Europe's little-known white sand beach rivals the Maldives and it's much cheaper
The pristine white sand and crystal clear water of the Maldives have tempted most of us at some point – but shelling out thousands for flights, seaplanes and fancy resorts simply isn’t in the budget for most Brits. Luckily, there’s more than one beautiful place in the world and a beachside destination just a few hours away has impressed tourists with its similarity to the Indian Ocean islands.
When you read Denmark, you’re more likely to think of colourful harbours and canal cities, but Dueodde beach will blow you away. Based on the southern tip of Bornholm – an island in the Baltic Sea off the coast of Sweden the beach boasts bright white sand and turquoise water on its impressive coastline. Plus, you don’t have to break the bank to stay there.
Dueodde is the perfect destination for families, couples or solo adventurers who want to see powder fine and and clean water with plenty of sandbars so the water offers swimming in both deep and shallow waters. The beach stretches into the distance for kilometres and is close to holiday cottages, sand dunes, and an incredible lighthouse.
READ MORE: Sun-soaked island just three hours from UK has golden beaches and £12 rooms
Brits who want to get the best view of the stunning beach can even climb the lighthouse to enjoy a view over all of southern Bornholm and the coast. The beach is open all week, there’s a long boardwalk for strolling and toilets and a kiosk for amenities in the nearby car park. There’s also a nudist beach and topless sunbathing is normal, according to some reviews, for those who are so inclined.
The beach attracts a lot of visitors in the summer months when the weather heats up and it sits between the towns of towns of Hasle and Balka which are also worth a visit. Over on Tripadvisor, holidaymakers raved about the surprising hidden gem. Francesco Paolo said: "It is a must on Bornholm. The dunes are beautiful and the sand special. Simply nice. The lighthouse nearby makes the atmosphere even nicer."
Another visitor, from Canada, noted: "Its fine, white sand stretches along Bornholm's southern coast for almost 30 kilometres. A wonderful part of Bornholm's oplevelser [experience]. There is a lot to see on ‘the sunshine island’."
Priyanka B added: "White it is. That was the first thing that came to me when I saw this white sandy clean beach glistening under the beautiful sun. Perfect blue waters and endless sand. One almost feels like sun bathing here forever."
While a Slovenian visitor said: "One of the most attractive beaches on the island as long you like sandy beaches. Heaven for families with small kids. Be sure to get some drinks and possibly a sun umbrella…"
Brits who want to stay close to the beach don't have to shell out a fortune – you can camp on the sand at the Dueodde Strand Camping ground for £36, but you do need to bring your own tent. if you'd rather stay in a bed then head over to the Dueodde Hostel where a private double room with a bathroom will set you back £60 a night between two – that's £30 each.
While it might not be the cheapest seaside spot around – Great Yarmouth has hotels from just £5.50pp a night – it's a lot cheaper than a trip to the Maldives. Especially because, according to Skyscanner, you can get a return flight to Bornholm for £179.
The island is also home to some magnificent churches, castle ruins, the gorgeous Spa Lake and a mini golf course. There’s also art museums, scenic walks and even the theme park Brændesgårdshaven which features gardens, a zoo and a playground.
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