Summer is getting closer and we are all looking forward to a break to enjoy the beach and the heat. However, you don't have to wait another few months to enjoy a few days on the coast, and we've got just the thing so that you can enjoy the Spanish sun without the seasonal crowds. The British newspaper The Times has published a list of the best undiscovered beach destinations in the world and among the top 7 is Spain's hidden gem: La Gomera.
This island, the second smallest in the Spanish archipelago of the Canary Islands, is famous for its ancient forests, vertical cliffs and small crystalline coves of volcanic sand. As well as visiting the Garajonay National Park, 3 beaches in La Gomera have the Blue Flag certification, an award only given to beaches that meet a series of conditions (e.g. environmental requirements and facilities).
The island is perfect for escaping crowds in Spain and has many activities, from diving to hiking, while its warm climate makes it a destination worth visiting at any time of the year. The mountains of the natural park are full of vegetation that create a unique environment. This is also place that was known to the navigator Christopher Columbus, who was forced to visit this small island on his voyage to the Indies in 1492.
And for those who fancy more than a holiday, on the island of La Gomera there are also houses for sale in one of the best hidden gems in Spain, where you can enjoy stunning sea and mountain views all year round. From houses with pools to mountain villas, check out our selection of property for sale in La Gomera.
Other destinations on the list of the world's best undiscovered beach destinations:
São Tomé and Príncipe
This exotic island in the Gulf of Guinea has three luxurious eco-lodges and boat trips to visit the beaches and cocoa plantations, where you can admire the endemic birds and whales.
Northern Sri Lanka
The north of the island has been less exploited than the south for tourism, as it took longer to recover from the civil war. In the middle, it's recommended that you travel after March to enjoy elephant, Wilpattu leopard and wild pony safaris in the Jaffna Islands. You should also visit the Hindu temples and ruins of Anuradhapaura, as well as the coral reef-filled beaches of Trincomalee.
Western Cape, South Africa
It's made up of seven bays and lagoons filled with surfers, swimmers and fishermen. It's a two-hour drive from Cape Town and the area has several fishing villages with charming guesthouses.
Bahia, Brazil
This is a coastline of almost 1,000 kilometres in the northeast, where rainforest and secluded bays blend together. South of the Bahia is the famous city of Salvador de Bahia, full of colour and Brazilian rhythm, and the picturesque towns of Trancoso and Itacaré.
Koh Mook, Thailand
This country, famous for its lively streets and people, still has a few islands where you can enjoy the peace and quiet and good weather. Koh Mook is one of them, where you can explore its crystal-clear beaches on foot and relax while swimming with colourful fish.
Réunion
This small island 233 kilometres from Mauritius and about 800 km from Madagascar, in the middle of the Indian Ocean, is a true tropical oasis, with waterfalls, crystal-clear sandy beaches and hot springs. Another attraction is Piton de la Fournaise, an active volcano on the island.