Brandon Walker
The world is home to countless islands, each with its unique charm and allure. Whether you’re seeking a tropical paradise, a cultural haven, or a remote retreat, there’s an island for you. In this guide, we journey into the heart of eight unexplored islands that should be on your bucket list. From the turquoise waters of Zakynthos in Greece to the biodiversity hotspot of Galapagos Islands in Ecuador, these islands offer a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and unique experiences.
1. Zakynthos, Greece: A Mediterranean Treasure
Located in the Ionian Sea, Zakynthos, known for its azure beaches and verdant landscapes, is a gem of the Mediterranean. The island’s most iconic site is the Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, renowned for its stunning panorama and the rusted remnants of the ship MV Panayiotis. This secluded cove, encased by towering cliffs, is accessible only by boat, adding to its allure.
Zakynthos is also a haven for wildlife, with Marathonisi islet being a favoured nesting spot for sea turtles. Although access to this islet is restricted during the breeding season, you can still enjoy a swim in the sun-kissed waters, with the backdrop of lush greenery and the sound of cicadas.
2. Delos, Greece: A Journey into Mythology
A short trip from the cosmopolitan island of Mykonos, Delos offers a stark contrast with its tranquil environment and historical allure. Known as the mythical birthplace of the twins Apollo and Artemis, Delos is a treasure trove of ancient ruins and artifacts.
As you wander through the site, you’ll come across wildflowers blooming amidst the remnants of Doric temples. A hike up the hills reveals a Greek amphitheater and the vestiges of a once-thriving port. The island’s museum houses an impressive collection of statues and relics that offer insights into life on Delos over 2,000 years ago.
3. Cyprus: A Blend of Beaches and Culture
Nestled in the eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus is known for its golden beaches, verdant mountains, and rich culture. In Paphos, you can explore the Tombs of the Kings and marvel at intricate mosaics dating back to the 4th century BC. For a taste of medieval history, visit Kolossi Castle, a Crusader stronghold.
If you’re a mythology enthusiast, don’t miss Aphrodite’s Rock. According to legend, this is where the goddess of love emerged from the sea. The rock formation, against the backdrop of the azure sea, is a sight to behold.
4. Madeira, Portugal: A Subtropical Paradise
Situated in the Atlantic, Madeira is a subtropical paradise with year-round sunshine and blooming gardens. The island’s capital, Funchal, is a delightful blend of cobbled squares, street cafes, and vibrant markets adorned with intricate azulejos, traditional Portuguese tiles.
The deep waters surrounding Madeira are a haven for marine life, making whale and dolphin spotting a popular activity. For an adventure, embark on a round-island tour to Cabo Girao, Europe’s highest cliff.
5. Canary Islands, Spain: A Volcanic Wonderland
Floating off the coast of North Africa, the volcanic Canary Islands offer a diverse array of landscapes and experiences. Tenerife, the largest island, is home to Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak, and a variety of stunning beaches. The island also boasts the charming town of La Laguna, where cobbled streets are lined with pastel-coloured mansions.
Lanzarote, another island in the archipelago, is known for its stark, black volcanic rock contrasted with dazzling white houses. At Timanfaya National Park, you can witness the power of the earth’s crust with bubbling mud pools and spouting geysers.
6. Bermuda: A Slice of British Culture in the Atlantic
Situated in the Sargasso Sea, Bermuda offers a slice of British culture thousands of miles from home. The island is known for its pristine beaches, English pubs, and iconic red post boxes. The Royal Naval Dockyard, a chunky fortification, now houses a colourful craft market.
Nature lovers can explore the island’s marine life through snorkelling, while history enthusiasts can visit the sites from the 1982 war with Argentina.
7. Tasmania, Australia: A Wilderness Retreat
An island off the southern coast of Australia, Tasmania is a wilderness retreat with stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and a burgeoning food scene. The island’s capital, Hobart, offers a mix of modernity and history, while the surrounding areas are home to lush forests, pristine beaches, and the ancient volcano, Mount Otemanu.
8. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador: A Biodiversity Hotspot
A short trip from the cosmopolitan island of Mykonos, Delos offers a stark contrast with its tranquil environment and historical allure. Known as the mythical birthplace of the twins Apollo and Artemis, Delos is a treasure trove of ancient ruins and artifacts.
As you wander through the site, you’ll come across wildflowers blooming amidst the remnants of Doric temples. A hike up the hills reveals a Greek amphitheater and the vestiges of a once-thriving port. The island’s museum houses an impressive collection of statues and relics that offer insights into life on Delos over 2,000 years ago.
3. Cyprus: A Blend of Beaches and Culture
Nestled in the eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus is known for its golden beaches, verdant mountains, and rich culture. In Paphos, you can explore the Tombs of the Kings and marvel at intricate mosaics dating back to the 4th century BC. For a taste of medieval history, visit Kolossi Castle, a Crusader stronghold.
If you’re a mythology enthusiast, don’t miss Aphrodite’s Rock. According to legend, this is where the goddess of love emerged from the sea. The rock formation, against the backdrop of the azure sea, is a sight to behold.
4. Madeira, Portugal: A Subtropical Paradise
Situated in the Atlantic, Madeira is a subtropical paradise with year-round sunshine and blooming gardens. The island’s capital, Funchal, is a delightful blend of cobbled squares, street cafes, and vibrant markets adorned with intricate azulejos, traditional Portuguese tiles.
The deep waters surrounding Madeira are a haven for marine life, making whale and dolphin spotting a popular activity. For an adventure, embark on a round-island tour to Cabo Girao, Europe’s highest cliff.
5. Canary Islands, Spain: A Volcanic Wonderland
Floating off the coast of North Africa, the volcanic Canary Islands offer a diverse array of landscapes and experiences. Tenerife, the largest island, is home to Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak, and a variety of stunning beaches. The island also boasts the charming town of La Laguna, where cobbled streets are lined with pastel-coloured mansions.
Lanzarote, another island in the archipelago, is known for its stark, black volcanic rock contrasted with dazzling white houses. At Timanfaya National Park, you can witness the power of the earth’s crust with bubbling mud pools and spouting geysers.
6. Bermuda: A Slice of British Culture in the Atlantic
Situated in the Sargasso Sea, Bermuda offers a slice of British culture thousands of miles from home. The island is known for its pristine beaches, English pubs, and iconic red post boxes. The Royal Naval Dockyard, a chunky fortification, now houses a colourful craft market.
Nature lovers can explore the island’s marine life through snorkelling, while history enthusiasts can visit the sites from the 1982 war with Argentina.
7. Tasmania, Australia: A Wilderness Retreat
An island off the southern coast of Australia, Tasmania is a wilderness retreat with stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and a burgeoning food scene. The island’s capital, Hobart, offers a mix of modernity and history, while the surrounding areas are home to lush forests, pristine beaches, and the ancient volcano, Mount Otemanu.
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