Home » Misc » Counter island ideas

Counter island ideas


62 Kitchen Island Ideas You'll Want to Copy

By

Farima Ferguson

Farima Ferguson

Farima Ferguson began her career at HGTV where she worked with designers to write about home design. Her work has appeared in HGTV, Insider Reviews, Travel Channel, and more.

Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process

Updated on 05/11/22

The Spruce / Christopher Lee Foto

The kitchen is oftentimes the heart of the home. It's where you and your family fuel up for the day, make memories during the holidays, entertain friends and family, and celebrate life's big moments during get-togethers.

Get Inspired by These Kitchen Island Ideas You'll Want to Copy

At the center of the kitchen is the kitchen island, the part of the room that provides an extra spot for meal prepping, cooking, gathering for casual meals or coffee breaks, and even extra storage space. Aside from all its practical uses, the island can also serve as a decorative focal point of the room. We've gathered our top kitchen island ideas, from big to small and simple to over-the-top to help inspire your kitchen design.

The Best Kitchen Islands for Stylish Storage

These Are the Best Brands of Paint for Kitchen Cabinets to Update Your Style

34 ways to create a fabulous and functional feature |

(Image credit: Blakes London / DesignSpaceLondon / Kitty Lee Architecture)

Kitchen island ideas boost the room’s preparation and storage space plus they often add seating, but they have a huge aesthetic impact on the room, too.

They might be sized up in larger kitchens, or of more compact proportions in smaller rooms, but either way kitchen ideas such as the selection of materials, color, shape and more can make an island into an attention-grabbing feature.

An island can also be a brilliant asset when designing a kitchen, separating the working areas from space for family and guests to allow the chef to work safely without being isolated. 

Kitchen island ideas

These kitchen island ideas will help to inspire your choice of size, shape, finish and design, as well as island seating ideas, and create a new addition that will completely transform your cooking space. 

1. Make waves with fluted details 

(Image credit: Kitty Lee Architecture)

Fluting around a kitchen island can be far more than just a decorative surface. In this relatively narrow kitchen by Australia-based Kitty Lee Architecture , ease of movement around the island was crucial and fluting served a practical purpose.  

‘The fluted detail allowed us to create a beautiful feature around a curved form, adding texture, warmth, and contrast to the space, while also improving the traffic flow and ergonomics,’ says director, Kitty Lee. It was created using individual 30mm-wide half-round dowels in Tasmanian oak, which is a dense and resilient hardwood with excellent staining qualities. 

2. Use a waterfall edge for a seamless look 

(Image credit: Malcolm Menzies)

A popular design feature that will elevate any island unit, a ‘waterfall edge’ involves continuing the countertop seamlessly from horizontal to vertical. ‘Deeply veined marbles look particularly fabulous using this technique, especially if you source a slab large enough to allow the veining to flow right down to the floor,’ says Oana Sandu, lead designer, Blakes London . ‘It’s important to think about the flooring and how it will complement your choice of worktop, usually a contrast works best.’

(Image credit: Darren Chung)

Put a statement island firmly in the spotlight with thoughtfully selected light fittings that score highly on both form and function.  

‘Characterful, statement lighting should enhance the drama in the kitchen – not steal the show,’ says Richard Atkins, design director, DesignSpace London . Iconic shapes with revered design heritage are likely to outlast trendy fittings, while swerving standard pendant lineups in favor of off-set positioning is a simple move with impressive results as part of breakfast bar ideas.  

4. Use mixed materials for an interesting finish 

(Image credit: Life Kitchens)

When choosing the right sized island, do consider the impact is has on the countertop installation. ‘Joints can be really obvious on island units that are centrally positioned and designed to be noticed,’ says Graeme Smith, head of retail design, Life Kitchens . Islands longer than 11.5ft (3.5m) usually require two slabs of stone or quartz. ‘Adding timber elements such as chopping blocks or breakfast bars is a good way to mix materials while disguising joints,’ he adds. 

5. Go bold with the choice of materials

(Image credit: Ben Waterhouse)

A bold approach to materials can provide extraordinary results. Formed and cast on site by Kote London , this concrete island is a stand-out feature in an otherwise understated kitchen. ‘We wanted it to feel like a piece of art in the space,’ explains Stephen Nash, founder, All & Nxthing Interiors . ‘Rounding off all the corners improves functionality and flow, while helping to soften the look of what is actually a big and very practical island,’ he adds.

6. Try a T-shaped island for an interesting spin

(Image credit: Darren Chung )

A T-shaped island can avoid one of the classic kitchen island mistakes of going too small in a large room and missing the opportunity to accommodate a host of activities at the heart of the room.

If you opt for an island configuration like this, choose between a conventional table height with chairs for seating for the dining area, or keep this element at the same height as the rest of the island and use barstools as here. With the latter choice, upholstered barstools with backs are the most comfortable option.

(Image credit: Nicholas Yarsley)

A cantilevered bar in solid walnut puts extra wow in this 5m long island conceived by Forbes Rix Design . ‘The floating effect was achieved using a steel box frame structure that was concealed under the countertop and between the cabinets, then bolted to the concrete floor,’ explain Andrew Hall, director, Woodstock Furniture . ‘Not only is it guaranteed to impress, but it also leaves more flooring visible, which boosts the sense of space.’

