Year: 2021

How to Make the Most out of the Bank Holidays in 2022

How to Make the Most out of the Bank Holidays in 2022

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People living in England can expect nine bank holidays this year rather than the usual eight. This is because an extra bank holiday has been added to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. The spring bank holiday has therefore been moved to Thursday 2nd June 2022. With an extra day off, it’s time to think about how you can best spend your 2022 bank holidays, and make the most out of them – to the point where you can book a holiday abroad! All it takes is careful planning and booking your trip around certain dates. 

Easter holidays 2022

By booking nine days off after Easter and before early May day bank holiday 2022, you can have a total of 18 days off work, giving you a lovely long break to enjoy on a villa holiday with your family.

Why not book Villa Ninho da Aguia in the stunning Algarve countryside? Not only does it have a large private pool and spacious outdoor terrace, it’s only a 10 minutes’ drive to the beach, a choice of places to eat, shops and attractions. Grown-ups can enjoy wine tasting, sampling local Peri-Peri chicken and the laid-back pace of this region. For the kids, there’s the nearby Zoomarine Park featuring dolphin and bird shows, as well as the Fiesa San Sculpture Park, which features some incredible sculptures of celebrities and cartoon characters ingeniously made from sand. 

Villa Ninho da Aguia | Sao Rafael, Algarve

Another recommendation is Villa Krini Myth – a stylish and modern property in Lindos with stunning sea views, private pool, and fantastic outside space. Spend your long holiday relaxing in the sunshine, playing with the kids in the pool, or visit the popular resort of Lardos with its old-fashioned feel, charming square with a picturesque church and Italian fountain. Nearby, there’s a working monastery and the remains of a Byzantine castle, only a 10 minutes’ drive from the villa.

Villa Krini Myth | Lindos, Rhodes

June bank holidays 2022

This is the extra holiday that has been given to us in honour of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. We’ll be getting a long four-day weekend from Thursday to Sunday, in which the late May Bank Holiday will be moved to Thursday 2nd June. An additional Bank Holiday will come after this on Friday 3rd June. If you book off the 30th May – 1st June 2022, then with the additional Bank Holidays and the weekend put together, you can take a full week off of work to go on a villa holiday in the sunshine, while only taking three days out of your annual allowance.    

Why not spend a relaxing week on the laid-back sunny island of Kefalonia? In early June, days usually reach around 25 Celsius, with balmy evenings. We recommend staying in Villa Melissani – nestled in tranquil hilly countryside, with incredible views of the sea from its pool terrace. It’s also just a short walk from Melissani Lake, which is one of Kefalonia’s most popular natural attractions. When you want to head out for the day, just a short drive away is the town of Sami, which features plenty of historical ruins to explore such as Roman baths and the Agrilia Monastery. If you feel like eating out one evening, the town offers plenty of tavernas and restaurants serving a wealth of Greek and international cuisine.

Villa Melissani | Sami, Kefalonia

Another option that’s more for couples is the quiet and romantic destination of Puglia, Italy. Why not book an authentic one-bedroom villa in the Pugliese countryside that’s cosy enough for two? We recommend Villa Trullo Didi, featuring an outdoor dining area, private pool and plenty of privacy. The town of Ceglie Messapica is just a short drive away, where you can stroll hand in hand around the cobbled streets and explore the castle and various churches in the area, before stopping off for a hearty bowl of pasta and tomato and olive focaccia.

Villa Trullo Didi | Ceglie Messapica, Puglia

Now we’ve inspired you, it’s time to get planning and booking your dream holiday villa in the sunshine for the 2022 bank holidays.

Summer Holidays 2022: Villa Holiday Guide/Where to Go

Summer Holidays 2022: Villa Holiday Guide/Where to Go

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We’re sure you’ve been dreaming of your next getaway and summer 2022 holidays! So why not browse our collection of quality villa properties that make for a great sunshine escape with your loved ones? From Portugal’s dramatic Algarve coast to tranquil Greek islands and even the glitz and glam of the French Riviera – we’ve got the perfect villa for you. Getting your holiday booked early means that there’s plenty of time to prepare and plan your itinerary. With that in mind, here are recommendations of places to go and things to see and do in our ultimate summer 2022 holidays guide.

