travel
March 13, 2026
‘No cars, unspoilt beaches and seabirds rule’: readers’ favourite European island escapes
From the rugged north of Scotland to the glittering Aegean, our tipsters recommend islands for slowing down, lazing around and taking in nature. Tell us about a spring activity or day out – the best tip wins a £200 holiday voucher.
TL;DR
- The Cíes Islands offer a car-free experience with unspoilt beaches and abundant seabirds.
- Ischia in Italy is easily explored using its efficient public transport system of ferries and buses.
- Cavo on Elba provides a serene escape with a unique iron-rich landscape and quiet atmosphere.
- Aegina, historically significant and close to Athens, retains its charm with colorful mansions and a lively port.
- Rügen, Germany's largest island, is known for its white chalk cliffs, fine sands, and belle époque villas.
- Unst, the UK's most northerly inhabited island, features rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and wildlife.
- Kayaking around Vis, Croatia, offers stunning limestone cliffs, nesting falcons, and secluded bays.
- Novara di Sicilia in Sicily provides a slow-paced island escape with mountain air and traditional village life.
- Schiermonnikoog in the Netherlands is a largely car-free island with vast beaches, ideal for cycling and nature spotting.
- Arran in Scotland is celebrated for its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and a sense of personal significance for visitors.
Continue reading the original article