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Dugi Otok
Croatia
Shimmering turquoise water. Dense forests of emerald pines. White pebbles that glisten like pearls on the beach… The colours of Dugi Otok, an island of the Zadar Archipelago, off the Dalmatian coast, are intense. But the intensity ends there; this little-known gem is all about delighting in deep chill. Translating to "long island", this skinny sliver of green in the Adriatic is a beach lover's paradise. We're partial to pristine Sakarun Beach for its hidden coves, and the fertile spaces of the island, taken up with olive groves and plenty of scraggly wild rosemary and fennel. Fly into Zadar, hop on a ferry to the island, and be sure to rent a car.