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

From the azure waters of the Adriatic to the rugged shores of the Atlantic, and the ancient landscapes of the Baltic to the volcanic beauty of the Mediterranean, intrepid travellers are continually uncovering hidden gems that offer unique escapes from the everyday. This collection of reader-recommended island getaways showcases a diverse tapestry of experiences, from wildlife encounters and ancient history to serene beaches and charming car-free villages, all promising unforgettable adventures.

A Glimpse of Untamed Beauty: Croatia’s Cres Island

High above the shimmering expanse of the Kvarner Gulf, where the Adriatic Sea meets the dramatic Croatian coastline, Rhiannon experienced a truly majestic spectacle: giant griffon vultures, their immense wingspans catching the thermals, gliding effortlessly alongside her bus as it ascended the highest reaches of Cres. This particular island, the least populated of the four main islands in the Kvarner Gulf, is a testament to untamed European beauty, offering a stark and welcome contrast to the more bustling tourist hubs.

Cres is a rugged paradise, cloaked in aromatic scrubby heath, ancient olive groves, and fragrant lavender fields. Its wildness is its undeniable allure, a quality cherished by those who seek an authentic connection with nature. While some coastal towns, like the eponymous Cres town, are subtly equipped to welcome holidaymakers, many villages retain a timeless charm, where local life unfolds much as it has for centuries, echoing the rhythms established during the Venetian rule that shaped much of the Adriatic’s cultural heritage. The island’s connection to the Venetian Republic, which lasted for centuries, left an indelible mark on its architecture, dialect, and traditions, contributing to its distinct character. The local economy, historically rooted in sheep farming and olive cultivation, now gently embraces sustainable tourism, allowing visitors to experience its genuine charm without disrupting its delicate ecosystem.

The griffon vultures (Gyps fulvus) themselves are a symbol of Cres’s ecological importance. The island is home to one of Europe’s last remaining colonies of these magnificent birds, a species facing significant conservation challenges across the continent. The Beli Visitor Centre and Rescue Centre for Griffon Vultures, a vital institution mentioned in Rhiannon’s tip, plays a crucial role in protecting these endangered scavengers. Visitors can learn about their biology, the threats they face, and the ongoing efforts to ensure their survival, making a sighting not just picturesque but also a poignant reminder of nature’s resilience.

Beyond the majestic birds and wild landscapes, Cres is, like much of Croatia, renowned for its dazzling turquoise and crystal-clear seas. These pristine waters are ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and diving, revealing vibrant marine life and ancient underwater landscapes. The tranquil coves and hidden beaches, often accessible only by boat or foot, invite visitors to immerse themselves in the refreshing embrace of the Adriatic, making every dip an invigorating experience. Cres offers an escape into a slower, wilder pace of life, where ancient traditions meet breathtaking natural beauty, leaving a lasting impression of raw, unspoiled allure.

Wild Atlantic Swims: Ireland’s Valentia Island

Journeying westward across the emerald isle, Ellie and her sister discovered a tranquil haven off Ireland’s renowned south-west coast: Valentia Island. This hidden gem, subtly detached from the more trodden path of the famous Ring of Kerry, offers a profound sense of peace and spectacular natural beauty. While the Ring of Kerry draws millions with its dramatic coastal vistas, Valentia provides a more intimate and less crowded experience, making it a favourite among those seeking a genuine escape.

Valentia Island is accessible via a bridge from the south at Portmagee and a charming car ferry from Knightstown to Cahersiveen in the north, adding to its sense of secluded discovery. Historically significant, Valentia played a pivotal role in global communication as the eastern terminus of the first commercially viable transatlantic telegraph cable in 1866, connecting Europe to North America and revolutionising communication. Today, remnants of this pioneering past can still be explored, adding a layer of historical intrigue to its natural wonders.

Ellie’s top recommendation, Glanleam Beach, is a truly idyllic and secluded cove, famed not only for its pristine sands but also for the unique microclimate created by the Gulf Stream. This allows for an astonishing array of subtropical vegetation to flourish in the Glanleam House Gardens, creating a verdant, almost otherworldly backdrop to the beach. From this serene vantage point, swimmers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic mountains of the Dingle Peninsula, rising dramatically across the Atlantic.

