'Excellent' beach destination with no crowds named best place for last minute holiday
The perfect destinations have been revealed for anyone who's not ready to let go of summer, and wants to bag a last-minute getaway
by Ellen Jenne, Chloe Dobinson · The MirrorStill clinging to the tail end of summer? Wizz Air's got you covered with an investigation into the least crowded beaches for that last-minute autumn getaway.
They didn't just check out the crowd sizes; they looked at the best weather and daylight hours for September through November to pinpoint those top secret sun spots. To sort out the packed sands from the peaceful, Wizz Air sifted through over 50 European countries' top beaches, reports the Express.
First, they measured each beach, figured out how many sunbathers could fit on it based on the size of a beach towel, and then checked against the average daily visitors. After factoring in temperatures and beach roominess, each spot got a score out of 50, so you know where you're likely to have the most elbow room and warm rays.
Combining this with the latest weather forecasts, Wizz Air has unveiled the primo spots to drag out the sunny days as long as possible. Andras Rado, a spokesperson for Wizz Air, said: "While many know Europe's iconic beach spots like Ibiza or the Algarve, there are countless hidden coastal gems that often go unnoticed."
"At Wizz Air, we're passionate about helping travellers discover these lesser-known treasures, from secluded coves in Croatia to sandy stretches in Albania, away from the crowds.
Here are the top 10 best winter sun destinations in Europe:
- Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa (Cyprus) - 42.7
- Konyaalt Plajlar, Antalya (Turkey) - 35.67
- Borsh Beach, Borsh (Albania) - 33.3
- Praia da Falesia, Algarve (Portugal) - 32.3
- Kalithea, Rhodes ( Greece ) - 30.3
- Ramla Bay, Xaghra (Malta) - 30.3
- Benirras Beach, Ibiza (Spain) - 30.0
- Livadi Beach, Himare (Albania) - 28.3
- Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia (Greece) - 28.0
- Balos Beach, Crete (Greece) - 27.7
Nissi Beach near Ayia Napa, Cyprus, is the top spot for some last-minute sun before autumn sets in. Despite being one of Cyprus's most frequented beaches, its 600-metre stretch ensures plenty of room for visitors.
If you're up for a vibrant atmosphere, Nissi Beach is a fantastic option for a spontaneous autumn break, maintaining a cosy warmth in September, October, and November with temperatures around 21 degrees and an average of nine hours of sunshine.
Coming in second is Konyaalt Plajlar in Antalya, Turkey. This lesser-known treasure provides a serene getaway from bustling tourist areas, boasting space for nine beach towels per person.
Encircled by mountains and crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, it offers a peaceful haven. In autumn, Konyaalt Plajlar boasts pleasant weather, averaging 20C and nine hours of sunshine, making it a perfect, less crowded option for a last-minute summer escape.
Borsh Beach in Albania has been named the third best place to visit, thanks to its warm autumn weather. This hidden gem along Albania's scenic Ionian coast remains pleasantly warm, making it an ideal spot for a late-season getaway.
Visitors can enjoy extended sunny days and inviting temperatures at this coastal beauty spot well after the peak tourist season ends.
Albania is fast becoming a top destination for 2024 as more holidaymakers discover this hidden treasure. With its pristine landscapes and budget-friendly prices, it's the perfect choice for adventurers seeking something unique and off the beaten track. Albania offers a range of experiences that can easily rival its more famous, busier neighbours like Greece.