Some of the best coastal destinations in the world are to be found in the Mediterranean. If you’re lucky enough to live within a short flight of the region, then you’ll be able to benefit from the wealth of elite-level accommodation and sunny weather you might find there.
But which particular destinations might you consider when planning your beach holidays? Let’s take a look at four of the best ones.
Starigrad-Paklenica, Croatia
Croatia is a nation rich in natural beauty, and nowhere is this in better evidence than beside the sea. At the Riviera Paklenica, you’ll be able to sit beside pebble-formed beaches and stare out at the clear blue water, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, you’ll be able to trace the streams that run through the nearby Velika and Mala Paklenica canyons all the way to the top of the Velebit Mountain.
For hikers and climbers in particular, the Paklenica National Park might be particularly appealing.
Rhodes, Greece
This incredible island is among the most storied in the entire Mediterranean, with an amazing mixture of gorgeous mountain villages and historic structures, including the Lindos Acropolis and the Temple of Athena Polias. There are countless incredible beaches to consider, too, including Tsambika, where sunbathers and watersports enthusiasts can enjoy what the sea has to offer.
Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia sits at the luxury end of the Mediterranean travel spectrum, with its combination of flawless sandy beaches and top-end facilities. There’s around 1,800km of unspoilt coast to explore, and a history that stretches back thousands of years. Resorts like Costa Smeralda and Cala Mariolu compare favourably with those in the Caribbean, but what sets the island apart is the food. During your stay, you’ll want to make time for delicacies like culurgiones (that’s pasta dumplings stuffed with potatoes, pecorino, and mint) and porchetta (that’s slow-cooked suckling pig).
Sicily, Italy
Sicily, like Sardinia, has an identity all of its own – and yet everything you’ll see and do will have a recognisably Italian edge. There are sandy bays to explore, and soaring volcanic cliffs to ascend. Spiaggia dei Conigli and Scala dei Turchi are particular highlights. The island’s waters can also be explored with the help of a snorkel and a pair of flippers.
Finally, we should mention the culture that really makes Sicily unique. From the iconic two-wheeled carts to the countless festivals that punctuate the year, there’s a great deal to appreciate on this magical island!