20 most stunning islands in Europe to visit during your next vacation

19.02.2024.

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Small or large, these beautiful islands are your getaway to true vacation in all corners of Europe. From England’s islets to the Greek marvels, this guide awakens ever-lasting travel ideas. Islands are a secure way to escape reality and feel the local culture.

European islands are the places to find warmth in winter, refreshment during summer, or a fantastic party scene.

Which of them are the most stunning? It depends if you’re searching for natural scenery, historical charm or incredible beaches. Because beaches are the foremost reason to choose a stunning island for your vacation.

In this post I collaborated with more than 20 bloggers to discover these pearls of Europe.

Santorini, Greece- contributed by myself

Santorini is a magical island that offers a romantic ambiance in the whiteness of its cute streets. The volcanic nature of Santorini unveils the Moon shape of this gorgeous island. The surrounding islets such as Thirassia burst with the stunning caldera views.

Sunset is the time that makes Santorini so gorgeous and creates picture-postcards to remember, still so perfect to visit in October. The popular Oia is a fancy town, but a best place to find these wonderful sunsets.

Santorini is filled with the cute cave hotels with the picturesque pools around it. The blue domes are the sign of Santorini that perfectly blend with the vast sea.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly place to stay on Santorini, Perissa village is your choice. You’ll enjoy the black volcanic beach in Perissa with incredible views. The colourful vegetarian restaurant Tranquillo shines with the cheerful vibes that stretches out to the beach.

How to reach & where to stay

You can either take a direct flight to Santorini from anywhere in Europe or with a ferry from Athens. The ferry leaves from Piraeus and requiers 7h of ride.

I would suggest Thea Appartments Santorini, a gorgeous and tranquil cave house with an incredible view. The stuff is exceptional and you can also enjoy a lovely pool.

Milos, Greece- contributed by Mal from Raw Mal Roams

Set southeast of Athens, Milos is a quiet gem in the Cyclades, known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful scenery. It’s not as crowded as Santorini or as lively as Mykonos, making it perfect for a more relaxed getaway. 

The island is dotted with charming white-washed alleys and sugar cube houses, giving it that classic Greek island look. You’ll find plenty of quiet beaches, small villages to explore, and great places to eat without the tourist hustle. 

Visit the colourful fishing village of Klima for a perfect spot to have dinner while watching the sunset. Klima’s colourful houses make the view even more special, and the seafood here is fresh and delicious. 

The boat trip to Kleftiko

And, if you’re a fan of adventure, don’t miss a boat trip to Kleftiko. This spot is famous for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic rock formations, making it perfect for snorkelling and exploring hidden coves. It’s a highlight of any Milos visit, offering stunning views and a chance to see the island from a different perspective.

How to reach & where to stay

The best way to get to Milos is by plane from Athens or by a fast boat from the port of Piraeus, which takes just over 2.5 hours.

One of the best places to stay in Milos is the lively port town of Adamas.

Hotel Rigas is an excellent option, which is also affordable. Adamas is also a great base from which to visit the rest of the island. Do not miss Sarakinino Beach, which is famous for its moon-like landscape consisting of peculiar, white rock formations. 

Mikonos, Greece- contributed by Disha Smith from Disha Discoveres

One of the most amazing islands to visit in Europe is Mykonos. This charming island has a unique blend of natural history, stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. Combining with the picturesque white-washed buildings, it’s such a special destination for travelers worldwide.

One of the best things to do in Mykonos is to wander around the Old Town. This area is full of narrow streets and traditional white houses with colorful doors and windows. The charming boutiques and cafes draped in vibrant bougainvillea enrich the atmosphere.

You can also visit the famous Windmills of Mykonos, which are iconic landmarks and offer stunning views of the surrounding area. Located right outside of the Old Town, the windmills were once used to grind wheat.

Little Venice is another must-see area in Mykonos. This area is a picturesque neighborhood with buildings right on the water’s edge. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset while enjoying a cocktail at one of the many waterfront bars and restaurants.

The beaches of Mikonos & island Delos

Mykonos also has plenty of beaches to choose from, each with its own unique vibe. Paradise Beach is known for its lively atmosphere and parties, while Elia Beach offers a more relaxed setting.

If you have more than one day in Mykonos, you can also take a boat tour to the nearby island of Delos, an important archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How to reach & where to stay

You can fly into Mykonos directly or take a ferry from Athens, making it an easy addition to any Greece itinerary.

