The team at Condé Nast Traveller put together a list of the 34 best beaches worldwide, with Breckon on the Isle of Yell in the Shetland archipelago coming in third
A beach nestled on a picturesque Scottish island is among the most beautiful in the world when it comes to stunning scenery.
Breckon Beach on the Isle of Yell in the Shetland Islands clinched the third spot in a prestigious list of the world’s best beaches, as compiled by the globetrotting experts at Condé Nast Traveller last year. Outshone only by Australia’s Palm Cove Beach and Honopu Beach in Hawaii, Breckon soared to high acclaim. The beach has a unique position, snugly sheltered between green fields safeguarding it from blustery south-westerly winds.
Breckon Beach is not just about its beautiful location – history imbues its sands with remnants of Viking and earlier settlements dotting its proximity, boasting archaeological treasures like ancient pottery, finely-crafted bone combs, and even Roman coins unearthed over the years.
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But the travel experts at Condé Nast Traveller give would-be swimmers a heads-up: the water may offer a bracing chill for those daring enough to wade in. Access to this rural gem involves navigating steep descents, a small exertion for such splendid isolation.
The travel guide doesn’t shy away from the coast’s darker tales, vividly noting: “It’s a beautiful spot with clear waters and perfectly powdery sands, but all is not as it seems on a clear summer’s day.
“Many boats have met their end along these shores – learn all about the treacherous sea at the local museum in Burravoe, which details harrowing accounts and displays fascinating artefacts that have washed up over the years.”
The expert panel also shed light on how they selected the beaches for their list. They revealed that they sought out beautiful, often crowd-free spots that might require a bit more effort to reach rather than typical tourist-filled sandy beaches.
Condé Nast Traveller added: “From the most exquisite beaches in Europe to far-flung stretches in Asia, Africa and more, these are the best beaches in the world.”