Author: chiracshah

Things to do in Majorca

Things to do in Majorca

chiracshah

From pristine sandy shores to day trips, caves and natural parks – this Balearic Island has something for every kind of traveller. Spend the day shopping or checking out the sights in Palma, before heading to the coast for dinner and dancing at a trendy beach club. Whatever you want from your villa holiday, here’s our guide to the best fun things to do in Majorca, Spain.

Visit a beach club

Relaxing and sunbathing take on a whole new form at Majorca’s various glamorous beach clubs. Expect stylish furnishings and sun loungers, restaurants and bars serving gourmet fare, private pools, massages and other treatments. Among our recommendations are Palma’s Purobeach Illetas and Las Terrazas, as well as Bardot in Gran Meliá de Mar. 

Tour the Tramuntana

In 2011, Serra de Tramuntana achieved UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Stretching almost 90km in length, this impressive mountain range is known as Majorca’s backbone from Cap de Formentor to Andratx. From the huge lakes of Gorg Blau and Cúber, to the lush olive groves and dry stone walling – this region of the island is famed for its rugged and authentic landscape that dates back centuries. Tranquil towns and villages worth visiting in this area include Deià, Valldemossa, Fornalutx and Sóller. If you’re hiring a car as part of your villa holiday, one of the most romantic things to do in Majorca is to take a drive through the Serra de Tramuntana along its famous mountain road, stopping along the way to take in the staggering views that make for incredible holiday photos.

Explore Palma, the island’s capital

Spend a morning wandering around in the glorious Majorcan sunshine as you explore the island’s capital of Palma, which is one of the best things to do in Majorca. Areas of the city such as the Old Town and La Lonja boast showstopping architecture and winding cobbled streets. The city operates a sightseeing bus if you want to take in all the major sights without the walk. If you have a car, be sure to discover La Seu (Palma’s Cathedral), and Bellver Castle, which dates back to the 14th century. Palma is home to over half of the island’s population, with great eateries, shopping and a trendy marina known as Paseo Marítimo.

Head to the beach

When you want to head out from your Villa Almendra Boi and explore some of the island’s sun-drenched beaches, you’ll have a whopping 262 to choose from! Majorca’s stretches of sand vary from the tranquil and shallow for families with children, to the more lively for watersports and surfing. Explore hidden coves as you swim in the azure waters, where you’ll find an abundance of fish and marine life. Some beaches have facilities like restaurants, lifeguards, shops, showers and toilets should you want to make a day of things, while others are more remote for those who want to share the sand with fewer people.  

Visit the country’s wine region

Majorca has more than 70 wineries, and is a wine-lover’s haven. You can book tours and tastings frequently, sampling the best tipples that this sun-drenched region of the world has to offer. Regional markets, festivals and pop-up stalls often sell local wine and olive oils from the island’s various vineyards. Sineu, Santanyí, and Artà host markets selling wines, ales, handicrafts, and other fresh produce.  

Make a splash at a waterpark with the kids

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Majorca, the island boasts an amazing four waterparks – one for adults, and three for the whole family. Enjoy a selection of water slides, kamikazes, wave pools and fountains as you cool off from the heat. Enjoy the Western Waterpark, which features several slides, a large wave pool and a Buffalo Bill themed park. Adults can take a dip in the Jacuzzi or spend some time lounging on the sunbeds. Also worth exploring is Hidropark in Port d’Alcúdia, which offers water slides and attractions, as well as bouncy castles, mini-golf, paintballing and trampolines. 

Now you know the most fun things to do in Majorca, it’s time to get booking your premium villa that you can call your home from home. Browse our selection of luxury villa properties in Majorca.

Things to do in Menorca

Things to do in Menorca

chiracshah

Known for its laid back pace, quiet coves, white-sand beaches, crystal clear waters and stunning architecture, Menorca is famous for delivering peaceful and relaxing holidays full of sunshine and positive memories. Here’s our ultimate guide to some of the best things to do in Menorca, Spain.