The Algarve

Expect dramatic cliffs and rock stacks, azure waters and an intriguing culture when you visit the south of Portugal for a villa holiday. The Algarve offers tourists 125 miles of coastline, with stunning sandy beaches to enjoy (many of which boast Blue Flag status). Find your dream holiday villa in the Algarve from our collection of over 200 properties. Whether you want a villa that’s tucked away in the olive groves more in-land, or right near the beach, you can find family-friendly properties in Albufeira, Guia and Praia D’Oura.    

The Algarve offers visitors a wealth of attractions to discover. Take a leisurely stroll around Faro Old Town and take in the historical buildings and architecture, play golf on one of the area’s luxurious and world-famous courses, sample Peri-Peri chicken in Guia, take a dolphin safari or boat trip around the coast from Lagos, or put on your walking boots and hike the Serra de Monchique for stunning views of the coastline.   

Kefalonia

In need of a villa holiday with a tranquil pace, where you can just lose track of time? Booking a property in the largest of the Ionian islands may be just the ticket. The island of Kefalonia has long been a must-visit destination on many travellers’ lists, thanks to some of the best beaches in the world, warm waters for swimming, fabulous fresh food and a warm welcome from locals. If you’re hiring a villa here for your 2022 holidays, getting a car is recommended so that you and your family can explore the entire island with ease and have all the attractions at your fingertips.

While enjoying your holiday in Kefalonia, take time from your Villa Kristola to visit the popular resort of Lassi, where you’ll find plenty of restaurants, shops, bars and mini markets where you can pick up souvenirs and food for your villa if you are having a family BBQ in your garden. Lassi also offers plenty of day trips to the Blue Caves, Shipwreck Bay and the Island of Ithaca should you want to exercise your sea legs. If you want to delve into the island’s history, visit the historical sites in Sami, including Roman baths and the Agrilia Monastery. Feeling like heading to a remote corner of the island? Drive to Assos, which is mainly habited by locals and untouched by tourism, taking in the scenic beaches and beautiful cobbled streets once you’re there. 

Croatia

Croatia is one of the newest destinations on the European holiday scene and has become popular with visitors from all over the world thanks to its rich heritage and culture, fabulous beaches, laid-back lifestyle and evening entertainment. With an extensive coastline that is 1800 kilometres long, you have plenty of beaches to choose from during your summer 2022 holiday with your nearest and dearest. That’s when you’re not splashing about in your villa’s own large private pool, of course!

Soak up some rays on the one of the many beaches on offer along the Dalmatian Coast, which also offers boating trips, snorkelling and water sports. If you’d rather head to the city, Pula, Split and Dubrovnik are all worth exploring. Pula in particular boasts plenty of Roman ruins and even has an amphitheatre that was constructed around the same time as the Roman colosseum (and was built in the same style). During the evenings, both Pula and Zagreb are filled with plenty of restaurants, bars, clubs and live music venues, leaving you spoiled for choice for night-time entertainment.   

If you’re thinking of holidays abroad in 2022, why not browse our range of summer destinations, and get planning your next trip with your loved ones. 

Best Places to Visit in Italy

Best Places to Visit in Italy

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Known for its bustling cosmopolitan cities, delicious food and wine, vibrant artistic culture and traditional towns with so much character, Italy remains a firm favourite with holidaymakers from all across Europe and beyond. Spend your days wandering around whitewashed towns with cobbled streets, visit authentic Roman ruins, or relax by the picturesque coastline while enjoying the stunning views. Here’s our round-up of the best places to visit in Italy.  

Sicily

Arguably one of the top places to visit in Italy – Sicily is a rugged island steeped in history. A mix of stony beaches, epic landscapes, historical architecture and delicious food and drink, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to activities. If you feel like venturing outside of your private Villa Plutos, you have 6 incredible UNESCO World Heritage sites to explore, including Mount Etna, which dominates the island’s skyline, and is Europe’s largest active volcano. Begin by exploring Siracusa, where food tasting tours are in abundance. Enjoy sampling local wines, olive oils, cold meats, cheeses and pastries, before heading to the pedestrianised Piazza del Duomo, where you’ll find a number of notable landmarks including the town hall and cathedral of Syracuse. If you have a car, head to the Valley of the Temples for an enjoyable day out, where you’ll find plenty of architecture and art to discover.    

