When it comes to European beaches, the likes of the French Riviera, Spain’s Costa del Sol, and Italy’s Amalfi Coast often steal the spotlight.
LOKRUM ISLAND, CROATIA
Lokrum, a fifteen-minute boat ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Port, is a secluded retreat, far from the often crowded streets of the famous Croatian city.
Protected by UNESCO as a special forest vegetation reserve, you will find more pine and peacocks living in the wild on the island than inhabitants.
BURNHAM OVERSTAITHE, ENGLAND
To experience Norfolk’s vast blue skies in all their glory, head to the hidden oasis of Burnham Overy Staithe Beach on Norfolk’s north coast.
Although its isolation requires a walk of almost two kilometers through the English countryside to reach the coast, the breathtaking views of the yellow-gold sand and rocky pools will quickly make you forget the final climbing of the dunes.
With the exception of a seawater pool left by the ebbing tide, the beach itself is completely flat, with nothing but grains of sand as far as the eye can see.
MIRROR BEACH, ALBANIA
Traveling along the southern Albanian coast, you’re bound to find secluded pockets of white sand and crystal-clear waters, but Miroir Beach is arguably the best. Named after how sunlight reflects off the sea, this untouched coastal area remains so secret that you’ll be hard-pressed to find many people there, even during the summer months.
In front of you will be a combination of soft white sand and pebbles, which will guide you to the clean and dazzling waters of the Adriatic Sea.
The nearest village, Ksamil, is about six kilometers away, and there is a small parking lot near the beach entrance. Although you have to rent a parasol to secure a place, private, intimate, and uncrowded places are worth it.
RIVA BIANCA, ITALY
Known only to residents of the medieval town of Lierna, on the eastern shore of Lake Como in northern Italy, this lakeside hideout is mostly frequented by local families.
Leaning against the lush, vegetation-covered mountains that surround Lake Como, Riva Bianca has about a kilometer of shoreline, but don’t be discouraged.
Overlooked by Lierna Castle, a former defensive castle, Riva Bianca is an incredibly picturesque place, while Lierna’s excellent pizza and gelato restaurants are perfect for a typical Italian meal.
You’ll need water shoes because of the little white pebbles that give the beach its name, but it’s worth it because you’ll be able to dive in clean, calm waters.
VELEKA BEACH, BULGARIA
Against the backdrop of the Strandja Mountains, just ten kilometers from the Turkish border, Veleka is named after the river that flows into the Black Sea.
The beach usually stretches for just under a kilometer, providing ample space for sunbathing by the river or sea. Its width depends on the river and the volume of water flowing from the mountains.
Mala Beach, France
Amidst the glitter and glamor of Nice, Monaco and Saint-Tropez lies Mala Beach. This beach is a small corner of land nestled in a cove.
It’s the ultimate secret, hidden in the imposing cliffs of the French Riviera. With its white sand and transparent blue waters, this crescent-shaped bay features the same beauty as the most popular beaches on the French Riviera, but on a more modest scale.
Access to the beach is limited, but it can be reached either by the coastal path which runs along the coast of Cap d’Ail, or by the 100 steps of Allée Mala, located near Cap d’Ail station.
With its turquoise water and steep cliffs, Mala Beach is perfect for those who want to try cliff juming (cliff jumping). However, pay attention to the secure swimming area, reserved for those who prefer to save their energy for the long climb up the cliff.
Mark.