If your idea of the perfect getaway includes marine life and Mediterranean vistas, the Medes Islands should be high on your list. Located just off the coast of L’Estartit on Spain’s Costa Brava, this small archipelago is a haven for nature lovers, snorkellers, and divers. Just a couple of hours from the mainland by boat, the islands are part of a protected marine reserve, meaning the surrounding waters are teeming with vibrant underwater life. From schools of colourful fish to coral reefs, and even the occasional octopus, there's always something beneath the surface waiting to catch your eye.
Whether you're keen to dive beneath the surface or ogle the scenery from a kayak or catamaran, there’s something for everyone. Back on land, L’Estartit is a perfect place to plant yourself, with plenty of seaside eateries and beachfront views on the cards. And, thanks to its protected status, this picturesque set of islands is known as one of the Mediterranean’s most pristine and eco-conscious destinations.