Hit the beach

If you plan on heading to Menorca for a beach holiday, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to sandy shores to explore. Cala’n Porter’s beach is popular with families and watersports lovers, offering everything from pedalos to jet-skis. Those who want to snorkel will also feel right at home here too, with plenty of headland rocks to explore that are home to purple urchins, exotic fish and starfish. Son Parc beach is another must-visit, with a coastline of sand and pebbles. Here you’ll find plenty of restaurants, a lifeguard, car parking and umbrellas/loungers should you want to spend the day topping up your tan. Pedalos and jet-skis can also be rented, while the town centre is just a ten-minute walk away. 

Browse the shops in Ciutadella

From designer boutiques to specialist stores that have sold leather goods for decades, you’ll find it all in the old capital. If you visit on Friday or Saturday, you’ll also have a market to browse for local delicacies and handmade items in the main square. Keen shoppers will also love Son Bou’s shopping mall, where you’ll find plenty of stores selling handmade jewellery and pottery, traditional Spanish shoes and designer boutiques for those who love their labels. There’s also plenty of nibbles available at the nearby supermarkets for a beach picnic or dinner on the poolside patio of your Villa Torresoli.

Take a tour of Es Castell

History buffs will enjoy exploring the resort of Es Cartell, which is home to a museum in a former barracks, as well as a variety of cannons from when the island needed shore defences. The resort is also home to a harbour where you’ll find many restaurants and shops constructed into limestone cave walls. Unwind with a glass of wine and some paella while enjoying the views across the bay.

Take the plunge at one of the island’s waterparks

Menorca boasts two waterparks which are great for a cooling family day out. Expect tummy-twisting slides, wave machines, toddler-friendly attractions like fountains and more. In Cala’n Bosch, Aquarock features a daredevil Kamikaze for those who want something more adrenaline-filled, while the waterpark at Cala’n Forcat features hydro-tubes, a toboggan and a lazy river.

Tour the Fortaleza de la Mola

As you approach Mahon’s harbour, you cannot miss the 19th century fort of Fortaleza de la Mola, which was constructed to protect Menorca from attacks by the French and English. As the island was never actually attacked, the fort itself is in very good condition and offers a detailed insight into construction of the period. Wander along the defensive walls, examine the military prison and the many underground galleries that the fort offers. We’d recommend visiting in the evening to watch fabulous sunsets that make for amazing holiday photos.  

Indulge in international and Spanish cuisine

Enjoying good food is what being on holiday is all about. Menorca has plenty of restaurants offering a range of traditional Spanish and international dishes. Palma offers everything from wood-fired pizza to curry and English staples, while Mahon offers diners lots of Spanish classics like tapas, patatas bravas, fried squid and paella. Enjoy a leisurely meal and talk about the day’s events while the small plates keep on coming!

Inspired by our guide to the best things to do in Menorca? Take a look at our range of luxury properties on the island of Menorca and get booking your perfect villa holiday!

The Best Time to Visit Spain

The Best Time to Visit Spain

chiracshah

When is the best time to visit Spain?

Summer is certainly one of the best times to visit Spain, thanks to its high temperatures, and beautiful flora and fauna busting into life. Autumn is also a popular time of year to visit, as the intense heat of the summer starts to slowly fade and popular beach resorts are less crowded, but still warm. Winter temperatures in Spain rarely fall below 10°C, so if you like to be out and about, it can still remain pleasant for sightseeing, especially in the south of the country.

Summer (June – August)

The summer season is peak tourist time in the country, as many flock to beaches and attractions for their summer holidays. Many visitors come from other countries in Europe, the UK and the United States. Beach-side restaurants will be buzzing, and many local businesses will be open for longer hours. Temperatures in June have lows of 13°C and highs of 28°C. By the time August is in full swing, daily temperatures are 25°C, with mild evenings and highs of 31°C during the hottest days. San Fermin, also known as the running of the bulls, is a festival that takes place in Pamplona from the 6th – 14th July.  Feria de Malaga is also a festival worth checking out, and is one of Andalusia’s biggest summer festivals, with concerts, dancing and delicious food.