8. Incorporate show-stopping fixtures and hardware

(Image credit: Amanda Evans Interiors)

Consider every element for a successful kitchen island design. ‘Islands tend to become the home theater of cooking, putting the cook at the center of the layout,’ says Graeme Smith. When all eyes are on the island at meal times, every part of it – from the breakfast bar to smaller details like the appliances and the hardware along with the kitchen island lighting ideas – need to be well-considered design-wise.  

In this kitchen by interior designer Amanda Evans , a showstopping apron-front sink becomes a key feature in the design, emphasizing the rustic roots of the design’s contemporary take on farmhouse style. 

9. Create island seating with a wraparound countertop

(Image credit: Davide Lovatti)

‘Islands bring multiple functional benefits to the kitchen, but they can also help to add character to a design,’ says Smith. ‘Large format materials such as granite and quartz tend to work well for modern kitchen islands.’ 

If you’ve fallen in love with your countertop material, why stop at just one surface? Installing a wraparound countertop will bring the material down the sides of the island, creating a luxurious sense of seamlessness, perfect for a very modern look. Leave the perpendicular side open, and this can work as a space for your island seating, as demonstrated in this example. 

10. Think carefully about walkaround space

(Image credit: Blakes London)

When considering island size, think about the space you’ll need beyond it.  

‘Islands are an eye-catching feature in a kitchen but they can eat up a substantial amount of space,’ says Smith. ‘So when thinking about adding one into design, it is important to consider the available space and the circulation area around the island. 

'Typically, 48in (1200mm) between the cabinetry and island will be needed for a scheme that invites an easy flow.’ 

In this compact kitchen, the island area is maximized, but leaves just the right amount of space for users to move comfortably around its sides. 

11. Mix and match your storage options

(Image credit: Baskerville)

If storage space is at a premium in your kitchen, adding an island into the mix opens up a wealth of possibilities. Incorporate a mixture of cabinets and drawers to allow effortless storage for table and cookware of all shapes and sizes. You can also consider adding open shelving to display some of your most characterful kitchen essentials. 

‘To add a homely touch, opt for an integrated island book-end,’ says Smith. ‘This will free up countertop space and allow for the most loved cookbooks to be put on display for an extra layer of personality.’

12. Add curves

(Image credit: Tom Howley)

Soften a rectangular kitchen island design with a curved breakfast bar on one side. This Tom Howley kitchen island mixes different lines to create an elegant feature at the center of the room, and provides an inviting place for guests to sit.

13. Create different zones

(Image credit: Future/Mark Bolton)

Switching up materials on the surface can help to break up a long kitchen island. This can also be done to help zone different areas, depending on what they might be used for.

For example, a surface used for food prep might be kept as stone, whereas wood might be used for breakfast bar ideas – like in this particular kitchen. 

If you love this neutral style, our white kitchen ideas will bring you more inspiration.

14. Double the seating with an L-shaped breakfast bar

(Image credit: Laura Marin/ Extreme Design)

You've probably seen a fair few L-shaped kitchen ideas, but did you know the format typically used with cabinets can work really well for an island?

Creating an L-shaped breakfast bar with your island can be a handy way of doubling the amount of kitchen island seating within the same kitchen island size and creating a sociable cooking space.  

It also makes serving food and drinks easier, so this design is perfect for those who love to entertain. This design also works well for farmhouse kitchen island ideas, as it adds the sociability that defines this style of kitchen.

15. Think big

(Image credit: Smallbone)

For fluting on a grand scale, look to Smallbone’s Icarus Collection for inspiration. Demonstrating the impact of outsized sculpting in the kitchen, this unique design nods to 1920s glamor via scalloped glass, rich textures and warm tones. A shimmering wash of brushed gold accentuates the curved oak cabinet fronts, while allowing subtle graining to shine through. 

‘The unique curve was achieved using materials technology typically used in the protection zones for cars in F1 motor racing to reinforce and lighten the doors,’ says Smallbone’s ideation director, Iain O’Mahony. ‘The aim was to capture a sense of boundless imagination and craft-led design.’

16. Go long

(Image credit: Future/David Cleveland)

If you're blessed with a lot of space in your kitchen, your kitchen island ideas can be as large as you want.

One way to make your kitchen stand out is to make the island extra long with ample seating – almost reminiscent of a cocktail bar. We love this elongated design, with space for seven, as a modern alternative to a dining room table.

17. Use it to make the cooktop the center of the room

(Image credit: Future/Brent Darby)

By putting the cooktop on a kitchen island, you're helping to make it the central point of the room. This means a person cooking can face the rest of the room (rather than with their back turned) – making it a clever, sociable design feature. It also offers lots of space around your cooker, for food preparation.

We love the blue kitchen cabinetry in this country house in Wiltshire.

18. Add in a work table to create a multi-purpose space

(Image credit: Plain English)

From a functional perspective, a kitchen island provides extra prep space, cutting down the footwork between key areas of sink, cooker and fridge in an open plan kitchen. It also provides a boundary between the work zone of the kitchen and the neighbouring living/dining zone, keeping children and guests from getting under your feet. It is increasingly a work space, too.

