{"id":2621,"date":"2025-05-15T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-05-15T06:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/?p=2621"},"modified":"2025-05-20T13:07:44","modified_gmt":"2025-05-20T13:07:44","slug":"its-very-chill-your-favourite-european-beaches-that-arent-full-of-tourists","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/2025\/05\/15\/its-very-chill-your-favourite-european-beaches-that-arent-full-of-tourists\/","title":{"rendered":"\u2018It\u2019s very chill\u2019: Your favourite European beaches that aren\u2019t full of tourists"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Fed up of sunbed wars? These are the best European beaches with hardly any tourists (Picture: Getty Images)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

It\u2019s the first day of your summer holiday<\/a>. After a hearty breakfast and an iced coffee by the pool, you beeline for the nearest beach<\/a>.<\/p>\n

But when you get there, it\u2019s chaos. Not one sunbed is free<\/a>, the sand is cluttered with towels, and the air is thick with thumping house music from the crowded beach bar.<\/p>\n

Currently, many European holiday hotspots are grappling with overtourism<\/a>. Barcelona<\/a> has introduced a new tourist zone while Majorca<\/a> is placing caps on tour group sizes. Santorini has rolled out a cruise ship<\/a> levy, and in Zante, tourists are outnumbering locals<\/a>.<\/p>\n

So, to promote sustainable tourism<\/a> and give you a steer on some roads less travelled, we asked Metro<\/strong> readers \u2013 and our staff \u2013 to share their favourite European beaches that aren\u2019t full of tourists.<\/p>\n

Metro readers have their say<\/h2>\n

First up, Matty Townsend recommends Soorts-Hossegor, on France<\/a>\u2019s southwestern Atlantic Coast.<\/p>\n

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Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration.\u00a0Sign up here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

Located within La C\u00f4te d\u2019Argent, one of the longest uninterrupted stretches of sandy beaches in Europe, its size guarantees a day of sunbathing in peace. <\/p>\n

Matty says: \u2018It\u2019s a very chill surf town and not super touristy. They host the free Quicksilver Festival on the beach every September, we went last year and it was great. <\/p>\n

\u2018Free live music from bands like Skegss, a beach backdrop and professional surf competitions during the day, what more could you want?\u2019<\/p>\n

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Biarritz in France offers golden sands and turquoise waters (Picture: Getty Images)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

While you\u2019re in France, Matty says Saint-Georges-d\u2019Ol\u00e9ron is also worth a visit. It\u2019s the largest commune on the island of Ol\u00e9ron, and has \u2018hardly anyone there.\u2019 <\/p>\n

In place of people, Matty says there are dozens of bike trails through forests, as well as beautiful beaches.<\/p>\n

Having visited Saint-Georges-d\u2019Ol\u00e9ron in a campervan, Matty says you can drive over a long bridge to get there from La Rochelle. No ferry is needed.<\/p>\n

Turkish native \u00d6zge Bj\u00f6rnesson\u00a0sings the praises of Cirali and Adrasan. She says both are typically only visited by locals, and are worlds away from the stifling feeling of hotspots such as Antalya and Bodrum.<\/p>\n

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\n\t\t\t\tThe \u2018English Mediterranean\u2019 island dubbed the UK\u2019s sunniest place \u2014 still overlooked by tourists \t\t\t<\/h2>\n
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For somewhere a little closer to home, why not travel 10 minutes from mainland Portsmouth to the UK\u2019s best-kept secret?<\/p>\n

Metro\u2019s <\/strong>Sophie-May Williams<\/a> has lived on the Isle of Wight<\/a> for four years, and can confirm that some of the island\u2019s \u2018hidden gem\u2019 beaches rival the Caribbean. You can read Sophie\u2019s full report and everything she recommends doing here.<\/a><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

Metro\u2019s <\/strong>Paul Hardcastle<\/a> also flies the flag for France. He raves about Marbella beach in Biarritz<\/a>, which is only accessible by passing through the two large beaches in the centre of town. Because of the extra steps, he says most people don\u2019t bother visiting.<\/p>\n