One of the best places to stay is the Semeli Hotel Mykonos.

Corfu, Greece- contributd by Ksenia from Explore With Wonder

The heavenly island of Corfu has been a popular tourist destination for decades, and rightfully so. Blessed with numerous beautiful beaches of various shapes and sizes, it’s perfect for those seeking sun and sea.

 However, the island offers much more than just a beach holiday. It boasts dramatic mountainous terrain and lush greenery, earning it the nickname of the ‘Emerald Isle’.

About the historic charm of Corfu

In addition to breathtaking scenery, Corfu also boasts an incredible history. The island has been inhabited by various peoples over the centuries, from ancient Greeks to Venetians.

They all left their unique marks that are visible to visitors today. You can explore ancient ruins of Byzantine fortresses and marvel at the beautiful Venetian architecture in Corfu Town. Visiting the mountain villages that appear frozen in time is a fabulous experience.

Despite being touristy, it boasts a beautiful historic core, complete with charming architecture, historic fortresses, and fascinating museums. It has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to the authenticity and value of its heritage.

Then, I suggest hiring a car to fully explore the island. Enjoy hikes amongst olive groves, swims in the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea, and visits to ancient monasteries.

How to reach & where to stay

Your adventure will likely start in Corfu Town, where the island’s international airport is located. I highly recommend spending some time exploring historic Corfu Town.

If you are staying in Corfu Town, consider the charming Siora Vittoria Boutique Hotel. Housed in a 19th-century mansion, it is situated right in the heart of the city, amidst all the action. 

Cyprus, contributed by Alina Schweiger from World of Lina

Another one of Europe’s best islands is Cyprus, an island nation located east of Greece and north of Egypt.

Cyprus is a beautiful island offering a mix of history, nature, and beaches, and is great to visit all year round. However, the most special part of the island is the fact it’s divided into two parts, being led by different governments.

To make the most of your visit, it is recommended to spend at least 3 days in Cyprus. It’s your chance to explore the major attractions such as the Archaeological Park and the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos. The Love Bridge in Ayia Napa is simply unmissable.  

For nature lovers, a hike in Avakas Gorge or a Troodos Mountains Tour is highly recommended, with a fantastic view from the highest mountain peak.

About Larnaka, the Greek capital of the island

Larnaca, the capital city of the Greek part of Cyprus, is also worth a visit. It is home to a large salt lake where flamingos can be observed if you are lucky.

How to reach & where to stay

The best method to reach Cyprus is by taking a flight and, once there, renting a car to explore the island. Best Western Plus Larco Hotel is a highly recommended place to stay in Cyprus due to its central location and proximity to the airport.

Malta, contributed by Robyn Dyrk from Two Empty Passports 

Malta is one of the most amazing islands in Europe to visit. Located in the Mediterranean between Sicily and Northern Africa, Malta sees over 300 days of sunshine a year!

What makes Malta special is its stunning landscapes, incredible beaches, historical sites, and its welcoming culture.

Exploring the vibrant capital of Valletta is essential. The pedestrian-only historic center is full of beautiful limestone buildings with colorful shutters and Maltese balconies.

Admire the Baroque design of St. John’s Co-Cathedral or enjoy the sunset over the 3 Cities at the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Then head to the fortified city of Mdina. Known as the “Silent City”, it is full of hidden alleys, and beautiful palaces with breathtaking views of the countryside.

Joining a boat tour to Comino’s Blue Lagoon is a must. And for those seeking adventure and or a quieter escape, a trip to Gozo is highly recommended.

How to reach, move around & where to stay

Flying is the easiest and fastest way to get to Malta as several European cities offer direct flights. Alternatively, you can take a speed ferry from Sicily in less than 2 hours.

The best way to explore the island is to rent a car in Malta, as bus routes do not access the more beautiful, remote beaches and towns.

The Valletta Lucente Guesthouse is a charming boutique B&B in historic Valletta. Each room is uniquely designed, the hosts are very friendly and prepare a delicious homemade breakfast each morning.

Sicily, Italy- contributed by Soumya from Stories by Soumya

Europe is full of beautiful islands, and one of the most amazing ones is Sicily. Located at the bottom of Italy’s boot, Sicily is home to stunning beaches and looming mountains. The ancient Greek and Roman ruins permeats into the vibrant local culture. 

