Now we’re heading into spring, it’s time to start planning all those holidays you’ve been thinking about. Whether you’re planning a staycation this year, or you can’t wait to head abroad, we’ve compiled a list of our top places that are a must-visit for your spring getaway. Thank us later.
Outer Hebrides, Scotland's Atlantic Islands
From the mountains, to the moors and beaches, the Outer Hebrides’ interconnected islands are just a short flight or ferry from the Scottish mainland, so you can get that holiday feeling without even leaving the country.
Where to stay: Take shelter in style in one of the SEApods at SEAcroft Bed and Breakfast. These fully-equipped clifftop glamping pods will have you wondering why you ever wanted to stay in a hotel.
What to do: Try something a little different. Much of the wildlife here is protected, so it’ll be an experience unlike any other! Why not hop on a boat trip to see what wildlife you can spot? Dolphins, whales and even basking sharks are often seen around the islands.
Where to eat: This is one for the foodies. Taste everything the islands have to offer with Eat Drink Hebrides, the official food and drink trail of the Outer Hebrides. Enjoy an abundance of fresh local produce, seafood caught just off-shore or even a trip to a whisky distillery on this self-guided tour.
Watergate Bay, Cornwall
Nestled on the north coast of Cornwall, get ready to unwind, slow down and take a trip to the Cornish seaside. Watergate Bay is known for surfing, gorgeous sunsets and two miles of golden sand at low tide.
Where to stay: The Watergate Bay Hotel, of course! Relax in style in one of their gorgeous rooms, plus the sea is right on your doorstep. Just so you know, there are dog-friendly rooms available if your furry friend needs a holiday too!
What to do: Head down to the water and try your hand at surfing, the sport Newquay is famous for. There are classes you can join at the Extreme Academy surf school, or if you prefer warmer waters, leave it to the pros and watch from the bath in your room. Why not go full holiday mode and book yourself in for a spa treatment at the hotel? You deserve it.
Where to eat: Think, chill Apres-surf atmosphere and delicious comfort food that’ll put a smile on your face - that’s The Beach Hut. Their vision is to create a positive impact on the environment and their menu is driven by local and seasonal produce as well as being 50% plant-based, so no one will go hungry.
Es Cubells, Ibiza
Located just outside the bustling town of San Jose, this quaint village offers the perfect destination for when you want to take a step back. Es Cubells is truly tiny, but that’s a part of the charm as the whitewashed church, and gorgeous views of Formentera belong on a postcard.
Where to stay:
A villa overlooking the sea with a private pool? Yes, please. Just out of Es Cubells itself (tiny, remember?), you’ll find this gorgeous villa that overlooks the village, so you’re just a stones-throw away!
What to do: Spend the day on Es Xarcu beach. This secluded cove is perfect for anyone looking for a tranquil beach to soak up the sun without the rowdy tourists. While the beach is pebbled, the seabed is sand, so we recommend going for a swim!
Where to eat: The intimate, hidden restaurant of Ses Boques is a must-visit for anyone in Es Cubells. Serving 40 years' worth of Ses Boques family recipes on their wooden terraces between pine trees, we’re sold.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
It’s called “The Pearl of the Adriatic” for a reason. Surrounded by stunning blue waters and its famous towering walls, the terracotta-roofed town of Dubrovnik is on the top of our 2022 travel list.
Where to stay: If it’s your first visit, you’ll want to be in the heart of the city. Check out Air BnB for a whole host of fabulous apartments right in the centre of Old Town.
What to do: Walk the city walls. Dubrovnik is famous for its towering walls, and it’s time to find out why. Make sure you go up just before the golden hour for a real treat. The setting sun on the terracotta roofs of Dubrovnik is truly something special.
Where to eat: Try the local delicacies at Kopun. Kopun is the local dialect for Capon, a rooster that used to be a main component of European dinners, and with Croatian-raised capon providing inspiration for their menu, you have to give it a go!
Reykjavík, Iceland
With so many things to do and see, it’s no wonder Reykjavík is so popular. From the famous Northern Lights to the hustle and bustle of the city, Reykjavík really has something for everyone.
Where to stay: For when you want more than just a place to rest, the House of the Snowbird is the place to be. The iconic house was built in 1819 by the Icelandic poet, Einar Ben. It’s currently owned by a family of artists, so it’s filled with artwork, paintings, photographs and ceramics, all created by the owners.
What to do: No trip to Iceland would be complete without visiting The Blue Lagoon. The geothermal waters are rich with rejuvenating and healing properties, so take your time to soak it in. Make sure you give yourself a mud mask for those Instagram pics!
Where to eat: Visit Prikið Kaffihús, one of the longest-running restaurants in Iceland! It opened its doors in 1951 and since then has been the perfect place to grab a burger and enjoy the live events on offer every weekend.
Positano, Italy
Nothing quite has ‘Pinterest Holiday’ written all over it like Positano. The iconic village is located on Italy’s Amalfi coast, where the deep blue Mediterranean waters and Lattari Mountains make it feel like you’ve stepped foot onto the set of a movie.
Where to stay: Near the centre of Positano, you’ll find Villa Rosa, an elegant hotel that offers balconies, gorgeous sea views and a continental breakfast that you can enjoy on said balconies! Sign us up.
What to do: Take a short ferry over to the nearby town of Capri, where you can head out to visit the Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra). Buy your ticket from the floating ticket office and jump in the small rowboats that visitors must use to enter and get ready to be transported somewhere fabulous.
Where to eat: Restaurant, wine bar and art gallery - Ristorante Max has it all. This unique restaurant makes it feel as if you’re dining in an art gallery as - well - you are! Take in the art as you enjoy your food, or head out and dine in the garden to enjoy the Italian sunshine.
Now all you have to do is pick your outfits...
