When thinking of paradise islands, names such as the Maldives, the Caribbean areas always come to mind … However, without leaving Europe , it is also possible to enjoy unique islands and unique places that also evoke paradises. Here we make a list of the most beautiful, or at least they are different, to enjoy the last days of summer or to prepare for the next getaway or vacation.
Spain
Although it may seem incredible, in Spain there are islands that can be defined as paradisiacal. This qualifier applies above all to Formentera , which is part of the Balearic Islands .
A destination that attracts many visitors every year to enjoy its white sand beaches and crystal clear water . Among the best places to go are Es Cavall d’En Borras, Cala Saona, Llevant beach or Migjorn.
They are beaches that are combined with natural landscapes of great environmental wealth and that are characteristic of this island, which also has other attractions to visit such as the Faro de la Mola , which is a must-see and is located in the highest area of the island. .
You cannot leave Formentera without visiting the Ses Salines Natural Park , which is protected and has an important biodiversity . And, of course, this island is a top ten destination to enjoy gastronomy and do some water sports or go cycling or hiking.
Portugal
The neighboring country also has paradise islands. It is about the Island of Flore s, which is in the Azores archipelago. A destination to enjoy lakes, waterfalls, natural pools … and peace and quiet.
This island has been a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2009 for all the wealth it has. For example, geological formations, natural ecosystems and their cultural heritage stand out. Recommended visits are the municipalities of Santa Cruz and Lajes.
Italy
Italy is another of the destinations that appears in this list for the Aeolian Islands . These islands are located in the province of Messina, where the archipelago is made up of a total of seven islands , which correspond to Salina, Vulcano, Lipari, Stromboli, Alicudi, Filicudi or Panarea.
The Aeolian Islands are ideal for those looking for pristine beaches and wild nature within volcanic landscapes . You can even see volcanoes, which are still active on the islands of Stromboli and Vulcano.
These islands, which are near the northeast coast of Sicily , were declared in 2000 as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for the rich traces of the Roman and Greek times.
Croatia
And from Italy we jump to Croatia. There is the island of Hvar , which is the longest in the entire Adriatic , although its surface does not reach 300 square kilometers.
It is a destination where there are also virgin beaches to enjoy a good day of sun and beach and with a pleasant temperature despite the solar radiation. Other possibilities in this destination are some of its towns such as Pitve, Vrisnik, Vrbanj and Dol to know all the local culture, apart from seeing the main monuments.
Greece
Within this country, the paradisiacal destination par excellence is the island of Corfu , which is also known as Kerkyra. This island, which is the second largest in the Ionian Sea, has excellent beaches .
But it is not the only attraction. In fact, it is one of the most attractive natural paradise in Greece because it is surrounded by mountain ranges, apart from all the mythology that is related to this island. Added to all this is the ancient history of the country and monuments that should not be missed, such as the old fortress, the Temple of Hera or the monastery of San Teodoros.