Island Seclusion: Undiscovered Escapes for a Secret Retreat

20. Lampedusa, Italy – The Mediterranean’s Forgotten Paradise

While most Mediterranean islands are overrun with tourists, Lampedusa remains a hidden gem with some of Europe’s best beaches and clearest waters. Located closer to Africa than mainland Italy, Lampedusa boasts rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and beaches that rival the Maldives—but without the crowds. Rabbit Beach, regularly ranked among the most beautiful in the world, offers blindingly white sand and sea so blue it looks unreal. Despite its stunning scenery, Lampedusa remains off the radar, visited mostly by Sicilians and a few in-the-know travelers. Best for: Mediterranean beaches, snorkeling, and escaping tourist traps. How to get there: Fly from Palermo, Sicily (1 hour).