Further south in Spain<\/a>, Metro\u2019s<\/strong> Brooke Johnson<\/a> loves Cadaqu\u00e9s in the Costa Brava region. She describes the beach as surprisingly tourist-free.<\/p>\n

Elsewhere, Metro\u2019s<\/strong> Ross McCafferty <\/a>says Cartagena is spectacular. Located in the Murcia region \u2013 and around 37 minutes from the \u2018Garden of Europe\u2019<\/a> \u2013 he says he found stunning little bays and coves that were relatively quiet.<\/p>\n

Ross also recommends Cullera, in the province of Valencia. He says: \u2018Valencia is my favourite city in the world, but their beaches are a bit too busy. However, Cullera is just out of town and is beautiful.\u2019<\/p>\n

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\n\t\t\t\tThe sunniest city in Europe is an \u2018underrated gem\u2019 \u2014 you can fly there for \u00a350\t\t\t<\/h2>\n
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Metro\u2019s<\/strong> Jessica Hamilton<\/a> recently took a deep-dive into Cartagena, and found it was the sunniest city in Europe<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Jessica writes: \u2018Cartagena boasts an impressive 283 hours of sun per month, with temperatures averaging 19.1C and reaching a peak of 29C during the summer months of July and August.\u2019<\/p>\n

You can read her full report here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

North to Scandinavia<\/a> now, Metro\u2019s<\/strong> Ellie Hutchings<\/a> says Kastrup in Denmark is a real hidden gem.<\/p>\n

Even though it\u2019s close to Copenhagen<\/a>, she says it\u2019s not really known by international tourists. During her trip, she visited an \u2018amazing sea bath you can swim in.\u2019<\/p>\n

Ellie also recommends Sampieri in Sicily<\/a> as an off-the-beaten-track summer destination.<\/p>\n

Meanwhile, Metro\u2019s <\/strong>Rosy Shearman<\/a> shares her love for Elie Beach near St Andrews in Scotland<\/a>. She says: \u2018The massive beach is home to the world\u2019s only cricket club who apparently play their matches on a beach.\u2019<\/p>\n

Further south in the UK, on the Isle of Scilly, Rosy suggests checking out St. Martin\u2019s. <\/p>\n

While white sandy beaches await, Rosy says it\u2019s a faff to get to, which means there\u2019s often hardly anyone there.<\/p>\n

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A little closer to home is Saint Martins on the Isle of Scilly (Picture: Getty Images)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Over in Greece<\/a>\u2019s Aegean Sea, Panormos beach in Skopelos<\/a> is a lesser-known beauty. This writer visited the island, famed for being the filming location of 2008\u2019s Mamma Mia!, last July, and was blown away by its beauty and lack of tourists.<\/p>\n

Sitting quietly on Skopelos\u2019 west coast, Panormos is unspoiled. An ancient Greek harbour, you can reach the beach by travelling like locals on a \u20ac5 (\u00a34) return bus from Skopelos Town. If you\u2019d rather get a taxi, a one-way journey costs around \u20ac20 (\u00a316).<\/p>\n

Edging onto the seafront, you immediately get the \u2018Greek paradise\u2019 feeling everyone talks about. <\/p>\n

White pebbles stretch into shimmering ocean, and lush greenery surrounds the bay, which is lined with traditional tavernas serving stewed plums \u2014 a Skopelos delicacy. <\/p>\n

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@pure_skopelos<\/a> <\/p>\n

Panormos beach: The most popular and frequented beaches of the island! A pebbly beach with crystal clear waters, which get deep immediately as you enter! It is worth enjoying your swimming there at the time of sunset, as the scene is amazing!In the ancient years at Panormos, there used to be a fortified Acropolis on the \u201cPalaiokastro\u201d hill, whose walls are saved in excellent condition. Explore our profile for even more Skopelos content! #skopelos<\/a> #sporades<\/a> #summer2024<\/a> #traveldestination<\/a> #greece\ud83c\uddec\ud83c\uddf7<\/a> #aegeansea<\/a> #travelguide<\/a> #traveltiktoks<\/a> #vacationmodeon<\/a> #skopelosisland<\/a> <\/p>\n

