Sunday 9 August 2015

Unexpectedly Awesome European Beaches

10. Étretat, Normandie, France

The commune is situated on the coast of Northern France and is famous for the amazing cliffs. For ages the rocky arches were visited and painted by artists like Eugène Boudin, Gustave Courbet and Claude Monet. Today the scenic spot attracts many tourists and obviously photographers.
Why to go there?
It must be a wonderful experience swimming in the wide sea, while there is this steep high rocky wall behind you. The site is an indeed incredible natural wonder.
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Etretat Cliffs in Normandy

Etretat sunsire

Cliffs of etretat

Cliff of Etretat, France, just after sunset

9. Golden Horn, Brac Island, Croatia

Also known as Zlatni Rat in Croatian, the beautiful beach stretches for 530 meters (580 yards) into the warm crystal clear Adriatic Sea. The unique location attracts many vacationers, who can enjoy the sun, warm sea and water sports. The island is a famous windsurfing spot. Due to the winds, Golden Horn’s form constantly slightly changes.
Why to go there?
One of the most unusual beaches – the shape of the coast, protruding into the sea makes it not only a pleasant holiday destination, but is also a treat for an eye!
Top 10 European Beaches-Croatia

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Top 10 European Beaches-Croatia-Photo by Josko Bajic

Top 10 European Beaches-Croatia-Photo by Robin Wilkie

8. Vik Beach, Iceland

The Northern country is rough and cold, so expect a dark version of a pristine beach. Black sand of Vik makes this place gloomy yet so poetic and unusually beautiful. Its enigmatic landscape, cliffs covered with grass, contrasting with the black sand, is however very powerful. It is home to mythical creatures and trolls, along with the adorable puffins.
Why to go there?
Iceland is the country to visit at least once in a lifetime. Meanwhile Vik village is a great stop, while around the country via the ring road.
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Top 10 European Beaches-Vik2

Top 10 European Beaches-Vik

Top 10 European Beaches-Vik-Photo by Bob Gundersen

7. Nida, Lithuania

One of the most exciting resorts in the country. It is famous for its sand dunes, sprawling across the coastline. It is protected by UNESCO since besides the natural wonders, there are a few significant historic monuments as well. One of the most interesting is the old cemetery, which features the oldest form of memorials in the country.
Why to go there?
It is not as crowded and much more quiet than other Lithuanian resorts. The nature and historic heritage makes it a great spot to explore, promising a great vacation.
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Top 10 European Beaches-Nida

Top 10 European Beaches-Nida-Photo by Sypsena22

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Top 10 European Beaches-Nida-Photo by Mauglis

Top 10 European Beaches-Nida-Photo by Rem

6. Sandwood Bay, Scotland

The water is cold here, since it is posited on the northwestern tip of Scotland, however, it is the fascinating sites that are worth visiting for. The spot is surrounded with cliffs, sand dunes and grasslands. Moreover, the visitors have to hike 4 miles from the road via a winding little path. Part of the exciting trip.
Why to go there?
The old tales tell about the ghosts, shipwrecks and mermaids appearing here. Sandwood Bay is indeed a poetic and great place to visit, while exploring the dramatic shores of Scotland.
Top 10 European Beaches-Sandwood-Photo by luachmhor

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Top 10 European Beaches-Sandwood-Photo by Andrew Luyten

5. East Portlemouth Beaches, Devon, UK

A small English village on the southern coast of Devon is situated on the hills, overlooking the Kingsbridge Estuary. The latter is popular among the sailors and vacationers, for providing water activities as well as beautiful unspoiled surroundings. The beaches in East Portlemouth are famous for crystal clear even turquoise water.
Why to go there?
A wonderful holiday destination in the UK. All the facilities are provided for the vacationers, who can swim, enjoy various water sports, admire the scenery on a ferry or on foot – discover, National Trust Coast Path , providing great panoramic views to the country.
Top 10 European Beaches-Devon-Photo by Ian Wool

Top 10 European Beaches-Devon-Photo by David Noble

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Top 10 European Beaches-Devon

4. Luskentyre, Isle of Harris, Scotland

Found on the western island, Luskentyre beach is one of the most unexpected places in the country. Voted the best beach in Britain, Luskentyre is proud of crystal clear emerald water lapping over the white soft sand. Visitors can approach the area by hiking on the beaches and hills. Various water activities, including bathing, kayaking, fishing, diving and more, attract more adventurous types.
Why to go there?
It is voted to be the greatest beach in the United Kingdom, boasting crystal clear water and white soft sand. However, always check before going if the water is free from jellyfish.
Top 10 European Beaches-Luskentyre-Photo by Tim Winterburn

Top 10 European Beaches-Luskentyre-Photo by Stephen Hay

Top 10 European Beaches-Luskentyre-Photo by Mark Hutton

Top 10 European Beaches-Luskentyre-Photo by Joe Higney

3. Hoyvika Beach, Andøya, Norway

Located on the Northernmost island in the Vesterålen archipelago, the beach is definitely the most beautiful here. The whole island has a dramatic surface, high peaks, protruding for 705 m (2313 ft) like Kvasstinden and mountain range, which also surrounds this beach. The island, Hoyvika and more beaches can be explored on a coastal trek from Stave to Bleik. The 9 km (5.6 mi) trail can be completed in about five hours.
Why to go there?
Beautiful panoramic views, unspoiled nature, a great hiking trail. Hikers also have an opportunity to watch nesting colonies of puffins, shags, kittiwakes and guillemots.
Top 10 European Beaches-Hoivyka-Photo by Stian Klo

Top 10 European Beaches-Hoivyka-Photo by Svein Oftedal

Top 10 European Beaches-Hoivyka-Photo by Benny Høynes

Top 10 European Beaches-Hoivyka-Photo by Fred Åge Hol

2. Durdle Door, Dorset, England

Here is another beach, which boasts an impressive surroundings. A limestone arch on the Jurassic Coast is a natural wonder and defines the dramatic coastline. Durdle Door is a result of erosion and is still exposed to it. The section between Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove is the most popular site in the south west of England.
Why to go there?
One of the most popular natural sites in England. The beach here is also one of the best in the country.
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Top 10 European Beaches-Durdle

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1. Lake Como, Lombardy, Italy

One of the most iconic lakes in Italy provides a really long shoreline as well as beaches. They are embedded among the luxurious villas, owned by business moguls, music and Hollywood stars. However, there are sandy stretches too. A popular tourist destination, Lake Como offers a variety of activities: sailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing are loved by those, who crave for adrenaline.
Why to go there?
For the striking views, many activities and fresh fish, served in a number of restaurants around the lake. After all it is one of the most desirable destinations in the region!
Top 10 European Beaches-Como-Photo by Pat Kofahl

Top 10 European Beaches-Como-Photo by Infinity Visions

Top 10 European Beaches-Como-Photo by Roberto Roberti

Top 10 European Beaches-Como-Photo by Diego Bonacina

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