A brand new ranking has revealed Europe’s best beaches and a breathtaking lagoon has taken the crown.
The list, put together by European Best Destinations, looked at travellers’ reviews to find the world’s most beautiful beaches.
The travel guide says: ‘Embark on a journey to these pristine natural havens, where you can disconnect from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with yourself amidst stunning landscapes.’
While the UK sadly fails to get a beach into the top 10, many of the best-rated spots are just a short flight away.
Which would you most like to travel to?
10. Gulpiyuri Beach, Spain
Although Playa de Gulpiyuri might be small in stature, it’s not short on beauty. Backed by cliffs with golden sand, the beach is a popular spot with locals
Playa de Gulpiyuri is located in Asturias in northern Spain and is renowned as the smallest beach in the world at just 40m long.
It’s especially unusual as it’s an inland beach and sits around 100m back from the Cantabrian coastline. Seawater reaches the tiny beach via underground tunnels.
And while it might be small in stature, it’s not short on beauty. Backed by cliffs with golden sand, the beach is a popular spot with locals.
The judges describe the beach as ‘natural and undeveloped’ making it the ideal spot for holidaymakers seeking a ‘tranquil environment’.
9. Banje Beach, Croatia
The judges reveal: ‘Banje Beach’s proximity to the Old Town provides a unique backdrop, combining beach relaxation with historical exploration’
This pretty pebble beach is one of Dubrovnik’s most popular beaches and it’s just a short walk from the city centre.
The beach has a range of restaurants, bars and shops while sunbeds are also available for lounging.
The judges reveal: ‘It’s proximity to the Old Town provides a unique backdrop, combining beach relaxation with historic exploration.’
Tourists will be able to admire Dubrovnik’s iconic fortress as they swim in the beach’s waters.
8. Assos Beach, Greece
‘Assos Beach is a charming pebble beach nestled in a picturesque bay,’ say the judges
One of the best beaches in Kefalonia, Assos Beach is located on the island’s northwest coast.
The beach is close to Assos village, making it easy for holidaymakers to access tavernas and cafes.
‘Assos Beach is a charming pebble beach nestled in a picturesque bay,’ say the judges.
They add that the beach’s ‘calm water’ makes it a suitable destination for families.
7. Playa de Los Muertos, Spain
Located around 80km outside Almeria, Playa de Los Muertos has also previously been named the ‘most beautiful beach in Spain’
Known as the ‘Beach of the Dead’, Playa de Los Muertos is luckily much prettier than it sounds.
Located around 80km outside Almeria, the beach has also previously been named the ‘most beautiful beach in Spain’.
The judges say: ‘The beach features a long stretch of white pebbles and crystal-clear water, making it a favourite among sunbathers and snorkellers.’
Holidaymakers will need to tackle a steep cliff walk to reach the beach and they should be aware that there isn’t always much shade available.
6. La Pelosa Beach, Italy
La Pelosa’s fine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water and sunny weather makes it look like it’s in a far more exotic location
Located on the island of Sardinia, La Pelosa Beach is so beautiful it’s been described as ‘Caribbean-like’.
And the beach’s fine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water and sunny weather definitely makes it look like it’s in a far more exotic location.
‘The iconic 16th century Torre della Pelosa tower adds historic charm to this picturesque setting,’ say the judges.
But don’t just turn up. The beach’s popularity means that holidaymakers now need to book a spot to visit with 1,500 spaces available each day.
5. Gale Fontainhas Beach, Portugal
Stretching for 2.2km/1.3 miles, it’s generally easy for holidaymakers to find a private spot on Gale Fontainhas’ golden sand
Gale Fontainhas Beach sits on Portugal’s sunny Alentejo coast and the judges describe it as one of Europe’s ‘less crowded beaches’.
And they’re right. Stretching for 2.2km/1.3 miles, it’s generally easy for holidaymakers to find a private spot on the golden sand.
The beach is even backed by sandstone cliffs, making it a dramatic place to sunbathe.
Tourists should be aware that the current is strong at Gale Fontainhas and the water isn’t generally suitable for inexperienced swimmers.
4. Cala Luna, Italy
Cala Luna, which translates as ‘Moon Beach, earns its enchanting name from its crescent shape
A beautiful beach with ‘golden sand’ and sea caves, Cala Luna is another of Sardinia’s prettiest beaches.
Cala Luna, which translates as ‘Moon Beach, earns its enchanting name from its crescent shape.
The judges describe the Sardinian beach as a ‘haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers’.
Its clear water and sea caves make the beach a popular destination for snorkelling.
3. Cala Pregonda, Spain
Described by the judges as a ‘tranquil spot’ that’s ‘ideal for seeking solitude’, Cala Pregonda is located on the island’s north coast
A gorgeous beach in Menorca, Cala Pregonda is officially the third prettiest in Europe.
Described by the judges as a ‘tranquil spot’ that’s ‘ideal for seeking solitude’, Cala Pregonda is located on the island’s north coast.
The beach’s red sand and bright blue water make it one of Menorca’s most attractive spots.
It’s a wild and secluded beach so tourists will need to bring their own supplies for the day.
2. Cala Brandinchi, Italy
Surrounded by a pine forest and Mediterranean scrub, Cala Brandinchi ‘offers a serene environment’
Sometimes known as ‘Little Tahiti’, Cala Brandinchi is the third Sardinian beach to rank among Europe’s most beautiful.
Surrounded by a pine forest and Mediterranean scrub, the beach ‘offers a serene environment’, according to the ranking.
Cala Brandinchi is ‘ideal for families’, say the judges, with ‘fine white sands’ and ‘crystal-clear shallow waters’.
The beach has parasols and beach chairs for use as well as boat rental, a kiosk and bar.
1. Port Glarokavos Lagoon Beach, Greece
Known as Greece’s own ‘Blue Lagoon’, Port Glarakavos Beach is ideal for families who want to unwind with easy access to safe shallow waters
Port Glarokavos Lagoon Beach on northern Greece’s Kassandra Peninsula takes the crown for the world’s most beautiful beach.
The judges say: ‘This natural gem combines a tranquil lagoon, clear turquoise waters, soft golden sand and lush pine surroundings, creating a breathtaking setting for a relaxing and photogenic beach day.’
Known as Greece’s own ‘Blue Lagoon’, the beach is ideal for families who want to unwind with easy access to safe shallow waters.
It’s also a popular spot for snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding and birdwatching.
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