Europe is famous for its beaches, with flocks of tourists heading to Spain, France, Portugal and Greece every year.
Speaking exclusively to GB News, a travel expert has shared the most beautiful beaches which can be reached in as little as two hours from the UK, including a peaceful French island.
"Europe is one of my favourite places for a beach holiday. With countless options for a relaxed coastal retreat, each destination carries its own story and charm. Still, a few stand out above the rest," said travel advisor for Altezza Travel, Georgia Fowkes.
Using her extensive travel experience, she recommended three places for a beach holiday, and "they are all easily accessible from the UK by a flight, a short ride or a ferry".
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|The French islands are just off Cannes and have no large crowds
Îles de Lérins, France
Îles de Lérins is a group of French islands off Cannes, which is easiest to reach by flying to Nice - just two hours on a flight from London. Describing the beaches, Georgia said: "A short boat ride away, Îles de Lérins is a French island that fully captures that idyllic French vibe.
"It has this raw yet peaceful energy that fully caught my attention as soon as I arrived. I thought I’d visit for a day, but ended up blissfully enjoying the island for three full days.
"The coves are small, quiet, and wildly clear. You walk through pine and eucalyptus trails that smell like summer should, and every few meters, a break in the trees reveals a stretch of stone or sand with no soul in sight.
"There are no crowds of tourists or beach bars, just cicadas and your thoughts for a relaxed time off. It’s the kind of place where you don’t feel the need to scroll, and you finally realise how long it’s been since you actually did nothing."
Comporta, Portugal
If willing to travel further afield, Britons can board a three-hour flight to Lisbon and head to Comporta. Georgia said: "Roughly two hours from Lisbon by car, after a short flight from London, you’ll find Comporta, a stretch of unspoiled sand decorated by pine forests and rice paddies.
"It’s the kind of place that keeps its voice low but its spirit strong. I often recommend Comporta to clients craving physical, emotional, and sensory space. The beach itself is like a down-to-earth luxury retreat.
"No loud parties, just barefoot exploration, fresh seafood, and a rhythm that calms you down, excitingly. It’s what Ibiza once was before the noise."
Ksamil, Albania
Getting to Ksamil from the UK takes slightly longer, but the sandy beaches and gorgeous blue waters make it well worth the journey. Hop on a three-hour flight from London to Corfu before continuing your onward journey.
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|Comporta, Portugal, was recommended
TRAVEL INSPIRATION
GETTY | Ksamil beach in Albania is worth adding to your travel wishlist
Georgia said: "Albania might not top every traveller’s list, and that’s precisely why I plan to return to Ksamil. A direct flight from the UK to Corfu, followed by a short ferry and a 15-minute drive, places you on one of Europe’s most accessible hidden beaches.
"It’s reachable in under 6.5 hours and ideal for an impulsive long weekend. While it’s a slightly longer route than typical beach getaways, the reward is stunning. Imagine a coastline of untouched turquoise coves that aren’t yet ruined by Instagram tourists.
"The sands are white, the olives are rich, and the seafood is to die for. I once found myself here on a solo detour without a plan and stayed four days longer than intended. Ksamil reminds you that the best trips aren’t always perfectly planned."
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