With more than 500,000 British users creating their bucket-list itineraries on Vacaay, one beach has emerged as the clear favourite—João de Arens in Portugal’s Algarve region. More UK travellers included João de Arens in their itinerary than any other beach in Europe.
It’s not the easiest place to reach, but those who make the journey are rewarded with towering golden cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a peaceful seclusion that’s hard to beat.
The Rise of Remote Travel
The pandemic has shifted travel behaviours, with a surge in demand for remote and lesser-known destinations. COVID-19 has made us rethink the way we travel, and more specifically, where we travel to. There’s a growing trend toward holidaying in remote destinations in order to avoid crowded spaces and comply with social distancing measures.
João de Arens Tops the List
Tucked away near Portimão, João de Arens may not have the name recognition of more famous beaches, but that’s exactly what makes it so appealing to today’s traveller. Its raw beauty and low foot traffic are drawing in a new wave of explorers eager to escape the crowds.
Surprising Additions Across Europe
João de Arens wasn’t the only under-the-radar spot to catch travellers’ attention. UK users also showed strong interest in Alogomandra Beach on the Greek island of Milos and Cala San Nicola on the Italian island of Favignana.
Putting Hidden Gems on the Map
At Vacaay, we’re proud to be putting lesser-known places on travellers’ radar. We’re driving destination awareness of secluded regions that people may never have even heard of, or ever considered visiting, That’s what Vacaay is all about—helping people discover new favourites that are off the beaten path.

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