Winter (December – March)

If you’re wondering when is it cheapest to fly to Spain, booking flights in winter will get you there during the low season. You’ll find that places are mostly empty of tourists, while beaches are ideal for long walks in the crisp weather and sunshine. The north of Spain can get a bit chilly, with temperatures reaching between 5-10°C, but thankfully further south, things are much warmer, with the Andalusia region reaching around 15°C during the day. And don’t forget the Canary Islands , each offering year-round sunshine, excellent sandy beaches and a variety of activities to keep the whole family entertained. You’ll need to pack a coat and layers if you plan on exploring attractions and national parks during this time of year, but thankfully you won’t need to queue for entry. There are many notable festivities taking place in winter, including the Three Kings Day celebrations on 6th January, while carnival month starts in February to mark the start of Lent. Expect plenty of colour, street food and flamenco dancing in major towns and cities around the country. In March, take a trip to Valencia for Las Fallas – a week-long celebration that is famous for large crafted figures that are set on fire.          

Spring (April – May)

Around this time, temperatures in Spain are heating up nicely. In southern regions of the country, you should be able to start sunbathing and enjoying the heated pool in your Villa Marta Sol! Spring is an ideal time to explore parks and city gardens while everything is in bloom. Attractions such as museums and cathedrals are also less crowded, with fewer tourists and locals because schools in the area are still in term time. If you are staying in Andalusia and can travel to Seville by car, visit the city two weeks after Easter for the Feria de Abril festival, which celebrates the city’s traditions and people. Temperatures in the southern regions during April can reach highs of up to 24°C.

Autumn (September-November)

Temperatures in Spain in September are still very warm, with the mercury climbing up to around 28°C. As the month progresses and October begins, daily temperatures tend to hit around 23°C, making it an ideal time to enjoy the beach, without the crowds. As November creeps in, evenings become a tad chilly and you may need a jacket as temperatures dip to 15°C. It may be a bit too cold for swimming in the sea or hitting the beach, but many attractions are still open all year round. Autumn is famous for La Rioja hosting its grape harvest celebration, as well as the Festa de la Mercé in Barcelona. 

Explore our collection of luxury villa properties in Spain for a real home-from-home during your travels.

The Best Time to Visit Italy

The Best Time to Visit Italy

chiracshah

When is the best time to visit Italy?

If you’re wondering when to visit Italy, the best time is no-doubt between March and August. June is also one of the best times to visit, as temperatures are on the rise and long days mean plenty of sunshine. And October proves a popular month, with visitors seeking wine-tasting tours following the country’s grape harvest,

Spring (April – May)

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Italy, April is considered one of the best times to go. During the spring, wildflowers are in bloom and the mercury starts to climb up to 21°C by May. You may encounter the odd rainfall shower, so pack suitable clothing for changeable conditions. Most restaurants and attractions should now be open, and hiking trails and UNESCO sites should be available to explore without harsh conditions from the elements. In spring, Italy hosts its own artichoke festival, tulip festivals and Pasqua celebrations, depending on when Easter falls. May is known as the month of the rose, and gardens across Italy are usually busy with tourists wanting to make the most of seeing everything in bloom.

Summer (June – August)

Many visitors wanting to explore Italy’s boot wonder when is Italy hot? The answer is during the summer, when temperatures are at their peak and reach between 23°C in the north of the country, to 29°C in the south. Coastlines and resorts get busier with crowds, as do attractions in the main cities. This is the time of year to enjoy your private pool and gardens at Villa Trullo Olivia, or a trip to the beach, where you’ll find soft white sand and azure waters. Keep in mind that July and August are particularly busy months, and cities can be stifling in terms of temperatures, so many people flock to coastal areas where it is cooler. Expect to compete with other visitors and locals for a spot on the beach, and days out should be planned in advance where possible. 2nd June is a national holiday in Italy that celebrates the foundation of the country’s modern republic, while the end of June marks the beginning of opera season, with performances taking place across the country.  

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn is a great time when you can visit Italy without the sizzling temperatures, making the days and evenings more comfortable for activities. Many locals return to school or work after the summer holidays, so beaches and coasts will be less crowded, and the sea will still be a comfortable temperature for swimming. Temperatures can reach between 13-24°C in northern Italy, 18-27°C in central Italy, and 21-27°C in the south. This is the time of year when harvest festival begins in the country, with many events taking place offering street food and fresh ingredients. Expect to see delicacies like truffles and prosciutto, olives and wine from local vineyards. The grape harvest, La Vendemmia, begins at the end of September, making it an ideal time for wine-lovers.    