\u266c Oceans \u2013 Rowald Steyn Lo-Fi Chill Mix \u2013 Dash Berlin & Rowald Steyn<\/a> <\/section>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n

What to do in Sampieri<\/h2>\n

If you\u2019re a sucker for an Italian fishing village, Sampieri in southern Sicily provides the goods without the crowds<\/a>.<\/p>\n

The Sicilian settlement, with pretty stone houses and cobbled streets, is situated between two beaches.<\/p>\n

The main beach is 2km long and surrounded by a pine forest. TripAdvisor describes it as long, wide, with tiny soft sand. At the end of the coast is a high cliff, where adrenaline junkies can snorkel or dive in the clear waters.<\/p>\n

For those who plan to do nothing on holiday but lie horizontally and eat,Sampieri is the perfect destination.<\/p>\n

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Sampieri serves classic Sicilian charm without the hustle and bustle (Picture: Getty Images)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

TripAdvisor houses masses of positive reviews for the town, with many declaring they\u2019d love to come back. Adam, who visited Sampieri for the day, said the beach was superb and almost empty. <\/p>\n

However, Carallo, the beachfront restaurant he dined at for lunch, was the highlight.<\/p>\n

Adam said: \u2018Fantastic food, we had seafood gnocchi and tuna carbonara. Great service and great location. If we ever make it back to Sicily, we\u2019d stay at Sampieri for 2, 3 nights to really experience it.\u2019<\/p>\n

Calabistrot is another standout, boasting 4.3 out of 5 stars. Here you can enjoy sea views while dining on seafood and Mediterranean cuisine.<\/p>\n

Prices are moderate: for \u20ac18 (\u00a315), try Calamarata with mussels, broccoli cream and tomato capuliatu. Or, for \u20ac20,00 (\u00a316.83), indulge in fresh snapper with saut\u00e9ed vegetables and citronette sauce.<\/p>\n

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@noemi_pulvirenti<\/a> <\/p>\n

I piu attenti riconosceranno Torre Cabrera, che si trova a Pozzallo \ud83d\udc40 #scicli<\/a> #sicilia<\/a> #siciliaorientale<\/a> #siciliabedda<\/a> #travelsicily<\/a> #discoversicily<\/a> #summerinsicily<\/a> #spring<\/a> #perte<\/a> <\/p>\n

\u266c suono originale \u2013 Noemi Pulvirenti<\/a> <\/section>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n

Nearby attractions from Sampieri include the more famous fishing village of Scicli, known for its Baroque architecture, beautiful palaces and churches dating to the 17th century. <\/p>\n

The UNESCO World Heritage site holds several festivals throughout the year, including the Festa delle Milizie on the last Saturday of May to commemorate a battle against the Saracens.<\/p>\n

What to do in Soorts-Hossegor<\/h2>\n

Soorts-Hossegor is often referred to as the surf capital of Europe, thanks to its reliable swells and powerful breaks.<\/p>\n

While perfect for water sports enthusiasts, the French commune is also ideal for nature lovers. From endless golden sand beaches, crystal clear lakes, and verdant forests, spend your time swimming, biking and hiking.<\/p>\n

The Lac Hossegor loop is a great hiking option for any fitness level, while the Le Fond du Lac loop from Les Estagnots is dubbed as intermediate.<\/p>\n

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If you love surfing, there is no better beach than Soorts-Hossegor in France (Picture: Getty Images)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Once you\u2019ve exerted all your energy exploring Soorts-Hossegor, Matty says there are many seafood places to check out. The town is primarily known for oysters, with TripAdvisor crowning Chez Jerome as the best place to enjoy the saltwater dish. It\u2019s cheap too, costing \u20ac7 (\u00a35.89) for six.<\/p>\n

La Cabane a huitres is also a cheap but revered joint, according to TripAdvisor users. A regular called Kathleen said: \u2018Very affordable restaurant, very tasty and very friendly staff. We always have a great time and my sons always enjoy a dozen oysters for themselves for only 9 euros.\u2019<\/p>\n