Ostuni

One of the top places to visit in Southern Italy and otherwise known as Italy’s dazzling white city, Ostuni, which is located in the Apulia region, is well known for its hot climate and sunny days, and old town featuring Roman, Byzantine and Gothic architecture. Spend some time wandering around this ornate town, taking in the stunning arches connecting buildings and narrow alleyways. Stop at a cafe for some Italian coffee, before heading to La Piazzetta Cattedrale, with an ornate facade dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Next, explore the Piazza della Liberta – an authentic plaza where you’ll find a range of shops, landmarks and cafes with a true Italian feel. As evening approaches, watch the sun set from the town’s defensive walls, offering epic views of the surrounding landscape while making memorable snaps for your holiday photo album. Have dinner in a local pasta restaurant before heading back to your traditional Villa Trullo Oro Verde.

Lecce

Travellers heading to the Puglia region should head to Lecce for a day trip, as it’s one of the best places to go in Italy. Otherwise referred to as ‘the new Florence’, the city’s old town boasts some incredible baroque architecture, and you may also spot la pietra leccese as you wander around – a kind of limestone that is used for sculpture in the region thanks to its soft and workable nature. As you wander the streets, if you encounter a bakery selling pasticciotto leccese, it’s a must-try for those with a sweet tooth. A shortcrust pastry filled with custard, it’s the regional sweet treat for Lecce, and comes in many different flavours. The city is also home to a Roman Amphitheatre that dates all the way back to 2 AD, and was discovered in 1901. Part of the structure is actually underground, while the Oronzo Square in which it sits is a favourite among locals.    

Noci

A must for foodies, Noci is once of the best places to go in Italy if you love Italian food and wine, with a wealth of tours and food experiences on offer. Tracing back to Norman times, with around 20,000 inhabitants, this city is an ideal place to spend an afternoon wandering around to discover local architecture and to learn more about how Italians cook. Visit the ancient church of Barsento, or the monastery of Abbazia Madonna della Scala, before taking a tour to learn how to make real Apulian mozzarella using cow’s milk. You’ll be invited to make your own cheese and taste it afterwards, and will also learn about the different varieties of mozzarella and their origins. Olive oil tasting tours are also available, as are wine tours, which include wine tasting in a local bistro. No visit to Noci is complete without trying Panzerotto – an Italian street food that has the similar half-moon shape of a calzone. Made with fried pizza dough that is filled with mozzarella and sauce, you can learn how to make this popular dish before trying it for yourself on yet another food tour. Our top tip? Head to Noci when you’re hungry!

Discover some of the best places to visit in Italy on a memorable family holiday with your loved ones. Browse our range of premium Italian villas.   

The Best Time to Visit Crete

The Best Time to Visit Crete

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When is the best time to visit Crete?

This is the land of long sandy beaches, epic mountain ranges, palm tree forests and vibrant bustling cities that share their home with ancient monuments. Architecture from the Venetians, Minoans and Ottomans lies at every turn, pointing to Crete’s fascinating history. So, when is the best time to book flights to Crete and take your dream villa holiday? It all depends on the types of activities your family will be doing, and how high you’d like the mercury. Here’s our guide to the best time to visit Crete.

Summer (May – August)

The summer season is the best time to visit Crete. The mercury starts to climb up to 24-25ºC in June, with mild and balmy evenings. By July-August, the island sees daily temperatures between 28ºC-31ºC, and it is the time of year when visitors and locals alike head to the beaches to make the most of the glorious weather and sea temperatures of 24ºC. But although the temperatures rise, so do the numbers of people visiting attractions, so be prepared for slightly longer waiting times and queues. July can be a windy month as the sirocco winds from Africa heat up the island. If you’re a wine lover, the Rethymnon Wine Festival takes place in June, and is an absolute must.

