Europe’s best hidden beaches
Oh we do like to be beside the seaside… unless, of course, it means lying towel to towel with a complete stranger on a packed beach. If you want to sunbathe in peace, escape the bucket-and-spade brigades and head to one of these quiet beaches in Europe. Just don’t tell everyone…
Malta
This tiny archipelago nation enjoys more than 300 sunshine-filled days a year, making it a great candidate for your vitamin D fix. Whether you’re looking to lounge on a towel or take to the waves on a surfboard, Malta has a multitude of beaches worth seeking out.
Check in
Base yourself in Valletta, the island's capital, to be close to cultural highlights and within driving distance of gorgeous beaches. The Saint John is a boutique hotel with elegant rooms and a brilliant casual on-site restaurant, The Cheeky Monkey.
Hit the beach
The southern tip of the island is awash with secluded coves – make your way to the Delimara peninsula and you’ll find plenty of sun-drenched swimming spots to hop between. While you’re in the area, wander through fishing village Marsaxlokk and admire colourful boats bobbing on the water. Over on Malta’s west coast, seek out Fomm ir-Rih Bay. The path down to the beach is steep (wear good walking shoes) but you’ll be rewarded with pretty pebbles and crystalline water.
Look down
The marble flooring of St John’s Co-Cathedral isn’t just beautiful, it’s a mosaic of tombstones belonging to European knights and nobles.
Under the sea
The clear blue shallows around Wied il-Ghasri in Gozo (Malta’s second-largest island) are home to colourful damselfish and tiny seahorses.
Having a grand time...
Sit on The Harbour Club’s terrace for mesmerising views of the Grand Harbour.
Refuel
Head to the beach at Mgarr ix-Xini in Gozo and enjoy a long lunch overlooking the bay at laid-back restaurant Rew Rew. For something grander, book a table at The Harbour Club in Valletta. Designed by Maltese architect Chris Briffa, this warehouse-turned-hip-hangout is the place to see and be seen.
Cocktail hour
With glorious vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, Cafe del Mar Malta is a stylish summertime hangout. Hire a sunbed and spend a leisurely day by the pool before soaking up the sunset with a cocktail in hand.
Too much sun?
Aside from the beaches, Malta’s USP has to be its 7,000-year human history (fun fact: it has a greater density of historic sights than anywhere else in the world). From the gloriously baroque St John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta – which houses two works by Caravaggio – to the Malta At War Museum, there’s plenty to keep you busy away from the beach.
Lanzarote
Lanzarote boasts more than 100 beaches. Some feature black lava rock pebbles while others are packed with soft white sand – take your pick and prepare for unforgettable beach days.
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Families will love the facilities at Princess Yaiza. Kids can jump straight into a full roster of activities at Kikoland, the hotel’s park for children, and adults can delight in lovely views over neighbouring islands as they dine at Isla de Lobos restaurant.
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Orzola is located at the northern tip of Lanzarote, making it the gateway to nearby La Graciosa. A ferry crossing takes just 20 minutes, and it’s worth exploring the island, which is home to the charming small waterfront town of Caleta del Sebo.
Hit the beach
For a beach day with a difference, drive to Playa Quemada. This peaceful fishing village is home to beaches featuring black volcanic sands and pebbles lapped by the cerulean sea. The area is protected from windy weather by the mountains of the Los Ajaches Natural Monument, meaning its climate is ideal for calm days admiring azure water. Stop at one of the local restaurants for a leisurely meal while you’re there. At the northern end of the island, Del to del waits to be discovered. You can access this blonde-sand beach via boat or via a hike along the Camino de los Gracioseros. Its remoteness means it’s usually quiet – just remember to bring all your beach day supplies with you.
Refuel
While you’re exploring the northern end of the island, check out another quiet fishing village: Orzola. Unsurprisingly, you’ll find fish restaurants galore here. Sit on the shady terrace at Restaurante El Norte, order grilled fish of the day and watch boats swaying in the harbour. If you want to liven things up a bit, head to capital city Arrecife. Pull up a chair in Lilium, located in the modern marina with yet more views of moored boats, and savour a taste of Canary Islands cuisine. There are only ten tables in the restaurant so you’ll probably want to book ahead.
Cocktail hour
If you do one thing, explore the nooks and crannies of LagOmar. This museum – previously the home of actor Omar Sharif – is set in a hillside, with multiple levels featuring volcanic caves and curious lookouts. The museum’s enigmatic architecture and luscious greenery make for a stunning setting for a leisurely afternoon. Follow the little staircase down to La Cueva and sip a cocktail in the enchanting cave bar – you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a secret hangout.
Too much sun?
The influence of visionary artist, architect and environmentalist Cesar Manrique can be seen all over Lanzarote. Visit his previous home, Volcano House, to see how architecture and volcanic activity can work together to create a stunning and harmonious setting. Admire his typical whitewashed style. Then, before you leave, step into Manrique’s art studio which is now an exhibition hall for paintings.
Majorca
The largest island in the Balearics has more than 200 beaches. Many are teeming with sun-seekers, but venture off the beaten track in Majorca and you might just stumble across a hidden sandy cove or cobalt blue bay.
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Built on a cliff, the five-star Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa is set in its own deliciously-scented gardens. The rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows offering brilliant views – most look out onto the sea or mountains. There are three restaurants, three pools and a top-notch spa surrounded by the Serra de Tramuntana.
Hit the beach
In the south of Majorca, spend a pleasant day at remote Es Carbo. It’s a long walk to get there from Colonia de Sant Jordi but that means the vast swathe of sand is likely to be quieter than other beaches in the area. Pack a picnic, a parasol and plenty of water before seeking out your perfect spot. Then admire turquoise water and listen to the tranquil soundtrack of rhythmic waves. To the east is Cala Varques which has been touted by those in-the-know as a hidden gem – although it has become busier in recent years. If you’re in the north, the secluded pebbly beach of Es Coll Baix is beautiful but a tricky trek from Alcudia, so you’re better off getting there by boat.
Catch the sunset
Purobeach is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Palma. Set yourself up on the hotel’s 180-degree sea view terrace for the best view of the sun setting behind the Palma mountains.
Did you know...?
Marc Fosh was the first British chef to be awarded a Michelin star in Spain. His restaurant can be found on a narrow street in Palma’s old town.
Beautiful bays
Calo des Moro is another stunning spot that’s difficult to reach but dazzling to see – go to admire the clear water and tree-topped cliffs. The area does get busy, though, so arrive early for the best chance of nabbing a parking spot.
Refuel
Forget fish and chips washed down with sangria – the island now boasts a scattering of Michelin stars. Marc Fosh, whose eponymous restaurant in Palma has such an accolade, serves up Mediterranean food with a twist. Inland, family-run Ca Na Toneta changes its menu according to what’s in season and aims to recreate the magic of local home cooking.
Cocktail hour
Spend an indulgent day by the pool, maybe opt for a massage by the sea, and cool off with a frozen cocktail on the terrace at Palma’s Purobeach Club. At sundown, admire gorgeous views and sample signature tipples like the ‘Palma’ made with Saint Germain liquor, peach liquor, mango and lemon foam. Expect cool beats and glamorous crowds.
Too much sun?
Go for a tour and a tasting at Bodegues Ribas – a winery dating back to 1711 – to discover delicious Majorcan wine. The island’s weekly markets are also worth a detour. The Inca market is one of the largest, sprawling numerous streets on Thursdays.