Tired of the Canaries? Explore these 7 amazing island alternatives

Pico, Azores

Pico is very much Portugal's version of Tenerife – dominated by the jaw-dropping Mount Pico which is Portugal's highest peak.

The island boasts a unique blend of natural wonders, from rugged lava fields to the vineyards intricately designed to make the most of the rich soil that's peppered with basalt rock. Then there's the azure waters that encircle the island, offering a striking contrast to the bright green flora that benefits from the fertile, volcanic soil. Perfect for whale watching and scuba diving, and home to the delicious seafood that influences the island's cuisine.

Soak up the slower pace of life and explore the rural communities, roll out your towel on the beach or hike the trails that wind up the slopes of Mount Pico for eye-popping views over the Atlantic.

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Kalsoy, Faroe Islands

¹ About our score for the Faroe Islands.

The Faroe Islands are smack bang in the middle of the North Atlantic right between Norway and Iceland, but they're actually part of Denmark. Kalsoy is one of them, and it's known for its dramatic cliffs, lush green valleys, and ancient folklore.

Nicknamed 'the Flute' due to the many tunnels connecting small, picturesque villages, Kalsoy offers a more hardy alternative to the Canaries where the sunshine isn't guaranteed, but adventure and wilderness is. The island's rugged landscape is a hiker's paradise, with trails leading to the iconic Kallur Lighthouse, where panoramic views reveal the raw, unspoiled beauty of the Faroes.

The best bit, as of June 2024 you can fly there directly with Atlantic Airways.

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Milos, Greece

Milos, with its lunar landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque villages, is a hidden gem in the Cyclades archipelago.

Famous for the discovery of the Venus de Milo, the island offers more than just pristine beaches. It's a geological marvel with diverse landscapes, from the surreal colours of the Sarakiniko Beach to the ancient catacombs which are thought to be part of a much larger, hidden necropolis.

The charming fishing village of Klima, with its colourful syrmata – boat houses carved into the rocks – is unique to the island, while its volcanic origins have blessed it with hot springs and a dramatic coastline just begging to be explored. Take a boat to discover hidden sea caves or wander through quaint alleyways for a taste of local Greek cuisine.

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Ponza, Italy

Ponza, the largest island of the Italian Pontine Archipelago, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, history, and Italian charm – perfect for a Mediterranean escape away from the crowds.

The island's jagged coastline is adorned with a mosaic of hidden coves, stunning blue grottoes, and secluded beaches accessible only by boat. Ponza's harbour, with its pastel-coloured buildings, bustling waterfront promenades, and chic boutiques, is absolutely enchanting and the perfect gateway to exploring the rest of the island.

Its rich history, from ancient Roman pools carved out of the seaside rocks to the legend of Homer's Odysseus, adds layers of intrigue to its stunning landscapes. Culinary enthusiasts will delight in Ponza's fresh seafood, traditional Italian dishes, and the local wine, best enjoyed with panoramic views of the Mediterranean.

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Andøy, Norway

Andøy, located in the Vesterålen archipelago of Norway, is a destination of raw beauty and dramatic landscapes, a proper gem polished by the rugged waters and winds of the Arctic.

This northern haven is renowned for its whale-watching opportunities, where the deep, nutrient-rich waters become the stage for majestic orcas and humpback whales. The island's varied terrain, from its pristine beaches to its mountainous interior, are the perfect backdrop to long nights in search of Northern Lights, or soaking up the soft glow of the midnight sun.

So if you can decide between a trip to the Canaries or an adventure in the Arctic, this is the closest you'll get to both.

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Porquerolles, France

Porquerolles, the largest of the Hyères Islands off the southern coast of France, complete with sparkling turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lush pine and eucalyptus forests.

It's a haven for lovers of the outdoors, with a lengthy network of trails perfect for hiking and biking, leading to hidden coves, scenic overlooks, and fragrant orchards.

The main village, which shares its name with the island, is the French Riviera in miniature with quaint squares, pastel-coloured buildings, great wine and some stunning local galleries and exhibitions too.

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Vis, Croatia

Vis off the Dalmatian coast, was once a strategic naval base closed to the public until 1989. It's retained an untouched charm that's hard to find elsewhere in the Mediterranean, boasting rugged landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and secluded bays.

The beaches are the main highlight here, like the stunning Stiniva Cove which is encircled by towering cliffs and accessible only by foot or boat. A little sliver of paradise for those willing to make the journey.

Vis Town, with its elegant waterfront, is bursting with centuries-old architecture, from ancient Greek ruins to British forts. Komiža, a traditional fishing village on the opposite side of the island, is characterised by narrow stone houses and a charming harbour. The local cuisine, heavily influenced by fresh seafood and Italian flavours, complements the island's rich offering of local wines, including the Vugava white wine, made using grapes native to the Dalmatian Coast.

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¹ This is the score for Denmark as a whole. We didn't have enough data to score the Faroe Islands individually, however it's worth noting that they are almost entirely self-governing, with their own head of government and set of laws which differ from those of Denmark. One example being whale hunting, which remains legal in the Faroe Islands despite being outlawed in most of Europe.

Back to the Faroe Islands.

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