Little known Scottish beach with stunning turquoise sea ranked THIRD best in Europe
A STUNNING Scottish beach has been rated the third best in all of Europe.
A team of travel experts named relatively unknown West Beach on the island of Berneray a must-see.
The hidden gem ranked above gorgeous resorts in Greece, Italy and Spain to bag one of the top spots on the Lonely Planet Best Beaches 2023 guide.
It's the second time in two years the three miles of powder white sands has made the top three.
Berneray West Beach was dubbed "divine" by the team of judges.
They noted features like its "expanse of white sand" and "turquoise sea" as well as being a good spot to watch for seabirds and porpoises.
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Situated on the Outer Hebrides on the small island of Berneray, this beach is a haven for holidaymakers who like a bracing dip and a good walk.
Other local attractions include seal spotting and a visit to the Clach Mhor Standing Stone - a panoramic viewpoint.
There are plenty of nearby accommodation options nearby including cottages, B&Bs, and a hostel.
Barafundle Bay in Wales was the only other UK entry, coming in 6th place.
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It was popular with the judges because of its "butterscotch sand" and "turquoise waters".
Set in Stackpole in Pembrokeshire, Barafundle Bay is frequently named as one of the best things to do in the area.
Because this remote beach has no car access, holidaymakers have to walk along a steep path for 15 minutes before reaching its sandy shores.
While a great spot for swimming, there are no lifeguards or facilities, so visitors will need to come prepared.
Haukland Beach in Norway was crowned the best beach in Europe.
The experts said: "The island of Lofoten off Norway’s northwest coast is the Arctic dream – whether seen in the never-dying light of the Midnight Sun or under dancing Northern Lights in winter snows.
"Haukland Beach is out of this world, with spiky granite peaks thrusting above creamy sands and sapphire sea."
Cala Goloritze beach in Sardinia bagged the number two spot thanks to ' snow-white pebbles giving way to a sea of purest aquamarine blue' the sight of which made the judges 'gasp out loud'.
But if you're after a more traditional beach in Europe for the summer holidays, then Navagio Beach in Zante might just be perfect.
Known as Shipwreck Beach, this beach, which came ninth in the table, is consistently ranked as one of the world's best beaches.
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While the shipwreck from 1983 is the centerpiece of the beach, there's also a viewpoint and other stunning beaches nearby.
- Haukland Beach, Norway
- Cala Goloritzè, Italy
- West Beach, Scotland
- Plage de Palombaggia, Corsica
- Platja Illetes, Spain
- Barafundle Bay, Wales
- Praia da Arrifana, Portugal
- Cala Macarella, Menorca
- Navagio Beach, Greece
- Platja de Coll Baix, Mallorca
Europe's Most Stunning Beaches
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