'The rise of the "working kitchen" reflects a repurposing of the traditional kitchen and an increased demand for multi-functional spaces,' says Merlin Wright, Design Director at Plain English and British Standard by Plain English. 

'Worktables offer added space and can include clever kitchen storage ideas to hide not only kitchen items but also office paraphernalia. Often they incorporate a seating area with high stools, adding another valuable space to work or relax and helping to zone the kitchen.'

19. Make space for seating at a kitchen island

(Image credit: Neptune)

Almost all kitchen islands incorporate some form of seating. Even the smallest space can usually accommodate an overhang of worktop and a pair or bar stools, although more of us are opting for long islands with integrated low level, table-style seating at one end as a comfortable set up for family meals and entertaining.

'Extra work surface space is high on our wish lists,' says Annie Tullett, Kitchen Designer at Neptune Hove. 'The kitchen layout is vital to creating extra workspace and designing a harmonious flow.'

You can also make your portable kitchen island ideas work even harder for you by incorporating smart designs and appliances for a veritable tech hub, such as hidden power sockets and charging points.

20. Work in a dining table

(Image credit: Martin Moore)

As well as extra workspace, one of the top modern kitchen island ideas right now is the addition of a dining table for a clever space-saving solution. 

Richard Atkins, Design Director at DesignSpace London , says: 'A decade ago, islands were generally only one height: either worktop height or a higher bar level. Now there is much more variation, with different levels for different functions.

'We regularly integrate a table into the island, due to two main reasons: when a living space is more compact and there isn’t the space for a separate dining table, or when clients actively want to eat in close proximity to the kitchen. '

21. Make a display

(Image credit: Martin Moore)

The small finishing details of a kitchen add another layer of depth. Plain English's Merlin Wright explains: 'No longer content with pure practicality, clients are incorporating open kitchen shelving ideas within islands to act as beautiful displays, curated to showcase unique collections – from vintage curiosities and ceramics, to cookery books and glassware – each adding color and personality.'

(Image credit: British Standard by Plain English)

Giving a nod to simple English countryside style and the cottagecore aesthetic, panelling is having something of a moment. 

Merlin Wright at Plain English says: 'The long established love for tongue and groove panelling is more popular than ever. The natural design choice helps to add a tactile and warm feel when used on kitchen island ideas.'

If you love workstations and breakfast bars with a rural flavour, dive into our farmhouse kitchen island ideas, too.

23. Use a kitchen island to introduce new materials

(Image credit: Future)

The change of pace offered by an island often encourages a change of material, introducing another dimension to your kitchen design. You might afford to be braver here with a bolder finish or colorway, or perhaps a more expensive material that would be prohibitive across an entire kitchen. 

‘An island tends to define the kitchen, forming a neat and transparent division to the dining and living space beyond,’ explains Laurence Pidgeon, director at Laurence Pidgeon.

24. Add color with a kitchen island

(Image credit: Martin Moore)

A kitchen island is a fabulous opportunity to incorporate fresh kitchen color ideas.

Laurence Pidgeon says: 'At least the facing part of the island should be in warm and welcoming materials to make a transition from efficient kitchen surfaces. For a show-stopping centerpiece, look to luxury materials, from deeply veined marble and mottled granites to exotic timber veneers and gleaming mirror or burnished metal.  

'There’s also a trend for an increasing use of textured materials – think raw or rough-sawn wood, honed or flamed stone tops – as well as a contrast of color or finish between the island and the rest of the kitchen.'

25. Max out kitchen island storage

(Image credit: Paul Massey)

Kitchen island ideas are a golden opportunity to up the storage space in your kitchen, so ensure you work it into both sides of a deep unit. 

Store seldom used items, accessories you need for dining or even homework related clutter on the outer side of the island, with cooking essentials on the kitchen side.

26. Work two kitchen islands into a larger space

(Image credit: Martin Moore)

If space allows, two kitchen islands is always better than one. Double island kitchens have become the last word in luxury, and they’ll maximize usable countertop area compared to a super-sized single island.

Consider the functions of each island when you’re planning the design: one might be for cooking while the other provides seating, for example.

27. Pick a luxury material for your kitchen island

(Image credit: Humphrey Munson)

As we said above, it’s the time of strongly veined marble. ‘Deep veins are a key trend in island surfaces, and marbling comes in lots of colors. Consider seeking out greener tones, which are calming and sophisticated,’ says Sarah Spiteri, editorial director at Homes & Gardens. 

28. Add in a wine cabinet

(Image credit: Davide Lovati)

A few years ago, wine cabinets were considered a luxury appliance, available only to those with big budgets and big kitchens to match. These days however, as prices and sizes have reduced, there’s something to suit every scheme and size. 

Wine coolers built into a kitchen island are a great investment, as they will free-up space in the refrigerator as well as the worktop while keeping your wine in optimum condition. 

If you enjoy entertaining, friends and family can help themselves to a glass while you get on with the cooking. As our kitchens become more like theaters, with island cooking becoming more popular, it makes sense to have a wine cabinet to complete the performance.

