From an island you can walk to from the shore to a stunning cove only accessible by 347 steps: The most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean revealed (7)

Monterosso Beach – Cinque Terre, Italy

As the area's only sandy waterfront, the town of Monterosso el Mare along the Italian Riviera is a must-visit for all beach lovers.

One of the five villages that make up Cinque Terre, this western-most beach, which runs along most of the town's coastline, is located in the centre of a small natural gulf.

For those planning a holiday, it's worth noting that the beach is extremely popular during the summer months, so early June or late August is preferably if you don't want to have to wait for a sun lounger.

Along the Albanian Riviera, beach lovers can soak up the sun along white sandy beaches dotted with olive and citrus trees