Everyone knows Ibiza, but this quaint town has better beaches
This story is part of the May 25 edition of Sunday Life. See all 13 stories.
Formentera, Spain
Everyone knows Ibiza: each summer it turns into one of Europe's craziest party island destinations. But far fewer know about Formentera, a former hippie hangout, just 30 minutes south by ferry. It's home to some of Europe's best beaches, but is far less crowded – and once the day trippers return to Ibiza on the afternoon ferries, you'll have this island to yourself (especially in May, September or October.) Rent a bike or just walk between beaches like Playa es Pujols, home to more sophisticated beach clubs and bars than what you'll often find in Ibiza (especially in clubbing capital, San Antonio).
Piran, Slovenia
Forget Italy, try Slovenia – and Piran, the town on the Adriatic Coast dubbed Little Venice. For a fraction of the cost and with far fewer tourists (though it pays to holiday outside of July), Piran has the same features as Venice: narrow, cobbled 1000-year-old alleyways leading out to the Mediterranean, waiters in suits serving seafood at al fresco restaurants, caught that morning by local fishermen, and old-town squares full of cafes and lively bars. Part of the Venetian Republic until the late 18th century, Piran still feels Italian. Here you can watch the sun rise over Italy, then set over Croatia.
Faroe Islands, Denmark
With average summer temperatures rising by almost 1.5 degrees these past two European summers, it makes sense to try cooler destinations. They don't get much cooler than the Faroe Islands, located half-way between Iceland and Scotland in the Atlantic Ocean, and only a short flight from the UK. They comprise 18 islands and have a population that's outnumbered by sheep. The government has also limited tourist numbers. Expect 20 hours of sunlight a day in summer, and average temperatures in the mid-teens. Nowhere on the islands is more than five kilometres from the coastline – and you'll also find plenty of fjords and waterfalls.
Tropea, Italy
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