29. Light your kitchen island

(Image credit: Naked Kitchens)

Kitchen island lighting is a really important element of its design and should be planned in right at the beginning of your kitchen design journey. 

If you do go for pendants, like in the stylish kitchen above, bear in mind that odd numbers are more visually arresting than even numbers.

30. Devote budget to book-matching

(Image credit: Cullifords)

A stunning slab of stone can be showcased in several ways around an island. 

Bookmatching, where slices of stone reflect their neighbors, or slip-matching, which uses stone slices to produce a continuous effect, are effective techniques but, where possible, a seamless piece of stone mounted across the front of a unit is especially awe-inspiring.

31. Consider deep drawers for a streamlined look

(Image credit: Roundhouse)

Swap cabinets for drawers in a kitchen island if you like sleek modern kitchen ideas. Like these versions, drawers can be generously sized to offer excellent storage for a whole range of kitchen essentials and, because they’re pull out, everything is easy to access.

32. Pick a material that matches your home's fabric

(Image credit: Paul Massey)

If your kitchen is dominated by a particular feature that's part of your home's architecture – whether a marble fire surround or aged wooden beams, as in the cottage kitchen above – picking a material for your kitchen island that complements or mimics it will create a look that's streamlined, sleek and calm. 

However, it is important to work at least one element of contrast into the room – here, the rough plaster of the white walls offers the relief.

33. Be flexible with a mobile island

(Image credit: Future)

Kitchen islands needn't be fixed pieces of furniture – freestanding or portable kitchen islands are a versatile choice that allow you to flex your kitchen layout over time, or to create a more relaxed look that's the antithesis of the fitted finish.  

These kitchen islands are unlikely to house appliances or electrical points – instead they are purely for prep and eating, storage and, of course, display. Put yours on casters if you want it to be truly mobile.

34. Go for an island with fluted details

(Image credit: Malcolm Menzies)

A modern twist on traditional fluting, ribbed designs take a more angular, geometric direction. The surface of this island by Blakes London features drawers with deep battened fronts. 

‘The deeper the battens the more dramatic the aesthetic,’ says lead designer Magnus Nilsson. ‘Bear in mind that battening will add weight to drawer fronts. Here we added weights at the back for balance and a smooth experience when opening the drawers.’ Magnus took the vertical detail up a level by incorporating a stripe into the liquid brass painted wall units – adding a touch of ritzy glamor.

Is a kitchen island a good idea?

‘Even in small kitchens, a kitchen island is a fantastic way to maximize space, as you can make it as multi-functional as possible by incorporating integrated appliances and smart storage solutions,’ says Darren Watts, Showroom Development and Design Director at Wren Kitchens.

‘The kitchen is the heart of the home social life, and it’s important to consider the comfort of the cook. Integrating cooking appliances into the island puts them at the centre of the action – even better if there is space for bar-style seating too so guests can socialise while the food is prepared,' adds Daniel Bowler, Director of Eggersmann UK.

Is my kitchen too small for an island?

If you don't have a lot of space, you might be thinking your kitchen is too small for an island – but this may not be the case.

‘It is all about proportions and practicality; the room needs to work ergonomically and have enough space to move around. For example, to incorporate seating on an island, we would suggest a minimum of 1.2m between a breakfast bar and a wall or furniture,’ says Richard. 

Don’t install an island for the sake of it; they have to play a vital role in cooking efficiency (preferably multiple roles) and not get in the way. Try using a table or even boxes to block out the space for a few days – it’s a great way to work out how an island will impact the room’s flow.

(Image credit: Plain English)

What color kitchen islands are on trend for 2023?

The kitchen island colors on trend vary depending on your kitchen's look.  

For painted kitchens, dark blues and grays are ideal for kitchen islands, helping to add depth to an otherwise plain design. While more modern schemes include burnished metal trims and handles alongside clean white and gray kitchen cabinet ideas.

Look out for an embracing of earthy reds and rich grassy green kitchens. These are paired with burnished brass and soft gold finishes for handles and trim. 

Texture is in abundance, too. Fluted cabinetry echoes the fluted glass we’re seeing in designs from companies such as Ledbury Studio – the new company led by kitchen supremo Charlie Smallbone.

Faux marble worktops with waterfall edges encasing an island are also proving increasingly popular, pairing pattern with an easy-to-clean durable surface.

Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.

With contributions from

The British Isles, from where the kingdom seems to be the mainland: three ideas for a weekend-long vacation

Isle of Skye. Photo: unsplash.com

Water, which separates a fragment of land from the mainland on all sides, affects people living on islands much more strongly than is commonly believed. The island mentality has its own recognizable features and is completely different from the continental one, and the cities and villages located on the islands have a special atmosphere. It is here that it is easiest to feel at the edge of the earth - to find yourself alone with the power of nature and understand how huge and diverse the world around you is. nine0003

The island of Great Britain is quite large, pardon the tautology. Those who live on it are perceived as islanders, except perhaps by people on the other side of the strait. And if we talk about London, then its fundamental world role and a rather large area allow local residents not to think at all whether they are islanders. What difference does it make whether it's an island or not, if London is a separate planet? However, Londoners and everyone else living on the big British island needs a break from time to time. And Kommersant UK offers to hold it on other, smaller islands. nine0003

