2024 Holidays Archives - Page 2 of 2

Where’s hot in April?

March 25, 2021April 15, 2021chiracshah

Fed up of the UK’s grey and rainy skies? Ready to escape April showers for warm sunshine on your face and a margarita by the pool? Spring is the time of year when Mother Nature waves her magic wand and transforms landscapes right across Europe into a kaleidoscope of colour. If you’re wondering where’s hot in April, we highly recommend Cyprus and Lanzarote, which both share warm temperatures above 20°C, offering weather that’s perfect for sunbathing and sightseeing.

Cyprus

A beautiful jewel of the Eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus makes our where’s hot in April shortlist because it welcomes visitors back time and again thanks to its sandy shores, archaeological sites filled with history, beautiful hiking routes and buzzing nightlife. When you can bear to pull yourself away from your plush Villa Poseidon complete with sunbathing terrace, large pool and pool table, take a stroll into nearby Coral Bay, where you’ll find plenty of souvenir and trinket shops selling pottery, ornaments, lace and jewellery. Browse the many stores selling local handmade produce that you can enjoy back at your villa. Try stuffed vine leaves, a fresh catch of the day, halloumi, chickpea dips and small Greek honey-flavoured doughnuts known as Loukoumades. Looking for something a little more high-end? There are plenty of designer boutiques around Gladstonos and Mylona in nearby Paphos where you can splurge on something special.

Spend a while lounging on Coral Bay’s 600-metre Blue Flag beach, which offers great sunbathing, watersports and snorkelling opportunities for the whole family. Tuck into some delicious Cypriot fare at a taverna before spending the afternoon at the Tombs of the Kings archaeological site, located just a mile north of Paphos harbour, and featuring carvings and monuments that date all the way back to 4 BC.

Hiring a car? Take a drive down to the south coast to visit the ancient city-kingdom of Kourion, which features Roman and Byzantine ruins dating back to 1200 BC. Nature lovers are catered for too – a drive to the Larnaca Salt Lake on the island’s south-west coast might give you an opportunity to spot various migratory birds, including pink flamingos, in their natural habitat.

Lanzarote

Although Lanzarote is one of the smaller Canary Islands at just 60km long, there’s plenty to do to keep you and your family entertained when you’re not dining alfresco or enjoying the private pool in your spacious Villa Jazmin. The great outdoors is a way of life here, with plenty of walking trails, driving routes, beautiful beaches and national parks to discover.

Right across the island, you can’t help but notice the presence of the inspiring local architect and artist, Cesar Manrique. He passed away in 1992, and visitors to the island can visit his iconic home and gardens, which were constructed beneath lava crust and volcanic rock. Also worth visiting is his Jardín de Cactus, which is home to over 450 different species of cacti, and also boasts a restaurant offering Canarian potatoes with mojo sauce, octopus, local cheese and even a cactus burger.

Hiking lovers will enjoy exploring the rugged terrain on a tour of Timanfaya National Park – an ideal place to watch the sun rise (or set), as you explore craters, sand dunes and the otherworldly beauty that is the jagged nearby coastline. The visitor centre gives you all the information you need to drive, walk or even take a camel ride through this stunning park. However you choose to experience it, it’ll be a holiday memory the whole family will treasure.

Book your perfect holiday villa in the sun with our exclusive range of properties in Cyprus and Lanzarote.

Where’s hot in March?

March 23, 2021April 15, 2021chiracshah

Spring is finally starting and the mercury is on the rise across many countries in Europe. Say goodbye to what has seemed like an ever-lasting winter and get ready to start booking your next getaway! If you’re looking to avoid peak season and want to top-up your vitamin D right now (after all, who wants to wait another month or so!?), you may be wondering where’s hot in March? Here’s our guide to places to go and things to see and do as destinations are beginning to bloom.

Cyprus

Get your sun cream out – with eight hours of sunshine a day, and daily temperatures across the plains reaching 19°C-20°C, Cyprus is the place to be if you’re wondering where’s hot in March. Top up your tan in your private and carefully landscaped gardens complete with large pool at Villa Jan Mari Elen. When you’re ready to venture out, if you’re a nature lover, between Krya Vrysi and Lakkos tou Fragkou lies the Adonis Baths, which link back to Greek mythology and lovers Adonis and Aphrodite. By swimming in the natural pools, it is believed that you will gain youth and virility. There’s also the famous Rock of Aphrodite, which is located off the southwest coast of the island. The UNESCO-listed site is where Aphrodite is said to have risen from the sea, and is one of the country’s most famous landmarks.

If you’re more of a history person, visit the ancient city-kingdom of Kourion on the south coast, which dates back to 1200 B.C, featuring Roman and Byzantine ruins. It is one of the more popular attractions on the island, so visiting early and avoiding peak times helps. The Roman-Greek amphitheatre also hosts Shakespearean plays and music concerts. There are a number of sites across Cyprus that offer incredible insight into its fascinating history, including the Kolossi Castle, which dates back to the medieval era. It was restored in the 15^th century, with a majestic rooftop offering panoramic views for visitors.

