Unique Islands in the World to Visit: Remote Escapes & Small Island Adventures
Unique Islands in the World to Visit: Remote Escapes & Small Island Adventures
Whether you’re seeking out rare wildlife encounters, an off-grid wellness escape or a cosy Nordic hideaway, you’ll find something that captivates you with our guide to the most unique islands in the world.
In true Regent style, we’re going beyond the typical swaying palms and sandy shores of the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific. Instead, discover some of the most diverse and distinctive island adventures, spanning everything from remote northern lights hideaways in the Lofoten Islands, to cross-coastal cycling routes in Finland and colourful cultures in the Philippines.
Whatever the season – whether it’s autumn in Taiwan, winter in the fjords or spring in Estonia’s islets – our portfolio of island adventures is packed with hidden treasures, remote beaches, and experiences that you can discover now.
How to get around on your alternative islands holiday
Cruise, rail, fly-drives and small group tours
Rail journeys through mountains
If you’re drawn to the remoteness and richness of island life – where rainforest peaks, coral reefs, and cultural traditions thrive – there are many ways to explore beyond the beach.
You might cruise between emerald isles in Croatia or through the iceberg-strewn Arctic, take a scenic rail journey past storybook towns and dramatic coastlines, or set off on an independent fly-drive to uncover hidden villages, bird cliffs, and national parks.
For a more guided experience, small group tours led by experts offer authentic encounters and the chance to share the journey with like-minded travellers.
Discover more of the best destinations for small group trips.
1. Remote Arctic Islands
Snow, silence, and northern lights in the Lofoten Islands, Senja, and Lapland’s Aino Private Island.
Lofoten Islands in the midnight sun
On Norway’s Lofoten Islands, jagged peaks rise from icy fjords, and fishing cabins dot the shore. Despite their Arctic location, winters are mild, with pastel skies and plenty of outdoor adventure to be had, such as snowshoeing, kayaking or watching for the celestial sights from a cosy cabin. Senja, known as ‘Norway in miniature’, offers even more dramatic landscapes, fewer crowds, and clear skies for aurora watching.
It’s also home to one of the densest populations of white-tailed eagles in Europe. You’ll often spot these giants soaring above fjords, especially around Bergsfjord and Mefjordvær. In Finnish Lapland, Aino Private Island is a peaceful, adults-only retreat near Rovaniemi, steeped in history and surrounded by forest. Accessible by suspension bridge, it’s a quiet haven for starry nights and winter serenity.
Journey to the Arctic Islands with Regent
Alluring Lofoten Islands Winter Break
Lofoten Islands under the northern lights
Experience the magic of Lofoten this winter with cosy cabin stays, serene fjords and dramatic snow-draped peaks. On the alluring Lofoten Islands winter break, you can explore at your own pace, chase the northern lights, and enjoy activities such as sea kayaking and aurora photography. Plus, experience a four-night stay in an iconic Rorbu fishing cabin, nestled in one of the islands’ local villages.
Senja Island Winter Escape
Senja Island in winter
Discover Senja, Norway’s wild Arctic gem, where towering mountains, quiet fjords and star-filled skies create the most peaceful winter escape. With this Senja Island winter escape, you'll travel from vibrant Tromsø to your tranquil lodge by the sea, where you can kayak through crisp Arctic waters and watch the northern lights dance overhead from your steaming open-air hot tub.
Aino Private Island Hotel Winter Break
Aino Private Island
Escape to Arctic tranquillity on the Aino Private Island hotel winter break, where you'll immerse in a serene and luxurious adults-only retreat tucked away in the Lappish forest. Surrounded by wilderness, spend your days riding reindeer sledges across snowy landscapes, exploring Lapland’s untouched wilderness by electric snowmobile and dining on locally sourced gourmet delights.
2. Scenic rail journeys in Taiwan
An island getaway perfect for history and culture lovers
Alishan Forest Railway
Taiwan is a captivating island renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, featuring bustling night markets, historic temples, scenic hiking trails, and world-class cuisine.
We particularly recommend exploring this diverse island by rail, as this is the best way to uncover its many hidden gems. Rather than rushing through the usual tourist routes, travelling by train lets you immerse yourself in Taiwan’s tapestry of landscapes and rural areas at a relaxed pace.