Vacation does not forgive mistakes

Let's face the obvious fact: both a "vegetable" beach vacation on the warm sea and a cultural landing around the cities and museums of the world is not so much a vacation as a desire to absorb the annual volume of impressions in a couple of weeks. As a result, you expect relaxation, but you get a shake-up for the body, exacerbated by stress when returning to normal mode. As a result, hands do not reach rest as such. But this situation is easy to fix in the short break mode and without leaving the United Kingdom: go to the islands! nine0003

Things are different on the islands. The islands are torn off, you are torn off, although civilization is present, it does not interfere too much. On the shore, your gaze into the distance is not limited by anything, and perhaps this is the only chance in the year to think about yourself and about life - in silence, without rushing anywhere, imperceptibly letting go of problems and worries. You'll have plenty of time off to reset. And once you get used to it, you can make such trips monthly and without repeating, since the geography of Great Britain favors visits to the islands. By the way, do not forget about the island mentality: leave a place for it and chat with the natives. Compared to them, you are continental inhabitants, and they have a lot to teach you. At a minimum, synchronization with nature, on which life here depends much more strongly than in the city. nine0003

If we convinced you, there are a couple of important remarks left. Firstly, there is no Stonehenge, no Prado, no Copacabana on the islands. Secondly, you run the risk of not always being understood by the locals and not always understanding them, both in terms of spoken language and in matters of life priorities. Well, in the end, when you tell your friends and colleagues where you just returned from, they will surely say that there are better islands. Believe me, these are trifles compared to what you really get from such a vacation. nine0003

We have put together three options for your weekend getaway. The beauty of this choice is that it is easy to criticize, since the options for traveling to the islands in the UK will last half a lifetime. But you have to start somewhere.

Isle of Skye

A large Scottish island suitable for those who find other islands a radical destination: Skye is connected to the mainland of Britain by a bridge and can be reached in any weather. However, this is offset by difficult logistics: planes do not fly to the island, so you either fly to Inverness and take a bus from there, or experience all the delights of the railways and manage to get to Kyle of Lochalsh, where again you take a bus. In addition, there is the option to cross the strait by ferry from Mallay, which can also be reached by train. In any case, you will find yourself at a point where it is unrealistic to return to London in a couple of hours. nine0003

This is an extremely honest Scotland, devoid of popular ideas about it and strengthened by the pedigreed sea (and related crafts), weather with character and local residents who have learned to survive well in these conditions. A good cocktail for those who want to reboot after office work.

Sky is a harsh place. Take a raincoat with you and leave any expectations. Be ready for anything. First of all, to the fact that you have never seen such a beautiful nature. The Isle of Skye is beautiful. Moreover, he is outrageously handsome. It is large enough - and you can safely choose any direction of movement and are guaranteed to get a good dose of impressions. First of all, visual, so get ready to get tired of the beauties, while your smartphone will require constant recharging. nine0003

What to do?

Go to Uig, a small fishing village where you can see the ships and taste local ale, and go on foot to Fairy Glen, a natural valley that seems to be reduced by a factor of three: both the hills and the trees are quite natural, but you are not lets go of the feeling that you are walking through a specially built fairy-tale scenery or, if you like, a mock-up.

Drive along the northern tip of the island on a classic Scottish one-lane road with flares to accommodate oncoming traffic, soak up the views around every turn, let yourself be salted by the sea wind, appreciate the ruins of Duntalm Castle, look at the ubiquitous sheep and get very tired from visual impressions. nine0003

Spend the night in Portree in a house on the first coastline to the lapping of waves and the creaking of rigging. There is something intangibly Mediterranean about the port of Portree that is hard to describe in words, but very easy to feel.

Visit Dunvegan, an ancient Scottish castle, and at the same time drive to the Neist Point lighthouse and get lost looking for the best place for a selfie (or better not to think about a selfie at all). Start watching dolphins and fur seals from the observation deck and not notice how half a day passes. nine0003

Taste Talisker whiskey in his homeland and learn about the distillation process at the same time. And then for many years to automatically mark familiar bottles on store shelves.

Get wet in the rain, immediately dry in the sun, get wet again and dry again in order to stop understanding which places are wet and which are dry, because everything around is beautiful to the point of impossibility, and keep the vocabulary within the limits of decency.

Realize that there are too many places to visit, and give up on a dozen other attractions, including Kilt Rock Falls, rocky headlands, Stein Inn Island's oldest pub, the Storr volcanic formations and much more. Or stay and absorb everything that is on the island. nine0003

Tickets and accommodation

Round trip flights from London to Inverness - £130.
Round trip bus tickets from Inverness to Portree are £40.
B&B on the Isle of Skye - from 130 pounds per night.

Guernsey Island

Among the Channel Islands, located between England and France, in the center of the English Channel, we chose Guernsey rather for certainty, other islands of the archipelago are no less interesting and colorful in their own way. All these islands are an original territory that is not part of the United Kingdom, but subordinate to the British crown. nine0003

Guernsey has changed hands over the millennia as its geographic position has allowed it to control the sea lanes in the English Channel. The last time the island was subjected to German occupation was during World War II. Almost every bay of the island bears the imprint of certain historical battles, and the density of fortifications per unit area is almost a record here.

