The Kilkenny Observer Friday 5 May 2023
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Travel & Leisure
Seven beautiful Mediterranean islands to visit
1. Ibiza, Spain Ibiza is a Mediterranean island with a party scene. It is a historic addition to the Balearic islands with 16thcentury walls, yet it is better known for electronic dance music. Ibiza is one of the best islands for a party holiday. And when you are recovering from a night out, it has plenty of beautiful beaches and picturesque agricultural areas to explore with wild herbs and citrus groves. The clubs in Ibiza are unrivalled. Some, like Pacha, have been open since 1973 and are iconic in their own right. Even the biggest party holiday has room for a bit of history. The Castle of Ibiza hilltop landmark is a medieval fortification and is well worth a visit. 2. Mallorca, Spain Mallorca is the largest Balearic island. And it’s easily one of the most popular islands in the Mediterranean for tourists. Mallorca made its way onto our list for its golden beaches and friendly vibe. You could drive around the island’s circumference in five to six hours. The island has pine forests and beautiful architecture
like Santa Maria Cathedral. Despite having a nightlife hotspot in the island’s capital, Palma, the island is familyfriendly. Mallorca is also brilliant on a budget, with plenty of low-cost airlines running regular flights from major European cities. A beautiful train ride is a quintessential way to travel in Mallorca. This vintage train runs from Palma to Soller, passing orange groves and pine forests. Ruta de Pedra en Sec is a stunning cobbled mountain trail that hugs the side of cliff faces and dramatic gorges. While 170km long, you can easily pick a smaller section for a less ambitious hike. 3. Santorini, Greece Santorini is a Greek paradise, and everyone knows it. Aside from blue-domed churches and bright white buildings, Santorini has developed a reputation as among the Greek islands’ most luxurious. It is easily one of the most popular of the Mediterranean islands. Between its luxe atmosphere, things to do, and iconic status, we just had to include Santorini on our list. Santorini itself was formed by a volcanic eruption.
The eruption occurred thousands of years ago yet set out Santorini’s distinctive geographical layout for centuries. The craggy remains of the volcanic rock cut a stark contrast to Santorini’s glossy white buildings. Red Beach is a must and (as you may have guessed) is a trademarked burnt red colour. It is ideal for a beach day with a difference. Three Bells of Fira is a top choice amongst the bluedomed churches of Santorini. The Catholic Church is set above the ocean on a scenic clifftop. 4. Menorca, Spain Menorca is the second largest Balearic island. The Spanish island is more lowkey than Mallorca or Ibiza. It lacks the hardcore partying and resorts – instead famous for sandy beaches and a bit of peace and quiet. While still on all the major flight routes, it offers a more tranquil experience. This quality really stood out to us, and it had to go onto our list. Menorca is probably 50% sandy beaches and 50% pine forests. But the capital Mahon has some cultural elements too. We suggest renting a car and beach
hopping, then venturing into Mahon for food and culture. Cala Algaiarens is a vast sandy beach sheltered by cliffs and with calm waters ideal for swimming. There’s also a hiking trail nearby for the adventurous. The Parc Natural de s’Albufera des Grau nature reserve is beautifully explored by kayak or by snorkelling. The marshlands are a conservation area and peaceful for wildlife watching.
and fine sand beaches are all over. Rent a car and pick your ideal section of the coastline. The Old Fortress of Corfu is historically fascinating and also perfect for scenic views. Check out the displayed artifacts and allow a few hours to explore the grounds. Porto Timoni Beach is a remote beach in a rocky region surrounded by lush greenery and forests – Porto Timoni Beach speaks for itself. It’s an adventurous beach day destination.
5. Corfu, Greece Corfu is a significant island in the Mediterranean. The Greek island is off the west coast of the beautiful mainland. Both cruise lines and airlines flock to Corfu – it’s a popular spot among all. Busy and unapologetically a channel for passing tourists, Corfu has a constant movement of people. An easy fix to that, though, is visiting in shoulder seasons. In shoulder seasons, markets and attractions are much quieter, and the spring or autumn salty breeze keeps you cooler anyway. Corfu Town is the central hub of the island. However, resorts stud the entire circumference of the island,
6. Sicily, Italy Sicily is the largest of all islands in the Mediterranean. The Italian island sits off the west coast of the mainland and screams natural beauty. It is also a living and breathing museum, with Roman and Greek ruins everywhere. Plus, there’s the thrill of Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in Europe, on the island’s east coast. Sicily is beautiful and exciting. It’s a winning combination if we ever did see one. Valley of the Temples is a magnificent historical landmark – a vast archaeological site covered in ancient temples and an
engaging museum. Taking a cable car up to Mount Etna is one of the most exciting things to do in Sicily. You get dropped at a final section of the hiking trail and emerge at the volcano’s crater. There are also a number of jeep tours if you want a more unique route up. 7. Capri, Italy Capri is a beautiful island in Italy’s Bay of Naples, popular amongst luxury seekers. It is hard not to love its exclusive and glamorous appeal – whether you are on a luxury budget or not. The island has stunning beaches and a world-famous Blue Grotto, which can be visited by boat. Its glamour, things to do, and beaches are what won us over. The Blue Grotto is a massive blue lagoon in a collection of sea caves. The light reflects, making the seawater ultra blue (electric blue at midday). You enter in a small fishing boat and can swim in the bright blue water. The Mount Solaro chairlift is a few minutes long but gives you stunning views of the ocean and rock formations. There’s also a cafe – the perfect espresso point.
