter you can even ski on the highest peaks! Also don't forget the delicious sheep and goat cheeses they make here.

7. Elba, Italy

Porto Azzurro. The historical richness is still evident in this town. It looks a bit medieval with old squares and small narrow streets. You will also see this in other villages.

Besides sailing, there is much more to do on Elba. So you can play golf, dive, kayak, hike, mountain bike, but you can also experience plenty of culture and taste delicious wines. What more could you want?

8. The Cyclades Islands, Greece

This time not the Ionian Islands or the Sporades, but the Cyclades! Once again, we ended up in Greece. The Cyclades are located southeast of Greece, in the Aegean Sea. The archipelago consists of more than 200 islands that circle the main island of Delos and offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Santorini

The southernmost island is Santorini. The island's shape resembles a crescent moon, due to several volcanic eruptions. It is a fairly arid and mountainous island with a flat east coast and a rugged west coast. On the east coast you can enjoy the most beautiful beaches and vineyards. When you sail along the west coast you will mostly encounter steep cliffs and rocks. On Santorini you will see the most stunning sunsets with in the background the beautiful whitewashed houses with blue roofs. Visit this island for a romantic and relaxing vacation! Don't forget to visit 'Shipwreck Beach' as well.

Paros

Compared to Mykonos, Paros is a quiet island. It can still get pleasantly crowded. Paros is the second largest island, comparable to the size of Texel. The island is distinguished by its high quality white and red wine and its marble. Furthermore, the beautiful white villages, sandy beaches and mountains can also be found here.

Naxos

And so you suddenly find yourself on Naxos, the largest island of the Cyclades. With fertile soil, a varied landscape, many beautiful bays and beaches, this is an ideal vacation destination. This island is also known for its marble. The capital Naxos Town is one of the most beautiful towns. Here you will find the 6th century ancient temple Portara. This is a gate that stands on an islet and is connected to Naxos town by a narrow dam.

Mykonos

Mykonos is known for its beautiful white houses and vibrant nightlife. The island is also liked by many tourists, including celebrities. From Mykonos you can also easily reach the other islands. Mykonos Town is a picturesque town on the coast. Walking through the cozy narrow streets you will come across all kinds of restaurants, churches and stores. Around this island there are plenty of beautiful places to anchor your boat, for example at Aghia Anna bay.

9. The French Riviera, France

The Grimaud to these islands.

Ile du Levant

Ile du Levant is a small island, as it is 8 by 2 kilometers long. The island is located in the Gulf of Lion and is very green. There is a lot of variety in flora and fauna. For example, you will encounter many palm trees and cacti. A beautiful beach, which also allows nudism, is Grottes Beach. In terms of sightseeing, you can visit Arbousier Fort. This fort was built by Napoleon to reinforce the defense of the island. The Titan Tower was also built to defend the island from English fleets and pirates.

Porquerolles

With 10 minutes by boat from the coast you reach the islet of Porquerolles. A good way to explore the island is by bicycle. Through the National Park there are several routes you can take. The south side of the island has many steep cliffs and secluded streams. The area is therefore difficult to access. The north of the island consists mainly of beautiful sandy beaches and clear blue water. In the middle of the island are many fertile plains. Here ancient and unique species of flora grow in a botanical greenhouse.

10. Sicily, Italy

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean and is located near the southernmost tip of Italy. In Sicily, you can rent a boat from 9 ports, of which Palermo has the largest selection! Sail along the coast and discover the island's versatility. Enjoy the sun, sea and the many beautiful beaches. Learn about the different civilizations that have lived on the island. For more action: take a hike through the Alcantara Gorge or climb the volcano, Etna. To the north of the island are the Aeolian Islands. These are several volcanic islands, including the active volcano, Stromboli. Sail past this at night and see the beautiful red glow over the horizon while enjoying a glass of wine. Don't forget to consult the rental company.

In other words, there are countless islands in the Mediterranean, each with its own character and atmosphere. From island hopping to exploring the whole island. From relaxing vacations to active vacations, there is something for everyone! The Mediterranean islands are guaranteed to give you an unforgettable sailing vacation!