Taking a dip in the invigorating Atlantic waters off Glanleam is an experience that awakens the senses. The water, though cool, is renowned for its clarity and the vibrant marine life it supports. Wild swimming in these waters is not just an activity but a communion with nature, a refreshing plunge that leaves a lasting impression. The sheer beauty and restorative power of the location are so compelling that, as Ellie noted, many visitors find themselves drawn back day after day, eager to repeat the experience. Valentia Island, with its rich history, unique flora, and stunning coastal scenery, truly embodies the rugged, captivating spirit of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

Stepping Back in Time: Karpathos, Greece

Nestled between the more celebrated Dodecanese islands of Rhodes and Crete, Karpathos remains a captivating secret, gracefully slipping under the radar of mass tourism. Stephen and Luca eloquently describe an island where the rhythmic clang of goat bells replaces the roar of crowds, where fragrant wildflowers carpet twisting mountain roads, and where ancient traditions are not museum pieces but living, breathing aspects of daily life. This is Greece as it once was, raw, authentic, and utterly enchanting.

Karpathos’s unique appeal lies in its rugged, unspoiled landscape and its deeply preserved cultural identity. The island’s challenging terrain and relative isolation for centuries fostered a strong sense of self-sufficiency and distinct customs. Nowhere is this more evident than in the remote mountain village of Olympos, a true living museum. Perched dramatically on a ridge, Olympos feels genuinely frozen in time. Here, the older women still proudly wear their intricate traditional dresses, their colourful attire a daily spectacle. The air often carries the scent of freshly made makarounes, a local pasta, drying in the open air, a testament to the village’s enduring culinary heritage. This cultural preservation is a direct result of Olympos’s historical inaccessibility, which protected it from external influences, allowing its unique dialect, music, and customs to thrive.

The island’s natural beauty is equally breathtaking. Apella and Achata, consistently ranked among Europe’s finest beaches, exemplify Karpathos’s pristine coastline. Their shores are lapped by an almost impossibly turquoise sea, framed by the dramatic backdrop of unspoiled, pine-covered mountainsides that plunge directly into the water. These beaches offer a serene escape, where the only sounds are the gentle lapping of waves and the whisper of the wind through the pines. The geological formation of the island, with its steep cliffs and deep coves, contributes to the dramatic scenery and the secluded nature of its many beautiful bays.

For accommodation, Hotel Lefkorama, as recommended, provides not just comfort but also a spectacular valley-to-sea view, allowing guests to wake to the breathtaking panorama of the Aegean. Breakfast is a feast for the senses, typically featuring an array of local produce: fresh fruit, homemade jams, creamy Greek yoghurt, and warm, freshly baked bread, embodying the generous spirit of Karpathian hospitality. The day culminates in true Greek style at one of the family-run tavernas, where simple, delicious food, often featuring freshly caught seafood, is paired with local wine as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the Aegean in fiery hues. Karpathos offers an unparalleled journey into the heart of authentic Greece, a place where time slows, and the soul finds solace in beauty and tradition.

Brittany’s Car-Free Oasis: Île de Sein

Off the wild, dramatic coast of Brittany, France, lies a truly unique outpost that promises an escape into a simpler, car-free world: the Île de Sein. Miles’s journey to this special island begins with an "exciting 60-minute ferry crossing" from Audierne, a voyage that is itself an integral part of the adventure. The route passes the formidable Pointe du Raz, a notorious headland where powerful currents off the Breton coast create spectacular, often bewildering, wave formations. These strong tidal races, a result of the meeting of Atlantic waters, are so distinctive that they can carry seabirds in opposing directions just feet apart, a fascinating display of nature’s raw power and a testament to the island’s remote, elemental setting.

