You know when you find *that* beach. The beach that sticks in your brain as being one of the most beautiful spots on earth.
The PERFECT meeting of the sea and the land, somewhere that looks like it was created by ChatGPT after being given the prompt ‘ draw me an iconic Mediterranean coastline.’
Us too. It’s a satisfying feeling, and one that we love to share.
Here are four of our favourite European beaches: and we think you should visit them this summer.
GIDAKI BEACH, ITHACA
Finding a sandy beach on a luxury sailing holiday is actually a little harder than you might think.
Before you say ‘ummmm, okay, whatever Helen,’ let me explain…
The sandiest beaches are located on whichever side of an island is most exposed to the elements. Essentially, the bigger the waves, the finer the sand.
Now, as you can imagine, being on the weather-exposed side of an island doesn’t make for the most comfortable of sleeping spots! No-one wants to be on a yacht atop water that looks like it belongs a Pirates of the Caribbean fight sequence.
Enter your professional yacht crew: taking you to visit the best beaches at the calmest time of day… and what’s better than landing on those beaches by private yacht?! Plus, when the weather whips up, your crew will whip out the sails and glide off to another gorgeous, calmer bay.
Our favourite beaches include Gidaki Beach near Vathy on Ithaca, and Voutoumi Beach on Anti-Paxos. Visit both on our ultimate route; The Greek Island Explorer
From £2,360 per person based on 8 guests hiring the yacht exclusively in June or September.
TURQUOISE WATERS OF TURKEY
Turkey is home to some spectacular beaches, and the south-west part of the country is known as the ‘Turquoise Coast’ – and for good reason.
With its pristine shoreline, alluring crystal-clear waters and lush, pine-clad mountain backdrop, the scenery is nothing short of breath-taking.
Our South-West Beach Hop itinerary includes some of Turkey’s very best beaches, from the unspoilt Datça and Bozburun Peninsulas, down the coast to the country’s most photographed beach, Ölüdeniz.
Here, you will find a long sweeping beach leading to a beautiful lagoon at its tip.
Not only is this a popular spot for sunbathers, it is a hotspot for the more adventurous para-gliders, which are fascinating to watch as they float down from the top of Babadağ Mountain.
Enjoy 12 nights of beach hopping from £1735 per person, based on 2 guests sharing.
SUN-DAPPLED SLOVENIA
It may only have 46.6 kilometres of coastline, but Slovenia makes the most of every single bit of that.
Moon Bay, also known as Mesečev Zaliv Beach, stands out as Slovenia’s most captivating bay, earning multiple accolades as one of the country’s most scenic beaches. Just a stone’s throw away from the bustling tourist hubs of Piran, Portoroz, and Izola, Moon Bay finds its home within the stunning Strunjan Nature Park.
The bay derives its name from its distinctive crescent shape, where the turquoise sea meets lush greenery and towering cliffs, crafting a postcard-worthy ambiance.
It’s a perfect escape from the tourist hustle, offering clear waters ideal for snorkeling, where you can bask in peaceful seclusion and a tranquil beach atmosphere.
Due to it’s size a trip to the seaside can easily be included in any holiday. Have a look at some ideas here – then give Sarah a call to travel to this relatively unknown Mediterranean destination.
SAND-BATHING IN PORTO SANTO, MADEIRA
Ever heard of a sand bath?
A short, scenic trip from the main island of Madeira, the island of Porto Santo unveils a paradise of its own.
Stretching for 9 kilometers, its fine, powdery sands have earned fame not just for their pristine beauty, but also for their therapeutic properties.
One of the most popular activities is indulging in sand baths. In this unique therapy, individuals bury themselves in the warm sand, allowing the natural heat and mineral properties of the sand to work their magic. These sand baths are particularly beneficial for those suffering from rheumatic and orthopedic conditions.
The natural heat of the sand combined with its mineral composition is believed to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote the body’s natural healing processes.
A day trip to Porto Santo island can easily be added in to any holiday to Madeira – because everything at Fleewinter is tailor-made.
