Guardian Travel readers have once again shared their most cherished coastal discoveries from across Europe, offering a treasure trove of inspiration for sun-seekers and solitude hunters alike. From the dramatic cliffs of Sicily to the serene pine forests of the Baltic, these personal recommendations highlight the continent's stunning diversity of shoreline escapes.
Mediterranean Marvels: Sicilian Splendour and Aegean Bliss
The magnificent resort town of Cefalù in Sicily, just forty miles east of Palermo, captured one reader's heart. The town is famed for its perfect half-moon beach of golden sand, which seamlessly meets the clear turquoise sea. Beyond the shore, visitors can explore medieval lanes paved with diamond-patterned stones, leading to a lively square offering superb Italian food, all fronted by a beautiful Norman cathedral with twin towers and Byzantine mosaics.
Further east in the Aegean, the Fourni islands remain a beloved secret among Athenians. This archipelago boasts numerous coves and beaches, with Petrokopio beach standing out as a favourite for its wonderful white stones and history as an ancient marble quarry. For a more social scene, Kampi beach offers a Fellini-esque atmosphere backed by tamarisk trees, while a fishing boat trip to Thimena island reveals the secluded Paralía Kerameidioú bay with its relaxed restaurant.
Atlantic Adventures: Portugal's Lagoons and Algarve Rollers
Portugal's Algarve coast features twice in the recommendations, showcasing its varied appeal. East of Faro, away from the tourist hubs, lies the charming fishing village of Fuseta within the Ria Formosa natural park. Protected by sand spits and islands, this area offers miles of calm lagoon waters. Readers suggest taking a water taxi to a pre-booked, completely deserted spot for a day of blissful isolation.
On the western Algarve near Lagos, the mile-long Porto de Mós beach presents a different character. Here, the awesome and mesmerising sight of Atlantic rollers crashing onto the shore creates a true heaven for surfers and spectators. After a dip, the Campimar beach shack provides well-earned refreshment, transforming into a great seafood restaurant by evening with views of scudding clouds and hypnotic waves.
Northern Gems: Baltic Serenity and Spanish Cider
For those seeking cooler climes, a perfect ribbon of sand runs along the Baltic shore from Jūrmala to Bigauņciems, just a few miles west of Riga, Latvia. The pine forests of the Ķemeri national park meet the sand, offering an extensive network of walking trails where the soundtrack is provided by calling cuckoos and singing wood warblers. Early and late summer are recommended for long daylight hours and comfortable temperatures.
As an alternative to Spain's scorching south, readers champion Gijón in Asturias. San Lorenzo beach boasts a lovely promenade and vibrant surf scene, while the neighbouring Playa de Poniente offers tranquil waters and rock pools for crabbing. The local Tierra Astur restaurant serves typical Asturian dishes and good-value local cider. A late July visit promises an amazing airshow over San Lorenzo.
Guardian Travel runs a weekly readers' tips competition. A selection of entries is featured online and in print, with the best tip each week winning a £200 voucher for a Coolstays break. To enter the latest competition and share your own discovery, visit the readers' tips homepage.
