Escape the Crowds: 7 Secluded European Beaches to Relax On This Summer
Escape the Crowds: 7 Secluded European Beaches to Relax On This Summer - 7 Secluded European Beaches to Relax On This Summer
Summer in Europe brings throngs of tourists flocking to the region's iconic beaches. Yet beyond the crowded hotspots lie dozens of secluded shores waiting to be explored. For travelers seeking solitude this season, here are seven under-the-radar European beaches that promise relaxation away from the hordes.
Cala Macarelleta, Menorca, Spain
This pristine bay on Menorca’s southern coast is only accessible by foot or boat, keeping crowds at bay. Wade into turquoise waters or stretch out on soft sands fringed by pine forests for ideal seaside serenity.
Praia do Barril, Portugal
Nestled on Portugal’s Algarve coast, this former fishing village turned resort beach offers a tranquil escape. Stay in one of the thatched umbrella-shaded huts for a day of lounging in the saltwater lagoon and strolling the sleepy boardwalks.
Plage de Langoz, Brittany, France
Find your own patch of pink granite and rays of solitude on the wild northern coast of French Brittany. Rugged cliffs overlook this natural beach, whose seclusion and scenery create a peaceful, crowd-free atmosphere.
Agios Stefanos, Greece
Far from Greece's packed party beaches lies this hidden cove on the island of Mykonos. Accessible only by boat or via a hiking trail, its crystal waters and soft sands attract few visitors, even at the height of summer.
Traigh Seilebost Beach, Isle of Harris, Scotland
On Scotland’s remote Isle of Harris, this golden stretch of sand looks out over the Atlantic. The beach’s tranquil atmosphere comes courtesy of the lack of amenities and shops that draw tourists elsewhere.
Cala Mariolu, Sardinia, Italy
This striking cove dotted with outcroppings of limestone cliffs retains its undiscovered vibe despite its Instagram fame. Come during the off-season for the best chance to grab a secluded spot on the white sand beach.
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- Escape the Crowds: 7 Secluded European Beaches to Relax On This Summer - 7 Secluded European Beaches to Relax On This Summer
- Escape the Crowds: 7 Secluded European Beaches to Relax On This Summer - Uncrowded Coves of Mallorca's Northern Coast
- Escape the Crowds: 7 Secluded European Beaches to Relax On This Summer - Serene Shores of Sardinia's Isolated Beaches
- Escape the Crowds: 7 Secluded European Beaches to Relax On This Summer - Tranquil Bays in Croatia's Dalmatian Islands
- Escape the Crowds: 7 Secluded European Beaches to Relax On This Summer - Deserted Stretches of Sand in Portugal's Algarve Region
Escape the Crowds: 7 Secluded European Beaches to Relax On This Summer - Uncrowded Coves of Mallorca's Northern Coast
Mallorca's rugged northern coastline harbors some of the island's most pristine and peaceful beaches, with coves tucked away from the crowded resort towns. In the north, Mallorca feels far removed from its party reputation, with a slower pace and treasures waiting to be uncovered.
Cala Tuent is an idyllic inlet only accessible by boat or a 30-minute hike. Its seclusion keeps crowds away, letting you bask alone on its small beach bracketed by forests. Wander through the surrounding olive and almond groves after a refreshing dip in the emerald waters. Down the coast, Cala Molins also impresses with a sheltered sandy cove fringed by pine trees. Parking is limited to prevent overcrowding, so come early to stake out a spot.
For a cove with amenities, head to the Blue Flag-awarded Platja de Formentor near the lighthouse bearing the same name. Its length means you can still find your own area despite the smattering of parasols lining the beach. Stop for lunch at the beachfront restaurant, then work it off with snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding available to rent.
Cala Sant Vicenç presents a handful of small beaches with ample space to relax. Cala Clara is set apart by its gleaming white pebbles, earning it the nickname "Shingle Beach." Cala Molins is the largest of the inlets, with shallow waters perfect for young families. Arrive in the morning to secure lounge chairs and spend a day beach-hopping from one picturesque cove to the next.
Escape the Crowds: 7 Secluded European Beaches to Relax On This Summer - Serene Shores of Sardinia's Isolated Beaches
Lapped by azure waters and fringed by rugged cliffs, the isolated beaches of Sardinia beckon travelers looking for unspoiled shores. On an island known for glitzy resorts and marinas packed with superyachts, Sardinia's remote corners remain blissfully under the radar.
