The Maldives, Bali, Santorini… These destinations are magnificent, no doubt, but also overrun with tourists. Yet there are islands just as splendid, still unspoiled, where you travel in real authenticity. Here is our selection of 10 little-known gems.
10 km from Saint-François, this 20 km² island is one of the least visited in the French Caribbean. Deserted beaches, free-roaming iguanas, an unspoiled fishing village. Total escape just a few minutes by boat.
Less famous than Koh Samui or Phuket, Koh Lanta keeps a laid-back atmosphere and near-deserted beaches. The west coast serves up spectacular sunsets over the Andaman Sea.
Ibiza's little sister can only be reached by boat. Its exceptionally turquoise waters, white-sand beaches (Ses Illetes) and bohemian vibe make it a confidential Mediterranean jewel.
France's 101st department hides one of the largest lagoons in the world. Intact coral reefs, humpback whales (June-September), wild beaches — and still very few tourists.
45 minutes from Lorient, Groix is the only island on the Atlantic with a convex pebble beach (Plage des Grands Sables). Wild moorland, cliffs, a lighthouse and a typical Breton village — ideal for a nature escape.
The main island of the Azores fascinates with its otherworldly landscapes: emerald crater lakes (Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo), natural hot springs at Furnas, whales to watch out at sea. An island outside of time.
Stone Town (UNESCO-listed), immaculate white-sand beaches, spices and Swahili culture… Zanzibar combines history, culture and nature at gentle prices, far from the crowds of more famous islands.
Less famous than Tenerife, Fuerteventura is the island of dunes and wind. Its white-sand beaches (Cofete, Corralejo) stretch for kilometres. A surfing and kitesurfing paradise with a guaranteed wild feel.
Réunion is better known for its hikes than its beaches — and that is exactly what makes it unique. Piton de la Fournaise (an active volcano), the cirques of Cilaos and Mafate, the wild coastline… An exceptional playground for nature lovers.
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Menorca is the calmest of the Balearics. Secret coves (Cala Macarella, Cala Turqueta), white villages, prehistoric megaliths… Menorca offers Mediterranean Spain without the crowds.
Tempted by these destinations? Find our detailed guides.
Explore all the islands →Keywords: little-known islandssecret destinationsoff the beaten track travelparadise islandalternative destinations