Of course, there\u2019s also the Quicksilver festival. The dates have not been announced for 2025 yet, but expect the cr\u00e8me de la cr\u00e8me of world surfers who hit the iconic beaches of Capbreton, Hossegor and Seignoss. Surf, skate, art, and music play a major part in the festivities, too.<\/p>\n

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@privatesportshop<\/a> <\/p>\n

Top 5 places to learn to surf! \ud83c\udf0a\ud83e\udd19\ud83c\udffb \u27a1\ufe0f Plage Sud, Hossegor Perfect conditions! (less swell in the south) \u27a1\ufe0f Carcans-Plage, Gironde A popular spot for surfers, with a natural and wild atmosphere. \u27a1\ufe0f La Torche, Penmarch, Bretagne Ideal playground for apprentice surfers with excellent conditions. \u27a1\ufe0f Les Estagnots, Seignosse A magnificent setting in the heart of the Landes countryside. \u27a1\ufe0f Spot de la Sud, Lacanau One of the best surf spots in Lacanau. Wild spot with views over the dunes. #fyp<\/a> #foryoupage<\/a> #sport<\/a> #surf<\/a> #trends<\/a> #viralvideo<\/a> #bestspot<\/a> #france<\/a> #privatesportshop<\/a> #werocksport<\/a> <\/p>\n

\u266c Makeba (Ian Asher Remix) \u2013 Jain & Ian Asher<\/a> <\/section>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n

What to do in Cadaqu\u00e9s<\/h2>\n

After breathtaking landscapes, artistic heritage and unique charm? Head to Cadaqu\u00e9s in Spain\u2019s Costa Brava region.<\/p>\n

With whitewashed buildings, terracotta roofs, cobbled streets and a bustling harbour filled with fishing boats, it\u2019s a dreamy summer holiday spot.<\/p>\n

While the village of Cadaqu\u00e9s only has one sandy beach, the surrounding bay offers access to numerous coves and pebbly beaches.<\/p>\n

The Cap de Creus Natural Park is another stunning spot with diverse ecosystems and almost 100 rugged coves waiting to be explored. As the first park in Spain to encompass both land and sea, there are many scenic walking trails with the most unreal views.<\/p>\n

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@wherejesstravels<\/a> <\/p>\n

Add Cadaques to your bucket list \ud83d\udccc #cadaques<\/a> #cadaques\ud83c\uddea\ud83c\uddf8\ud83d\ude0d<\/a> #costabrava<\/a> #costabravaturisme<\/a> #visitspain<\/a> #explorespain<\/a> #spain<\/a> #spain\ud83c\uddea\ud83c\uddf8<\/a> #spaindestinations<\/a> #discoverspain<\/a> <\/p>\n

\u266c original sound \u2013 Jess \u2013 Travel + Hotels<\/a> <\/section>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n

For the arty types among us, no trip to Cadaqu\u00e9s is complete without a visit to Casa Dal\u00ed \u2013 Salvador Dal\u00ed\u2019s former home. The village is heavily associated with the Spanish surrealist artist, whose dream house is filled with fantasy furniture and fixtures.<\/p>\n

Dal\u00ed lived in the former fisherman\u2019s hut from 1930 until 1982 with his wife Gala, and transformed the home into what it is today.<\/p>\n

The property is located eight minutes from Cadaqu\u00e9s in the small village of Portlligat. Tickets must be booked in advance and cost \u20ac15 (12.62) for general admission. This includes access to the house and olive garden. Tickets to the olive garden only are \u20ac8 (\u00a36.73).<\/p>\n

Following a visit to Portlligat, indulge in the mouthwatering Catalan and Mediterranean cuisines. Focusing heavily on seafood and fishing culture, expect classic dishes like paella, grilled fish, plus other seafood like anchovies, sardines and breams.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Fed up of sunbed wars? These are the best European beaches with hardly any tourists (Picture: Getty Images) It\u2019s the first day of your summer holiday. After a hearty breakfast and an iced coffee by the pool, you beeline for the nearest beach. But when you get there, it\u2019s chaos. Not one sunbed is free, […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2623,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[17],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2621","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2621","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2621"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2621\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2629,"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2621\/revisions\/2629"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2623"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2621"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2621"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.mugfoundry.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2621"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}