Guernsey is somewhat of a foppish island. It smells of adventurism and the desire to demonstrate their otherness, dissimilarity. But it even suits the island. nine0003

Guernsey has equally absorbed the color of Britain and France, and this is felt at every step. Evil tongues say that the worst of what is in England and France is combined here, and there is some truth in this: some expectations are in danger of not being met. However, you need to go here not so much for service and communication, but for nature. The island is more than colorful. In addition, it is in the south, and it is easy to feel it, it even breathes like a resort here.

Getting to Guernsey is easy: there is a direct flight from London and many other airports in the country. The island is connected by ferry to Portsmouth and other islands in the archipelago, in good weather there are high-speed lines from Poole and Weymouth. nine0003

Why come here? Of course, for relaxation, impressions and color. The island is comparable in size to the central part of London, and this allows you to move around it on foot or by bike. The latter, by the way, is much more difficult due to the relief. However, there are also buses.

What to do with yourself?

Try to go around the island around the perimeter. Try it, because the path goes along the edge of the island, either climbing the rocks or going down to the next beach. Don't let the relatively small mileage fool you: the endless ups and downs will tire you out, giving you plenty of viewpoints on the sea. You are unlikely to master the entire island, but even a third of the route can make a serious impression. nine0003

Spend the night in St. Peter Port, and in the morning go to the pier, expose yourself to the spray of the waves, look at the old lighthouse and wait for the moment when the cannon fires. Yes, the main city of the island, like Edinburgh, belongs to the list of privileged cities where a cannon fires every day at the same time.

Look into the 13th century Cornet Castle, wander slowly through its museums and not notice how the day ends. Shrugging your shoulders, go out to the embankment, go to the first pub you come across and drink a mug of ale, noting at the same time how much the pubs here and “on the mainland” differ. nine0003

Find the smallest church in the world - the Little Chapel in Les Vosbelets - and marvel at the outer and inner walls of the structure, inlaid with colored stones and shells.

Try to count the fortresses and watchtowers on the island. Having lost your way in the third ten, go to see the most spectacular of them: the Ruse tower and the "cup and saucer" - Fort Gray in Rockwell Bay. Look into the museum of shipwrecks, and then set off to look for ghosts, which, according to myths, are many on the island. nine0003

Pay in cash, get change in small denominations issued in Guernsey and bring them home as souvenirs, since they are not accepted as a means of payment in other parts of the country.

Highlight

Once a day at low tide (check the low tide schedule beforehand!) receding waters open a paved road to Lihou Island. The road right along the bottom of the strait was once laid by local priests. There is a semi-abandoned monastery and many bird colonies on Lihu, which is why the island is popular among birdwatchers. But if birdwatching isn't your sport, the feeling of walking on a paved road at the bottom of a strait is enough, trust me. The main thing is to keep track of time, otherwise the tide will cut you off from civilization for a long time. nine0003

Tickets and accommodation

Round trip flights from London to Guernsey - £150.
B&B in Guernsey - from 170 pounds per night.

Isle of Wight

Big, relaxed, unhurried, this is the Isle of Wight, England's smallest unitary county. This island, separated from the “mainland” by the Te Solent, has long been considered one of the best holiday destinations in Britain. White is quite densely populated, so that the city dweller will not go crazy with boredom here, but at the same time the island is large enough to find solitude here. nine0003

White exemplifies the British ability to turn every element of his life into bricks of easy superiority. Architecture, the comfort of compact front gardens, floral decorations, benches with signs, stone fortification of the shore - this is the general atmosphere of a solid resort with history. It is impossible to return from White as the person who first set foot on its shore. Just try.

White is noble. White spurs of chalk cliffs only emphasize this. Even walking along the mountain paths, you, without noticing it yourself, begin to do it stylishly, respectably, observing etiquette - or what seems to you to be etiquette during the walk. nine0003

Proximity to the island of Great Britain and long-standing popularity among wealthy Englishmen has made White a destination with many ferries from several cities on the south coast. The classic way to get here is by ferry from Southampton to Cowes or from Portsmouth to Ryde.

White's main asset is his character. It is not read immediately; perhaps even after returning from the island, you will not find words to describe it. It envelops you and guides you, introducing you exactly to those places, beauties and features that will be of interest to you. The island seems to adjust itself to your preferences. Probably, the long years of coexistence with the most demanding public played a role. Try to hear the inner voice, and the island will open up to you from an unexpected side. nine0003

And, of course, palm trees. The White is one of the few places in the UK where palm trees are not only fitting, but an essential element of the landscape. In our case, this creates the perfect vacation atmosphere - even if the vacation lasts two or three days.

What to do with yourself?

Exit to the Needles - white chalk cliffs that have nothing to do with the name of the island (there are disputes about the origin of the name). Wander around, not believing your eyes and looking for interesting angles for photos. Finish with a detailed inspection of the cannon battery, and then accidentally stumble upon Elum Bay, marvel at the number of natural shades of sand and, of course, buy home glass souvenirs. nine0003

Wander through Newport's historic districts enjoying the familiar (British!) yet distinctive houses, parks and streets, listening to conversations trying to identify the local dialect, stopping by pubs and tasting beer.

