The Mediterranean is a fantastic option for those looking for spectacular scenery and old-world charm. There is no shortage of islands in the Mediterranean to explore. Home to some 3000 islands, picking the best options for a luxury vacation is a tough ask. But, we’ve put together our list of 6 Mediterranean islands that offer some of the most luxurious options for your next holiday by the sea.
Santorini
Santorini is the gem of the Cyclades islands. The rugged landscape of this ancient island is shaped by a devastating volcanic eruption in the 16th century BC. Today its two main towns, Fira and Oia, are famous for their stunning whitewashed houses and cliffs overlooking beaches made up of red, black, and white lava pebbles.
Santorini boasts stylish hotels, world-class eateries, and superb wineries. Add these to its world-famous sunsets, and you have one of the most romantic island retreats that the Mediterranean has on offer. For an even more unforgettable experience, we recommend checking out the various yacht rentals in Greece. Nothing is more romantic than sailing into the sunset with the one you love.
Sardinia
Sheer cliffs, aquamarine waters, soft-sand beaches, and a mouth-watering 124 miles of coastline. These have made Sardinia a playground for the rich and famous since Aga Khan first saw its potential almost 50 years ago. Today, Costa Smeralda is the destination of choice for those in the know. Boutique stores, bars, and breath-taking beaches are surrounded by granite peaks.
There is no shortage of history to take in on the island either. Highlights include the submerged Roman ruins of Nora, and the beehive-shaped dwellings of the Nuragic village of Tiscali which date back to the first millennium BC, for example. There is also the Catalan Gothic architecture of Alghero, including Palazzo Guilot, the Cattedrale di Santa Maria, and the 4th century Chiesa di San Francesco.
Corsica
With a mix of beautiful coastal towns and dense forests, Corsica is spoiled for natural beauty. It is famous for a spectacular two-week hike known as GR20 that travels along the high mountainous spine of the island. It is rough and remote and by no means for the faint-hearted. On top of adventure, Corsica has no shortage of world class hotels, bars, restaurants that offer the hospitality that goes beyond 5*.
Despite having been part of France since 1769, Corsica has a unique culture that has a very distinctly Italian flair to it. They hold dear the divine trio of food, wine, and music, so be prepared to overindulge while you are here. But if you desire something a little more secluded, you should consider Cavallo. Nestled away between Corsica and Sardinia, it is a privately owned island offering luxury accommodation, crystal clear waters, and exclusivity.
Malta
The tiny island of Malta is bursting at the seams with natural beauty, stunning architecture, and a rich, unique history. Its location in the center of the Mediterranean means that it has been inhabited since 5900 BC, and it has been a strategic naval base to its rulers – which include the Phoenicians and Carthaginians, Romans, Greeks, Arabs, French, and British to name a few.
Valletta, the capital city, is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. If you have the chance to enter the city boat, the view is both breathtaking and humbling all at the same time as you think about the centuries of sailors that have done it before you. Malta’s luxury heritage includes being the first marital home of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip, the home has since been bought by the Maltese government and has been turned into a museum.
Hvar
Croatia boasts hundreds of islands, but you could put together a strong argument for Hvar being the most beautiful. Celebs seeking a private getaway are drawn to the beaches of Dubovica and Milna, thanks to the island being considered paparazzi-free. This is one of Europes sunniest destinations, so relaxing on golden beaches and dipping in rich blue waters is a must. But finding time to go visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Franciscan Monastery, and the hilltop fortress of Fortica that watches over the island are all a must.
Corfu
With its azure Ionian Sea, the Waterfalls of Nymfes, the Byzantine churches, the Greek temple ruins, cypress trees, and futile gardens, it’s no wonder that Corfu is considered a Mediterranean playground. And that’s before you’ve experienced their world-famous hospitality at local bars and restaurants. The kids are not forgotten here either, and with activities ranging from horse riding to a water-park, you will be able to keep them entertained for at least a couple of weeks.
No matter what you are looking for, these top choices bring you the best of everything. Sun, sand and crystal clear blue waters are a given no matter which you choose.