European Vacation Hotspots Spotlight Provence Lavender and Lesser‑Known Islands

Summer in France's Provence region draws visitors to its famous lavender fields, especially the Valensole plateau, where purple blooms stretch from mid‑June to early August. Travelers also enjoy local markets, Provençal rosé, and regional cuisine such as lavender honey.

A travel guide highlights five off‑the‑beaten‑path European destinations for a quieter holiday: the Greek island of Skiathos, Spain’s Menorca, Albania’s coast, Portugal’s Azores, and Spain’s Fuerteventura. Each offers natural beauty, fewer crowds and opportunities for local experiences.

Another feature lists lesser‑known European islands worth exploring, including Spain’s La Gomera, Croatia’s Šolta, Greece’s Serifos, and Italy’s Procida. These islands provide rugged landscapes, historic villages and authentic food, largely untouched by mass tourism.

Travel + Leisure’s ranking of the world’s best islands names seven European entries among the top spots: Milos and Paros in Greece, Madeira (Portugal), Sardinia (Italy), Hvar (Croatia), the Azores (Portugal) and Scotland’s Isle of Skye. The list underscores Europe’s strong presence in elite island travel destinations.