Look into Osborne House, Queen Victoria's favorite home and last resting place, hoping to get a quick look around and get a general impression, but stay here all day, marveling at the beauty and variety of the structure, and then return the next day and continue the detailed inspection. nine0003

After waiting for good weather, get to the beach, but still can't decide which is better - Sandown or Ventnor. Visit both, for some reason stop at Ventnor, go around the model of the island, walk along the embankment, then go to the pier, freeze in the seemingly warm wind, then warm up in the pub. Get up abruptly and head to the village of Godshill to see historic thatched cottages.

Go to Ryde on the floor, by all means using the historic steam railway, feel the characteristic jolts and jerks during acceleration, look out the window and imagine yourself in the century before last. Return on a more modern train along the east coast and imagine yourself in the last century. Decide that everything that happened in Ryde should stay in Ryde. nine0003

Tickets and accommodation

Train tickets from London to Southampton round trip from £60.
Round trip ferry from Southampton to Cowes - from £15.
B&B on the Isle of Wight - from £90 per night.

Is this just the beginning?

Let's tell you a little secret: the islands are addictive. Once you have tasted the specifics of the island mentality, you will want to feel it again - and you will choose mainly islands for your travels, even if you yourself live on an island. In this sense, the United Kingdom has many excellent options to offer. We have not mentioned Anglesey Island, Isles of Scilly, Isle of Man, Orkney, Shetland and Hebrides. Believe me, each of these places can make a vivid impression. The main thing is to start. Perhaps by choosing one of the suggested destinations for a weekend-long vacation, you will bring a new hobby into your life. nine0003

Five Rules for a Good Island Vacation

Slow down. You may not have time to accelerate, and the island will already end. Breathe in the island atmosphere slowly, without rushing.

Try not to chase the sights. If there is no must-see list, every unexpected discovery will be only yours.

Give in to temptations. Let not the navigator guide you, but the island itself. Wherever you want to turn, go there, without regrets and looking at your watch (the latter does not apply to visiting Lihu Island). nine0003

Absorb. Even if you are an excellent speaker of your life values, leave this function at home. She will live without you, and you will rest, including from yourself.

Only stay in small (preferably family-run) B&Bs and interact with the hosts. This is a very important part of the island vacation, believe me.

"Island on stilts" | Interfax-Tourism

Stockholm usually goes through a "strength test" twice a year: in summer, during the "White Nights", and in winter, on Christmas holidays. It is at this time that there is a special influx of tourists. But it is also very tempting to visit the Swedish capital for the weekend and enjoy this beautiful city in two or three days. nine0003

It's very easy to do: there are three flights a day from Moscow to Stockholm, the flight takes about two hours. From St. Petersburg and even less - about an hour. You can also swim (by ferry from St. Petersburg) through Helsinki or Tallinn. It will be longer, but no less interesting.

The name of the city is formed from two words translated into Russian as "pillar" (or pile) and "island", which literally sounds like "island fortified with piles". For the first time, Stockholm is mentioned in a document that has come down to us in 1252, as a fortress designed to protect the hinterland of Sweden. Subsequently, thanks to its advantageous strategic location, Stockholm quickly grew into a major shopping center for the entire Baltic region. nine0003

Some useful information

Today Stockholm is the largest city in the Kingdom of Sweden, the economic, scientific and cultural center of the country. In recent years, the tourism business has been actively developing here, millions of tourists from all over the world come here.

The Romantics claim that the look of Stockholm combines "northern restraint, refined luxury and the convenience of modern Swedish design." Much in this city

strikes, surprises, and sometimes (for example, joint "M-F" toilets) and a little scary.

Tolerance and openness are in almost everything here, from the upbringing of children, on whom one cannot even raise one's voice, to the income of the king and officials, which are monthly covered in newspaper reports. Swedish parents calmly let their young children go on their own “swimming” around the city, and polite police officers are always ready to help. nine0003

In Stockholm, you are surrounded by incredible peace. You can wander around the narrow streets of the ancient Gamla Stan (Old Town) in a relaxed way, visit dozens of wonderful and fascinating museums, or, for example, look for the “Carlson Roof”. By the way, this character in Stockholm is by no means as popular as in Russia. An adult man, in the prime of his life, but it is not clear what he is doing ... Preference is given to Pippi Longstocking, who turned almost 65 years old last year. Then thousands of fans of the red-haired heroine Astrit Lindgren, dressed up in wigs with pigtails and frivolous dresses and leggings, defiled in a friendly parade through their native streets. nine0003

Museum Day

Curious travelers will definitely visit Stockholm's "major tourist sites": the Royal Palace with its number one spectacle: changing of the guard; City Hall, where receptions of Nobel laureates are held, as well as the Nobel Museum itself, and take a boat ride along the city canals. … Although today the Royal Palace is not the official residence of the Swedish royal family, official receptions are held here. Part of the palace is reserved for the museum, at

where you can hear and see a lot of interesting and unexpected things.