Upon arrival, visitors step onto the Île de Sein, an island that defies convention, rising mostly only 1.5 metres above sea level. This remarkably low elevation makes it particularly vulnerable to the forces of the sea and serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of coastal ecosystems and the potential impacts of climate change. The island’s most defining characteristic is its complete lack of cars, immediately transforming the pace of life. Here, the primary modes of transport are walking or cycling, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in its tranquil atmosphere. The entire island is compact enough to be circumnavigated on foot in just a couple of hours, encouraging exploration and appreciation of its every detail.

The beaches of Île de Sein are distinctive, rich with cowrie shells and adorned with unique coastal plants that form natural carpets over the pebbles, adapted to the salty, windswept conditions. The island also boasts a rich history, particularly its significant role during World War II when almost its entire male population sailed to England to join General de Gaulle’s Free French Forces, earning it the Croix de la Libération. An impressive lighthouse, vital for navigation in these treacherous waters, stands as a beacon of maritime heritage.

A handful of stylish cafes provide welcoming havens, offering local fare and a chance to relax. Miles particularly enjoyed crepes at Chez Bruno, a quintessential Breton experience, highlighting the island’s simple yet satisfying culinary offerings. The desire to stay overnight, as expressed by Miles, is a common sentiment among visitors. Remaining after the day-trippers depart allows for a deeper connection with the island’s serene evening ambiance, experiencing the true rhythm of this resilient, car-free community and its profound sense of place.

Volcanic Charms and Ancient Echoes: Lipari, Italy

Perched jauntily off the north-east coast of Sicily, Lipari pulsates with an energy that April attributes to its fiery volcanic origins. As the largest of the Aeolian Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its outstanding geological significance and natural beauty, Lipari offers a captivating blend of dramatic landscapes, ancient history, and vibrant Italian life. Its volcanic soil lends a unique character to its produce and contributes to the distinct feel of the island.

Lipari town, the island’s bustling hub, elegantly hugs the water’s edge, creating a picturesque waterfront. It is dramatically dominated, in a style reminiscent of a "Game of Thrones" setting, by a brooding, ancient castle complex. This acropolis, built on a volcanic promontory, has been continuously inhabited for thousands of years, bearing witness to successive civilizations – from Neolithic settlements to Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Norman rulers. Within its formidable walls, the majestic cathedral, dedicated to St. Bartholomew, showcases architectural layers from various periods, while the Luigi Bernabò Brea Archaeological Museum is an absolute must-visit. It houses an extraordinary collection of artefacts, including ancient statues and pottery, providing a profound insight into the island’s rich history, from prehistoric times through Greek and Roman periods, making it one of the most important archaeological museums in the Mediterranean.

Evenings on Lipari come alive with the traditional Italian passeggiata, a leisurely stroll that families and friends take to socialise and see and be seen. April and her family relished this ritual, adding a touch of authentic local flavour to their holiday. The island’s creative spirit extends to its cocktails, with local bars offering inventive, island-themed concoctions, such as the "worryingly named Volcano," a nod to the island’s geological heritage. Gelato, a staple of Italian life, provides a cooler, equally delicious indulgence. The Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, the main street, is a vibrant artery lined with inviting restaurants, leading down to the exquisitely picturesque port of Marina Corta, where colourful fishing boats bob gently in the harbour.

For aquatic adventures, the nearby beaches of Papesca and Porticello offer a truly magical swimming experience. Here, the unique rocky white seabed, composed of pumice stone from ancient eruptions, combines with the exceptionally clear waters to create a shimmering, ethereal sea. This captivating optical effect enticed April’s family to spend "hour after hour" immersed in its inviting depths, a testament to the irresistible allure of Lipari’s pristine coastline.

A Serene Retreat: Lanzarote’s Quiet Neighbour, La Graciosa

Just a short ferry ride from the bustling shores of Lanzarote, lies La Graciosa, the smallest inhabited island of the Canary Archipelago, yet a world apart. Susanna describes it as a wonderfully peaceful haven, especially for those who choose to stay overnight, allowing them to experience its unique tranquility after the day-trippers have departed. This tiny volcanic island, part of the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park – Europe’s largest marine reserve – offers an unparalleled escape from the more developed Canary Islands, preserving a distinct sense of unspoiled nature and traditional life.