Autumn (September – October)

If you’ve come to Crete to hit the glorious beaches of Marathi, Krios and Plakias (among others), the months of September and October are the best time of year to visit. Expect fewer crowds, less people in eateries and resorts, and glorious beach weather. Temperatures still continue to hit the mid-twenties, making the weather ideal for topping up your tan, swimming in the sea and sightseeing. The climate is still very warm around this time of year, but without inflicting scorching heat, which some may find more comfortable if they’re exploring the Palace of Knossos, touring Rethimno’s Venetian Harbour, or taking a dip in their private pool in their Villa Elounda Pelagos. With an average of six hours of sunshine per day, there’s still plenty of warmth to experience this stunning island. October is also when the island’s Chestnut Festival is held, marking the beginning of the autumn. Locals descend on the town of Elos to celebrate food made with chestnuts. Expect live music, plenty of drinking, dancing and fabulous street food. 

Spring (March – April)

Spring can be the best time to visit Crete if you want a quieter, more laid-back holiday that is free of crowded resorts. March can be a bit unpredictable for weather, so do pack accordingly. That said, temperatures often float around 15-17°C as April begins, offering up ideal weather for exploring historical ruins and nature parks, without the queues. Average sea temperatures in spring peak at 16°C, and in fact the sea tends to be warmer than the outdoor air if you want to enjoy a refreshing dip! In March, the 1821 Memorial Parade takes place, while the Burning of Judas festivities take place in April.  

Winter (November-February)

While lying on the beach may not be on the cards, this doesn’t mean that there isn’t plenty to do and explore on this island. This is when the locals enjoy boisterous and exuberant festivals. Accommodation can get booked up, as visitors want to enjoy a more authentic and quieter experience on their Cretan holiday, so it is best to plan early. The St. Minas Parade, celebrating the patron saint of Heraklion, takes place in November, while the Rethymnon Carnival usually takes place in either January or February – expect partying, dancing and vehicles made out of styrofoam! As the island comes into November, evenings do get a little chilly, so you’ll need a coat and some warm trousers, as the mercury can dip to 13°C (but achieve peaks of 21°C during the day).

Need a little inspiration for your next holiday to Crete? Explore our range of premium Cretan villas.

Things to do in Crete

Things to do in Crete

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Dreaming of soaking up the sunshine in Greece? The island of Crete has it all – ancient ruins and attractions, dramatic mountainous landscapes, lush olive groves, a buzzing nightlife, pristine white-sand beaches and attractions galore for the little ones. Here are some of the most unique things to do in Crete.

Visit the Malia Ruins

If you’re thinking of more adventurous things to do in Crete, head to the town of Malia, where just a few kilometres east you will find historical ruins dating back 4,000 years. Constructed in 1900 BC, the ruins are of a former Minoan palace which was then destroyed by an earthquake 200 years after it was built. Visitors are given free maps to explore the site. Step back in time as you tour the palace courtyards, altars, grand staircase and pillars. Don’t forget to visit the exhibition hall which features a model of how the palace would have looked in Minoan times. 

Hop on a boat trip to Spinalonga

As one of the more off-the-beaten-track must-do things in Crete, the island of Spinalonga has a rich and interesting history that just beckons to be explored. Take a boat for a day trip from Aghios Nikolaos and discover winding cobbled streets, a Turkish fortress and a former leper colony village that was romanticised in Victoria Hislop’s novel The Island. After a day of exploring, head back to your Villa Elea for dinner beneath the stars in your private garden.

Spend a day on the beach

Whether you like to play volleyball on the sand, swim in azure waters, snorkel or take part in water sports, there is a beach for you in Crete. Heraklion and the surrounding areas feature a selection of beautiful shores, with the popular resorts of Malia, Amoudara and Agia Pelagia offering a range of bars and restaurants right on the sand so that you can make a day of topping up your tan. Diving schools are available in Hersonissos, Agia Pelagia and Gouves, offering diving and snorkelling to those who want to get closer to native sea life on the island. If you want to get away from the bustle and crowds to a more secluded cove, Agia Pelagia Psaromoura and Paleokastro offer more peaceful retreats with stunning views.

Visit Kotsifou Gorge

Those who love getting back to nature will love hiking Kotsifou Gorge, which offers spectacular views of the island while showcasing beautiful flora and fauna.  At the top of the hill, once you have hiked upwards, you are greeted by a small Greek Orthodox chapel where you can admire the stunning vistas below. A romantic and beautiful place to watch the sun rise or set. 

