Winning tip: a bird’s-eye view of wild Croatia

From the rugged coasts of Croatia to the mystical shores of Ireland, the ancient landscapes of Greece to the volcanic wonders of Italy and the Baltic’s hidden gems, Europe boasts an array of islands that promise an escape from the ordinary. These destinations, often overlooked by mass tourism, offer unique blends of natural beauty, rich history, and authentic local experiences, as highlighted by a collection of recent reader recommendations. Each island, with its distinctive charm, invites travelers to delve deeper, providing a fresh perspective on the continent’s diverse allure.

Our winning tip transports us to the wild heart of the Kvarner Gulf, where the majestic flight of giant griffon vultures offers a breathtaking welcome to Cres, one of Croatia’s most enchanting and least populated islands. As reader Rhiannon recounts, these magnificent birds glided in parallel with her bus as it ascended to the island’s highest peaks, providing a truly "bird’s-eye view" of its untamed beauty. Cres, nestled in the northern Adriatic, is characterized by its scrubby heathlands, ancient olive groves, and fragrant lavender fields, a testament to its commitment to preserving its natural wilderness.

Unlike its more bustling neighbours, Cres maintains a serene atmosphere. Its coastal towns and villages, such as Cres town itself, are subtly integrated into the landscape, catering to holidaymakers without sacrificing their authentic character. Here, local life unfolds much as it has for centuries, a quiet rhythm largely undisturbed since the era of Venetian rule, which left an indelible mark on the island’s architecture and customs. The island’s wildness is its paramount appeal, offering a tranquil retreat for those seeking solace in nature. The surrounding waters, famously turquoise and crystal-clear, invite swimming, snorkeling, and diving, revealing a vibrant marine ecosystem that thrives in the unspoiled Adriatic. Conservation efforts for the griffon vultures, often centered around institutions like the Beli Visitor Centre, underscore the island’s dedication to protecting its unique biodiversity, making Cres not just a scenic destination but also a vital ecological sanctuary. Its relatively low population density, compared to islands like Krk or Lošinj, ensures a sense of peaceful discovery, appealing to hikers, nature enthusiasts, and those yearning for a genuine Croatian experience away from the crowds.

Moving west to the emerald isle, a summer road trip along the south-west coast of Ireland led to the discovery of Valentia Island, a captivating landmass that serves as a tranquil counterpoint to the more heavily trafficked Ring of Kerry. Reader Ellie and her sister found their favourite retreat here, a place so enchanting they yearned to return daily. Accessible by a bridge from the south and a charming ferry crossing from the north, Valentia offers a distinct Irish island experience.

The island’s allure is encapsulated by Glanleam beach, an idyllic and secluded cove nestled amidst a riot of rich, subtropical vegetation. This lushness, surprising for Ireland, is largely thanks to the warming influence of the Gulf Stream, which fosters a microclimate supporting exotic plant life in the Glanleam House gardens. From its shores, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the majestic mountains of the Dingle Peninsula across the Atlantic. Taking a dip in the cool, invigorating Atlantic waters here is an experience that lingers, promising a refreshing communion with nature. Beyond its natural beauty, Valentia Island holds significant historical weight. It was the eastern terminus of the first commercially viable transatlantic telegraph cable, a monumental feat of 19th-century engineering that connected Europe to North America and revolutionized global communication. Visitors can explore the remnants of this pioneering venture at the cable station and museum. Additionally, the island boasts the impressive Valentia Slate Quarry, a geological marvel, and the stunning views from Geokaun Mountain and Fogher Cliffs. Its quieter pace provides a welcome contrast to the bustling tourist trails, making it ideal for those seeking a blend of natural splendor, fascinating history, and peaceful exploration.

Across the Aegean, between the bustling islands of Rhodes and Crete, lies Karpathos, a Greek gem that, as Stephen and Luca discovered, "slips under the radar," offering an authentic, untouristed experience. This Dodecanese island is a haven of wild beauty, where goats roam freely among fragrant wildflowers and winding mountain roads cling dramatically to the cliffs.

The island’s crown jewel is arguably the remote village of Olympos, a place where time seems to have stood still. Here, older women still don traditional dress, their vibrant costumes a living link to the island’s past, as they dry handmade makarounes (a local pasta variety) in the open air. Olympos, perched high in the mountains, maintains a distinct dialect and customs, believed to be preserved due to its historical isolation. Its unique architecture, with brightly painted houses and intricate wooden balconies, is a sight to behold. Karpathos also boasts some of Europe’s most exquisite beaches, including Apella and Achata, praised for their pristine turquoise waters and unspoiled pine-covered mountainsides that descend right to the shore. These aren’t just beautiful; they offer a profound sense of tranquility. For accommodation, Hotel Lefkorama comes highly recommended, offering spectacular valley-to-sea views that perfectly complement a breakfast feast of local fruits, homemade jams, creamy Greek yogurt, and freshly baked bread. Evenings are best spent at a family-run taverna, savoring authentic Karpathian dishes like makarounes with sitzima (fried onions) or fresh fish, accompanied by local wine, as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the Aegean in fiery hues. Karpathos is a destination for those who seek to immerse themselves in genuine Greek culture, rugged landscapes, and serene beaches, far from the typical package holiday crowds.