Winter (December – March)

Italy generally has milder winters than that of the UK, and if you’re not worried about hitting the beach or baking hot weather, you’ll be rewarded with quieter attractions and fewer crowds if you visit at this time of year. Note that some popular places such as the Amalfi Coast will be very quiet and many properties and retailers or restaurants may actually be closed, You’ll still have nine hours of sunshine a day however, which is perfect for sightseeing and enjoying walks in the great outdoors, but keep in mind that Italy can have strong winds in the winter. In February, Italy hosts carnival month, and even the cooler temperatures cannot dampen celebrations. In the two weeks leading up to lent, the country hosts Carnevale, so expect vibrant masquerades, confetti, fancy dress, and plenty of dancing. In Sicily, February is also a great time to witness the almond blossom festival, which is welcomed as a sign that spring is on the way.  

Now you know when is the best time to visit Italy, it’s time to discover our collection of luxury villa properties in Puglia and Sicily for a relaxing stay during your holiday.

Food Guide: Spain

Food Guide: Spain

chiracshah

Paella

This dish is most common in the Valencia region, but is also served up on Spain’s southern coast. If you’re looking for traditional Spanish food while enjoying your villa holiday, it really doesn’t get much better than this. Tuck into sticky, smoky Calasparra or bomba rice with chorizo sausage, chicken, seafood, butter beans and green beans. Saffron is included in the paella sauce to give the dish an overall fragrant richness, making it one of the best foods to try in Spain.

Gazpacho

A staple in Spanish cuisine – this is much more than just a tomato-style soup. Only the sweetest vine-ripened tomatoes are used, along with peppers, cucumber, garlic and seasoning, which are blended together before being chilled. Drizzle over some olive oil and get ready to plunge some home-made bread into this bowl of refreshing healthy goodness. In the Andalucía region of southern Spain, gazpacho is a common dish in summer and there is often a jug or menu offering it in tapas bars up and down the coast. A thicker version of gazpacho is called salmorejo, and is served topped with chunks of Ibérico ham as a garnish.  

Gambas al ajillo

Tapas dishes and getting the whole family (or a large group of friends) around the table sharing multiple small plates is an integral part of Spanish social culture. Gambas al ajillo translates to ‘garlic shrimp’, and is a common staple in tapas bars. Savour large juicy prawns with a garlic-based olive oil sauce. It’s delicious served with fresh crusty bread. This is a common tapas dish, served in a small earthenware pot in restaurants. To make it back at your Villa Mi Sueno before dining on your outdoor terrace, fry up some local prawns in sliced garlic and olive oil before tossing in some sliced green chillis. Serve with bread from your local bakery. 

Tortilla Española

Despite the name ‘tortilla’, this is actually an egg-based famous Spanish food that divides many in how it is made. Potatoes and onions are slowly fried in olive oil, before being mixed with beaten eggs. You can add anything you like as the omelette begins to take shape, although there are some purists who claim that adding onion is a culinary crime! Popular toppings are mushrooms, ham, chorizo, and courgettes. If you’re looking for a quick and easy brunch to make in the kitchen of your Villa Cortijo Viejo before spending the day relaxing in your private pool, this is an ideal choice.   

Patatas bravas

Perhaps the most common dish on the tapas menu (and the most popular), patatas bravas is a must-try when it comes to Spanish cuisine. Essentially, the dish involves frying potato and then adding a sweet and smoky tomato sauce and herbs. In Spain’s capital of Madrid, the sauce is created using Spanish paprika (pimentón), flour, olive oil and chicken stock – but no tomatoes. Recipes vary, and some Spaniards insist on adding red wine or fino sherry to round out the flavour. While there doesn’t seem to be one exact way of making patatas bravas, many locals keep their methods and ingredients strictly to themselves.   

Pisto

This is essentially a Spanish version of the French dish, ratatouille. You’ll find that it is most common in the La Mancha region of Spain, and in countryside towns and villages in central Spain. You’ll need plenty of time if you’re going to make this dish the Spanish way. Peppers, onions, garlic, tomatoes and courgettes are slowly fried in olive oil on a low heat. Although traditionally served as a starter or side dish, you can serve it as a main meal with the addition of chorizo sausage or eggs – a perfect pairing with red wine and crusty bread.