Tour Rethymnon Venetian Harbour

When you want to head out a little further from your private Villa Chloe up in the hills, hop in the car and take a leisurely drive to the resort of Rethymnon, featuring the popular attraction that is the Venetian Harbour – considered the most stunning boat harbour on the island and one of the most popular things to do in Crete. It isn’t hard to see why – take a tour of Rethymnon Old Town and discover traditional beautiful town houses in a Venetian style, as well as local tavernas, bars and eateries serving up local fare and freshly caught seafood – an ideal place to stop for lunch and soak up island culture. After exploring the harbour, head to the Venetian Lighthouse and the nearby beach to catch a few rays.

Now you’ve planned your itinerary and discovered some of best things to do in Crete, you’ll need to start browsing our range of premium holiday villas in Crete, where you’ll find your home from home on the island.

Things to do in Fuerteventura

Things to do in Fuerteventura

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Dreaming of a sunny villa holiday in the Canary Islands? The island of Fuerteventura has it all – including sprawling beaches, intriguing road trips, nature parks, fascinating cultural sights, tranquil villages, and of course – a year-round mild climate. Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Fuerteventura.

Visit Corralejo National Park

This is one of the island’s most popular attractions, welcoming visitors all year round. The park is famous for its iconic sand dunes and vast beaches that are ideal for surfing, windsurfing and other water sports. If you don’t have your own car to drive around the park, you can take a buggy tour, which begins in Corralejo before heading towards the Natural Park. Some tours also head towards the volcanic area so that you can really get back to nature!

Take a day trip to Lobos Island

If you feel like heading out on a unique day trip while on your villa holiday, take a catamaran to Lobos Island, which is completely uninhabited and feels miles away from the rest of the world. Trips can either take you around the island in about four hours, or you can swim in the various coves and lagoons the island has to offer. After all that sailing, swimming and sea air, you’ll enjoy a very relaxing night’s sleep once your head hits the pillow in your Villa Del Mar.

Enjoy Oasis Park with your family

This attraction is on most people’s lists when it comes to Fuerteventura things to do and see, and is arguably one of the best things to do in Fuerteventura with little ones. Take in the views as you wander around this green and beautiful park, with birds of prey shows, the biggest cactus garden in the whole of the Canaries, Kids’ Farm and animal park. The whole family will love learning about the variety of animals living at the park, as well as the fun activities and educational wildlife workshops on offer.

Take a walk at Cofete beach

Discover one of the many beaches on the island that hasn’t been spoiled by mass tourism – no trip to Fuerteventura is complete without visiting Cofete. Swimming is not advised, as the waters are very choppy and dangerous, but walking and sunbathing are an absolute must. Bring water and food with you if you plan on spending the day here, as there are no facilities – just Mother Nature in all her glory. Enjoy the epic sweeping views of the mountains as you wander along the shoreline, with the ocean as your soundtrack. A perfect romantic retreat for couples who want to escape the bustling resorts.   

Take the hike up Pico de la Zarza

If you prefer more of an active holiday instead of lazing on the beach, Fuerteventura offers plenty of walking and hiking trails to get you into the great outdoors. With an altitude of 807m, Pico de la Zarza is the island’s highest peak and gives those who hike it stunning views of Playa de Cofete, making for memorable holiday snaps. You should always start your hike in the morning when it is cooler, especially because there is no shade as you make your way up. Take plenty of water and sun cream with you, and wear appropriate hiking shoes.

Shop local produce at one of the island’s markets

Wherever you stay in Fuerteventura, there is always a market close by selling everything from food items like olive oil and local wine, to lace, pottery and crafts. The market in El Campanario (in Corralejo) for example features original and unique handmade items that make for perfect souvenirs, as well as a range of food stalls and live music performances.    

Now you know some of the most amazing things to do in Fuerteventura, you need to get booking your next villa holiday in the sun! Browse our selection of luxury villa properties in Fuerteventura.

Things to do in Tenerife

Things to do in Tenerife

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Tenerife is popular with couples and families alike thanks to its pristine coastlines, buzzing nightlife, vibrant resorts and delicious cuisine. You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to attractions and places to visit, with the lively southern resorts of Costa Adeje, Los Crisianos and Playa de las Americas offering plenty of nightlife, shopping and beach culture in the south, while towns like Santa Cruz de Tenerife offer historical ruins, water parks, small nearby villages and the surrounding natural park of Rural de Anaga in the north of the island. Whatever you like to do on your villa holiday, here are some of the most amazing things to do in Tenerife.

