Europe's most sensational seaside spots

The Algarve is Portugal's most popular holiday destination. That's hardly surprising, given its impressively rugged coastline, enchanting coves and golden beaches. The region is among the sunniest in Europe, with over 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. Castelo Beach near Albufeira is ideal for diving and snorkeling.

Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean, boasting medieval towns, ancient ruins and breathtaking bathing resorts. Eraclea Minoa is a prime example with its endless sandy beaches and white cliffs. You can go swimming here well into autumn.

Hossegor is among the best surf sports in France, with waves up to 3 meters (nearly 10 feet) high. The resort on the southwest coast has been hosting international surf competitions since the 1970s.

Greek's largest island boasts crystal-clear waters and sheer endless beaches. You'll find the spectacular Elafonisi Beach at the southwest tip of the island. The sand has a pinkish hue, due to thousands of tiny seashells that have washed up here.

This Baltic Island off Germany's northeastern coast is popular among regular holidaymakers and nature lovers. Private motor vehicles are banned here, and the island is likewise free of multi-story hotel complexes. Hiddensee is also famed for its bird sanctuaries, and is best explored by bicycle, horse-drawn carriage or on foot.

Southeastern Devon is nicknamed the "English Riviera" due its mild climate, sandy beaches, palm trees and bustling marinas. There are plenty of fabulous seaside resorts to enjoy in this area, among them Woolacombe, which boats an enticingly golden beach.

Turkey's Mugla province is ideal for those looking for a quiet, Mediterranean break unspoiled by mass tourism. Iztuzu Beach, for instance, is a popular nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles, and is cordoned off in the evening to protect the endangered species. There are also ancient Roman ruins and cliff tombs waiting to be explored.

The Danish island of Romo has the widest beach in northern Europe. With so much space available, visitors are permitted to drive onto and up the beach. It's also a popular spot for land sailing and horse riding.

Once a bit of a hidden gem, Montenegro's expansive beaches are attracting more and more tourists each year, rivaling neighboring Croatia. Jaz Beach is particularly popular, with the old town and fortress of Budva just around the corner and ideal for a day trip.

The Curonian Spit is narrow, sandy peninsula, separating the Baltic Sea from the Curonian Lagoon. Its southern half is Russian territory, while the north belongs to Lithuania. This unique natural environment is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ibiza is famed for its nightlife. Many holidaymakers come here to dance the night away and chill out by the sea during the day. Benirras Beach in the north of the island, for example, offers spectacular sunsets.