The four seaside destinations in Europe with black sand
A WHITE sandy beach is on most Brits’ bucket lists, conjuring up images of beatiful coastlines in Greece or the Caribbean.
But there are some beaches that are even more dramatic with black sand – and a handful can even be found in Europe.
The black sand is caused by lumps of volcanic rock being eroded away over time.
While these beaches can be found all over the world, there are four destinations in Europe where holidaymakers can wiggle the volcanic sand between their toes.
Tenerife, Spain
Most Brits flock to Tenerife for a relaxing holiday spent sunbathing on its golden sands, but the island is also home to a beach with black sand.
Set on the north of the island in the popular seaside town of Puerto de la Cruz is Playa Jardin.
Designed by César Manrique, the half a mile stretch is divided into three sections: Castillo Beach, Charcón Beach, and Punta Brava Beach.
On this beach, holidaymakers can surf, sunbathe or dine at one of the many restaurants set along the vibrant promenade.
Both Ryanair and easyJet operate direct routes from London to Tenerife, and flights cost £45.
Santorini, Greece
Because Santorini is a volcanic island, most holidaymakers will expect to find themselves on a beach with black sand.
Situated on the southeast coast of the island, Perivolos Beach has crystal clear waters as well as colourful parasols and plenty of sun loungers.
There are also several bars dotted along the beach and volleyball tournaments are often held there too.
Despite not attracting as many tourists as neighbouring beaches like Perissa and Agios, this beach has made a name for itself as a popular wedding reception venue.
Diamond Beach, Iceland
For holidaymakers who want to visit a black sand beach without changing into a swimsuit, then Iceland offers plenty of promise.
Arguably the best place to go is Diamond Beach – nicknamed thanks to the shards and orbs of ice on its shoreline.
While the entire beach is a tourist attraction, there are plenty of other activities to do nearby like visiting glacial lagoons as well as seal and orca spotting.
Sicily, Italy
In Spiaggia di Ficogrande in Sicily, tiny black pebbles cover the coastline.
Even without the white sand, the beach has a Blue Flag status, which makes it great for swimming because there are on-duty lifegaurds.
Despite being quite accessible, the beach remains largely free of crowds.
As well as beaches that are formed of black sand, there are also more rarer beaches that have just green sand.
There are only four beaches with green sand, but they can be found in all corners of the world, including Europe, the US, and South America.
A beach in the Canary Islands even has sand that looks like popcorn, due to the shape of the coral.