Make a splash at Siam Park

If you want to cool off in an even larger pool than the one at your Villa Del Conde, there’s always Siam Park, which is bound to keep kids of all ages entertained for hours on end, and is one of the most popular Tenerife things to do. Spanning 48 acres, it is considered to be one of the best and largest water parks in Europe. There’s a play area called Lost City with plenty of games to keep them occupied, and Siam Beach, which offers surfing lessons. Kids will love the epic Tower of Power slide, kamikazes and lazy river, while grown-ups will enjoy shopping at the Floating Market, or booking a massage.

Visit Mount Teide National Park

Considered one of the best things to do in Tenerife (south), this stunning national park consists of volcanos, sand dunes, rivers made of petrified lava and craters. The main feature though is the majestic Teide volcano that dominates the landscape at 3,718 metres high. If you have a car to get around while staying in your Villa Venezuela, there are many roads that lead across the park, which head to various beaches, viewpoints, amenities and a visitors’ centre. Once parked, there are often multiple walking trails that you can take to discover this epic UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also hike or take a cable car up to the summit of Mount Teide, where you are rewarded with stunning views of the Canaries, although you’ll need to get a permit beforehand if you not taking an organised tour. Space lovers will also enjoy a guided tour of the Teide Observatory, which is famous for being the world’s largest solar observatory, positioned at 2,400m above sea level.   

Hike to one of the island’s tallest villages

Considered to be a miniature version of Macchu Picchu, Masca village is one of the tallest villages on the island, and is very popular with hikers who enjoy the challenge of a 3-5 hour climb up to its lofty heights. The hike is one of the best things to do in Tenerife, and takes walkers up a ravine full of majestic flora and various animals, viewpoints and amazing photo opportunities. Wear comfortable walking shoes and take refreshments if you plan on undertaking this epic challenge! You can then take a water taxi from Masca Bay to return to Los Gigantes. It is always recommended that you travel with a guide, due to the rough terrain.

Top up your tan at the beach

Whether you’re looking for amazing things to do in Tenerife’s north or south, you’ll be sure to find a beach that suits your needs. With over 400km of coastline on offer, and 17 beaches with Blue Flag status, it is little wonder that so many flock to Tenerife every year because of its beautiful beaches. We recommend checking out Santa Cruz’s Playa de las Teresitas, which features imported sand from the Sahara. Its soft powdery shores and calm azure waters are great for those who love swimming and snorkelling, and the beach is popular with families and locals. If you want something a little more quiet and off the beaten track, try Playa El Puertito or Playa del Pozo. These beaches often have little in the way of facilities, so bring food and refreshments with you if you plan on visiting for the day. If you are visiting Tenerife for surfing, the one beach you should be heading to is El Medano in the south, which is considered one of the best shores for kite and windsurfing thanks to its winds.

Discover some of the most amazing things to do in Tenerife on a villa holiday in the sun. Browse our selection of beautiful Tenerife holiday properties and start booking your dream getaway.

Things to do in Zante

Things to do in Zante

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The Greek island of Zante (otherwise known as Zakynthos), offers tourists everything from beautiful beaches and a vibrant nightlife, to quiet walking trails and ancient monuments and sites galore. Whether you want to visit this sunshine-soaked island to top up your tan on the beach, enjoy watersports or get stuck into its fascinating history and culture, you won’t be stuck for things to do. Here’s our guide to the most interesting things to do in Zante.

Visit Smugglers’ Cove

This beach is one of the most famous coves in all of Greece, and is one of the best Zante things to do for families. The most popular attraction on the beach is the notable shipwreck, which is known in Greek as ‘Navagio’. It is one of the most iconic sights on the island and all of Greece. The wreck happened over 30 years ago, when poor weather caused the ship to run aground as it tried to escape the Greek Navy, who were chasing it because of contraband cargo. With stunning views, soft powdery sand and gentle azure waters, the whole family will be able to catch some rays, snorkel, swim and build sandcastles together on this beautiful stretch of coastline.  

