Alternative to popular destinations: 17 islands in Europe worth visiting

Most likely, you've heard about Ibiza, Corsica and Santorini. These islands know everything, but have you heard about Formentera, Juist and Saaremaa? These islands, which tourists usually do not pay attention to, are mandatory for those people who believe that they have already been in all tourist places in Europe. Even if you were not in all the major cities of Europe, you still need to deviate from the main tourist routes to visit these islands. Here you can enjoy peace, silence and charm, as well as wildlife that continental Europe simply will not be able to offer. So get ready for the trip, and do not forget the camera, since you will have something to photograph.

Juist, Germany

Among the East Frisian Islands, located in the Wadden Sea in Germany, there are seven inhabited, and the Juist is one of them. Almost all of it is one big beach, therefore it was nicknamed Töwerland, which translates as "magic land." Although the Wadden Sea may seem cool to you, you can do something else, for example, hiking along the seashore at high tide or thalassotherapy at the local spas.

Formentera, Spain

If Ibiza is called the elder brother, who arranges the most incredible parties, then a quiet and balanced younger sister will be Formentera. Although you can get from one island to another just half an hour by ferry, they have a completely different atmosphere. If you want to be on pristine Spanish beaches alone, go to this island. Explore the local untouched nature, go on a water cruise in turquoise waters or swim to another nearby island, Esplamador, where you can swim in rejuvenating sulfur mud.

Sardinia, Italy

Located near Corsica Sardinia combines the best of Italian cuisine and culture with an island paradise. You can walk alongside the ancient remains of the sunken ships of the Romans, stroll to no less ancient lighthouses, and swim in the ocean. When you're done with this program, try the freshest seafood in one of the coastal restaurants and drink them down with the legendary Limoncello alcoholic drink.

Colonsay, Scotland

If you are looking for tranquility and loneliness, the island of Colonsay can be an ideal option for you. In length it is only 12 kilometers, and in width - 4 kilometers, and here wild nature reigns unchallenged. Listen to the sound of the surf, stroll through the hills - and you will forget about the modern noisy world.

Saaremaa, Estonia

Saaremaa is the largest island in Estonia, which takes visitors back in time, at a time when pirates and Vikings considered this island their hometown. They can easily be imagined, since cottages with thatched roofs and small villages seem to literally open a window to ancient times from the pages of a fairy book. You should also visit the beach, as the climate in Estonia is ideal for a comfortable swim in the middle of summer.

Hydra, Greece

Although you can easily get to this island (it can be seen on the main photo of the article) from Athens, there is a feeling that the hydra is in a completely different world. On this island, the use of cars and bicycles is forbidden, and the luggage of tourists on paved roads is carried by donkeys. Here you will find both sandy beaches with a variety of bars and restaurants, as well as prestigious shops and numerous museums.

Mljet, Croatia

Mljet, where a little more than a thousand people live, is a place of peace and tranquility. Almost 90 percent of the island's territory is covered with forest, and an extensive national park will offer you many options for hiking. The only hotel is named Odyssey Homer, who stayed here for seven years.

Graciosa, Canary Islands

The tiny Graciosa, belonging to the Canary Islands, is home to most of the local fishermen, and it is the complete opposite of the neighboring island of Lanzarote, which literally bubbles with life.

Mikinev, Faroe Islands

Mikinewa is a place where you need to go if you want to completely escape from civilization. Except for a pack of dead ends, only about twenty people live on this island all year round.

Fail, Portugal

Fayal is the westernmost point of Europe. This island has a volcanic origin, which makes it incredibly attractive due to the unusual landscape.

Gozo, Malta

The picturesque island of Gozo, which is located not far from the main island of Malta, is a charming destination for tourists who want to plunge into the village life, and at the same time this island is no bigger than Manhattan.

Trena, Norway

If you want to escape from the heat, then you should go to the Trena, which is a collection of more than a thousand Norwegian islands, of which only four are inhabited.

Belle-il-en-Mer, France

The name of this island is translated literally as "A beautiful island on the sea", and it really corresponds to its name.

Alderney, Britain

It's the farthest from the Channel Islands, and it's possible to get to it from the UK in forty minutes, and it's necessary to do it to enjoy the local relaxed atmosphere.

Vis, Croatia

Vis is an island that belongs to Croatia, but is the most remote from its continental territory. It is famous for its wine, fresh seafood, and exciting nightlife.

Stromboli, Italy

You have a chance to flirt with danger on this Italian island, since it has one of the most active volcanoes on Earth, and it erupts almost continuously.

Inishmore, Ireland

The attraction of this island lies in the huge rocks and incredible landscapes.