Stunning European beach with pristine water named 'world's best' - but there's a catch

The World's 50 Best Beaches has unveiled its latest list, providing a treasure trove of for sun-seekers and sea lovers. holidaymakers will be thrilled to learn that this year's crowning glory is merely a short flight away.

Claiming the coveted top position is Cala Goloritze, an enchanting beach nestled on the island of Sardinia. The panel of judges said: "Cala Goloritze is more than just a beach - its untouched beauty stirs something deep the moment you see it. Whether you're gazing from the cliff above or standing with your feet in the crystal-clear water, the view is unforgettable."

While the entire Baunei Coast offers stunning vistas, Cala Goloritze is particularly remarkable, not least due to its majestic 143-metre limestone pinnacle that towers like a natural monument.

The waters are incredibly transparent, perfect for a dip, but it's the unwavering commitment to preservation that ensures the 's immaculate condition, reports .

Declared a natural monument back in the 1990s, Cala Goloritze has been meticulously maintained. It represents a harmonious blend of untouched wilderness and a tranquil seaside retreat.

For those wishing to dodge the high-season hustle, consider visiting outside of the bustling months of July and August. June and September present an ideal middle ground with fewer tourists and equally pleasant weather.

Nevertheless, reaching this secluded paradise requires some effort, as access is intentionally limited to safeguard its allure.

Visitors are required to either trek, with a limit on the number of daily permits, or approach by boat, mooring 200 metres from the shore behind a barrier designed to keep the beachfront clear of vessels.

For those seeking beauty closer to home (and more readily accessible), Soar Mill Cove near Salcombe ranks among the UK's most stunning beaches.

One of the key attractions of this petite, secluded sandy beach is its tranquil ambience. However, access to the beach is exclusively on foot via the South West Coast Path, with the closest National Trust car park situated a thirty-minute stroll away, or a more challenging and considerably steeper hike of just over a mile from the Soar Mill Cove Hotel.

This lack of direct road access helps maintain its serene and unspoiled environment, meaning you won't encounter large crowds or commercial amenities, allowing visitors to fully engage with the natural setting.

Mobile phone reception is limited and promotes a digital detox.

When the tide recedes, Soar Mill Cove unveils a small stretch of golden sand ideal for sunbathing, constructing sandcastles and unwinding.

A gentle stream meanders through the heart of the beach, and rock pools appear, offering opportunities to discover marine creatures such as crabs and anemones.

The cove also serves as a sanctuary for bird enthusiasts, with the likes of ravens, shags, kestrels and peregrine falcons frequently sighted in the vicinity.

For those seeking a dash of adventure, the area boasts some of South Devon's finest sea caves, ripe for exploration.