Autumn is an especially magical time to travel, as forests blaze in shades of amber and crimson, creating postcard-perfect views from the train window. As you rumble along, you’ll see rugged mountains cloaked in autumnal hues and tranquil National Parks bursting with colour.
The rail network also provides access to remote villages and off-the-beaten-track stops that are often missed by conventional tours, allowing for authentic encounters with local traditions, all while travelling sustainably and minimising environmental impact.
Highlights of Taiwan’s rail routes
Alishan Forest Railway
Alishan Forest Railway
Step aboard the Alishan Forest Railway and journey along a centuries-old mountain route, climbing to 2,216m via spirals, tunnels, and wooden bridges. Wind through misty peaks, ancient cypress forests and quiet rural towns on a vintage carriage, soaking in the cinematic views and catching golden sunrises over rolling tea plantations. Our tour Taiwan by train offers the opportunity to explore this remarkable railway, and much more captivating beauty.
Taitung indigenous communities
Luye Shrine in Taitung
In Taitung, connect with Taiwan’s indigenous heritage through the Etolan tribe. Join the villagers and listen to their stories, before foraging in the mountains and preparing a traditional lunch. Discover ancestral cooking techniques and crafts using natural materials for a rare and respectful glimpse into a culture deeply rooted in the island’s history. Explore the cultural experiences of Taiwan in the best way with our culture and cuisine of Taiwan tour.
Kinmen island cultural immersion
Zhaishan Tunnel
On Kinmen, history and heritage intertwine on an island once at the heart of cross-strait tensions. Take part in oyster foraging, try your hand at traditional broom-making, and wander through echoing war tunnels. Today, Kinmen offers a slower rhythm, sweeping sea views, and living traditions shaped by resilience and pride. Our Taiwan by Train & Kinmen Island is the perfect way to explore these tunnels, paired with the sweeping natural landscapes of Taiwan.
Taiwan Rail Explorer: Scenic Routes & Offbeat Encounters
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Tourist train travelling through Alishan national scenic area
Starting in Taipei, take a round-trip rail adventure to soak up the scenic mountain routes, bustling villages and coastal towns at a leisurely pace. Book the Taiwan Rail Explorer: Scenic Routes and Offbeat Encounters with Regent today.
3. Sun-drenched islands of the north
Volcanic activity, midnight sun and towering fjords of Greenland and Iceland in summer
Iceland in summer
Greenland and Iceland are two of the North Atlantic’s most extraordinary islands - wild, elemental, and shaped by fire and ice. In summer, these Arctic neighbours reveal a gentler side: endless daylight, colourful blooming tundra and icebergs that gracefully drift beneath golden skies. Central to both is the midnight sun, a period when the sun never sets, offering the chance for adventure at any hour.
In Greenland, explore Disko Bay’s mesmerising ice-filled waters. Cruise past calving glaciers, spot breaching humpback whales, and stroll through Ilulissat, a town steeped in Inuit culture. Or, discover Qeqertarsuaq’s basalt mountains while soaking up the midnight sun’s magical light.
Iceland offers a vibrant contrast: Reykjavík’s buzzing streets combine effortlessly with the country’s natural wonders. Wander the Golden Circle’s geysers and waterfalls, relax in the Blue Lagoon’s warm mineral waters, and walk the black sands of Reynisfjara beach. Optional whale watching adds a thrilling touch to your adventure.
Explore Disko Bay
Whale spotted off the shores of Disko Bay
Travel to Greenland’s dramatic Disko Bay, where towering icebergs and scattered islands shape the coast. On our Explore Disko Bay tour, learn about Inuit culture, spot humpback whales breaching in icy waters and explore the colourful settlement of Qeqertarsuaq. A boat tour through the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ilulissat Icefjord offers close views of calving glaciers and impressive ice formations.
South Iceland Summer Break
Puffins on the bird cliffs of Iceland
Discover South Iceland’s top sights on a short break based in lively Reykjavík, where vibrant galleries and restaurants await. The South Iceland Summer Break offers the chance to explore the Golden Circle’s geysers and waterfalls, and visit cliffs teeming with puffins. A whale-watching cruise provides excellent opportunities to spot humpback whales and other marine life in their natural habit.
4. The wild Azores & Faroes
Rare wildlife, rugged landscapes and dramatic sea views of the Azores and Faroe Islands
Landscapes of the Azores
Great for wildlife lovers, the Azores are a magnet for marine life, with over 25 species of whales and dolphins regularly seen off their shores, from the immense blue whale to playful pods of orcas and bottlenose dolphins. On land, these islands have calderas and crater lakes that carve out habitat for endemic birds and lush greenery.
