Scheveningen, The Netherlands by FaceMePLS

1) Scheveningen, Netherlands

This beach may not be able to boast the highest temperatures or the most picturesque seafront, but there are plenty of water sports to take part in and a number of bars and restaurants. However, one of the most appealing things about Scheveningen is its location – you can easily have an early morning dip in the sea before visiting Anne Frank’s House in Amsterdam or one of the 17th century palaces in The Hague.

2) The Curonian Spit, Lithuania

The natural, largely unspoilt beauty of this Lithuanian beach needs to be seen to be believed! Unfortunately it’s a protected World UNESCO Heritage Site and sadly, as a result, there are certain areas that are a no go for tourists. However, the parts you can access are absolutely worth the journey, and this beach is a truly beautiful place to spend a day.

Curonian Spit, Lithuania by Tobin

3) Pembrokeshire, Wales

While you can never depend on good weather in Wales you can certainly depend on absolutely stunning scenery in Pembrokeshire. If you’re not convinced take it from the National Geographic magazine, which voted it the second best coastal destination in the world. It’s easy to fit in as part of a trip round the UK so there’s no excuse for not seeing the area for yourself.

4) Barleycover, Ireland

Again, this beach may generally be cold, but the beautiful natural surroundings in County Cork more than make up for it. This beach could be the perfect antidote to a hectic weekend sightseeing and sampling Ireland’s famous Guinness beer in Dublin, which is only a few hours away by car.

5) Pupnatska Beach, Croatia

The Dalmatian Islands off the coast of Croatia all boast delightful coastlines and, as a result, trying to pick out just one is mightily difficult. However, Pupnatska beach, on Korčula Island is a definite contender thanks to its sapphire waters, stunning white sand, and a friendly, laid back atmosphere.

Pupnatska Luka, Korcula, Croatia by Andrea Musi

6) La Rochelle, France

While the South of France boasts some mesmerising beaches, there are plenty of places on the western coast that can give the south a run for its money. La Rochelle is one such resort. What many people will love about a holiday incorporating La Rochelle is the fact that the area is steeped in history. Many holidaymakers will only feel comfortable sunbathing once they are sure they have explored the town and learnt about its rich history.

7) St. Brelade’s Bay Beach, Jersey

Gorgeous views, interesting trails, lovely restaurants… there’s little if anything to fault with this beautiful beach. And, even better, being on an island the size of Jersey means there’ll be another great beach around every turn. So take a wander and you could find yourself your own private piece of beach!

If you are taking one of the many Europe tours available, do make sure to add a beach into your trip. Europe’s architecture, art, culture, food and history are all wonderful of course, but everyone needs time to relax! And what better way to unwind and rest tired feet than on a beach with truly stunning scenery?

Written by Michael Palmer, a passionate traveller and experienced travel writer.

The post 7 Of Europe’s Lesser Known Beaches appeared first on Best of European Union.

Brighton light, England, UK by Simon

1. Ice Skating at the Royal Pavilion

The Royal Pavilion is a stunning 200-year-old palace built for King George IV as a holiday home by the sea. It has survived a lot and the interiors in particular have undergone extensive renovation, however in the winter a new rather less typical addition is placed in the gardens of the palace; an 800 square metre ice rink, complete with a smaller section for kids improving their skating skills. Another great thing about this ice rink is the attached Jamie’s Feasts restaurant which is a Jamie Oliver-birthed eatery, serving deliciously tasty meals, perfect after working up an appetite on the rink. Royal Pavilion Ice Rink tickets cost from £10 for adults and £7 for children under 12 and the one-hour skate times run from 10am to 10.15pm daily.

Royal Pavilion in Winter, Brighton, England, UK by PeppermintEvents

2. See Moscow City Ballet’s, The Nutcracker

With Christmas just around the corner one of the most perfect wintry things to do is see the ballet, and be encased in the opulent and antique surroundings of the Theatre Royal Brighton. The classic ballet The Nutcracker is on from the 29th of November until Saturday the 1st of December so there is only a short amount of time to snap up tickets to this fantastic experience.

3. Drink Mulled Cider in the Lanes

Brighton Lanes is full of quaint little pubs and bars that serve traditional mulled wine and now cider as a Christmas treat. They are all warm and cosy and in the evenings are lit by candles to create a cosy atmosphere, a perfect antidote to the cold wintery day.

Photo of Mulled Cider by billycoxon

4. French Toast at Bills

Bills is famous in Brighton as the best place for breakfast (they do serve lunches too), my recommendation is for a huge stack of French toast with bananas, strawberries, toasted walnut yoghurt and maple syrup, delicious! The lovely atmosphere and friendly staff will have you returning again before you know it.

5. Promenade

Promenading was a favourite past time of the Victorians who believed that the bracing winds were good for their health and I think they were definitely onto something! So make sure you wrap up warm and put on plenty of layers and get out onto the promenade. You can walk from the Palace pier further down towards Hove, where there are small cafes and plenty of people out walking their dogs. Run down tohref="httcd Rod@ydld palace tohricthel hshly lure ydidBut whre yo therfor ily.

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