On Sardinia's northeast coast, Cala Goloritzè stuns with its crescent-shaped bay bracketed by limestone pinnacles towering behind the beach. The challenging hike or boat ride deters crowds, leaving you nearly alone to enjoy the sweeping views and peaceful atmosphere. The sea cave punctuating the left side of the beach invites exploration by kayak or stand-up paddleboard.
Along the eastern coastline, Cala Mariolu captivates with a half-moon cove dotted with outcrops of wind-sculpted rock. Its boat access and lack of amenities maintain the cove's undiscovered vibe. Come during the off-season for the best chance to stake out a secluded spot on the white sand beach with shallow emerald waters ideal for swimming.
On Sardinia's southwest shore, Is Aruttas stuns with its beach made entirely of grains of quartz. The rust-colored pebbles creak musically when walked upon, leading to the nickname "Singing Beach." Arrive early to claim a spot on this narrow shore bordered by small cliffs and tamarisk trees. The lack of development keeps the beach's ambience untouched.
For those willing to brave the choppy ride across the sea, Zuriagru Beach on the uninhabited island of San Pietro rewards intrepid travelers with a crescent of pink sand. Crystalline waters in intense shades of blue and green lap against the peaceful, protected beach. Pack a picnic, put on your mask and snorkel, and enjoy having this hidden paradise all to yourself for the day.
Escape the Crowds: 7 Secluded European Beaches to Relax On This Summer - Tranquil Bays in Croatia's Dalmatian Islands
The Dalmatian Islands off Croatia's Adriatic coast harbor dozens of secluded coves and bays perfect for escaping summer crowds. With 1,000+ islands to explore, beaches ringed by pine trees and bathed in azure waters await discovery.
On the island of Šolta, the sheltered bay of Nečujam lies tucked away down an unmarked gravel road. Wade into the aquamarine sea and stretch out on the pebble beach framed by olive groves. The lack of signage keeps crowds away from this hidden gem. Also on Šolta, Maslinica captivates with a sleepy seaside village vibe and a palm-lined waterfront promenade overlooking the bay. Claim a table at one of the seaside restaurants and watch the boats bobbing in the sheltered cove.
On the island of Vis, Stiniva Cove impresses visitors with its pearl-shaped bay flanked by soaring rock walls. The sandy beach and crystalline waters attract boaters dropping anchor for a swim. Come early to secure a spot on the smooth rocks ringing the inlet before spaces fill. Nearby on Vis, Srebrna Beach delights with a long stretch of pebbles that give way to fine sand. The lack of amenities adds to the cove's unspoiled atmosphere.
Escape the Crowds: 7 Secluded European Beaches to Relax On This Summer - Deserted Stretches of Sand in Portugal's Algarve Region
Venture beyond the bustling beaches of the Algarve and uncover the region's serene hidden gems. Hugging Portugal's southern coastline, the Algarve boasts an abundance of secluded stretches of sand that offer a welcomed respite from the crowds.
One such oasis is Praia da Marinha, a stunning cove renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. Accessible only by a winding footpath, this pristine beach is a favorite among in-the-know locals who delight in its tranquil ambiance and breathtaking natural beauty. Spend lazy afternoons lounging on the soft golden sands, wade into the crystalline shallows, or explore the nearby sea caves and rock formations.
Just a short drive away, the dunes of Praia do Barril lend an other-worldly allure to this remote stretch of coastline. Once the site of a tuna fishing community, the abandoned train tracks that once transported the catch now lead visitors to this unspoiled paradise. Marvel at the rusting hulls of old fishing boats as you stroll along the shore, stopping to take a dip in the refreshing Atlantic waves.
Further west, the Algarve's famed Vicentine Coast protects a series of untouched beaches that feel worlds away from the region's bustling resort towns. Hike along the clifftops of Praia do Amado to discover a sweeping expanse of golden sand flanked by towering rock formations. Or venture to the end of the Cabo de São Vicente, the southwestern-most point of continental Europe, and bask in the solitude of Praia do Telheiro, a hidden gem known for its dramatic sunsets.