Beyond the wildlife, these islands are both perfect for walkers. The Azores offer trails through steaming fumaroles, volcanic ridges, and misty crater lakes, while the Faroes invite quiet exploration across grassy clifftops and deep fjords, where the only company might be found in a flock of sheep.
And while they may be remote, both archipelagos are ideal for those seeking slow-paced, scenic escapes - whether you’re exploring tea plantations along the hydrangea-fringed roads of the Azores or browsing Faroese wool crafts in turf-roofed cottages.
Uncover the beauty of the Azores with Regent
Grand Tour of the Azores
Whale spotted in the Azores
During this grand tour of the Azores tour, you'll hop between five of the Azores’ most captivating islands on this expertly guided tour, featuring coastal walks, whale watching, and volcanic scenery. From the twin lakes of Sete Cidades to Flores’ wildflower meadows and Pico’s black lava shores, each stop is packed with nature, culture and discovery - all framed by dramatic Atlantic backdrops.
Faroe Islands Fly-Drive Adventure
Azores Island from above
Venture deep into the wild beauty of the Faroes on a flexible self-drive tour designed for active travellers. Kayak across quiet fjords, hike cliffside paths echoing with seabirds, and cruise by RIB to the towering Drangarnir sea arch, all on this Faroe Islands explorer fly-drive. Along the way, cycle through windswept valleys, explore sub-sea tunnels, and discover remote villages tucked between sea and sky.
Estonia’s soothing spas
Natural wellness, stunning beaches of golden sands, and deep cultural heritage of Estonia
Saaremaa, Estonia
Saaremaa’s Kuressaare, Estonia’s oldest resort town, has nurtured spa traditions since 1824. The wellness hotels and historic spa houses that remain here continue to offer unique therapies featuring local sea mud, juniper, and mineral waters. The islands’ natural beauty is equally captivating - wander through peaceful pine forests, juniper fields, and along pristine beaches, or explore meteorite craters and wildlife-rich National Parks.
Rich in cultural heritage, these islands also invite you to explore their medieval castles, traditional windmills, and authentic island cuisine. With easy ferry and flight connections from Tallinn, Saaremaa and Muhu are perfect for a rejuvenating getaway.
Estonia’s top rejuvenation experiences
Spas & wellness
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Kuressaare, Estonia
Estonia’s islands are steeped in spa tradition, with Kuressaare - Estonia’s oldest resort town - at their heart. Here, wellness draws on sea mud, juniper, and mineral waters, with treatments in elegant historic spa houses. Saaremaa and Muhu offer time-honoured healing, serene coastal settings, and a peaceful pace that’s perfect for slowing down and recharging.
Nature & tranquillity
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Saaremaa and Muhu
Tucked into the Baltic Sea, Saaremaa and Muhu are natural havens. Wander through fragrant pine forests and juniper fields, explore Saaremaa’s unique meteorite craters and dramatic sea cliffs, or stroll along unspoiled beaches. Head to the peaceful hiking trails for serene days of cycling and birdwatching - or, take to a hot tub or sauna to soak it all in.
Cultural heritage
Angla Windmills
Explore Saaremaa and Muhu’s deep-rooted traditions, from iconic Angla windmills and charming thatched cottages to authentic local handicrafts. Visit the medieval Kuressaare Castle, one of the Baltics’ best-preserved fortresses, and savour island flavours such as smoked fish, fresh herbs, and the famous, hearty Muhu black bread.
Finland & Sweden’s secret archipelagos
Tranquil islands, pine forests, and red cottages in the Swedish and Finnish archipelagos
Finland's Archipelagos
Scattered across the Baltic Sea, the Finnish and Swedish archipelagos are home to tens of thousands of islands - from rocky skerries to forested islets. These regions are easily combined with a visit to Helsinki or Stockholm, creating a journey that combines an island adventure with a vibrant city break.
Sweden’s archipelago stretches from Stockholm through over 30,000 islands. Here, pine-scented trails, quiet bays, and red wooden cottages shape a peaceful yet rugged landscape. Thanks to Allemansrätten (the Right of Public Access), you can hike, kayak, and even wild camp respectfully across much of the region. In summer, you might be able to spot sea eagles, or even take a bracing dip in the Baltic yourself!
