There’s no denying it, unspoilt beaches, rolling waves, serene views and copious amounts of sunshine all make for a super relaxing holiday. With the weather warming up, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite beach destinations – no matter what you fancy!
And if you’re still planning your summer hols, get in touch – we’ll help you plan the best beachy getaway!
For the Diver: Andaman Islands, India
With a beautiful coastline, lush forested interior, supreme coral reefs and a far-flung location, the Andaman Islands are perfect for diving. Shimmering turquoise waters are surrounded by silky beaches, mangroves and tropical rain forests. Enjoy swimming across colourful corals, beautifully patterned fishes, and seabed gardens in silent-as-night waters. But if you dare to go deeper, there’s another world below the surface of the ocean that will leave you bedazzled.
For the Bookworm: La Concha, San Sebastian, Spain
As Queen Isabel II’s beach of choice for bath therapy and relaxation in the 19th century, La Concha became and has remained the summer residence for European royals.
Voted the most beautiful urban beach in Europe, it is adorned with luxurious beachside mansions, striped parasols and sunbeds, as well as the famous La Perla spa. La Concha or ‘The Royal Beach’ as it is fondly known, is the perfect place to hide away with a stack of books and a big appetite.
For the Adventurer: Stromboli, Italy
The Northern most Aeolian Island, dramatic Stromboli is home to one of the world’s most volatile volcanoes. Visitors have the opportunity to take in the beauty of the island by land, air and sea – hike the volcano, witness an awe-inspiring natural display of pyrotechnics by helicopter tour, or swim and dive in the clear waters around the “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean”.
For the Sailor: Monte Carlo, Monaco
High rollers and sailing aficionados alike know Monte Carlo as an escape to glitz, glamour and natural beauty. Relax in five-star hotels, bask in the splendour of the Grimaldi Palace, relax in uninterrupted spa serenity, or head to the legendary Casino and try your luck in a game of Black Jack in true James Bond style. If you’re not the gambling type, you can appreciate the design and beauty the Paris Opera House. But to truly experience the best Monte Carlo has to offer, book an unforgettable sailing yacht cruise across the Côte D’Azur!
For the Romantic: Vamizi Island, Mozambique
Simply grand, this exquisite piece of paradise in the middle of the Indian Ocean provides a remote getaway ideal for romantics. Surrounded by crystal clear waters, with abundant marine life and untouched coral reefs, it’s a peaceful sanctuary where time stands still. The island itself is private, offering guests virtually exclusive access to unspoilt locations. Swim in turquoise waters, paddle with turtles or simply enjoy a seafood picnic on your own private beach. Vamizi Island is the definitive experience in barefoot beach luxury.
For the Photographer: Santorini, Greece
The iconic, white-washed, sprawling hills of the city of Santorini are a photographer’s dream. Arguably Greece’s most beautiful island, it boasts unparalleled beach-side accommodations. The lively colours of the white Cycladic houses and blue painted windows contrast against black volcanic rocks rising from a vibrant sea. This scenery had inspired artists and visitors alike for centuries and it is no surprise that Santorini is often suggested as the potential location of the lost island of Atlantis.
For the Wine Lover: Pag Island, Croatia
As Anthony Bourdain once said, “why, oh why, is there so much amazing wine in this country?” Croatia is a wine and food lover’s paradise. Wine production in Croatia dates back to Ancient Greece, as the hilly landscape is perfectly suited to growing grapes. And if you’re a bit of a lightweight, perhaps try a wine cocktail, diluted with still or sparkling water! A gemišt is a combination of white wine and carbonated water, or a bevanda, combining red wine and still water.
Where are you heading this summer?? Did we miss your favourite? Let us know in the comments!