If you’re got kids, they’ll love Fasouri Watermania – Cyprus’s biggest water park offering 30 different slides and the country’s largest wave pool, as well as six snack bars and three restaurants, with something for children of all ages.

Tenerife

This volcanic and rugged island is the largest of the Canaries, and offers up a year-round mild climate, placing it centre-stage on our list of destinations for where’s hot in March. Enjoy pristine beaches, cute towns with cobbled winding streets and splashes of colour, and national parks and attractions that are great for nature lovers. When you’re not taking some time out for yourself in your sleek boutique-hotel-style Villa Colibri, hop in the car and get exploring some of Tenerife’s unspoiled beauty.

Teide National Park is a must-see when visiting Tenerife, with visitors flocking from all over the world to visit Mount Teide – the world’s third-tallest volcano which hasn’t erupted since 1909 (but is still marked as active). The park’s cable car gets you to the top in just eight minutes. If you fancy the rewarding experience of hiking it, devote five hours of time to it and make sure to pack plenty of water, sunscreen and a jacket. You can also book night tours of Mount Teide, where you watch the stars from the summit.

For the kids, there’s Siam Park, which has received a number of accolades for its numerous waterslides and attractions for kids of all ages. The park is much quieter in the spring months, so your little ones might get most of the place to themselves. Aqualand water park is another option, which is more suited to much younger children. If the kids want to hit the beach, visit the golden sand beach of Playa de Las Teresitas, which features yellow sand that has been imported from Spanish colonies in the Sahara. Its calm waters also make swimming ideal for families.

For the grown-ups and couples, no visit to Tenerife is complete without a wine tasting tour. In the north of the island, visit Casa del Vino in El Sauzal. It’s the ideal place to have lunch and a few samples, while learning about wine production on the island (which has 8,000 hectares of land devoted to wine-making). Learn traditional cultivation methods, and visit the indoor wine museum, which is an ideal attraction if you happen to encounter a brief spring rain shower.

Book your March getaway now by discovering our hand-picked villas in Cyprus and Tenerife.

Where’s hot in February?

March 23, 2021April 15, 2021chiracshah

Struggling with the winter blues? If you’ve forgotten what a blue sky is and you’re ready to switch multiple jumpers and pairs of socks for your swimwear and flip-flops, it’s time to find out where’s hot in February so you can get booking your next luxury villa holiday in the sun. Soak up some vitamin D and feel the sun on your face while the palm trees sway in the wind. Booking and looking forward to your next idyllic break is just a few clicks away.

Tenerife

The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife offers a diverse terrain, unspoiled beaches, traditional towns and rugged national parks. A great destination for families and couples alike, the wide range of attractions on offer means there is something for all ages (when you’re not sitting back with a glass of wine and taking in the mountain views from your villa that is!).

Feel like heading out and exploring Tenerife by car? An absolute must is Teide National Park. You’ll need to reserve a permit before visiting, but once you’ve done this, you can ride up the cable car to the summit of Mount Teide, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Bring a jacket though, as it can get a little windy up there! Night tours of Mount Teide are also available, with time allowed for stargazing.

If you’ve got children in tow, use your ‘My Villa Plus‘ account and book tickets to Siam Park, which has been voted the best water park in the world twice over. The park gets far less crowded in winter, so your little ones will enjoy having more of the place to themselves while you relax. If you have toddlers or younger children, Aqualand water park is more suitable, with shows included in your ticket price.

Tenerife offers plenty of small local villages that are worth exploring. Head to Masca, a beautiful, tranquil village offering jaw-dropping views of the mountainous island valleys. Legend says that Masca is where locals would hide if they were being attacked by pirates. Get there nice and early to avoid crowds, so you can get the best photos. Also worth checking out is Garachico – a colourful village offering cobbled narrow streets, locally-made ice cream and great souvenir and deli shopping. Bring your swimsuit and take a refreshing dip in the natural pools, if time allows.

Lanzarote

This Canary Island’s dramatic coastline and laid back pace keeps visitors coming back time and again for a dose of winter sunshine. If you’re thinking of where’s hot in February, Lanzarote doesn’t disappoint, offering a year-round mild climate with daily temperatures of between 20-21°C. Families are catered for with plenty of theme and water parks, including Aquapark and Dino Water Park, while couples will enjoy wandering around the cobbled streets of quaint towns and driving winding coastal roads with epic scenery.

Visit the Jameos del Agua caves – a stunning cave system with its own restaurant, pool and auditorium hosting live events, before visiting the Jardín de Cactus, where green-fingered folk will love a peaceful stroll in the tranquil gardens that boast 450 different species of cactus. Stop for a bite to eat at the garden cafe, where you can tuck into a cactus burger made from potato and prickly pear cactus. If you’re after something with a little more adrenaline, visit Museo Atlántico – Europe’s first underwater sculpture museum where you can view 12 reflective figures 12 metres underwater. If you’ve never dived before, or have no diving licence, the museum will give you a crash course before you make the supervised descent.

For a spot of shopping, visit Teguise’s Market on a Sunday morning in the Plaza Clavijo y Fajardo, where you can sample island produce and pick up everything you need for a family dinner that you can eat beneath a glorious sunset under the shaded terrace offered by Villa Elena Sol.