There are many beautiful towns in Sicily, including the historic capital of Palermo. Situated on the northwestern coast of Sicily, Palermo is known for its iconic architectural landmarks, such as the Palermo Cathedral, the Norman Palace, and the Palatine Chapel. 

Visitors often base themselves in Palermo and take day trips to the Valley of Temples in Agrigento, the ruins of Segesta, and Mondello Beach. La Terrazza sul Centro is an excellent place to stay in Palermo.

Amazing city of Catania

Catania is another beautiful Sicilian town on the east coast. The unmissable highlights of Catania include the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, the Ursino Castle, and a Roman amphitheater dating to 300 BCE. 

Catania is also an easy base for day trips to Mt. Etna and the Late Baroque Towns of Val di Noto, including Ragusa, Noto, and Modica. 

Where to stay & how to reach

Palazzo Scammacca is one of the best hotels in Catania.

The best way to get to Sicily is by flying into the Palermo Airport or the Catania Airport. You can also take a ferry from Rome, Naples, and Salerno.

Caprera, Sardinia- contributed by Claudia Tavani from Strictly Sardinia

Located in northeastern Sardinia, Caprera is a small island part of the Maddalena Archipelago, now a national park in Italy.

There is no doubt that Caprera is one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean. While nobody currently lives in Caprera, here you will find no shortage of activities. If you visit in the summer, you will certainly enjoy the pristine beaches.

Caprera is home to a multitude of small coves that have the clearest waters – perfect for snorkeling. A few of these beaches – namely Cala Coticcio and Cala Brigantina – are protected. The only way to reach them is through a guided hike. Other beaches are easy accessible by car, and many more can be reached on hikes that unveil magnificent views.

Forts on Caprera island

But there’s more than beaches in Caprera. Scattered around the island you will find several forts that date from the end of the 19th century and the early 20th century.

The fort on Mount Teialone can be visited on easy hikes that depart from the Arbuticci / Garibaldi Road. This is a perfect sunset spot too. Fortificazione Candeo is another fort that you can reach via an easy to follow trail that departs from the Arbuticci parking lot.

Where to stay

There are no hotels or places to stay in Caprera. To visit, you can opt to stay in Maddalena island, which is connected to Caprera via a bridge. In Maddalena, opt to stay at Villa del Parco which has small but fully equipped apartments and serves an excellent breakfast daily.

Ischia, Italy- contributed by Helen from Helen On Her Holidays

Ischia is a beautiful island in the bay of Naples in southern Italy.

Ischia is absolutely packed with attractions. You can relax on the stunning beaches, visit the medieval castle and stroll through picturesque villages. 

One of the most special places in Ischia is Sant’Angelo. Sant’Angelo is a tiny, car-free village with an amazing setting. Spend the day here or take a taxi boat to nearby Maronti beach, the longest on the island.

The hot springs on Ischia

Ischia is a volcanic island and has 100 hot springs. Those hot springs feed thermal baths all over the island. Many hotels have their own thermal baths, or you can visit one of the public thermal spas. The Negombo thermal spa and gardens near Forio are a great place to spend a day, with 14 separate pools. Another wonderful place to bathe in hot springs is at Sorgeto beach. At Sorgeto beach the thermal waters bubble up just off the beach; you can bathe here for free. 

How to reach & where to stay

Just an hour from the mainland by fast ferry, you’ll find a small island packed with great things to do. 

There are lots of wonderful hotels in Ischia, but the most unique is the one in Castello Aragonese.

Albergo Il Monastero is right inside the medieval castle, with outstanding views across the island. 

Hvar, Croatia- contributed by Kamila Napora from Kami And The Rest Of The World

Hvar island is one of the most beautiful and most popular places to visit in Croatia but it is famous for a reason. You will find there a breathtaking landscape and views, charming old town and historical monuments as well as great relaxing opportunities, including numerous coves that hide picturesque beaches.

Hvar is also a popular nightlife destination so if you want to party, you can do it here. There are many amazing things to do in Hvar so no matter how long you stay there, you will not be bored.

The city of Hvar

The main city on the island, Hvar town, is where you will find most of the attractions and historical landmarks. You can wander around the old town, climb up to the Fortica fortress for the best view of the area, or visit the oldest public theater in Europe.

