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ISLAND destinations are often whimsical, but one spot in particular is a crowd-free gem.

Vis Island in Croatia is just over an hour on the ferry from Split.

And it was recently named among Intrepid’s annual ‘Not Hot’ list for 10 overlooked destinations you should visit this year.

Though if you want to head to a seaside town without the crowds, the Croatian Tourism Board recommends visiting Komiza on the island, which according to the board is where fishing on the eastern coast of the Adriatic was born.

The town dates back to the 12th century and is surrounded by pretty villages to discover as well.

Stiniva Beach is just an 18 minute drive from the town and is the number one thing to do on the island of Vis, according to TripAdvisor.

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The cove has crystal clear waters and pebbles, like many other beaches across the island.

From the road, it is about a 20 minute hike down to the beach, though many visitors note it isn’t easy, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

Boat tours go to the beach too, though, which is probably a better option for the more elderly.

One recent visitor said: “Stiniva Beach is hands down the most beautiful beach I’ve ever seen in my life.

“Tucked away in a secluded cove with crystal-clear water and beautiful high cliffs surrounding you, it feels like stepping into a hidden paradise.

“The atmosphere is peaceful and almost surreal, especially in the early morning when the light is soft and the crowds haven’t arrived yet.”

If you want to head to a more accessible beach, opt for Gusarica Beach which is right by the town centre.

The beach features small pebbles and it is a great spot to go paddleboarding.

The island and Komiža more specifically, was also used as a filming destination for Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.

In the second film, Harry and Bill have dinner in a Greek tavern.

In reality, the tavern is a restaurant called Jastožera and does have the amazing view that you see in the film.

The restaurant is located by a 15th century fortress that connects two cliffs and created an open air sea pool used for lobster breeding.

Since 1883, the restaurant has been owned by the Komizan family Marinkovic-Mestrezane and today you can visit to try fresh lobster dishes.

Komiža is a great base for visiting the Blue Cave on Bisevo island as well, which is an even smaller island.

The “island of peace and purity”, according to BlueCave-Bisevo.com, is known for its Blue Cave, which was revealed by Viennese painter Eugen Baron Ransonnet in 1884.

Since, tourists flock to the cave which has since become protected as a geomorphological natural monument.

What makes the cave so special is that it captures an unusual light phenomenon which gives everything in the cave a blue glow.

In 2019, research revealed that the blue glow is created by morning light hitting the yellow sandy bottom and illuminating the interior of the cave.

Visitors can only head to the cave on an organised trip, which are available between April 1 and November 1.

Tickets to the cove can be purchased in the gift shop in Mezuporat Cove, near the cave entrance.

They cost 75 Croatian kuna (£8.67) per adult and 35 kuna (£4.05) for children, but in the peak season rise to 100 kuna (£11.56) per adult and 50 kuna (£5.78) per child.

If you book a Blue Cave tour from Split, your entrance will be included in your ticket.

The best way to get to Komiža is by flying to Split, with flights usually costing from £24 one-way.

Once in Split, hop on the ferry to Vis which usually costs between €6.50 (£5.66) and €26 (£22.63) per person.

For more inspiration on holidays to Croatia, there’s a tiny island which bans cars that tourists say ‘feels like being in a fairytale’.

Plus, the little-known Mediterranean hotspot Brits are moving to for super-low taxes, 97p beer and 31C summers.

This peaceful South Lakes village offers a quieter alternative with River Brathay access, kayaking, Loughrigg walks, and family activities

Millions flock to the Lake District annually seeking respite from the chaos of daily life. Yet, countless holidaymakers gravitate towards the crowded hotspots of Windermere, Kendal, and Ambleside, which means their walks may prove less tranquil than anticipated, whilst they overlook some of the more hidden corners that the national park boasts.

One such secret treasure nestled in the South Lakes region is Clappersgate, a tranquil village situated on the fringes of Ambleside. Jerry Rebbeck, a regional specialist at Wheelwrights Holiday Cottages, has championed the settlement’s appeal, suggesting it as an ideal base for those exploring the vicinity.

He said: “Clappersgate has great access to the River Brathay, making it a great spot for adventurous visitors who want to paddleboard or kayak towards Waterhead or further onto Windermere.

“If you are not the adventurous type, you can enjoy the majestic riverside setting, taking in the views with a tipple of your choice or a book in a more secluded area.”

For those who prefer rambling, there are excellent routes directly from Clappersgate leading up to the Loughrigg Circular, which offers stunning panoramas across Windermere, and serves as an ideal lower-altitude trek when weather obscures the loftier peaks.

Despite being a compact settlement, Clappersgate brims with heritage, boasting numerous period buildings, including the remarkable Clappersgate Bridge.

The Grade II listed bridge, dating back to the 17th century, is a favourite spot for walkers in the area, owing to its views over the river and surrounding greenery.

Jerry added: “Clappersgate also has convenient access to nearby indoor activities, making it a brilliant place for families to stay in case of those unexpected rainy days, including the Lake District Aquarium and a neo-gothic Wray Castle.

“There are lovely historic houses and holiday cottages in Clappersgate for those wishing to stay in the area.

“The village is tucked away from the crowds, yet within easy reach of numerous landmarks and boasts stunning scenery – offering the perfect balance between relaxation and exploring the Lakes.”