When it comes to summer escapes, not all islands are created equal — and that’s half the fun. Maybe you’re chasing sun-drenched hikes and wild coastlines, or maybe you’re just looking for a low-key beach where the biggest decision is rosé or spritz. Here’s my cheat sheet to finding the island (and the vibe) that matches your mood.
For nature lovers: Madeira
Floating in the Atlantic off the coast of Portugal, Madeira is a rugged island of dramatic cliffs, waterfalls and dense laurel forests. Hike the island’s levada trails — over 2000km of narrow irrigation channels that wind through forest, past waterfalls and up into cloud-covered peaks. Head to Cabo Girão for a glass-floored viewpoint (one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs, 580m above the ocean) or rise early to catch the sunrise above the clouds at Pico do Arieiro. Whale and dolphin watching is a must (you can often spot pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins just off the coast), and a swim in the volcanic rock pools of Porto Moniz is a refreshing reward after a day on the trails. Back in Funchal, wander the botanical gardens or sample the island’s fortified wine at Blandy’s.
Insider tip: The island’s microclimates mean that one side of Madeira can be completely sunny while the other is shrouded in mist. If you’re exploring, take a jacket or sweater just in case — especially if you’re heading up to the mountains for a hike.
Where to stay in Madeira
Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel. A pink-hued clifftop classic since 1891, serving up old-school glamour, knockout Atlantic views and one of the dreamiest afternoon teas in Europe.
- Fora’s Belmond Bellini Club partner perks include a hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast and an upgrade whenever possible.
For adventure seekers: Sardinia
Sardinia serves up both adrenaline and elegance in equal measure – perfect for those who crave adventures without sacrificing style. On the northern coast, Porto Pollo is a mecca for kite surfers, while divers head to the limestone caves off Tavolara and Capo Caccia for underwater arches and shipwrecks. Hikers can tackle the Selvaggio Blu, a multi-day coastal trek that’s one of Italy’s toughest (and most rewarding), or explore gentler paths through the Gennargentu mountains, where you’ll stumble on Bronze Age ruins, mountain goats and views that stretch for miles. Inland villages like Orgosolo offer a glimpse of old Sardinian life, complete with hand-painted murals and slow lunches of suckling pig and Cannonau wine. And for some glam between hikes and boat trips, head north to Costa Smeralda where Porto Cervo’s designer boutiques, yacht-filled marinas and chic beach clubs bring the island’s luxe side to life.
Insider tip: Skip August if you can — July and September offer better weather, fewer crowds and warmer sea temperatures. And rent a car — the island’s hidden gems are best discovered off the beaten path.
Where to stay in Sardinia
Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel, Costa Smeralda. A whitewashed beauty on Costa Smeralda, known for its handcrafted Sardinian design, turquoise bay and relaxed Riviera glamour.
- Fora’s Belmond Bellini Club partner perks include a hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast and an upgrade whenever possible.
For a family vibe: Mallorca
Mallorca ticks all the boxes for a family getaway. The island’s soft-sand beaches — like Playa de Muro and Cala d’Or — have calm, shallow waters perfect for little swimmers, and boat trips reveal hidden coves perfect for snorkelling and paddleboarding. Off the sand, there are water parks (Aqualand El Arenal is the island’s largest), gentle hikes in the Serra de Tramuntana and charming towns like Alcudia, where kids can roam cobbled streets and bustling markets. Getting around is a breeze thanks to the island’s compact size, and you’ll find a warm, kid-loving welcome everywhere — plus plenty of restaurants catering to younger palates.
Insider tip: For a quieter retreat, hop on a ferry to Formentera— a stunning, car-free island known for its crystal-clear waters, unspoiled beaches and peaceful atmosphere.
Where to stay in Mallorca
Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor. A glamorous comeback on the island’s northern tip — think pine forests, postcard beaches and polished Mediterranean style.
- When you book Four Seasons with a Fora advisor, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities.
For nightlife lovers: Hvar
With its reputation for yacht parties and late-night energy, Hvar is Croatia’s go-to island for those who like their summer with a side of sparkle. But it’s not just about the party. You’ll also find sun-bleached stone towns, fragrant lavender fields and tucked-away coves perfect for a midday swim. Wander the elegant, cobbled streets of Hvar Town lined with Venetian architecture and buzzing cafés, hike up to the Fortica Fortress for panoramic views or set sail to the Pakleni Islands for a day of beach-hopping and turquoise bays.