You can also take the boat to the nearby Pakleni Islands archipelago for a relaxing day in the picturesque surroundings.

How to reach & where to stay

Getting to Hvar is rather easy. There are numerous boats throughout the day from nearby Split (where you can arrive by plane); the journey time with the fast boat is around one hour. 

Villa Nora Hvar is a wonderful place to stay in Hvar town inside the ancient palace at the amazing location.

Mallorca, Spain- contributed by Lisa Garrett from Travel to Lyon

Mallorca is one of the most incredible islands in Europe, and the beautiful city of Palma is its capital.  Palma de Mallorca is brimming with history and incredible architecture. 

The best thing to see in Palma is the stunning Catedral-Basílica de Santa María de Mallorca.  Marvel at the gorgeous rose window and the wrought iron canopy designed by Antoni Gaudí.  

Castles & Palaces of Mallorca

Right next to this amazing cathedral is another architectural gem, the Royal Palace of La Almudaina.  The palace was previously an Arabian fort.  And don’t miss the S’Hort del Rei, lovely gardens in the Moorish style.  Enjoy the dancing waters of the fountains as you walk through the shady garden.

Across the harbor from Palma, you’ll find Castell de Bellver.  This unique castle is built in a circle.  From the roof, admire the arched symmetry of the castle’s central courtyard as well as amazing views of the city.

Drach Caves on Mallorca

Another popular thing to do in Mallorca is to visit the Drach Caves.  This is where you’ll see one of the world’s largest underground lakes!  The caves are on Mallorca’s eastern edge, about a 1-hour drive from Palma.

How to reach & where to stay

Fly into the Palma de Mallorca airport, located about 10km from the historical center of Palma. 

Stay at the Palacio CaSa Galesa, a 5-star hotel just blocks from the cathedral. You’ll love the cathedral views from the rooftop terrace!

Ibiza, Spain- contributed by Tom from Tom Henty’s Travel

Ibiza is a balearic gem which is famed as a party island, however, it offers much more to tourists.
Ibiza is an underrated hiking destination in Europe offering many picturesque trails in its Casa-Blanca region. Many of the hiking spots include hilly terrain, beautiful coastline and quirky Spanish villages.

Sunset spots on Ibiza island

Sunset spots are abundant throughout the island, with the magical ‘Es Vedra’ rock island taking first spot for international tourists wanting a picture-perfect spot. Es Vedra is said to be the most magnetic point in
the world, which explains the high energy across Ibiza.
Cafe Mambos is another special spot on the island to watch the sunset, with many visitors renting a boat to watch in style.
Ibiza is a destination to suit all types of travellers, and it’s beautiful beaches along its west coast attract many families. Cala Bassa is the pick of beaches for children as there are no currents in the sea in this
spot.

Ibiza Town (Eivissa)

Ibiza Town (Eivissa) is a spot which can be enjoyed by locals and tourists all year round. If you want to appreciate the beauty of the area then head to the harbour and enjoy some traditional Mediterranean
cuisine with spectacular views.
Ibiza offers a great experience for every type of traveller, so plan your trip and head to the beautiful Balearic island.

Where to stay

Here are popular hotels in Ibiza.
San Antonio Bay – Amàre Beach Hotel Ibiza. It offers luxury feels, 3 outdoor swimming pools and wonderful rooftop terrace.
Ibiza Town – Eurostars Eivissa. With the marvelous terrace of the sea view, the marvelous atmosphere awaits in Eurostars Eivissa.
Playa D’en Bossa – Ushuaia. Just like in the castle, you can enjoy here in the spa, 6 restaurants (even the Japanese one) and dj-parties.

Tenerife, contributed by Karen from Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Tenerife in Spain’s Canary Islands is one of the most beautiful islands in Europe. It is known for its golden sand beaches, mountain scenery, and picturesque villages.

Tenerife has the highest mountain in Spain, Mount Teide. Hikes in Teide National Park go past colorful volcanic features of striking beauty. Another superior trek is the Roque de Taborno hike in the Anaga Mountains.

Many visitors to Tenerife enjoy visiting the charming village of Masca. Stroll through the village for jaw-dropping views of the Masca Valley.

Other activities include whale and dolphin watching, snorkeling, and sailing.

A recommended hotel in Playas de las Americas is Sir Anthony Hotel.