Cool off at the Water Village

If you want to splash out in something a little bigger than the private pool of your Villa Maira Azalea, then it’s worth a visit to the wild Water Village – a thrilling water park with plenty of slides, rides and attractions to keep the entire family entertained and cooled off from the heat of the day. Adrenaline junkies will love the Kamikaze slides, Black Hole and Sinkhole, while those that want a calmer pace will enjoy the lazy river and various sun loungers on offer. There’s plenty of eateries should you start to feel peckish, and for toddlers there’s a soft play area.   

Dance the night away in Kalamaki

In the summer months, Kalamaki is the place to be if you feel like sampling Zante’s vibrant nightlife. Here you’ll find plenty of clubs, bars, restaurants and live music, with a more laid-back vibe. Most tavernas are open until the little hours, which should satisfy night owls! From Irish Pubs to traditional Greek fare and Italian food, there’s something for every taste. There’s even a sports bar if you don’t want to miss out on the football action while on holiday. Just a five minute taxi ride away is the Laganas Strip, where you’ll find plenty of festivals, clubs and international artists playing sets in clubs. One of the best things to do in Zante Town itself is to sample the vibrant nightlife, so if you’ve come to the island to dance the night away, you’ll be spoiled for choice!  

Go turtle-spotting at the marine park

Just off of Zante’s south coast is Marathonissi Island, (otherwise known Turtle Island) because of the turtle and wildlife conservation that happens there. If you are interested in eco-tourism and nature, this is one of the best things to do in Zante. Originally opening in 1999, the island is home to the endangered sea turtle Caretta, as well as loggerhead turtles. In summer, the turtles lay their eggs, with up to as many as 1,300 hatching every season. Tourists can visit the island, but there are strict rules in terms of visiting times and what is allowed on the beaches in order to preserve the turtles’ natural habitat. Keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready though, as you’ll be sure to spot one.   

Visit the famous Blue Grotto

The Blue Grotto is one of the most famous attractions and makes a fascinating day out for all ages. Located in the north of the island in the Skinari region, this set of caves was discovered in 1897 by Antonio Komouto, and have formed as a result of natural erosion by the sea, creating vast and enchanting chambers that are waiting to be explored. The Blue Grotto’s name comes from the vibrant blue colour of the water, which is caused by light reflection. There are many tours that explore the area by boat, which you can catch at Agios Nikolas port. Comfortable shoes are important, as the cave system has many steps. Some boats have glass floorings, so that you can see plenty of marine life as you pass through the caves.

Explore our selection of dream holiday villas in Zante and get booking your next family trip to the sun-soaked islands of Greece.

Things to do in Rhodes

Things to do in Rhodes

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Holidays to Rhodes are filled with sunny days and plenty of things to do and see, making for an unforgettable trip. Narrowing down your options is the hardest part! Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Rhodes while enjoying some quality time with your loved ones.  

Take a day trip to a nearby island

Explore the surrounding Dodecanese islands by taking a ferry trip from Rhodes. Ferry rides take just a couple of hours, and transport you to more traditional Greek islands that haven’t yet been impacted by tourism. Discover the enchanting settlement of Symi, which attracts thousands of visitors from across the globe with its ornate churches and villages, and the famous Archangel Michael Panormitis monastery. Also worth visiting is Kastelorizo (also known as Megisti), which has a particularly fascinating history, intriguing neoclassical buildings and a natural harbour.   

Relax at a beach bar

When it comes to Rhodes best things to do, beach bars take luxury and relaxation to the next level. Expect to lounge about on plush sun loungers on dreamy soft sands while a waiter hands you your next cocktail. Some will even let you place chairs very close to the sea if you want to dangle your feet in the water or keep a closer eye on your little ones. Many also offer high-end cuisine, music and dancing, massages and much more. While the children are splashing about in the sea or building sandcastles, you can take time to relax and unwind at one of the most gorgeous spots in town. 

Visit the ancient city of Ialysos

History lovers will enjoy visiting Rhodes thanks to the various Roman, Minoan and Mycenaean ruins that are worth exploring. Many ruins date back centuries, all the way back to 3BC. The ancient city of Ialysos dates back to the Byzantine era, when it had the name of ‘Achaia’. The site was commonly used as a place of worship. During 1912-1945, a ‘Golgotha’ was constructed, consisting of several shrines that stretch from the main square up to the west edge of Filerimos Hill. At the top of the plateau, you can enjoy some stunning views of the surrounding countryside.   

