Cape Clear Island — Travelrags

Lonely PlanetAug 4, 2026

Tiny islands in Europe that you can only reach by ferry

There is no better way to put some distance between you and the world than by hopping on a ferry to a small, low-key island. These five fit the bill.

15 things in this story

Cape ClearSightHourglass-shaped island where Irish is spoken.
Fastnet RockSightLighthouse on Ireland's southernmost point.
Elsewhere
Isla de TabarcaSightTabarca, SpainSmallest inhabited island in the Mediterranean.
Platja de TabarcaSightTabarca, SpainMain sandy beach on Isla de Tabarca.
Nova TabarcaNeighborhoodTabarca, SpainTown with 18th-century walls, target of pirate raids.
Mar AzulRestaurantTabarca, SpainTry the island's classic dish, caldero de Tabarca.
Channel View Bed & BreakfastHotelBaltimore, IrelandCharming and warm accommodation in Baltimore.
Cala MinniolaSightLevanzo, ItalyBeautiful swimming cove with clear blue water.
Grotta del GenoveseSightLevanzo, ItalyCave with over 12,000-year-old prehistoric paintings.
Illas CíesSightVigo, SpainPart of a national park with beautiful beaches.
Praia de RodasSightVigo, SpainOne of Spain's most beautiful beaches.
Faro de CíesSightVigo, SpainLighthouse offering incredible views of the coast.
RachiSightTelendos, GreeceMountain that beckons rock climbers.
PothaSightTelendos, GreeceSunken city with ancient remnants.
Agios Konstantinos chapelSightTelendos, GreeceOffers a fantastic sunset view.