Cruising enthusiasts divulge their most cherished European sailing hideaways
Discovering Europe's Hidden Gems: A Sailor's Guide
Sailing enthusiasts often seek out the uncharted, the secluded, and the serene. Europe, with its diverse coastlines and countless islands, offers a treasure trove of lesser-known cruising spots that are perfect for those looking to avoid the crowds. Here are some of the hidden gems that should be on every sailor's itinerary.
The Helgeland Archipelago, Norway
Nestled just south of the Arctic circle, the Helgeland archipelago is a lesser-known gem on the Norwegian coast. Steep, rocky islands and crystal clear water make this archipelago a must-visit for sailors. Local skipper Steinar Willassen recommends it highly. Sailing to the glacier Svartisen is a unique experience, and visitors can hike on shore to the top of Rødøyløva for a breathtaking view across the archipelago.
The Pelagie Islands, Mediterranean
The Pelagie islands, located in the Mediterranean, are another lesser-known gem. Recommended by Viveka Herzum, these islands offer a unique yachting experience. Lampedusa, one of the main islands, has an elongated shape and east-west orientation, making for an ideal range of anchorages. The islands' seclusion results in an unaltered marine community and few local yacht charters.
The Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
The more secluded islands of the Dalmatian Coast, such as Vis and Hvar, offer quiet coves, stone villages, and peaceful beaches away from busy tourist hubs like Dubrovnik. These islands are perfect for those seeking tranquility and solitude.
The Cyclades, Greece
The less touristy smaller islands like Folegandros and the Small Cyclades near Naxos provide tranquil anchorages and fewer visitors compared to hotspots like Mykonos. These islands offer a peaceful sailing experience with cultural and natural interest.
Sithonia, Greece
Part of the Halkidiki peninsula, Sithonia is known for its quiet, less-crowded beaches and hidden coastal gems accessible by boat. This makes it ideal for avoiding mainstream tourist spots.
The Ionian Islands, Greece
Islands like Atokos (a private, uninhabited islet), Kastos, Ithaca, Meganisi, and secluded bays around Lefkada offer peaceful beaches, unspoiled natural beauty, and limited tourist development. These islands provide a calm sailing experience with cultural and natural interest.
Kornati National Park, Croatia
North of Split, Kornati National Park consists of 89 uninhabited islands with pristine waters and hidden bays perfect for anchoring in solitude away from crowded marinas.
Marker Wadden, Netherlands
Marker Wadden, a group of islands in the eastern part of the Markermeer in the Netherlands, was built to upgrade the water quality in the Markermeer. It offers walking trails, bird watching hides, and a natural harbor for cruisers seeking nature, peace, and quiet.
Lake Vättern, Sweden
Lake Vättern, located in the middle of Sweden, is a hidden treasure that is fully accessible from both the Baltic and the North Sea via the Göta Canal. It offers crystal-clear water, steep granite shores, and calm anchorages where visitors often spend the night alone.
The Harstad Archipelago, Norway
The Harstad archipelago, just north of Lofoten and south of Tromsø, is a good place to provision before setting off to explore the archipelago. It offers multiple anchorages or small harbors to moor, with summer residents often using old fishermen's houses as their summer homes. Lastovo, a protected natural area in Croatia, is also recommended by Dutch cruiser Martin Vooijs.
La Graciosa, Canary Islands
Located north of Lanzarote, La Graciosa features stunning beaches against a volcanic backdrop. A permit is required for anchoring or mooring, but the seclusion and natural beauty make it worth the effort.
These destinations provide a mix of calm seas, well-equipped marinas for convenience, and extensive opportunities to explore quiet beaches, isolated coves, and charming villages, ideal for sailors wanting to avoid busy crowded cruising areas in Europe. Happy sailing!
[1] The Helgeland Archipelago, Norway [2] Sithonia, Greece [3] The Ionian Islands, Greece [4] The Cyclades, Greece [5] The Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
- The Helgeland Archipelago, Norway, with its crystal clear water and rocky islands, is a less crowded cruising spot that offers a unique sailing experience for those seeking seclusion and serene beauty.
- Sithonia, Greece, boasts quiet, less-crowded beaches and hidden coastal gems, making it an ideal destination for sailors wishing to avoid mainstream tourist spots.
