Get your snorkeling gear out of the closet and embark for the dream destinations of the European continent. A treat for beginners and experts alike!
Snorkeling. This word alone is enough to make us travel. Translated into French as palmes masque tuba (or PMT), the practice has become more democratic in recent years. You no longer need to be a seasoned and well-equipped diver to admire the ocean floor. So of course, when we imagine ourselves underwater in the middle of fish and multicolored corals, the clichés quickly flow into our minds. White sand beach, turquoise and transparent water, outdoor heat of at least 30 degrees, coconut palms... We have our eye on exotic destinations on the other side of the globe. And yet, just a few hours' flight from the mainland, some countries also offer a formidable playing field for surfers. Let's take a look at these European spots where you can enjoy a nice snorkeling session.
El Puertito de Armeňime (Tenerife - Canary Islands)
The Canary Islands - with its long-standing reputation as a tourist destination - offer many spots to practice PMT all year round. El Puertito de Armeňime (Adeje municipality), a small cove that is quieter than the big resorts nearby, is one of them. You will surely have the opportunity to cross paths with one of the five species of sea turtles present on the archipelago. Not very wild, the animal spends a good part of the year on this site. Sheltered from the strong waves, the bay, which is accessible to most people, will allow you to observe, among other things, trunkfish, harlequin shrimp and octopus.
Baia Archaeological Park (Pozzuoli - Italy)
Change of country and scenery, direction Italy and more particularly the bay of Naples. The latter will delight history lovers with its Roman remains and mosaics submerged at a maximum depth of 10 metres. Ruins of villas, statues, baths, all these rich witnesses of the past have been under water because of the bradyseism present in this region of the Phlegrean fields (slow fall or rise of the ground level, of volcanic origin). Don't miss the sites of Ninfeo di Claudio and Villa a Protiro, the highlights of your snorkelling tour.
The Silfra Fault (Þingvellir National Park - Iceland)
Head north with a spot that should surprise you. Iceland, more known for its northern lights and its natural hot springs, can also be discovered underwater. Equipped with a fully waterproof suit (we grant you that the water temperature on the spot is between 2 and 4°), go to the Silfra fault. Located about fifty kilometres from the capital, it is on the border of the American and European tectonic plates. A geological peculiarity which partly explains its success. Crystal clear water, visibility up to 100 meters, colorful bottoms, the place is regularly cited among the best diving sites in the world. The Silfra Cathedral, 63 metres deep and 100 metres long, will leave you with unforgettable memories of your underwater excursion.
Comino Island (Malta)
It is impossible to end our selection without a stopover in Malta, the favourite place for diving in Europe. Among the different islands that make up the archipelago, it is difficult to make a choice. More tranquil than its neighbours Malta and Gozo, Comino looks like a small paradise. And for good reason, its 3.5km² and its inhabitants (counting on the fingers of one hand) seem to be preserved: only one seasonal hotel and one campsite, cars are prohibited. Of course, during the high season, the Blue Lagoon - the island's flagship spot - is very busy. Turquoise water at 28° in summer and white sand give it an exotic destination feel.
A twenty minute walk will take you to more remote and deserted beaches, such as Santa Marija and San Niklaw. Don't forget to visit the caves of Santa Maria, a real underwater sanctuary. Nudibranchs, octopuses, crabs, lobsters, eels, shrimps, moray eels, groupers, mostelles... you won't know where to look.
Finally, if you prefer to opt for a more local tourism, our beautiful country is very well equipped for snorkeling. Var, Alpes-Maritimes, Corsica or the unavoidable Calanques of Marseille will offer you plenty of opportunities to perfect your snorkeling skills.