TRAVEL SPECIAL... Europe’s Top Island Getaways

 Europe’s Top Island Getaways 

Pristine landscapes, beaches, hills and various activities to indulge in. Europe’s islands offer some great travel choices

ISLE OF WIGHT
COUNTRY: England
    Enjoy the perfect English experience while holidaying on England’s largest island. Spend time with the kids at a horse riding school, or head to a farm and help feed cows, play with goats and chase after geese. For adventure, the coast of the Isle of Wight, with its strong winds and great waves accommodates various extreme adventure rental stores. Take the chair lift to visit the Needles, a set of three stone structures in the sea. Love boats and all things to do with sailing? Then head over to the Classic Boat Museum in New Port. Follow this up with a sailing trip around the island... ready to set sail? www.visitisleofwight.co.uk 
MADEIRA
COUNTRY: Portugal
    The first thing that comes to mind when we mention Madeira, is the wine. And this Portuguese island is in fact famous for its wineries that produce this fortified wine. Explore the island differently, either by bicycle
or horse back. Adrenaline junkies will love to go canyoning here as Madeira is one of the top Euro destinations for this extreme activity. The coastline opens itself to
boating, whale and dolphin watching as well as surfing and parasailing. Get a unique aerial view of the locales when you take a hand-gliding trip.
    www.visitmadeira.pt 
THE HEBRIDES
COUNTRY: Scotland
    This widespread archipelago off the coast of Scotland has breathtaking natural beauty. The Outer Hebrides is known for its rolling landscapes dotted with castles and manor houses. Sail around the coast or get yourself a fishing permit and spend quality time relaxing as you wait for a fish to take the bait. Parasailing and surfing are gaining popularity here as well. Visit the Callanish Standing Stones or take a trip to Staffa Island and marvel at the natural
pillar like stone formations and then return to play some golf at one of the 9 hole golf courses around... sounds like fun!
www.visithebrides.com 
SANTORINI
COUNTRY: Greece
    Probably one of Greece’s most popular islands, Santorini’s landscape is famed for its distinct white washed houses with azure roofs that cover the sea-facing hillsides. Take a mule ride up the Caldera (volcanic formation)
and visit one of the Greek orthodox churches in Fira. Enjoy authentic Greek food along with wine straight from the neighbouring vineyards and don’t forget to bring back a bottle of locally made Ouzo. Speed demons should visit Santorini Moto Cross Club on the way from Pyrgos to Emporio to try out the tracks under safe guidance.
    www.santorini.net 
CANARY ISLANDS
COUNTRY: Spain
    Spain’s islands are a hot attraction for both local and international tourists. The balmy weather and young and lively atmosphere make places like the Canary Islands, a popular destination. A guided bus, walking or camel tour of the moonscape of Timanfaya National Park is the best way to experience the volcanoes of Lanzarote. Loro Parque in Tenerife is a great place to spot penguins. www.turismodecanarias.com/canary-islands-spain
CAPRI
COUNTRY: Italy
    Rent a vintage scooter and explore Capri’s quaint Italian streets, stop by a live music bar and dance to the music as the band performs Neapolitan songs from the ’50s. In Green Grotto, swim and climb the cliffs before diving back into the pristine blue-green waters around. Visit historic places like the former residence of the Emperor Tiberius, Villa Jovis and Villa Damecuta.
    www.capritourism.com

ETTR130228