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If you’ve ever been to the Italian coast in summer, you’ll be familiar with the regimented rows of “stabilimenti” that line the seafront. Popping up from Easter to September in holiday hotspots from Sorrento to the Cinque Terre, these concessions provide everything the dedicated beach-goer could need, from parasols and sun loungers to changing rooms, toilets and cafes.

Needless to say, this convenience comes at a price, and we’re not just talking euros (though you can expect to pay up to €45 a day for a “front row” sun lounger on the Amalfi coast in high season). For those who prefer to watch the waves unimpeded by serried ranks of bronzing bodies and huge umbrellas, these private beach clubs can be a nuisance. But, as our Italy expert Liz Boulter discovered, there are alternatives, if you know where to look.

In south west Sicily, the town of Menfi is a jumping off point for “a barely developed stretch of coast, where golden sandy beaches – with blue flag status for nearly 20 years – are punctuated with wild, scrubby headlands and small villages”. Venturing one day to the beach at Le Solette, Liz and her family were rewarded with “a blissful day of swimming, snoozing and snorkelling, with not a building and barely another person in sight”.

If this sounds like your idea of heaven, then do check out our list of 20 of Europe’s best under-the-radar beaches, compiled by our travel experts. From tiny Croatian coves to sun-kissed Scandinavian strands, we’ve got you covered.