Discover some of the best traditional Spanish food on a memorable villa holiday to Andalucia, the Costa Blanca or Costa Del Sol. Browse our selection of premium properties in Spain.

Food Guide: Italy

Food Guide: Italy

chiracshah

A guide to the best food in Italy

Food is one of the highlights of any holiday to Italy. From doughy pizza laden with mozzarella and fresh tomatoes, to pasta in various shapes and sizes dressed in a slow-roasted sauce or oozing with cheese. Cured meats, cheeses and carbs are staples on the menu, dressed in a variety of sauces and oils that pay homage to the country’s beautiful Mediterranean landscapes. Here’s our round-up of culinary delights you should be sampling on your holiday to Italy.     

Pizza

Filling and oh-so delicious, pizza has become a favourite dish around the world, but having the real deal in Italy is perhaps one of the highlights of any holiday to this part of Europe. Dating back to 1889 and Queen Margherita’s requests, the famous combination of doughy base, tomato sauce, mozzarella and basil is a must-try. There are two different types of pizza to sample in Italy – one is Neapolitan style, and the other is Roman-style. Neapolitan pizza has a fluffy and thicker crust and can be stuffed with cheese, while Roman-style is thinner and more crispy, with a firm bite. The key to any good pizza is fewer ingredients that are high in quality, so be wary of pizza restaurants that load their bases with toppings to cover cheap ingredients.

Ribollita

Italy is famous for it’s soups, and this one which hails from Tuscany is a firm favourite, especially in cooler months. Thickened with bread rather than meat, this savoury dish has roots in the former peasant region of Italy’s countryside, and is considered an absolute treat in the autumn months when the harvest is bountiful. Recipes vary depending on availability of ingredients, but common staples in this dish include cannellini beans, bread, kale, cabbage, chard, celery, tomatoes, potatoes, carrots and onion. In Florence, Ribollita is a common example of traditional Italian food, and is eaten as a starter before a main course of pasta. 

Carbonara

With so many pasta dishes to choose from in Italian cuisine, trying to select a couple as recommendations is very tricky indeed, but carbonara has to be one of the most famous Italian foods, with many locals feeling very particular about how the dish is made and the ingredients within it. The dish is actually very simple, containing just eggs, spaghetti, pecorino cheese, black pepper and cured guanciale or bacon. Other variations contain cream. The best way to get a traditional variation is to ask a local, and let them recommend a restaurant that is famed for its carbonara recipe. Alternatively, grab a few recommended ingredients from your local supermarket and whip up your own version in the kitchen of your Villa Campanella.

Arancini and Supplì

These are examples of freshly fried rice balls. Arancini comes from Sicily, while Supplì hails from Rome. You’ll find these decadent snacks all across Italy in wine bars, restaurants and at festivals offering street food. Arancini’s name means ‘small orange’ and is usually stuffed with some form of cheese, as well as other vegetables like aubergine or mushrooms. Supplì is typically served as a starter as part of an antipasti platter, and is most common in pizza or pasta restaurants, typically containing mozzarella, rice and tomato sauce. To get an authentic ball, make sure it is freshly fried upon ordering!

Tiramisu

When you’re not indulging in gelato, this is next on the must-try desserts list. Probably the country’s most beloved dessert, Tiramisu is a no-bake parfait containing layer upon layer of coffee-soaked sponge fingers and mascarpone cheese. Sometimes, cream or egg whites are added to give a lighter texture, so the dessert isn’t too dense. The dish dates back to the 1960s, and again, many locals may not agree on the right or wrong way to make it. A good quality Tiramisu should contain only the best coffee and mascarpone. Sometimes, other cakes or cookies are substituted for ladyfingers. Again, ask a local for restaurant recommendations and they will be sure to point you in the right direction of a good Tiramisu.   

Discover some of the best food in Italy on a villa holiday to Sicily or Puglia. Explore our range of Italian luxury villas.

Best Time to Visit French Riviera

Best Time to Visit French Riviera

chiracshah

When is the best time to visit the French Riviera?

