These beaches also have white sand and an azure sea.
White sand and azure sea: seven European destinations that rival the Maldives
If there is a resort that is synonymous with the pinnacle of tropical luxury, it is the Maldives – thanks to its paradisiacal white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. However, an unpleasant nuance is the distance – it takes more than 10 hours to fly to the Maldives, and ticket prices during the season can be truly astronomical. In addition, you still need to get to the right island by boat or seaplane.
Fortunately, as The Telegraph writes, there are several almost identical places in Europe where you can enjoy your own piece of sandy paradise, just as beautiful as the Maldives.
Analipsi (Crete, Greece)
The verdict is that everything is fine, but there’s a lack of nature.
Similarity rating to the Maldives: 6/10
Xamil – Butrint National Park, Albania
This gem of the Albanian Riviera has become an Instagram hit due to its turquoise waters and white beaches. However, in the summer, the beaches can be crowded, which can ruin the atmosphere.
Verdict: It’s beautiful and affordable, but it lacks true privacy.
Similarity rating to the Maldives: 6/10
Costa Smeralda (Sardinia, Italy)
The water here is truly a dazzling shade of green, and the beaches are truly a paradise.
Verdict: The natural beauty is first-class, but Italian hospitality can’t compare to island hospitality.
Similarity rating to the Maldives: 7/10
Pampelonne Beach (Côte d’Azur, France)
The idyllic sandy beach, which stretches for almost 5 km along the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, deserves the highest praise for its beauty, but leaves much to be desired when it comes to a relaxed island atmosphere.
Verdict: A strikingly accurate resemblance, but slightly more turbulent than on a Maldivian island.
Similarity rating to the Maldives: 7/10
Carbis Bay (Cornwall, United Kingdom)
If you choose the right time and weather, the UK has its own Maldives-like destination. On a hot day in Carbis Bay, the turquoise waters, powdery sand, and breathtaking scenery rival those of tropical islands.
Verdict: An ideal place for a sunny weekend, if the weather is good.
Similarity rating to the Maldives: 8/10
Sani Beach (Cassandra, Greece)
With warmer waters than in other parts of Europe, the Greek archipelagos are definitely worth a visit for their tropical beaches.
The verdict is that island beauty is combined with exquisite luxury, but it’s not cheap.
Similarity rating to the Maldives: 8/10
Majorn Beach (Formentera, Spain)
The water is crystal clear, and the beaches are as white as talcum powder.
Verdict: A super-cool island that combines the charm and luxury of a tropical resort with the convenience of walking barefoot.
Similarity rating to the Maldives: 9/10
