With the stunning beaches, mouthwatering cuisine and jaw-dropping historical and archaeological sites on offer, it’s not hard to see why Italy and its islands have become a top holiday choice for many Brits. Sardinia, for example, boasts miles of pristine coastline with crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

However, some of the country’s top destinations, such as Rome, have become rather overcrowded in recent years. Venice, meanwhile, is now so busy that it’s brought in day trip charges and banned loudspeakers and large tour groups. However, that does not mean that Italy should be wiped from your bucket list - there are plenty of hidden gems left to discover. 

Isola del Giglio, or Giglio Island, is one such gem. It is often a top choice for Italians looking for a staycation but is largely unknown by Brits. 

It is found in the Tyrrhenian Sea, 11 miles off the coast of Tuscany and lies within the Arcipelago Toscano National Park. In Italian, Giglio means "lily". 

The island’s small port is a pretty colourful village and during the summer tourists will find the bars and restaurants are open all evening.

Like much of Italy, the island’s main attractions are its beaches, famed for crystal clear waters and stunning views. Giglio’s coast is 17 miles long, made up of rocks, smooth cliffs and several bays, including Arenella, Cannelle, Caldane and Campese. 

Much of the island is wild and covered by Mediterranean vegetation, in which animals and rare species of plants thrive. Head off to explore its nature on one of the many hiking trails that dot the landscape, before watching an unforgettable sunset and sampling tasty dishes in one of Giglio’s small villages. 

Enjoy the tasty local products like the white Ansonaco wine, the tonnina fish and sweet panficato, made with figs.

The island houses the remains of a Roman villa of Domitius Ahenobarbus (1st-2nd century AD), in the area of Giglio port. The island is also the site of an Etruscan shipwreck dating back to the early Iron Age, (c. 600 BC). The cargo of the ship included copper and lead ingots, amphorae and even a Corinthian helmet. Even a wooden writing tablet with stylus was preserved.

Isola del Giglio is connected to Tuscany by ferries departing daily from Porto Santo Stefano on the mainland’s west coast. 

Giglio has a strict policy about cars and motorbikes, which helps maintain its serenity. During August, if your license plate is Italian, you cannot bring it with you, unless you stay on the island for more than 5 days and fill out a self-certification.

On August 10, locals celebrate San Lorenzo with the palio marinaro and its parade. A religious procession is also held, leading to the seaside. At the end of the day, in the main square, there's a concert and a fireworks show.

In 2012, the island received international media attention, but not because of its beauty. On January 13, 2012 the cruise liner Costa Concordia ran aground just off the island's shore. The people of the island rushed to help, providing hot drinks and blankets. Many opened their homes to the victims.

Stay at the three-star Hotel Saraceno for just £211 per night in a sea-view room for two, with breakfast included, this May.