The beaches of Tenerife

Tenerife has some of the best beaches in Europe. Beaches on the south part of the island are famous for white sand and calm conditions for swimming. Playa de las Vistas in Los Cristianos is a family friend beach. Playa del Duque in Costa Adeje is the classic resort beach with sun loungers, umbrellas, and beach huts. 

On the north side of the island, surfing beaches are prominent. Playa Jardin in Puerto de la Cruz has great surfing conditions and a gorgeous botanical garden built around it.

The wonderful Playa de las Teresitas is the most famous beach of Tenerife, close to its capital Santa Cruz.

Many regional and international airlines have direct service to Tenerife.

Azores, Portugal- contributed by Ali from Travel Made Simple

The Azores are a Portuguese group of 9 islands located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. This location means the islands are lush and green, and they are simply gorgeous. Most of the islands have tours, but renting a car to do it on your own can be a lot easier. Though the islands all have their differences, most have plenty of opportunities to see waterfalls, calderas, impressive cliffs, hot springs, and quaint villages. Their remote location means the Azores are off the radar for most people, adding to the appeal of visiting.

The Azores have a mild climate throughout the year. But don’t forget to include a rain jacket on your Azores packing list. It can go from sunny to rainy and back again all in the same day.

Sao Miguel, the principal island

The islands used to have an important whaling industry, but now they have transitioned to whale watching instead. The best islands for whale watching are Sao Miguel and Pico.

Pico is also home to Portugal’s highest mountain, which takes several hours to climb and should be done with a guide. Sao Jorge Island has Europe’s only coffee plantation, while Sao Miguel Island has Europe’s only tea plantation.

You can also try delicious cheese from Sao Jorge, as well as wine from a few different islands.

How to reach & where to stay

To get to the Azores, most flights go from Lisbon, which takes 2.5 hours, or from Boston, which takes 5 hours. The most popular island is Sao Miguel.

This is the best one for your first visit because it has so much to offer and it’s the easiest to reach.

For a budget hotel on Sao Miguel, check out Ilha Hostel & Suites, located in the capital city, Ponta Delgada.

Madeira, Portugal- contributed by Joanna from The World In My Pocket

Madeira is island in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Morocco popular all year round for holidays to its mild temperatures and stunning scenery.

Most visitors come to Madeira for a week, but there are plenty of city breakers as well as day travellers who arrive here by cruise ship. Funchal, where most tourists stay, has a walkable and charming historical center. One of the highlights is Zona Velha, which underwent a unique restoration project a few years ago, in which over 200 doors were painted by talented artists. This made the area a major touristic attraction in Funchal.

To immerse in the city’s vibe, you must visit the local market. In the mornings, fish vendors bring in their fresh catches of the day, while the rest of the market offers a variety of exotic fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Upstairs, you can browse through stalls selling spices, herbs, and souvenirs. For an authentic meal, find a restaurant adjacent to the market and try one of the most delicious typical dishes in Madeira, the espada fish cooked with bananas and passion fruit.

Madeira beyond its capital Funchal

Madeira is much more than Funchal though. Even if it’s small, there are plenty of places to visit in Madeira. Whilst the island is not a beach destination, it’s a paradise for hikers. In only 40 minutes you can be on the top of the second highest peak on the island. The sunrises from here are magical!

Another unique thing to do in Madeira is visit Porto Moniz, where you can swim in the natural pools all year round.

Where to stay

A great hotel to stay at in Madeira is VidaMar, which has four outdoor pools and a spa centre. The romantic dining by the water is absolutely magical.

Island, contributed by Janae McCormick from Adventures With TuckNae

Iceland is the 18th largest island in the world. This country covers an area of about 103,000 square kilometers (about 40,000 square miles). 

It has a relatively small population compared to its size, making it one of the least densely populated countries in the world! 

Known as the “Land of Fire and Ice,” this island is geologically active, with numerous volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, and lava fields. 

Iceland’s landscape is primarily shaped by volcanic activity, with the Vatnajökull glacier, one of the largest in Europe, covering a significant portion of the country.

South of Island- the most scenic part

While all of Iceland is gorgeous, the south coast of Iceland is arguably the most scenic. 

One of the best places to base out of during a visit to southern Iceland is Vik. There are so many incredible things to do in the Vik area! 

