The “Caribbean of Europe”: Here you will find beautiful beaches

Are you dreaming of a Caribbean vacation but don't want to make the long journey? Then we have good news: Europe also has beaches that exude a Caribbean feeling with their powdery white sand and turquoise waters. Here you'll find Europe's unofficial Caribbean:

You'll find a piece of the Caribbean just 80 kilometers south of Munich . There you'll find Lake Walchen, a stunning mountain lake nestled in the foothills of the Alps. It lies at 800 meters above sea level and is surrounded by an idyllic mountain panorama, yet still has a definite Caribbean feel.

At the bathing area in Niedernach, you'll find a powder-white beach that, combined with the turquoise lake water, will transport you straight to the Caribbean. There's plenty of room for swimming: With an average depth of 81 meters and a surface area of ​​16.4 square kilometers, Lake Walchensee is one of the largest Alpine lakes in Germany.

Looks like the Caribbean, but is in Bavaria: Lake Walchensee with its white sandy beach.

Source: imago images/imagebroker

With its powder-white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, the Balearic island of Formentera has truly earned its nickname "the Caribbean of the Mediterranean ." It doesn't have its own airport, but can be reached from the more famous neighboring island of Ibiza in just 30 minutes by ferry.

The Platja de Ses Illetes beach is one of the most beautiful on the island. It is located in the north of the Trucador Peninsula. What makes it special is that the white sand stretches meters into the turquoise sea. In the south of the island, Playa de Migjorn stretches for several kilometers.

The beautiful Platja de Ses Illetes on Formentera.

Source: IMAGO/robertharding

Albania has become a truly trendy travel destination in recent years. One reason for this is certainly the country's paradisiacal beaches. Among the most beautiful are the dream beaches around the seaside resort and the Ksamil peninsula of the same name, which is why the area is also known as the "Caribbean of Albania."

Off the coast of Ksamil are four uninhabited islands, each with a Caribbean feel. Two of them are so close to the beach that fit swimmers can swim there from the popular Bora Bora Beach.

It is not for nothing that Ksamil is one of the most popular beach destinations in Albania.

Source: IMAGO/Pond5 Images

The Isles of Scilly archipelago stretches off the coast of Cornwall . It comprises 140 small and large islands, but only five of them are inhabited: St Mary's, St Martin's, St Agnes, Bryher, and Tresco. Although the islands belong to England , with their snow-white, powdery sand beaches and azure waters, they could just as easily be located in the Caribbean.

St. Mary's is the main island of the archipelago. The boat trip there takes about three hours from Penzance on the mainland. Thanks to the nearby Gulf Stream, the islands benefit from numerous hours of sunshine and a mild climate. This also allows tropical plants such as palm trees, agaves, and lemon trees to grow on the islands. The most beautiful sandy beaches can be found on the island of St. Martin's, especially Great Bay Beach.

Hard to believe: This dream beach is located in England.

Source: imago/robertharding

On the northwest tip of Sicily lies the picturesque coastal town of San Vito Lo Capo, known as “the Caribbean of Sicily” because of its white beaches.

In addition to the azure waters and fine sandy beach, the backdrop of Monte Monaco is also impressive. It's no wonder the beach is considered one of the most beautiful in Italy .

The beach of San Vito lo Capo in Sicily, Italy.

Source: IMAGO/Depositphotos

Senja is Norway's second-largest island. It is also known as the "Caribbean of the North Sea" – despite being located some 350 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle. It owes this nickname to its white, Caribbean-like sandy beaches.

You can find a Caribbean beach with a mountain panorama on the island of Senja.

Source: IMAGO/Depositphotos

Senja also boasts another nickname – the island is also known as "Norway in miniature." In addition to stunning sandy beaches, Senja boasts mountainous landscapes, lush valleys, and fjords – everything that makes Norway so special. Despite its scenic beauty, Senja is still considered an insider tip. This means you can admire the island in a relaxed atmosphere, away from the tourist crowds.

Looking for more inspiration? You can find tips for all the top travel destinations at reisereporter , and the best travel deals on our deals page.