Otherwise known as the Côte d’Azur, the French Riviera is a popular holiday destination with tourists from all over Europe and beyond. Stretching from Monaco to the Alps, and spanning vibrant and glamorous cities likes Cannes, Nice and Menton, visitors should expect a mixture of pristine palm-fringed beaches, high-end boutiques, award-winning restaurants, Roman ruins, quaint medieval villages, trendy beach clubs and harbours filled with eye-wateringly priced yachts. Here’s our guide to when is the best time to visit the French Riviera.   

Summer (June – August)

The best time of year to visit the French Riviera is undoubtedly the summer, when dry, hot and sunny conditions are frequent, and the mercury hovers between 25°C and 29°C. In some cases, summer heatwaves have even pushed temperatures into the low 30s. Summer storms are not as common on the Riviera (unlike mainland France), and sea temperatures are around 24°C, which is ideal for swimming. Pack plenty of swimwear, sun cream and light, loose clothing for the heat of the day. On the 21st June, you can enjoy the Fête de la Musique – a day that is enjoyed all over France with live music bands and street parties taking over many major city squares, streets and parks.

Autumn (September – October)

The months of September and October are one of the best times to visit the French Riviera. Temperatures are pleasantly warm, ranging from highs of 26°C – 21°C, making it an ideal time to hit the beach and sunbathe, or swim in the sea, which has been warmed up throughout the sizzling heat of the summer months to a pleasant 24°C. It is however worth nothing that as November creeps up and October ends, the rainy season approaches, so it is worth taking a waterproof coat to protect yourself from the odd shower if you are out and about sightseeing. A reduction in the number of daylight hours also means there is less time available to enjoy the sun, but you can easily party the night away at a beach club or music venue. Between the 23rd – 26th September, Monaco hosts its annual yacht show, which is worth a visit to see some of the world’s most luxurious yachts.

Spring (March – May)

Expect the mercury to start climbing up in spring on the French Riviera. This is arguably the best time of year to visit the French Riviera, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 24°C. Gardens and parks are alive with flora as everything starts to bloom. That said, pack a light coat, as there can be some rainfall in spring. Layers will also be needed for fresh, cool mornings and evenings, but feel free to pack a swimsuit for beach visits during the afternoons, or for time spent relaxing in the pool and gardens of your Villa Mas des Fleurs during the heat of the day. May is a big month for the region, as movie stars and celebrities flock to Cannes for its Film Festival, and the F1 Monaco Grand Prix takes place between 21st – 24th May. 

Winter (November-February)

Compared to other regions of France, winters in the French Riviera are relatively mild, so you can get out and enjoy the region’s attractions without the busy crowds of the summer. Snowfall is very rare, but you may encounter some chilly winds that come off the coast. Expect January to have lows of 4°C, and highs of 10°C. Temperatures can rise to around 13°C by February. You will need to pack some winter clothing, just in case. On the 5th January, there is a New Year’s run on the Promenade des Anglais, while between the 20th – 26th January, Monte Carlo hosts its annual rally with iconic racing cars. Nice’s annual carnival is hosted between 15th – 29th February, attracting millions of visitors every year.    

Looking for the ideal home-from-home while you explore the Côte d’Azur? Discover our range of premium villas in the French Riviera.

Best Places to Visit in Spain

Best Places to Visit in Spain

chiracshah

From sun-drenched palm fringed beaches and bustling resorts to quiet mountain villages and a laid-back siesta culture, Spain has plenty to offer visitors looking to enjoy a relaxing holiday soaking up the sun. Here are some of the best places to go in Spain, and things to do.

Nerja, Andalucia

A former fishing village, Nerja has kept all its old-world traditional history and charm, with whitewashed houses and winding cobbled streets greeting visitors. It has a relaxed and charming feel that is typical of inland Spain, while expressing all the character and vibe of a coastal resort. Visit the Nerja caves – a must-see attraction that is home to the world’s oldest cave paintings created by Neanderthals, as well as Moorish currency and Roman pottery that evoke the colourful history of this region.

Take a day out from your private Villa Cantera and drive to the white-washed village of Frigiliana – considered one of the best places to visit in Spain and one of the most stunning villages in all of Andalucia, with accolades such as ‘The Prettiest Village in Spain’ to its name. Here you’ll find quiet streets bursting with colourful flowers, fragrant herbs and plenty of local shops in which to pick up souvenirs like local lace, olive oil and pottery.