La Graciosa feels genuinely different, with its sandy, largely traffic-free streets in the main village of Caleta de Sebo. The absence of paved roads and the charming, whitewashed houses create an atmosphere of timelessness and simplicity. This car-free policy is central to the island’s conservation efforts and its commitment to sustainable tourism, ensuring that its delicate ecosystem remains protected. The village itself, with its small harbour and handful of local eateries, exudes a quiet charm, inviting visitors to slow down and embrace the island’s gentle pace.

The island offers a wealth of activities for those seeking an active yet serene getaway. Visitors can swim or snorkel in the incredibly clear turquoise waters, teeming with diverse marine life, a direct benefit of its protected marine reserve status. The volcanic landscape invites exploration on foot or by bicycle along its numerous dirt tracks, leading to secluded beaches and panoramic viewpoints. These trails wind through dramatic volcanic peaks and golden sand dunes, offering breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic and the neighbouring islands.

For culinary delights, fresh fish is a highlight, caught daily by local fishermen and served in the village’s restaurants, providing an authentic taste of the ocean. Boat trips around the coast offer another perspective of La Graciosa’s rugged beauty, revealing hidden coves and the dramatic coastline of the Chinijo Archipelago. By evening, as the last ferry departs for Lanzarote, La Graciosa transforms into a sanctuary of peace. The starry skies, untainted by light pollution, become a breathtaking spectacle, and the island truly feels "a world away from the busy resorts of Lanzarote," embodying precisely "what an island escape should be" – a tranquil retreat where nature reigns supreme and the spirit can truly unwind.

Joyful Encounters: Puffin-Watching in Pembrokeshire, Wales

For an absolute favourite island trip that guarantees an uplifting experience, Rosie points to the incomparable joy of seeing the puffins off the coast of Skomer in Pembrokeshire, Wales. This island, a designated National Nature Reserve, is a jewel in the crown of Welsh wildlife, renowned as one of the most important seabird breeding sites in the UK.

The journey to Skomer begins at an unassuming pier, boarding a boat that might not immediately suggest the extraordinary spectacle awaiting. However, as Rosie rightly implies, any initial doubts quickly dissipate upon encountering the island’s charismatic residents. The famous quote by Dr. Samuel Johnson, "When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life," finds a delightful amendment here: "a man who is tired of watching puffins is tired of life." This sentiment perfectly captures the infectious charm of these "clowns of the sea."

Skomer is home to an estimated 22,000 puffins during their breeding season (typically April to July), making it one of the largest colonies in southern Britain. These endearing birds, with their vibrant, colourful beaks and comical waddling gait, are remarkably unafraid of human presence, allowing for incredibly close and intimate viewing opportunities. Visitors can observe them diligently tending their burrows, bringing back mouthfuls of sand eels for their chicks, or simply preening on the cliff edges. Beyond puffins, Skomer also hosts significant populations of Manx shearwaters (the largest colony in the world), razorbills, guillemots, and various other seabirds, making it a birder’s paradise.

The Welsh Wildlife Trust manages Skomer, ensuring minimal human impact and prioritizing the welfare of its wildlife. Visitor numbers are carefully controlled, and access is seasonal, typically from April 1st to October 31st, to protect the delicate ecosystem. A few hours spent on this windswept Welsh coastline, observing potentially the world’s most joyful bird, truly possesses the power to "cure many an ill." The sheer delight of witnessing these resilient creatures in their natural habitat, against the stunning backdrop of Pembrokeshire’s rugged cliffs and the vast expanse of the Celtic Sea, offers a profound connection to nature and an unforgettable, heartwarming experience that rejuvenates the soul.

Baltic Charms: Medieval Walls and Ancient Fossils on Gotland, Sweden

Venturing into the heart of the Baltic Sea, Gaynor unveils Gotland, a magical Swedish island that seamlessly blends medieval history with ancient geological wonders. Accessible via a scenic three-hour ferry journey from Nynäshamn, south of Stockholm, Gotland is Sweden’s largest island and a destination rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty. Its strategic location in the Baltic has given it a long and complex history, marked by Viking settlements, Hanseatic League dominance, and various conflicts, all contributing to its unique character.

