European Beach Destinations Offer 'Maldives of Europe' Experience

As cooler temperatures arrive in the UK, travelers seeking a beach escape can consider European destinations that are being likened to the Maldives for their scenic beauty and affordability. These locations offer a chance to experience tropical-like environments without the long-haul travel and associated costs.

Albania's Ksamil, located on the Albanian Riviera within Butrint National Park, is frequently referred to as the 'Maldives of Europe.' It boasts clear turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and mountainous scenery. The area combines natural beauty with historical sites, including ancient ruins overlooking the Ionian coast. Ksamil is experiencing temperatures around 22C (72F) in autumn. Hotel Olive Ksamil offers rooms with a partial sea view starting at £617 per person for an October stay, flying from London Gatwick.

Turkey's Antalya is another destination offering a similar appeal. The resort city currently has temperatures around 23C (73F) and provides a mix of historical sites and coastal vistas. A popular excursion from Antalya is a boat tour to Suluada, known as the 'Maldives of Turkey,' an island with secluded coves and white sand beaches. These boat tours are available for approximately £27 per person. For accommodation, the Numa Port Hotel in Antalya offers ocean views and an infinity pool, with week-long stays in October priced at around £503 per person.

Crete, Greece, is presented as a dreamy island destination with sandy beaches and a more budget-friendly profile compared to the Maldives. The island is forecast to have temperatures of around 20C (68F) in October. The Aelius Hotel and Spa, a four-star establishment, is a 15-minute walk from the beach and offers week-long stays for about £337 per person. For a more luxurious experience, the adults-only Stella Island Luxury Resort and Spa in Crete features overwater bungalows, with prices starting from £394 per night for two guests.

Kefalonia, Greece, also offers an island escape with spectacular beaches and turquoise waters. In October, temperatures in Kefalonia reach highs of 21C (70F). The Kefalonia Grand Hotel has week-long stays available for approximately £773 per person. Myrtos Beach on the island is noted for its smooth white pebbles and dramatic setting.

Portugal's Comporta region, recommended by British Airways' High Life, is highlighted for its 'Maldivian magic.' The area features over 40 miles of white sand beaches and is home to the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve, where greater flamingos can be seen between October and March. Comporta is experiencing temperatures around 26C (79F). The AlmaLusa Comporta boutique hotel offers week-long stays in October for about £820 per person.

Malta is also compared to the Maldives as a budget-friendly option. The island boasts impressive beaches, including Golden Bay, which offers a long stretch of sand and water sports activities. Malta sees October highs of 25C (77F). Be.Hotel in St. Julian's offers week-long stays for approximately £995 per person.

Croatia, while potentially lacking overwater villas, matches the Maldives in terms of beaches and coastal views. Temperatures in October typically reach highs of 21C (70F). Mali Lošinj, on the island of Lošinj, is noted by Travel + Leisure for its clear waters. Kašjuni Beach in Split is recognized for its clear, calm waters and snorkeling opportunities. Hotel Plaza Duce along the Dalmatian coast offers seven-night stays in October for around £513 per person.