The European island that doubles as the Caribbean on TV and is loved by A-listers – just over two hours from the UK

A LESSER-known European island has been compared to both the Caribbean and described as a "real paradise".

What's more, it's relatively quiet compared to some of its much more famous neighbours, making it the perfect place to visit for a relaxing island getaway.

Everyone knows that the Balearics are one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe.

However, some of the islands are still yet to have been overtaken by tourists.

Among those is Formentera, the smallest of the archipelago, but by no means the least impressive.

Despite sitting just five miles south of holiday hotspot Ibiza, it is worlds away in terms of atmosphere.

Away from the parties and the huge nightclubs, Formentera is instead a place to relax and soak up the sun by the sea, with beaches so stunning, the island has been nicknamed "little Caribbean".

In fact, the comparison is so similar that chocolate company Mars has even used the island to double up as the Caribbean for its Bounty bar adverts, in which they promised a "taste of paradise".

Italian chocolate makers Ferrero repeated the trick for an advert for their coconut flavoured balls, Raffaello.

The specific beach they used is called Platja de Ses Illetes, which is regularly chosen as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, and even the world, according to .

They wrote: "While the neighbouring island of Ibiza is now known for its party scene, things are even quieter on Formentera. Rather one knows the island for the clearest water of the Mediterranean.

"You have surely seen it on television. Many commercials - for example, for the famous coconut balls with cream filling - were filmed here."

The island has also been a favourite of several celebrities over the years, with Bob Marley making a visit in 1978.

During the summer months, it's known for hosting musicians to play in front of its picturesque backdrops, with superstars like Jimi Hendrix, Bob Dylan and Pink Floyd among the names to have played there.

Meanwhile, the likes of Giorgio Armani, Kate Moss, Will Smith, Leonardo DiCaprio and Madonna are all known to have made the most of its secluded and quiet setting.

In fact, most who visit do it to escape the crowded hotspots and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

Which is why they're more than happy to take the 40 minute ferry from Ibiza to get there - with no direct options available.

said: "It has white sands and turquoise waters; no airports, no crowds, and just a few roads between its key points

"Far from being an inconvenience, this is the best thing about the island. There are few places where you can relax and enjoy the sense of calm that you'll have in Formentera."

While its seas offer clear blue waters to swim and snorkel in, on the mainland, whitewashed villages make perfect places to escape and wander.

There are a total of six towns and villages on the island, with the capital Saint Francesc the biggest.

It has markets, restaurants and shops for tourists to amble between and enjoy some of the local food, including fresh seafood and Spanish classics.

A night for two in Formentera can be booked from around £49.

To get to the island, visitors will need to make use of a daily ferry service from Ibiza.

However, there are other lesser-known beaches in Europe that can also make great holiday locations.

Greece

Hidden away on the Greek island of Milos, Tsigrado Beach remains quiet due to its novelty entrance.

The beach can only be accessed via a small crevice with a wooden ladder and a piece of rope.

Plenty of holiday makers have said that the beach is worth the hassle, with soft sand, blue waters and few other people there to get in your way.

Italy

Portofino in Italy is a place that has become so popular with tourists, new rules have banned them from congregating too long in certain spots.

However, a secret swimming spot can be found by climbing down a set of stairs that lead to a small rocky bay.

Cyprus

Despite it being a popular holiday destination, there are still plenty of places in Cyprus to find quiet places to relax in the sun.

One of those is Zapolo Beach, which is said to be one of the best hidden beaches in the country.

It has soft sand, clean waters and is home to sea turtles.

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