The island’s main town, Visby, is nothing short of a perfectly preserved medieval dream. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is often referred to as the "city of roses and ruins," encircled by an impressive, almost intact, 13th-century city wall (Visby Ringmur) that stretches over 3.4 kilometres, punctuated by towers and gates. Within these ancient fortifications, cobbled streets wind past charming houses, picturesque gardens, and the evocative ruins of numerous churches, transporting visitors back to the Hanseatic era. The town’s commitment to preservation extends to traffic management, with restricted car access, enhancing its pedestrian-friendly, timeless atmosphere.

Beyond Visby, Gotland offers further exploration. A bus and short ferry ride lead to the smaller, equally captivating island of Fårö. This windswept outpost, famously associated with legendary filmmaker Ingmar Bergman, is renowned for its dramatic coastal formations known as rauks. These massive limestone sea stacks, sculpted over millennia by erosion, rise majestically from the sea and along the shore, creating a surreal, otherworldly landscape. Cycling around Fårö is a popular way to experience its unique beauty and discover hidden coves and beaches.

Gotland is also a fantastic destination for fossil hunting, a direct consequence of its extraordinary geological history. The entire island was once a coral reef during the Silurian period, approximately 430 million years ago. This ancient past has left behind a rich abundance of marine fossils – corals, crinoids, brachiopods, and trilobites – which can be found in the exposed limestone bedrock and along its beaches. This unique combination of medieval splendour and deep geological history makes Gotland a truly captivating destination, where every step reveals a story spanning millions of years.

Cosmic Drama on a Budget: Meteorite Craters of Saaremaa, Estonia

Deep within the Baltic Sea, the Estonian island of Saaremaa offers a truly unique and budget-friendly encounter with cosmic history. Elina’s tip highlights the island’s most dramatic natural feature: the Kaali meteorite craters. These nine craters, clustered together, bear witness to a powerful celestial event that occurred approximately 3,500 years ago, when a meteorite fragmented upon entering the Earth’s atmosphere and impacted the island. The largest crater, Kaalijärv, now holds a beautiful, circular lake, reflecting the sky and surrounded by ancient trees.

The Kaali craters are not merely geological curiosities; they are steeped in history and folklore. Scientific evidence suggests that the impact event was catastrophic for the early human settlements on Saaremaa, causing widespread devastation. Over time, however, the site evolved into a significant cult location. Archaeological finds, including animal bones and offerings, indicate that the craters were used for ancient rituals and sacrifices, particularly during the Iron Age. This deep historical and cultural resonance has led to theories linking the Kaali impact to ancient Finnic tales and myths, such as those found in the Estonian national epic, "Kalevipoeg," which speak of the sun or a celestial body falling from the sky and causing great fire. This connection imbues the craters with a mystical, almost sacred aura, inviting visitors to ponder the intersection of science, myth, and human experience.

The Kaali Meteoritics Museum, a small but informative establishment located near the main crater, offers a deeper understanding of the impact event, the meteorites themselves, and the subsequent archaeological discoveries. With an entry fee of just €2 (approximately £1.70), it provides an accessible and engaging educational experience. Saaremaa itself, Estonia’s largest island, is known for its distinctive rural charm, traditional windmills, juniper fields, and a slower pace of life, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both natural beauty and cultural immersion. The Kaali craters offer a chance to witness "cosmic drama on a very Estonian budget," providing a powerful, thought-provoking experience that is both historically rich and incredibly affordable, a true testament to the wonders that can be found off the beaten path.

From the majestic flight of griffon vultures over Croatia’s wild Cres to the ancient, star-scarred landscapes of Estonia’s Saaremaa, these reader tips illuminate the boundless diversity of island escapes across Europe. Each destination, unique in its character and charm, offers a profound connection to nature, history, and local culture. These personal recommendations underscore the invaluable insights that come from genuine travel experiences, reminding us that the most memorable journeys often lie just beyond the well-trodden path, waiting to be discovered and cherished.