This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).
With glistening crystalline waters and sweeping expanses of volcanic black sand, Europe’s coastline is incredibly diverse. From the rugged cliffs of the Amalfi Coast to the white Mediterranean sands of the Balearics, it’s no wonder these destinations are visited by millions of sun-seeking travellers every year.
Yet beyond the tourist hotspots lie thousands of miles of undiscovered stretches of coast just waiting to be discovered by those willing to go further. Spanning from the North Sea to the Black Sea, here’s where you can find the best of Europe’s lesser-known beaches — without a seaside resort in sight.
1. Lokrum Island, Croatia
A 15-minute boat ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Town port, Lokrum Island serves as a secluded retreat away from the often-crowded streets of the popular Croatian city. Protected by UNESCO as a special reserve of forest vegetation, you’ll find more pine trees and peaco*cks — living wild on the island — than people.
Swimming spots can be found across the entirety of the island, however, a saltwater lagoon formed by tectonic shifts and erosion, known as Mrtvo More (Dead Sea), is arguably one of the best. Fed by an underwater passage connecting to the Adriatic Sea, Mrtvo More is an enclosed body of water sunken deep into the ground. Sheltered by the jagged rock faces that surround the lagoon, the water here is entirely still — making for ideal swimming conditions. Sunbathe on the flat rock formations before diving into the crystal-clear waters, but keep an eye out for friendly peaco*cks who might try and steal your lunch.
2. Burnham Overy Staithe, England
To experience Norfolk’s vast blue skies in all their glory, head to the hidden oasis of Burnham Overy Staithe beach on the North Norfolk Coast. While its seclusion means embarking on a mile-long walk through English countryside to reach the coast, the unobstructed views of yellow-golden sands and rockpools make the final clamber over the sand dunes all worth it. Aside from the occasional sunken pool of seawater left from the retreating tide, the beach itself is entirely flat, with nothing but endless grains of sand.
Park at Burnham Overy Staithe harbour — an area popular for sailing, paddle-boarding and kayaking — before heading along the raised, sandy banks of the Norfolk Coast Path that traces this wild coastline. Without a single cafe or ice-cream stall in sight, it might feel a little isolated, but that's part of its charm.
(How to spend a weekend in North Norfolk, UK.)
3. Mirror Beach, Albania
Travel around the southern Albanian coast and you’re bound to find isolated pockets of white sand and crystal-clear waters, but Mirror Beach is arguably the best. Named after how the sunlight reflects on the sea here, this area of untouched coastline remains such a secret you’ll struggle to find many people here — even in the summer months.
The landscape is defined by a combination of soft white sand and shingle that guides you to the clean, dazzling waters of the Adriatic Sea. The nearest village, Ksamil, is nearly four miles away and there’s a small car park near the entrance to the beach. And while securing a space here requires hiring an umbrella, the private, intimate and crowd-free spots make the fee worthwhile.
4. Riva Bianca, Italy
Known pretty much only to those living within the medieval town of Lierna on the eastern shore of northern Italy’s Lake Como, this lakeside hideout remains visited by mostly local families. Backed by the lush, vegetation-clad mountains surrounding Lake Como, Riva Bianca has less than a mile of shoreline, but don't let that put you off.
Overlooked by Castello di Lierna — an ancient defensive castle — Riva Bianca is an incredibly scenic spot while excellent pizza and gelato spots in Lierna are perfect for a quintessential Italian meal. You'll need swim shoes due to the small white pebbles the beach is named after, but it's worth it for a dip in the clean, calm waters.
(A guide to Lake Como's highlights.)
5. Veleka Beach, Bulgaria
Set against the backdrop of Strandzha mountains just seven miles from the Turkish border, Veleka is named after the river that flows into the Black Sea. While the beach typically extends for just less than a mile — providing ample space for sunbathing either by the river, or seaside — the width depends on the action of the river that year and the volume of water trickling down from the mountains.
Take advantage of the river’s calm waters by trying your hand at paddleboarding with the local windsurfing school before kicking back under one of the free umbrellas available at the beach entrance. While this spot is known to locals, facilities are limited. Arrive with enough refreshments and SPF to see you through a day under the blazing Bulgarian sun.
6. Plage Mala, France
Among the glitz and glamour of Nice, Monaco and Saint-Tropez lies Plage Mala. A small inlet of land tucked into a cove, this beach is the ultimate secret — hidden in the towering cliff faces of the French Riviera coast. With white sands and clear blue waters this crescent-shaped bay has the same beauty as the more popular beaches of the French Riviera, but on a quieter scale.
Access to the beach is limited, however it can be reached by either the coastal path along the Cap d’Ail shore, or the 100 steps of Allée Mala, found near Cap d’Ail train station. With turqouise water and steep cliffs Plage Mala is well-suited to those keen to try cliff jumping — be mindful of the safe swimming area reserved for those who prefer to save their energy for the long ascent back up the cliff.
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