France, Sicily Highlight Europe’s Top Island Destinations

France boasts a remarkable variety of islands, offering diverse experiences from mountainous landscapes and historic sites to tranquil beaches and nature preserves. Corsica, the largest Mediterranean island belonging to France, is renowned for its rugged terrain, famous hiking trails like the GR 20, and cultural blend of Italian and French influences. Other notable French islands include Île de Ré, known for its cycling paths and salt marshes, and the Frioul archipelago near Marseille, which offers white-sand beaches, historical fortresses, and protected natural habitats. With approximately 1,300 islands off metropolitan France's coast and about 30 inhabited, these islands provide peaceful escapes from daily life with varied landscapes and activities. The Aeolian Islands off Sicily, while not French, are another prominent Mediterranean archipelago famous for their volcanic origins, clear waters, and charming villages, popular primarily in summer. Additionally, some European island nations such as Cyprus, Iceland, Ireland, Malta, and the United Kingdom offer further coastal charm and rich maritime heritage.