Islands That Will Take Your Breath Away

by Royal Holiday

This is just a starter for your next travel destination… Image fine sand, turquoise waters, tranquility, relaxation…. When you think of an island this is what you think of, and maybe a piña colada, right?  However, for those adventurers who want to see beyond the Caribbean there are many islands around the world worth visiting.  In Europe there are amazing places, many of them have wonders yet to be explored.

If you want more than playing sports, making sand castles or spending a conventional honeymoon, this list is for you, so you can have the time of your life.

To find out more about how to prepare for next your trip visit https://royalholidaycruises.com/cruise-destinations/

Solta (Croatia)

The archipelago of Central Dalmatia is home to numerous islands; among them is Solta, close to the Islands of Brac, Korcula and Hvar.  This tranquil island is an ideal destination for all those looking for an idyllic place, full of vineyards and olive trees. During summertime tourism increases significantly since this destination is chosen by many to enjoy vacation time. One of its attractions, of course, is its beach and its turquoise and crystal clear waters. Concerning lodging options there is a luxurious hotel called “Martinis Marchi” established in a beautiful old castle, but there are private inns as well that are very reasonable.

Its climate is mediterranean, with mild temperatures during the summer and winter.   Most of its inhabitants work fishing. Also very good quality lime is produced here.  The environment is amazing and many businesses serve in the area, from boat rentals to numerous beach bars for the visitors to enjoy all the fun there is to be offered.

Svalbard Archipelago (Norway)

The archipelago of Svalbard is located over a 1,000 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, halfway between Norway and the North Pole, and is a network of fjords and mountainous islands covered with numerous glaciers where the amazing icebergs of the area emerge. Despite its proximity to the North Pole, the climate is relatively benign because of the warm gulf current that bathes its coasts. This creates the strange paradox that gathers both, a polar spectacular landscape, and a temperature that is relatively mild for the arctic location. This contrast offers the perfect conditions for the presence of wildlife such as wild reindeers, seals, polar bears, etc.

This place has amazed travellers for years.  Unique wildlife, arctic nature, and old mining towns are found in these islands, which have especial austere and mysterious beauty.

Apart from being the home to thousands of polar bears, the islands are also home to nearly 3000 inhabitants, many of which live in Longyearbyen, the administrative center and one of the largest settlements of the archipelago. This small and colorful community has gone from being a typical village to a modern population with different types of businesses and industries, and with a surprisingly wide range of activities and cultural opportunities, such as concerts, shows, festivals and exhibitions. In Longyearbyen you will also find several bars and first class restaurants, more than you would expect in such a small community.

Sark (Channel Islands, UK)

Image courtesy of Chris_J at Flickr.com

Image courtesy of Chris_J at Flickr.com

The Island of Sark is located in the Channel Islands, 80 miles away from south of England. It is the smallest of the four main islands and is part of Guernsey. It has 600 inhabitants and the use of motorized vehicles is prohibited in the islands, so bikes, horse carriages and tractors are the allowed means of transportation, adding an interesting component to this unique location. A visit to Sark is a step back in time. Most people come here for peace and tranquility and to appreciate the landscape and the abundance of wild flowers and sea birds. The landscape of the island of Sark includes meadows full of wildflowers, a dramatic rugged coastline. Therefore, Sark is an ideal place for hiking. The views from the cliffs are spectacular. This is truly a small piece of paradise.  It offers a truly unique experience for visitors who come here looking for fresh air and tranquility and want to avoid city lights and the rush of the city life.   

There are good restaurants, fish and local seafood, and you can travel back in time enjoying a lobster Thermidor as if you were in the 80s in The Sablonnerie or in Aval du Creux.  The only way to reach the island (unless you have a helicopter or own boat) is from a small boat from Guernsey or Jersey. You will arrive at the port and a tractor will take your bags up to your hotel.

If you want to see other amazing destinations to visit, click on the link https://www.tripadvisor.com/TravelersChoice-Islands-cTop-g1

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