Europe has some of the most beautiful naturist beaches in the world. Some are official and signposted; others have been tolerated for decades. This selection prioritises scenery, water quality and atmosphere — not proximity to campsites.

1. Praia do Barril, Algarve (Portugal)

One of the most evocative beaches on the Algarve: reached on foot through a nature reserve, which means few tourists and plenty of nature. Fine sand, crystal-clear water, dunes that shelter from the wind. Officially nudist for a long stretch.

2. Plage de l'Horizon, Landes (France)

In the heart of the Atlantic Landes forest, this beach is part of the CHM Montalivet complex — the world's first naturist campsite (1950). Miles of Atlantic sand, big waves, fragrant pine forests. For guests of the adjacent campsite only.

3. Punta Molentis, Sardinia (Italy)

A small pink granite cove between Villasimius and Capo Carbonara, reachable only on foot or by boat. Turquoise water, low rocks, very few tourists in the early season. Tolerated for years without issue.

4. Isola delle Femmine, Sicily (Italy)

The northern beach of this island, facing the marine reserve, is one of the best places for nude bathing in Italy. The protected waters keep mass tourism at bay. Long tolerated without incident.

5. Koversada, Istria (Croatia)

The beach at Koversada campsite sits on an island connected by a jetty: mixed sand and rock, clear Adriatic water, pines a few metres from the water. One of the most iconic spots in European naturism.

6. Playa de Vera, Almería (Spain)

One of the longest officially designated nudist beaches in Europe (over 20 km). Desert landscape behind, Mediterranean in front, and a well-developed tourist infrastructure for those who want facilities. Ideal for northern Europeans accustomed to limited sun.

7. Schwarzsee FKK-Strand, Carinthia (Austria)

A mountain lake above 1,000 metres with unusually warm water for the altitude. The FKK area is well marked and widely respected. The Carinthian Alpine scenery is spectacular.

8. Guvano, Cinque Terre (Italy)

One of Italy's most famous and most difficult beaches to reach: on foot only, through an abandoned tunnel. The Ligurian Mediterranean, vertical cliffs, no facilities. Tolerated for decades but subject to annual regulatory uncertainty.

9. Cap d'Agde, Hérault (France)

The world's largest naturist "town": a real village with shops, restaurants, hotels and miles of beach. Not the most solitary choice, but the infrastructure and atmosphere are unique. Ideal for those who want to experience naturism with all mod cons.

10. Kanegra, Istria (Slovenia)

The beach at Adria campsite near Portorož: a long stretch of shingle and rock facing the Gulf of Trieste. Less crowded than the Croatian Istrian beaches, very much loved by long-standing visitors.

These beaches are described in our guide with detailed ratings and up-to-date practical information.