Online voting to determine the “most beautiful hidden gem” among European islands has begun, as presented by TRAVELBOOK, which features nine candidate destinations that, according to the publication, remain less well-known compared to the continent’s classic “mass” island destinations.
The text points out that islands such as Sardinia, Crete, and Mallorca are widely known and in some cases are already experiencing over-tourism. At the same time, it is mentioned that there are still many “beautiful but less promoted” islands that are waiting to be discovered more.
TRAVELBOOK notes that the “hidden gem” designation may be debatable, but it claims that the selected destinations have significantly fewer visitors compared to the established “hotspots” of mass tourism. It is also clarified that the voting islands are a journalistic choice of the editorial team, and they are inhabited islands, relatively easy to access, with the possibility of vacations (accommodations and basic options in activities, sights, gastronomy and/or nature).
The nine candidate destinations presented for voting are as follows:
Skopelos in Greece, an island in the Northern Sporades, is described as a destination with many beautiful bays and beaches with white sand and turquoise waters, as well as opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking, along with sightseeing and cultural points in Chora.
São Miguel in the Azores of Portugal, a volcanic island with crater lakes, waterfalls, green mountains, and hot springs, is highly recommended for hikers. The old town of Ponta Delgada is also mentioned, with restaurants, cafes, bars, and shopping options.
Kres in Croatia, an island in the Adriatic that boasts “beautiful bays and beaches,” picturesque towns and fishing villages, local cuisine, and friendly residents.
La Graciosa in the Canary Islands of Spain, the smallest inhabited island of the complex, with a limited number of accommodations, but large sandy beaches and turquoise waters. The text mentions underwater life that is conducive to diving and snorkeling, as well as fish as a local specialty.
Elba in Italy, in the National Park of the Tuscan Archipelago in the Tyrrhenian Sea, also known as the place of exile of Napoleon. The article mentions beaches, steep cliffs, and “a series of sights.”
Ikaria in Greece, an island in the northern Aegean described as having wild and “romantic” landscapes, rugged mountains, hidden beaches, and natural hot springs. It is also mentioned that it is among the so-called “Blue Zones,” areas where, according to the article, residents live particularly long and healthy lives.
Porto Santo in Madeira, Portugal, which is known as the “little sister” of Madeira, with a large sandy beach 9 kilometers long, rocky shores, and old windmills/grain mills.
Gozo in Malta, presented as the lesser-known “little brother” of Malta, with rocky coves, a “blue lagoon”, ancient temples, vineyards, olive groves, and a quiet fishing village.
Tabarca in Spain, an island in the Mediterranean off the coast of Alicante, with a small population and small guesthouses. As noted, it mainly receives Spanish visitors and offers restaurants and a beach.
TRAVELBOOK is asking readers to vote for their favorite island in the “TRAVELBOOK Voting” poll.