If you take a child with you on a trip, you can be sure that he will remember this trip for a long time. First of all, the Junibacken Museum. The real Fairy Tale House on the island of Djurgården in the center of Stockholm, open all year round, will not leave anyone indifferent. Perhaps the greatest interest will be a trip in a special booth "through the world of the heroes of Scandinavian fairy tales" with a Russian translation. nine0003

Next to Junibacken is the Skansen ethnographic museum, where you can get lost for the whole day. This is the first open-air museum in the world. As planned by its

organizer Artur Hazelius, the park, built in 1891, was supposed to function as an open-air exhibition, with buildings, vegetable gardens and animals in pens. The main idea is to reproduce the life and traditional life of Sweden in all its manifestations: to show the flora and fauna of the country, the original Sami dwellings, costumes and crafts. nine0003

Showcasing Swedish architecture, from village churches and bell towers to glassworks. You can enjoy Swedish rolls at an authentic bakery or watch live pigs reclining in the backyard of a wealthy 19th century peasant.

One of the most popular and visited museums in Sweden is the Vasa Ship Museum, named after the most famous Swedish king. The fate of the main exhibit is rather sad: the Swedish ship of the 17th century became famous for the fact that, having set out on its first and only voyage, it sailed less than a mile, ran into ... a headwind and quickly sank in the harbor of Stockholm. nine0003

There were many attempts to lift Vasa's ship, and 1961 turned out to be the most successful. After Vasa saw the sun, over the next 30 years (!) it was carefully and lovingly restored, and only in 1990 a museum was formed around it.

Along with the "promoted" museums of Stockholm, there are other real gems, almost unfamiliar to our compatriots. For example, the Museum of the Army is completely different from similar army museums in other countries. Instead of "whirlwinds of violent attacks", the museum's expositions feature an extensive historical exposition with social overtones. The horrors of war are shown here in installations made with captivating detail. Life-size wax figures of Vikings, war victims, infantry and cavalrymen, Swedish soldiers in modern equipment…

One of the youngest museums in the city dedicated to the legendary band ABBA is very original and unusual. The opening ceremony took place only in April 2013, but during this time the museum has already gained a large number of "popularity points". Its main difference is interactivity. Anyone with an entrance ticket can become the "5th extra" in Sweden's most successful band, with 378 million records sold worldwide. Sing karaoke in a discordant voice, dance and sit next to each other on the bench of "lovers". And upon arrival home

turn on the computer, find yourself in the list and enjoy the video with your participation. The organizers of the museum, led by the inspirer, member of the ABBA band Bjorn Ulvaues, are sure that “Swedish pop music is an important part of the cultural heritage of their country and a kind of Swedish brand that needs to be promoted as much as possible.

A few more "curiosities"

Every camera owner's delight is Millesgården, perched on the steep Herseryd cliff and owned by Rodin's student, the sculptor Carl Milles. Famed for his flying figures barely touching the ground, Karl built a house in the first half of the 20th century in a quiet suburb of Stockholm and lived there for a long time with his wife Olga. After the death of the artist, in 1936 the "Milles Garden" was presented to the Swedish people.

According to the guides, itineraries in the footsteps of the proletarian leader, Vladimir Lenin, have recently become popular among tourists. Sweden is one of 12 European countries in which Vladimir Ilyich happened to live and work. It is known that V. I. Lenin came to Stockholm six times. But most often Ilyich under the pseudonym John Frey

traveled through this country, sometimes staying for several days or weeks. It is known for certain that he bought his famous cap, in which Lenin subsequently spoke to St. Petersburg workers, in the PUB department store in Stockholm on Drottningatan Street, where, by the way, the future movie star Greta Garbo worked in the hat department at one time.

Prices in this classic high-rise department store "bite", and so "run in and buy a cap" is far from affordable for many. On weekends, PUB hosts a flea market, where antique hunters bring their prey at a variety of prices, for every budget and taste. nine0003

We recommend that you look at Stockholm "from the water" by making a voyage through the canals and bays on any motor ship or boat. This pleasure is quite affordable, despite the fact that the prices for goods, food and museums in the Swedish capital are quite high. However, you can save a lot by buying The Stockholm Card in any tourist and information center of the city, which gives you the opportunity to visit about 80 main attractions, free movement on public transport and significant discounts while walking. nine0003

According to data from Visit Sweden, the local tourism ministry, the number of Russian tourists in Stockholm this year has increased by more than 12% compared to last year. Almost half of our fellow citizens arriving in Sweden visit Stockholm.

According to Marina Zatsepina, head of the marketing department of the travel company "Labyrinth", tours to the Swedish capital have recently become very popular and in demand. Especially during holidays and weekends. nine0003

Most recently, this tour operator, specializing in sending our fellow citizens to the Nordic countries, held a large-scale event in Stockholm - the Northern Forum, during which more than 50 journalists and more than 180 representatives of Russian travel agencies appreciate the beauty of the city with your own eyes. To then better tell our compatriots about Stockholm.

Sweden has ski resorts, excellent fishing conditions, interesting cities, but Sweden's main destination remains Stockholm. Its advantages are that, firstly, it is very easy to get here - by plane, by ferry, by private car, as it is more convenient for tourists.

Learn more