Those who want a day on the beach will love Maro beach, which was voted the best in Andalucia in 2013, and the second best beach in the entire country. Expect gorgeous views, crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkelling and easy access for families. If you’re looking for a beach that is quieter and more secluded, head to neighbouring Caleta de Maro.  

Jávea, Costa Blanca

Situated between Valencia and Alicante, Jávea is one of the best places to holiday in Spain and boasts over 20km of coastline and plenty of beaches where you can top up your tan. Head to Arenal beach, which you’ll certainly want to visit more than once thanks to its Blue Flag status and abundance of sports facilities, children’s playgrounds and nearby shops and restaurants, where you can pick up local tapas, paella or international dishes. It is very easy to while away a few hours while the azure waters caress the shoreline. 

Also worth visiting is Jávea Old Town, which was once surrounded by protective walls and still contains remains of old former fortifications. The town itself has a unique and rather unusual layout, which has remained since the Middle Ages. Spend a few hours wandering around the stunning whitewashed houses, local churches and walls featuring local ‘tosca’ sandstone.

If you feel like a hike, head to Montgó Natural Park which rises 753 metres above the town. Bring some comfortable walking shoes and climb the slope to the top of the summit for some incredible views of the surrounding bay and beyond. 

Marbella, Costa Del Sol

Arguably one of the best places to go on holiday in Spain, it is easy to see why so many holidaymakers visit Marbella every year. If you’re a beach lover – you’ll want to book Villa Pedrosol, where you are just a few steps away from Real Zaragoza Beach, with the private gate to your property located right on the sand! When you can tear yourself away from your beautiful property and the surrounding beach, Marbella is a resort that boasts plenty of things to do. Hire a private catamaran or yacht from the harbour for a day of sailing, head to one of the resort’s luxurious high-end beach clubs for an evening of dancing and gourmet food, book a day trip to discover the breathtaking city architecture of Seville, or indulge in a tapas foodie tour around Marbella Old Town.   

Discover some of the best places to visit in Spain on a family villa holiday. Browse our collection of premium Spanish holiday villas.

Best Beaches in Spain

Best Beaches in Spain

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Whether you like to swim, snorkel or sunbathe, spending some quality down time on the beach is what holidays in Spain are all about. After all, the Costa Blanca itself stretches for 200km, with 170 beaches to choose from. From quiet cobbled coves on tranquil islands to buzzing mainland shores just steps away from clubs, bars and resorts, there’s a beach to suit any kind of traveller. Here’s our guide to some of the best beach holidays in Spain. 

Playa la Granadella, Javea (Costa Blanca)

Ideal for couples and families looking for a more laid-back pace, this Blue Flag beach offers stunning views for the most memorable holiday snaps, giving visitors one of the best beach holidays in Spain. Situated between two rocky outcrops with a lush pine forest as its backdrop, this beach has been previously used to shoot Hollywood films, such as My life in Ruins and The Cold Light of Day, starring Bruce Willis. When you look at its beautiful white powdery sand and crystal-clear waters, it isn’t hard to see why. The calm waters here are alive with tropical fish and other aquamarine life, making it an ideal spot for snorkelling and other water sports like banana boating. After a day of relaxation on the beach, head home to your nearby Villa Trufa for some relaxation and dinner on your private terrace overlooking the pool.    

Playa de La Malagueta, Malaga (Costa Del Sol)

Commonly given the accolade of one of the best beaches in Southern Spain, Playa de La Malagueta is difficult to miss thanks to the famous Malagueta sculpture that welcomes you on approach. Ideal for those who want to be just a stone’s throw from the facilities of the city and its shops, bars and restaurants, Playa de La Malagueta is very popular with locals and tourists alike, with a vibrant buzz that stretches its entire length of 1,200 metres. If you need to take time out from the heat, the palm trees offer plenty of shade, and parasols and sunbeds can be rented for relaxation. Make a day of it and grab some lunch in the middle of the day at one of the many nearby places to eat offering espeto (grilled fish on skewers). If you don’t have a car, you can reach the beach via one of the buses that make a stop at Paseo de Parque.    

