Mediterranean escapes are the ideal way to explore the coastline of Europe, Asia and Africa. With so many beautiful islands, it’s difficult to decide which ones to visit for a truly unique experience. Whether you’re embarking on an adventurous tour or just want to kick-back and feel the warm sand run through your toes, here are five of the most unique islands in the Mediterranean.
- Terence S. Jones / Foter.com / CC BY
CORSICA, FRANCE
Corsica is made for avid hikers who enjoy island adventures and white sand beaches. The island is home to the world’s finest mountain trek, the GR20 that traverses north to south at a height of 10,000 metres and can be walked in 15 days. Two-thirds of the island is mountainous and is not too far from Sardinia.
Not only is it a hiker’s heaven, but also a beach lover’s paradise. So if you’re on board one of the Mediterranean cruises calling at Corsica, you can explore the island’s capital Ajaccio, which is also Napoleon’s birthplace. The island’s coastline spans around 1,000km and has a few resort areas, but isn’t majorly overdeveloped which makes it a unique getaway.
- Stuck in Customs / Travel Photos / CC BY-NC-SA
PORTOFINO, ITALY
The jewel of the Mediterranean, Portofino is a hidden inlet with a crescent-shaped coastline and tranquil waters. It’s a highly praised port of the Mediterranean and has been replicated across the world – the seaside town at Tokyo Disney Sea, Universal Orlando Resort in USA and the Gulf Harbour marina in New Zealand. It’s a magical escape for everyone, where you can find an array of café terraces, yachts and lush hillside forests.
Most jet-setters visit Portofino between early spring and mid-autumn, and don’t be surprised if you spot a celebrity as it’s a popular hangout for artists, writers and philosophers alike.
- . SantiMB . / Beach Photos / CC BY-NC-ND
TOSSA DE MAR, SPAIN
If you crave a relaxing getaway from the metropolis Barcelona, Tossa de Mar is a top-notch place on the coastline of Costa Brava. You can stroll along the cobblestone streets and explore the towers from the medieval century. You’ll come across a small opening in an age-old brick wall that opens out to Playa El Codolar, a hidden beach surrounded by cliffs. It’s truly the ideal Spanish escape for surfers and beach lovers alike.
- THEORO ~ [*Back*] ~ / Art Photos / CC BY-NC
HYDRA, GREECE
One of the Saronic islands in the Aegean Sea, Hydra greets its visitors with donkey rides. Since vehicles are strictly prohibited on the island, the only source of transportation is walking, cycling, riding a donkey or boarding a water taxi. With such unique options for exploring Hydra, you can enjoy the traditional Greek spirit and check out the harbours, villas, and array of restaurants along the coast.
- darkmatter / Foter.com / CC BY-NC-ND
DUBROVNIK, CROATIA
Located in southern Croatia, Dubrovnik boasts medieval history and pristine beaches. Spring and summer seasons bring out the best in the city, and cruises are the best way to visit the island for a taste of Croatian cultural festivities such as the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. It’s filled with old-world charm and stunning architecture, where the Baroque churches sit beautifully along the town. You can swim in the calm waters of the Adriatic and go sunbathing in the islet of Lokrum, only a short taxi-boat ride away. A rather sublime location, Dubrovnik is visited by nearly half a million people each year including celebrities like Eva Longoria.
Author: Amna Alam is a London-based freelance writer who enjoys travel, world cuisine and interior design.