Across the Gulf, Finland’s archipelago is one of the world’s largest. The Archipelago Trail connects a network of islands via bridges and ferries, perfect for walking or cycling between fishing villages, lighthouses, and hidden beaches. Visit remote Utö for birdwatching and Finland’s oldest lighthouse, or stop in Nauvo to explore stone labyrinths and historic island settlements.
Explore hidden islands with Regent
Looking to explore the Nordic coast beyond the mainland cities? These two immersive adventures take you deep into the Finnish and Swedish archipelagos.
Finnish Archipelago Trail by E-Bike
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Cycling in Finland's Archipelago
Cycle Finland’s spectacular Archipelago trail from Turku on our Finnish Archipelago trail by e-bike tour. Discover Seili’s haunting hospital past, wander Nauvo’s stone labyrinth, and explore charming harbour villages. Bridges and ferries connect this island chain, with cafés, saunas, and seascapes offering the perfect balance of adventure and peaceful coastal living.
Stockholm Archipelago Hiking Adventure
Hiking in Sweden's Archipelago
Island-hop between pine forests, granite cliffs, and quiet trails on this hiking journey across Stockholm’s archipelago. Embark on our Stockholm Archipelago hiking adventure to spot seals, deer, and sea eagles, swim in the Baltic Sea, and wild camp under Sweden’s Right of Public Access. This is nature at its most raw, remote, and beautifully accessible.
Island-hopping by cruise
Crystal-clear bays, Arctic day trips and polar bear spotting on the water
Croatia's Dubrovnik
Cruising is one of the easiest and most scenic ways to explore island chains. From the sun-soaked shores of Croatia to Svalbard’s northern lights, small ship cruises can unlock hidden harbours and remote landscapes. Unpack once, relax on deck, and let each new day reveal a different island paradise, bay, or coastal gem.
Want to explore a string of islands without the hassle of ferries or hotel-hopping? Small-ship cruises make island-hopping effortless. Whether you’re gliding along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast or sailing past Svalbard’s icy shores, cruising lets you cover more ground - or sea - with ease.
Smaller vessels can slip into hard-to-reach harbours and tranquil coves, offering access to places that larger ships can’t reach, whether that be medieval towns and family-run cafés or tucked-away beaches. Onboard, you’ll be taken care of by local crews and guides who’ll bring the landscape to life with their knowledge.
See the world's unreachable wonders with Regent
With meals, expert-led excursions, and transport all taken care of, you’re free to slow down, soak it all in, and let the journey unfold naturally - one island at a time, at your own pace. Discover our top cruises that take you across the best part of the seven seas.
Deluxe Croatian Islands Cruise: Dubrovnik to Split
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Cruising the Dalmatian coast
Cruise the Dalmatian coast from Dubrovnik to Split - or vice versa - on a small-ship adventure. Explore hidden bays, historic towns like Korčula and Hvar, and pristine beaches with ease. With just 18 cabins, expert guides, daily swim stops, and relaxed evenings ashore, this journey offers effortless island-hopping and authentic Croatian hospitality.
Svalbard Mini Cruise
Polar bear spotted in the icy waters of the Arctic
Experience the Arctic’s wild beauty on a small expedition cruise around Svalbard. From June to August, enjoy 24-hour daylight while spotting polar bears, walruses, and Arctic foxes. Glide past towering glaciers and icebergs, explore remote fjords by RIB, and capture one-off wildlife moments, all from the comfort of an intimate, expertly guided vessel.
Jewels of the Arctic Polar Expedition
Cruising the Arctic waters
Begin your journey in the Arctic waters, sailing aboard small, comfortable ships like Greg Mortimer or Sylvia Earle en route to Reykjavík. Explore Svalbard and East Greenland’s landscapes, spot polar bears and walruses in action, cruise vast fjords, walk tundra blooming with wildflowers and visit remote Inuit settlements.
Japan’s authentic culture & food
Night markets, sizzling street food and ancient traditional recipes of Japan
Japanese traditional sushi
Japan’s rich island heritage shines through its vibrant food culture, where every dish tells a story. From bustling Tokyo markets to tranquil Kyoto tea houses, authentic flavours reflect centuries of tradition and meticulous craftsmanship.