Venturing to the rugged coast of Brittany, France, the Île de Sein offers a unique, car-free outpost that captured reader Miles’s imagination. The journey itself is an adventure, a 60-minute ferry crossing from Audierne that navigates the infamous Pointe du Raz. Here, powerful currents off the Breton coast create mesmerizing wave formations, a spectacle that carries "bemused seabirds in opposite directions even when they are only feet apart." This dramatic maritime gateway sets the tone for an island visit that is both wild and wonderfully serene.

Upon arrival, visitors step onto an island that is mostly a mere 1.5 metres above sea level, making it a truly unique and somewhat vulnerable ecosystem. The absence of cars is a defining feature, ensuring a profound sense of peace and making the entire island walkable within a couple of hours. This commitment to slow travel allows visitors to truly appreciate its delicate beauty, from the "cowrie shell-rich beaches" to the fascinating coastal plants that form vibrant carpets over smooth pebbles. The Île de Sein boasts a rich maritime history, steeped in tales of sailors and shipwrecks, and played a significant role in World War II, when many of its male inhabitants bravely joined General de Gaulle’s Free French Forces. The impressive Phare de Sein, its lighthouse, stands as a beacon of this heritage. Visitors can enjoy local hospitality at stylish cafes, such as the recommended Chez Bruno, where delicious crêpes offer a taste of Breton tradition. The tranquil atmosphere, combined with the island’s unique character, often leaves visitors, like Miles, wishing they had booked an overnight stay to fully absorb its quiet charm and perhaps witness a spectacular starlit sky untainted by light pollution.

Further south, off the north-east coast of Sicily, lies Lipari, the largest and most vibrant of the Aeolian Islands, a volcanic archipelago buzzing with an energy that April and her family found captivating. Its fiery origins are evident in the landscape and the very air of the island, shaping its geology and even its local produce.

Lipari town gracefully hugs the water’s edge, dramatically dominated by a brooding castle that evokes images of "Game of Thrones." This Norman-built fortress, perched high above the town, encapsulates centuries of history, from ancient Greek settlements to Roman, Byzantine, and Spanish rule. Within its walls, the impressive cathedral and the Luigi Bernabò Brea Archaeological Museum offer a fascinating journey through time, housing ancient statues, pottery, and artifacts that tell the story of the Aeolian Islands’ rich past. Evenings on Lipari come alive with the traditional Italian passeggiata, a leisurely stroll where locals and tourists alike promenade along the Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. This vibrant thoroughfare is lined with inviting restaurants, bustling shops, and lively bars leading down to the picturesque port of Marina Corta. Here, one can sip creatively named, island-themed cocktails – like the "Volcano" – or indulge in delectable gelatos, a quintessential Italian treat. The island’s volcanic geology is also responsible for its unique beaches, such as Papesca and Porticello. Their rocky white seabed, composed of pumice stone, creates a "magical shimmering sea" of unparalleled clarity, enticing swimmers for hours. Beyond the main town, boat tours offer opportunities to explore hidden coves, sea caves, and the dramatic coastlines of the other Aeolian islands, each with its distinct character, making Lipari a perfect base for island-hopping adventures and a deep dive into Mediterranean charm.

Venturing to the Atlantic, the Canary Islands offer a stark contrast, and among them, La Graciosa stands as Lanzarote’s "quiet, tiny neighbour," as discovered by Susanna. Most visitors arrive from Lanzarote for a day trip, but those who choose to stay overnight unlock a wonderfully peaceful experience. This diminutive volcanic island feels distinctly different from its more developed Canary counterparts, offering an escape into a world of sandy, largely traffic-free streets in its main village, Caleta de Sebo.

La Graciosa is part of the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park, Europe’s largest marine reserve, underscoring its commitment to environmental preservation. Its car-free policy is a cornerstone of its sustainable tourism model, allowing nature to flourish and visitors to explore at a leisurely pace, whether on foot or by bicycle. The island’s landscapes are a stunning tableau of volcanic peaks, pristine sand dunes, and golden beaches, offering a stark yet beautiful contrast to the deep blue Atlantic. Visitors can swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, exploring the rich marine life protected by the reserve. Hiking and cycling trails wind through the dramatic volcanic terrain, leading to breathtaking viewpoints like Montana Amarilla, a volcano with a vibrant yellow-hued crater. Caleta de Sebo, with its charming white-washed houses and sandy pathways, offers a relaxed atmosphere where the day revolves around the rhythms of the sea. Freshly caught fish is a culinary highlight, served simply in the village’s welcoming eateries. Taking a boat tour around the island’s coast reveals hidden beaches and secluded coves, or one can simply find a quiet stretch of sand and immerse oneself in the tranquility. By evening, as the day-trippers depart, La Graciosa truly transforms into a world away from the busy resorts of Lanzarote, embodying the essence of an untouched island escape.