Discover the Lindos Acropolis

Head out from your picturesque Villa Aqua Blu  and discover one of the most impressive archaeological sites on the island. Lindos is a must-see in terms of alternative things to do in Rhodes. Surrounded by a more modern village, the site gives a glimpse into what ancient life was like in times gone by. You’ll find historical monuments at the acropolis, as well as various ruins, medieval walls, fortifications that date back to the 14th century, and towers. The ruins date back to ancient times, the Byzantine period and the medieval period. Don’t forget to take a wander around the town of Lindos itself, which features whitewashed houses, gates that date back to 4AD, and the Temple of Athena Lindia. 

Hike the island’s walking trails

Those who love getting back to nature and enjoying tranquil walks will enjoy the various hiking trails of Rhodes. We recommend having a car if you want to take some walks that are more off the beaten track, and you can easily take part in walks on the island at any time of the year thanks to its mild climate. Many routes take walkers through small villages that are untouched by tourism, as well as past waterways and old crumbling monuments and churches. This is a different, more natural and wild side to Rhodes that very few people get to see, making walking trails one of the best things to do in Rhodes. Some walks can be organised with a guide. If walking isn’t your thing, you can hire a bike, as the island also offers plenty of cycling trails for all abilities. 

Discover some of the best things to do in Rhodes on a family villa holiday to Greece. Explore our selection of premium Rhodes holiday rentals.

Swap your home office for a villa with a view

Swap your home office for a villa with a view

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Unless you’re lucky enough to be a teacher with six weeks of holiday to take at once, you’re self-employed or retired, it’s likely that you’ll only have a set amount of time to take off on holiday in one go. Most employers stipulate that their employees can only take two weeks off from work at any one time. In this new climate of WFH (working from home) however, there is a new kid on the block, known as WFV (working from villa). So, what are the benefits of working from your holiday villa? Here are our thoughts…   

We’ve become used to waking up five minutes before our Zoom meeting and dressing our top halves appropriately, before spending most of the day at the kitchen table with a laptop. However, wouldn’t you like to switch up this routine and have a jaw-dropping sea view and swaying palm trees as your WFH backdrop? Plus, as remote working continues to become popular for both employers (who can save money on expensive office rentals), and employees (who want a decent work-life balance), it means that many more people can have more control over when and how long they take holiday for. Location is becoming less of a necessity, so why add not take advantage of booking one of our beautiful holiday rentals?

Holiday rentals to WFV (work from villa)

If you’re thinking of an extended summer break, we recommend Villa Ireni Fiskardo, where you can sit on the alfresco terrace at the table with your laptop and take in the incredible sea views of Kefalonia. Just make sure you remember to focus on the task in hand! When your working day is done, just a few steps away is your own private infinity pool, from which you can admire the sun set.

Another family-friendly villa is Villa Junico in the Algarve, where you can set up your office on one of the sun loungers overlooking the pool. Spend more time with your loved ones admiring the views, and at the end of your working day, hop in the car for some dinner in Sao Rafael, or take a five minute drive to the beach.

Those who prefer autumn or winter sunshine with more freedom to take their holiday at any time of the year will love the year-round sunshine and mild climate of Fuerteventura. Stay at Villa Caleta Sunrise for up to a month. or take a week off as holiday, then work the other three weeks enjoying this plush villa with private pool, pool terrace and sunbathing area, and in a location just 20 minutes’ walk away from the beaches, shops, bars and restaurants of the Caleta de Fuste Resort Centre.

Working from villa (WFV) and work-life balance

With such a short commute from your desk to your swimming pool, it’s safe to say that working from your villa means you spend less time working, and more quality time with those you love. Gone are the days when you’d spend hours commuting and checking your emails en-route to the office, or sitting at your desk for hours without taking frequent breaks from screen-time. Working from your holiday villa puts you in a relaxing setting where you can focus on getting work done and be more productive, before spending more time with your family. Working remotely from a villa in Europe or any other location in the world reduces commute stress, helps companies to embrace diversity and inclusion, saves money and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by reducing commuter travel.             

Have we tempted you to try working from a holiday villa? Browse our range of luxurious holiday villa destinations and get booking your next trip to a sun drenched getaway.