Four Beckoning Beaches

1- Sagres, Portugal. Although once a port of great maritime significance, the Sagres of today is better known for its long stretches °i scenic beaches. Within walking distance of the village lie a half a°zen pristine beaches, free of crowds and offering up majestic Views of the southwesternmost tip of Portugal. If the water is too cold for you (it can get quite chilly), you can stop into the village market to stock up on picnic provisions and five-liter flagons of the local wine for pennies.

2. Bol, Croatia. Stranded on the far side of the Vidova Gora mountains, Bol’s beautiful setting and the charm of its old stone houses is unbelievable. However, the main attraction of the village is its beach, Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape). Unusually sandy for this region and stunningly beautiful, the cape juts into the sea in the form of a giant “Y,” changing shape slightly from day to day as the wind plays across it.

3. Amalfi, Italy. Occupying the southern side of Sorrento’s peninsula, the Almalfi coast lays claim to Europe’s loveliest stretch of sand, particularly alluring in Amalfi itself. Yes, it can get crowded at times, but the energy level and overwhelming beauty of the beach overshadow any minuses.

4. Antibes, France. Although Antibes is a place of residence for some of Europe’s very well-off, it’s also a place with great, unaffected charm. Plage de la Salis, the longest Antibes beach, runs along the eastern neck of the coastline sans giant Riviera hotels - a rarity - and further along the southern and western shores are a few more public and untrammeled beaches definitely worth exploring. The moneyed are tucked away in the hills and cliffs, leaving the public beaches fairly empty, and perfect for some R&R.