Some highlights include a gorgeous black sand beach, numerous waterfalls, and hiking on a glacier. If you go further east, Diamond Beach and Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon are also must-see places! 

During your stay at Vik, stop in the Lava Show to learn more about the eruptions on the island. And bonus, there’s a great soup restaurant in the same building! 

For budget-friendly accommodation, consider staying at the Puffin Hotel Vik. 

Isle of Mull, Scotland- contributed by Maja from Away With Maja

The Isle of Mull in Scotland is an incredible island to visit in Europe. It really has it all – mountains, wildlife, beaches, and historic sites, to name a few reasons to visit.

Go for a dip (albeit a rather chilly one) at Calgary Bay or Uisken Beach. Visit Lochbuie to see the standing stones and the ruins of Moy Castle. You can’t miss a visit to Duart Castle when visiting Mull – it dates back to the 13th century.

Hikers will want to summit Ben More, the only Munro on the island. Tobermory village is home to a colorful row of pretty buildings along the harbor, Tobermory Distillery, and plenty shops, cafes, and galleries.

Visiting nearby islands

The Isle of Mull is also a fantastic destination for its links to nearby islands in the Inner Hebrides. Iona is just a short 10-minute ferry ride away, where you can visit Iona Abbey, a site of pilgrimage since the 7th century.

You can also visit Staffa and the Treshnish Isles as a day trip or tour from Mull. These islands are some of the best places to see puffins and seabirds in the UK!

How to reach & where to stay

You’ll need to take the CalMac ferry from Oban on the mainland to Craignure on the Isle of Mull. While there are some bus routes around the island, it’s definitely best to have your own car to explore Mull.

The Tobermory Hotel is conveniently located in Tobermory right on the seafront, with cozy rooms and a popular on-site restaurant.

Skellig Michael, Ireland- conrtibuted by Angie Kunze from We’re Not in Kansas Anymore

UNESCO World Heritage Skellig Michael Island is one of Ireland’s top “bucket list worthy” destinations. What makes this island special?

The remnants of an ancient monk colony sit atop this tiny island in the Atlantic Ocean. Make your way up nearly 700 steps to the top where you’ll find the ancient stone beehive huts where the monks once lived. The scenery from this high vantage is second to none, take some time to soak it in.

The Island was a filming location for both Star Wars films “The Force Awakens” and “The Last Jedi” and so is a popular destination for fans of movies.

How to reach & where to stay

Getting to Skellig Michael is an adventure in itself. Boat operators carry tourists to the island just a few months out of the year. Tours depart from Portmagee Marina and book up fast. Because the island is in the Wild Atlantic, tours are very weather dependent. If you really have your heart set on getting to Skellig, I recommend spending at least a couple of days in the area in case you need to try to rebook.

There aren’t a lot of hotels in the tiny harbor town of Portmagee. My top pick is a ten-minute drive away, just across the bridge to Valentia Island.

The Royal Valentia Hotel is a charming little hotel with loads of character!

Holy Island of Lindisfarne, UK- contributed by Sarah from Northumberland’s Best

Found just off the coast of Northumberland, England’s most northerly county, Lindisfarne is also known as Holy Island. It is an ancient island that can only be reached twice a day during the low tides.  There’s a causeway here, as well as an ancient pilgrim’s path that leads to the island. 

This island has been an important pilgrimage site for Christians for centuries. Serving as a home to the ruins of Lindisfarne Priory, it will pleasantly surprie you with the Lindisfarne Castle.  

The Castle was once a private home, but has been under the ownership of the National Trust for decades and provides stunning views over the surrounding countryside and North Sea. 

Abut the seaside hikes

There are fabulous seaside hikes here and you can visit the lovely St Aidan’s Winery that produces local souvenirs. The famed Lindisfarne Mead is a type of fortified wine made to an ancient recipe from the Priory Monks.

A star attraction of the island is the house used in the filming of the much loved North East TV series, “Vera”.  Visitors rarely come to Holy Island just once, this is a place that people return to regularly.

Where to stay

The island is small, just two square miles, (5.18 kilometers), but contains a vibrant community and several holiday homes.

The fabulous Manor House Hotel serves the guests who wish to experience the island “after the tide has come in”.  The causeway is a dangerous crossing, as the tide sweeps in quickly, and tidal tables should be consulted before each attempt to cross.

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