Returning to the UK, the Pembrokeshire coast in Wales harbours a truly joyful spectacle on Skomer Island, an experience that reader Rosie found capable of "cur[ing] many an ill." This small, protected island is an absolute favourite for nature lovers, particularly for its vibrant puffin population.

The journey to Skomer begins at an unassuming pier, boarding a boat that might not immediately hint at the wonders to come. However, as Rosie aptly modifies Dr. Samuel Johnson’s famous quote, "a man who is tired of watching puffins is tired of life." Skomer Island is a designated National Nature Reserve and Special Protection Area, globally recognized for its immense seabird colonies. From April to July, it becomes home to over 350,000 breeding seabirds, including the largest colony of Manx shearwaters in the world, along with guillemots, razorbills, and, of course, the charming Atlantic puffins. These charismatic birds, with their brightly coloured beaks and comical waddle, are the undeniable stars of the island. Visitors can get remarkably close to them as they go about their nesting routines, collecting sand eels for their chicks, or simply preening on the cliff edges. The island’s well-maintained paths allow for intimate observation without disturbance, and the limited number of daily visitors ensures a peaceful and immersive experience. Beyond the puffins, Skomer’s rugged cliffs, diverse flora, and panoramic sea views offer a stunning backdrop for walks. The sheer abundance of life and the untamed beauty of the Welsh coastline combine to create an unforgettable few hours, providing a restorative balm for the soul and a vivid reminder of the natural world’s enduring charm.

Journeying to the Baltic Sea, Gotland, a magical island off the coast of Sweden, offers a journey back in time, as Gaynor beautifully describes. Accessible via a scenic three-hour ferry ride from Nynäshamn, south of Stockholm, the island promises an escape into a world where history and nature intertwine.

The main town, Visby, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a perfectly preserved medieval dream. Its iconic wraparound city walls, dating back to the 13th century, are among the best-preserved in Europe, enclosing a labyrinth of cobbled streets, ancient churches, and charming Hanseatic merchant houses. With limited car traffic within the old town, exploring Visby on foot feels like stepping into a living museum, especially during its famous annual Medieval Week. Beyond Visby, the island’s unique geology is a major draw. Visitors can take a bus and then a short ferry to the nearby island of Fårö, a distinctive landscape known for its "rauks." These massive limestone sea stacks, sculpted by centuries of wind and waves, stand sentinel along the coastline, creating a surreal and almost alien beauty. Hiring bikes on Fårö allows for an intimate exploration of these geological wonders, as well as the island’s quiet beaches and fishing villages. Gotland is also renowned as a "fantastic place for fossil hunting," due to its geological history. The entire island was once a coral reef during the Silurian period, some 400 million years ago, making it a treasure trove for finding ancient marine fossils embedded in its limestone bedrock. This blend of rich medieval history, unique geological formations, and serene natural beauty makes Gotland a truly captivating destination for curious travelers.

Finally, in the eastern Baltic, the Estonian island of Saaremaa offers a dose of cosmic drama on a budget, inviting visitors to "walk around meteorite craters," as detailed by Elina. As Estonia’s largest island, Saaremaa possesses a distinct cultural identity and a landscape shaped by ancient forces.

The island is home to the Kaali meteorite craters, a cluster of nine impact craters formed approximately 3,500 years ago when a meteorite fragmented and crashed into the island. The main crater, now a serene lake, measures about 110 meters in diameter and is surrounded by a 22-meter-high rim. This site is not just a geological marvel; it was also a significant cult site for ancient communities, with archaeological finds suggesting animal offerings were made there. Local folklore and old Finnic tales are often linked to the event, describing the "sun falling from the sky," reflecting the profound impact this celestial phenomenon had on early inhabitants. The tiny Kaali Meteoritics Museum, with an entry fee of just €2 (£1.70), offers insights into the impact event and the meteorites themselves, providing context to the dramatic landscape. Beyond the craters, Saaremaa boasts a rich history evident in its medieval Kuressaare Castle, charming windmills, and picturesque coastline. It’s a place where natural wonders meet ancient myths and history, all available to explore on a very accessible "Estonian budget," offering a truly unique and enriching travel experience far from the beaten path.

These reader-recommended islands, from the majestic vultures of Croatia’s Cres to the cosmic craters of Estonia’s Saaremaa, underscore the diverse and often surprising beauty that Europe’s lesser-known islands hold. They offer not just destinations, but experiences that connect travelers to wild nature, ancient histories, and vibrant local cultures, proving that the most memorable journeys often lead to the road less traveled.