Savour fresh sushi, hearty Hakata ramen, tender Wagyu beef, and exquisite kaiseki meals, each offering a delicious glimpse into Japan’s diverse regions and history. Beyond taste, food is deeply connected to rituals - whether a tea ceremony or seasonal festivals celebrating nature’s bounty.
Enhance your journey with a Kyoto cooking class or a peaceful temple stay in Nagano, immersing fully in local customs. Visiting markets, family-run eateries, and sake breweries reveal how cuisine is woven into daily life and community.
The best time to visit to experience it? We suggest spring or autumn, when the colours of the vibrant landscape make for the perfect pairing.
Japan’s top must-try dishes
Hakata ramen
Hakata ramen bowl
Savour the bold, silky richness of Hakata ramen - a Fukuoka-born dish famed for its creamy pork-bone broth and ultra-thin noodles. Steeped in Kyushu’s culinary pride, this beloved ramen reflects Japan’s mastery of flavour and texture. Served with tender pork, pickled ginger, and fresh scallions, it’s a comforting, cultural icon in every slurp.
Wagyu beef
Wagyu beef
Discover the melt-in-your-mouth luxury of Wagyu beef, prized for its intense marbling and buttery tenderness. More than a delicacy, it reflects Japan’s dedication to craft and care, from farm to flame. Whether lightly seared as steak or savoured in shabu-shabu, each bite embodies quiet indulgence and centuries of culinary tradition.
Kaiseki cuisine
Kaiseki cuisine
Savour the elegance of Kaiseki, Japan’s refined multi-course dining tradition that celebrates seasonality, balance, and artistry. Each dish is a miniature masterpiece, thoughtfully prepared to reflect nature’s rhythms. Rooted in Zen philosophy and tea ceremony customs, Kaiseki offers a meditative, sensory journey through Japan’s culinary soul.
Indulge in the Culture & Cuisine of Japan with Regent
Discover Japan’s culinary and cultural treasures on this guided tour, sampling sushi, kaiseki, street food, and sake. Enjoy cooking classes, temple stays, and expert-led explorations of vibrant cities and serene countryside all on our meticulously crafted culture and cuisine tour of Japan.
Island life in the Far East
The beautiful islands, crystal clear waters and hidden treasures of the Philippines
Philippines Islands
While Southeast Asia is famed for its mainland regions, its island chains hold their own quiet magic. From Indonesia to the Philippines, each offers rich traditions, lush landscapes, and vibrant coastal life.
Escape to the paradise islands of Southeast Asia and the Pacific, where Indonesia and the Philippines both reveal their own unique treasures.
In Indonesia, explore lush volcanic landscapes, spot wild orangutans, or admire hand-dyed batik once reserved for Javanese royalty. Or, wander ancient temples and cycle through terraced rice paddies.
The Philippines' tropical islands beckon with sugar-white-sand beaches and kaleidoscopic festivals like the Sinulog Festival, where colourful chaos meets spiritual devotion. Catch the quiet beauty of the Santo Niño boat procession at dawn - an often-overlooked moment of grace amid vibrant island life.
Whether chasing dry-season sunshine in Indonesia or diving into vibrant festival season in the Philippines, these islands offer irresistible experiences - from scuba diving with manta rays and sacred parades to sharing coffee with local elders and discovering hidden cultural treasures.
Explore the Islands of the Far East with Regent
Java, Bali & Lombok Discovery
Meditating Buddha statue in Java
Start in Jakarta, where colonial past meets modern energy, then take the train across Java’s lush heart to Yogyakarta. Discover royal palaces, explore the ancient Borobudur temples, and experience vibrant culture. In Bali, relax on Candidasa’s tranquil coast and enjoy optional cycling or cooking classes. Finish in Gili Trawangan, biking the island paths or snorkelling in its waters.
Sinulog Festival
Sinulog Festival
This journey to Cebu’s vibrant Sinulog Festival invites you into a swirl of colour, sound and rhythm. Marvel at the fluvial dawn procession and later join the grand parade, with floats, dancers, and “Pit Senyor!” chants pulsing through the streets. Between celebrations, savour Cebuano cuisine, wander historic sites, and swim in turquoise waters.
Plan Your Tailor-Made Island Escape
Discover the world’s most unique islands your way with a bespoke itinerary designed around your passions, pace, and travel style.
From Arctic hideaways under the northern lights to sunlit archipelagos bursting with culture and colour, we’ll craft a personalised journey that uncovers the hidden gems of the world’s most remarkable islands.