Playa de Corralejo (Fuerteventura)

Spain boasts some of the most beautiful islands in the world, including Fuerteventura. If you feel like venturing further from your luxury Villa Lugano, the resort of Corralejo boasts no less than five beautiful sand dune beaches, offering calm seas for swimming and snorkelling, and plenty of water sports to keep everyone entertained. Because the beaches are vast and cover an expansive stretch across several kilometres, this is the ideal place to come for some down time and to escape crowds. That said, there are plenty of services and amenities close by, including restaurants, bars and shops.   

Playa las Teresitas (Tenerife)

Known as one of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Tenerife, Playa las Teresitas is situated on the island’s northeast coast. Featuring soft, golden sand and swaying palm trees, it is an oasis of calm and offers stunning views of the surrounding bay. A breakwater structure has been constructed to keep the waters calm, making it an ideal beach for families with small children. Stronger swimmers also have barrier-free access. The beach features volleyball courts, aerobics and yoga classes, sun loungers, showers, toilets and a host of bars and restaurants offering local and international fare.

Enjoy one of the best beach holidays in Spain and browse our selection of premium holiday villas in mainland Spain, the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands.

Best Beaches in Puglia

Best Beaches in Puglia

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Situated on the heel of Italy’s famous ‘boot’, sun-drenched Puglia greets visitors with olive groves that date back centuries, quaint whitewashed villages, unique architecture, a stunning coastline and some fabulous cuisine. Puglia’s beaches are perhaps the region’s best kept secret, and are considered to be among the best in Italy. We recommend hiring a car to explore them all – here’s our guide to the best beaches in Puglia. 

Spiaggia di Pescoluse

This stretch of beach is one of the best beaches in Puglia – nicknamed ‘The Maldives of Salento’. With a name like that, you know you can expect gloriously clear waters and pristine white sand that your toes really sink into. Hugging the Ionian Sea on the southern tip of Italy, and stretching from Torre Pali in the north to Torre Vado in the south, this white sand beach in Puglia is spacious and has plenty of room for you to spread out on your own sun lounger or sit beneath your umbrella, without feeling surrounded by other tourists. If you prefer an even more private vibe, there are private areas of the beach that you can pay to enjoy – with fewer crowds and bar service. If you come in the peak season, beware that the shoreline can get very crowded, especially during the height of the day..  

Mora Mora

This tranquil slice of beach haven is located close to Lecce, with stunning views of the Adriatic coast. Sink your toes into this stunning white sand beach in Puglia, which features natural shrubby verges and calm waters that make it ideal for young families and less experienced swimmers. There is a car park close by, and a swish beach bar and restaurant serving international and Italian fare all day long should you want to make a day of things. Park yourself on a sun lounger and order a refreshing chilled drink from the bar, and they will bring your order to you. If you walk past the loungers, this area of the beach is free and the waters are ideal for snorkelling and swimming, with more sheltered coves away from busy crowds. When it comes to Puglia and Italy’s beaches, this is certainly one worth visiting.   

Lama Monachile, Polignano a Mare

If you feel like heading to a beach with an interesting history after lunch in the garden of your Villa Rubino, this shoreline is close to an imposing Roman bridge and a dried up path that used to be a river, heading towards the beach. Lama Monachile may be small in size, but is big in character. On either side, you’ll find dramatic rock formations and sea-battered cliffs with buildings perched on top of the old walls. You’ll also find plenty of caves around the bay that are ideal for snorkelling. This beach is very popular in the summer months and it also plays host to the annual cliff diving championships every year, and is one of the best Puglia beaches for swimming and diving. 

Beach of Purity, Gallipoli

This is Gallipoli’s most popular beach due to its central location. As its name suggests, it is certainly one of the best beaches in Puglia thanks to its clean and crystal-clear waters and soft, powdery sands. Expect golden sand and amazing views of ancient city walls and the Sant’Andrea Island lighthouse. You’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars nearby should you need a snack or some cooling gelato during the day. In the evenings, the various beach bars on offer become hotspots for locals grabbing dinner while watching the sun set.  

Explore some of the best beaches in Puglia on a family villa holiday in the Mediterranean sunshine.  Let us tempt you with our exclusive range of Puglia villas.