The Isle of Wight’s coastal charm is just a taste of the diverse island destinations that Europe has to offer; it encompasses much of the British charm and nature as it’s slightly more isolated from the changing world around it. The same can be said for islands all around Europe…
Mallorca: The Gateway to The Med
Mallorca is the largest of the Spanish Balearic Islands, not to be confused with the Canaries off the West coast of Africa. It serves as the perfect starting point for your island-hopping adventure because it’s easy to fly to from Bournemouth or Southampton. It has world-class vibrant beaches, but also a lot of hidden villages and rich cultural heritage, as seen in the charming mountain villages of the Serra de Tramuntana. In fact, the island is much more than just Palma, which is why you ideally want a car rental in Mallorca with ROIG to make the most of the island – from mountains to coastline.
Corsica: Rugged Beauty
As you make your way east, the French island of Corsica emerges as an interesting destination. Known for its mountainous terrain and idyllic beaches, it has a unique cultural fusion due to its Italian proximity. The island’s stunning hiking trails, such as the GR20, attract outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. If the nature wasn’t enough, you can see notable sites like the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte in Ajaccio.
Salina: A Quiet Italian Retreat
Situated in the Aeolian archipelago, Salina offers a tranquil escape from the more well-known Italian islands. Being a couple of boat rides away from Corsica, this lush, green island is characterised by its twin volcanic peaks. Salina is known for its fishing villages to, so it’s unsurprising that its got a world-class production of capers and Malvasia wine,. This is ideal for food and wine enthusiasts, and it’s much smaller than the previously mentioned islands, making it an easier one to explore. It’s got plenty of hiking opportunities, but an equal amount to indulge in a wine-tasting session too.
Malta: A Crossroad of Civilizations
As you venture further east, the curious island nation of Malta emerges as a cultural treasure. Situated at the crossroads of the Mediterranean, Malta has been influenced by various civilisations throughout the centuries. The capital city of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing stunning baroque architecture and impressive fortifications. Malta is also home to some of the world’s oldest free-standing structures, such as the Megalithic Temples of Ġgantija and Ħaġar Qim. This could well be the star island of the trip for history buffs.
Zakynthos: A Greek Finale
Your Mediterranean island-hopping adventure can end in Greece, where there are almost too many to choose from. Zakynthos, however, is situated closer to the rest of Europe on the west and is known for its famous landmark, Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Cove). This is a must-visit spot, with the picturesque shipwreck nestled in a secluded sandy cove. Zakynthos is also a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to spot loggerhead sea turtles and marine life through snorkelling. If you really want to end the trip with a bang, it’s also a huge party island.
Conclusion
From the Isle of Wight to Zakynthos, islands can be a great way to explore Europe as they often play a big role historically. For some, you will need to hire cars through places like ROIG to really make the most of the trip, but others can be done on foot. What’s more is that they’re often places that preserve that history, as well as their nature.
