From the rugged Atlantic coast of Spain to the Baltic and the Aegean, readers have shared their favourite European island escapes, all offering a chance to slow down, enjoy nature, and escape the crowds. The selections range from protected national parks to nostalgic seaside resorts, each with its own charm.
The Cíes Islands, a short ferry ride from Vigo, have capped visitor numbers and no cars, leaving seabirds and unspoilt beaches to rule. One reader described the experience as winning the lottery. In Italy, Ischia's circular bus routes make exploration easy, while Cavo on the island of Elba offers a quieter, more serene alternative to busier ports, with iron-rich waters that glitter as one swims.
Greece's Aegina, once briefly the capital of the country, still boasts impressive ancient temples and a charming port with colourful mansions. Germany's Rügen, the largest island in the Baltic, is famed for its white chalk cliffs and belle époque villas, with the Rasender Roland steam train offering a nostalgic journey through coastal resorts. Unst, the UK's most northerly inhabited island, features dramatic cliffs and puffins, best seen from May to August.
Croatia's Vis island presents a desolate north coast with limestone cliffs, kayaking routes, and Eleonora's falcons, while a blowhole erupts in spray with each wave. In Sicily, the Nebrodi mountains provide a slow-paced retreat with fruit trees, ancient churches, and a 200-year-old theatre, with the Aeolian Islands just a hop away. The list also includes Schiermonnikoog in the Netherlands, well off the beaten track.
Readers emphasised that these islands are ideal for those seeking peace and natural beauty, whether walking in nature, swimming in clear waters, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere. From the Atlantic to the Baltic, each destination offers a unique way to experience Europe's coastal heritage.