Insider tip: If you need a breather from the buzz, head to the quieter stretch of coastline near Maslinica Bay, where olive trees, pine forest and crystalline water offer a slower, softer side to Hvar.
Where to stay in Hvar
Maslina Resort. Set above a peaceful bay near Stari Grad, this sleek, design-forward hideout is all about earthy tones, organic dining and Adriatic views.
- Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
For beach goers: Milos
Milos is the Greek destination you want for a relaxed pace plus gorgeous beaches. This volcanic island is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, whitewashed fishing villages and dramatic coastal landscapes. Wander the Roman amphitheatre where the Venus de Milo was discovered, or stroll through Plaka’s cobbled streets to catch sunset over the Aegean. A boat trip is a must — the island’s rugged coastline hides surreal spots like Kleftiko, a chalk-white cove once used by pirates, and Sykia, a collapsed sea cave you can swim inside. On land, check out beaches like the otherworldly Sarakiniko and colorful Firiplaka. And between dips, don’t miss feasting on grilled octopus, tangy xinomyzithra cheese and tomato fritters in laid-back tavernas by the sea.
Insider tip: Milos has over 70 beaches, many only accessible by boat — take a small-group sailing tour for a full-day circuit of secret swimming spots and cliff-jumping coves.
Where to stay in Milos
Domes White Coast Milos. A secluded, adults-only escape perched above the sea, with private plunge pools and front-row seats to Milos’ fiery sunsets.
- Fora Perks include a $50–$100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Bonus picks: 5 off-the-radar islands
If you’re craving even quieter shores and willing to venture a little farther, these five lesser-known islands and recommended hotels promise deeper solitude, enduring traditions and raw, elemental beauty. The air feels fresher, the pace slows and going off-grid feels entirely natural.
Pantelleria, Italy. Just 32 square miles of lava rock and wild beauty, this remote island between Sicily and Tunisia trades beaches for thermal springs, traditional dammusi homes with white-domed roofs and volcanic serenity. Reachable by ferry or a short flight from Palermo or Trapani.
- Sikelia is a striking, grown-up hideaway set in ancient dammuso dwellings with a deep connection to the island’s rugged landscape. Fora Perks include a $50–$100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.<
Muhu Island, Estonia. Life on this scenic Baltic isle moves at its own gentle rhythm. Villagers still bake dense black rye leib bread in wood-fired ovens, wear colorful folk costumes and adorn their cottages with ancient mystical symbols. Accessible by ferry from Saaremaa or a short flight from Tallinn.
- Pädaste Manor is a 16th-century estate turned boutique hotel with a Nordic spa and serious farm-to-table focus. Fora Perks include a $50–$100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Lošinj, Croatia. Known as the ‘Island of Vitality,’ this lesser-known Croatian gem boasts over 200 days of sunshine annually and has drawn health seekers since the 19th century, thanks to its famously pure air, healing pine forests and calm Adriatic waters.
- Boutique Hotel Alhambra is a restored villa on pine-fringed Čikat Bay featuring sea-view balconies, Michelin-Starred dining and a standout saltwater spa. Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Folegandros, Greece. This tiny, cliff-hugging island in the Cyclades is all about simplicity: whitewashed villages, winding mule paths and cliffside views that seem to stretch forever. Life slows in postcard-perfect Chora, perched high above the Aegean, where long lunches and golden-hour hikes to the Panagia church are daily rituals.Accessible by ferry from Santorini, Milos or Piraeus.
- Gundari is a design-forward hideaway with private plunge pools, a sleek spa and standout Greek cuisine by Michelin-Starred chef Lefteris Lazarou. Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity and an upgrade whenever possible.
Gozo, Malta. Sleepier and greener than Malta’s main island, Gozo keeps things slow. Hike past craggy cliffs and salt pans, swim in the clear waters of Ramla Bay and explore baroque churches and Neolithic temples older than the pyramids.
- Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz is a family-friendly resort built from local limestone, featuring al fresco dining, three outdoor pools surrounded by palm trees and one of Europe’s largest Ayurvedic spas. Fora’s Kempinski Club 1897 partner perks include $50–$100 hotel credit, daily breakfast and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Dose of Dutton 