With its mild climate and beautiful beaches, the Mediterranean is one of the most appealing destinations in the world. Although the Mediterranean is comprised of stunning shorelines, its waters are one of its best features. Therefore, sailing the Mediterranean is a treat and a luxury, and it’s a bucket list item for travelers around the world! If you’re wondering where to sail, a concierge travel agency can point you in the right direction.
1. Aeolian Islands
The Aeolian Islands are located off the northeastern coast of Sicily. They are a popular tourist destination and one of southern Italy’s most prized possessions. The islands derive their name from Aeolus, the Roman god of winds. As you can imagine, the wind is a constant in this part of the world. That means the Aeolian Islands are incredible for sailing adventures along with other expeditions such as swimming and snorkeling. If you want to stop and sightsee, there are plenty of opportunities for that as well.
The Aeolian Islands are rife with nightlife, which includes many restaurants and bars. Some of the most popular islands in the chain are Salina, Lipari, and Panarea. Many luxury travel concierge services are available in Lipari, which is full of amenities and also the place where many people begin their trip across the islands.
Lipari is also a great place to explore for those interested in history and geology, as it is home to some valuable natural resources such as pumice stone and obsidian that first drew settlers to the area many years ago. The island of Vulcano has stunning craters and fumaroles, which still emit gases. This island is known for its volcanic baths, as well as its beautiful and exotic black sand beaches. The cuisine is also excellent here, and a local specialty is a dish called schiacciata, a pizza loaded with fresh ingredients, including capers, mozzarella, and anchovies.
There is a popular hiking trail called Gran Cratere, which is ideally explored during the morning hours or at sunset if you’re traveling in the summer and want to escape the heat. Along with marinas, where you can dock, the seven islands in the chain have essential items like grocery stores in case you need to stock up along the way.
A concierge travel agency can also clue you in on some of the more remote places in the island chain in case you want an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The outermost islands in the chain are some of the most coveted destinations for those who want to relax and rejuvenate on vacation. Volcanic mud baths and hot springs are two of the most appealing aspects of those islands, which is not surprising considering that volcanoes originally formed the islands.
Today, the island of Stromboli contains an active volcano, which appears to be setting off fireworks on summer nights! The island of Salina is considered to be one of the most aesthetically pleasing in the archipelago. This island is also called “Isola Verde,” or “Green Island.” It has many vineyards along with its other aesthetic attractions.
2. Amalfi Coast
Another great destination in the Mediterranean, if you ask a Europe VIP travel concierge, is the Amalfi Coast. The Amalfi Coast is one of the most picturesque coastlines in the world and, therefore, one of the most photographed. This island is also a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, as it is home to Monte Fossa delle Felci, which is a natural preserve located in a dormant volcano. From the top of the trail, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the neighboring islands, which include Stromboli and Panarea.
If you feel like traveling around a bit on land, you can also rent a scooter on the island and head out to the bay called Pollara, which is the spot where the movie “Il Postino” was filmed in 1994. For a truly romantic experience, schedule dinner at La Locanda del Postina, a famous restaurant named after the film. A reservation that coincides with the setting sun is best, as you can watch the unforgettable sunset over the ocean. Private boat tours are also available out of the harbor, and you may even catch a dolphin sighting if you are lucky.
3. Sardinia
Sardinia is one of the most popular destinations that travel planners recommend. If you choose to travel here, plenty of luxury travel concierge services are available to help arrange your travel and make you feel relaxed, comfortable, and rejuvenated during your stay.
Sardinia has an expansive coastline that overs over 1,000 miles. Sardinia is beautiful and has exceptional waters, but its rugged coastline and winds make it a better choice for people who already have sailing experience, as winds generally average 20 knots. If you choose to sail the waters solo or with the help of a concierge travel agency, you won’t be disappointed at what Sardinia has to offer.
Along with its picture-perfect waters, Sardinia also offers marvelous harbors and medieval villages. Many cultures have passed through Sardinia and left their mark along the way, so there is plenty of history and archaeology to experience in Sardinia as well. Boating culture is alive and well in Sardinia, home to some of the world’s top big-boat regattas. It is also a mecca for private sailors. The northeastern part of the island, called Costa Smeralda, is one of the top places for sailors. June through August are the busiest times of the year for this part of the island, which is good to keep in mind if you are looking to escape the throngs of tourists in the summertime.
4. Cote d’Azur
This French coastline is one of the most popular destinations in the world. Cote d’Azur encompasses many standalone destinations, including Nice, St. Tropez, Monaco, and Antibes. It is a top spot for a romantic getaway, so consult a Europe VIP travel concierge if you are looking for a stunning getaway where you can enjoy time with a significant other. It’s also a great place to spend time solo or with friends! If you want a break from the action, you may want to inquire about luxury travel concierge services to help coordinate a trip to the western part of the coast, which contains the islands of Ille du Levant, Porquerolles, and Isle du Hyeres.
5. Corsica
Corsica is located to the north of Sardinia. It is known for its exceptional coastline, along with its rugged and diverse interior. Corsica is home to Napoleon and contains some beautiful and historic cities. Showing its diversity, Corsica is also where you’ll find some of the most majestic mountain scenery in the Mediterranean. A getaway vacation is also possible in Corsica, which contains rugged and uninhabited bays and anchorages. While you may feel worlds away from the crowds, you’re also close to the beautiful Sardinia and Lavezzi islands. If you decide to go on a two-week sailing expedition, which can be arranged with assistance from luxury travel concierge services, it’s possible to visit Corsica along with Sardinia in one trip.
With assistance from a concierge travel agency, the sailing world of the Mediterranean is at your fingertips. Contact us today for details on vacationing through a Europe VIP travel concierge!