Book your next getaway today – take a look at our specially selected quality properties in Tenerife and Lanzarote for your February 2022 winter escape.

Where’s hot in January?

March 23, 2021April 15, 2021chiracshah

Christmas is long gone, so get your year off to a great start and soak up some rays on a winter villa holiday of a lifetime. Escape the UK’s grey and cloudy skies, top up your vitamin D and spend quality time with those you love on a luxury villa break in the sun. Our where’s hot in January guide should give you all the inspiration you need to get booking your next winter getaway.

Fuerteventura

As an island that boasts 3,000 hours of sunshine every year, it’s no wonder that the tranquil Canary Island of Fuerteventura made it onto our where’s hot in January list. When you’re thinking of venturing further than the private roof terrace of your luxurious Villa Lobos, the island offers plenty of opportunities to explore.

Those who are into hiking and the great outdoors can organise a private tour and hire a car to experience the Barranco De Los Enamorados ravine. Little known to tourists, this is the ideal place to escape from the busier resort towns and connect with Mother Nature’s epic rock formations. If you love discovering a hidden gem, this is the place to be. Do pack sensible walking shoes though, as flip-flops just won’t cut it!

If you have hired a car, and you’re staying in one of the many villas in Corralejo, Fuerteventura’s Corralejo Natural Park, stretching across the island’s north-east coast, offers some of the most beautiful sand dunes and vistas. Pack a bottle of water, as you’ll be getting thirsty in the dry heat of the desert. Also worth exploring is the famous volcano crater of Calderon Hondo, which you can hike by yourself or with a guided tour, which you can organise from many towns on the island. If you decide to walk by yourself, you have the option of two major routes to the top. When you’re driving around and exploring the towns on the island, make a stop at Las Playitas if you’re heading down the east coast. It’s a lovely quiet place for a seafront stroll, or to stop for a bite to eat. Renowned for its seafood, fresh fish and octopus, foodies will love the Bar Restaurante Las Playas – a popular hotspot with locals.

Lanzarote

A year-round mild climate, dramatic volcanic vistas and glorious golden-sand beaches keep visitors flocking to this beautiful winter sun island. A great place for families as well as couples and cyclists who love to explore the winding coastal roads, Lanzarote has something for everyone and easily makes our destination line-up of where’s hot in January. Families with young children will love the Rancho Texas wild west park, as well as the Aquapark and Dino Water Park (when they’re not splashing around in their own private heated pool in Villa Cabrera, of course!).

Indulge in a spot of shopping around Teguise’s Market, which is held every Sunday morning in the Plaza Clavijo y Fajardo. Pick up island produce such as cheese and wine, and fruits and vegetables that you can use to cook up a storm in your villa’s private kitchen. Buy local hand-made souvenirs for your loved ones at home, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

Feel like heading somewhere a little more quiet? Drive to Playa de Papagayo – a series of small beaches situated between lava rocks, making a great place for a serene coastal walk, or a spot of surfing or snorkelling. There’s even a beach house restaurant offering refreshments. For an even more remote trek, visit el Volcan El Cuervo, a dormant volcano where visitors can actually walk inside its crater.

Discover our hand-picked selection of quality villas in Fuerteventura and Lanzarote for your January 2022 winter holiday.

3 reasons to book a holiday villa in the Canary Islands this year

March 12, 2021March 12, 2021chiracshah

The Canary Islands lie in the Atlantic Ocean off North Africa’s west coast. Basking in warm sunny weather all year round, millions flock to this popular Spanish archipelago annually – and it’s not hard to see why. Here are three reasons to book a villa holiday to Lanzarote, Fuerteventura or Tenerife in 2021:

Incredible volcanic landscapes

The Canary Islands are volcanic in origin, which means they’re full of spectacular and intriguing landscapes to explore.

Lanzarote is home to the lunar-like Timanfaya National Park, formed by huge 18^th century eruptions. Here you’ll find jaw-dropping geological phenomena like craters, tunnels and geysers. And you can even ride around on a camel!

Fuerteventura boasts a string of 50,000-year-old volcanoes to the south west of Corralejo. One of the best preserved is Calderon Hondo with its impressive 70-metre deep crater. It’s an easy walk along well-marked paths to the top, where you’ll be treated with great views of other volcanoes and the island’s north.

Last but not least, in Tenerife you’ll discover magnificent Mount Teide – the highest peak in the Canaries and one of the world’s largest volcanoes. The rewarding hike to the summit takes around 5 hours, but the less energetic or patient can hop in a cable car and enjoy the stunning vistas within 8 minutes.

Stunning sandy beaches

One of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Lanzarote is Papagayo Beach, on the island’s southern tip. Here you can feel fine white sand between your toes and marvel at the underwater world by snorkelling in the turquoise seas.

To the north of Fuerteventura is the Grandes Playas de Corralejo (Corralejo’s Big Beaches), a 9 kilometre stretch of heavenly golden sands flanked by the largest dunes in the Canary Islands. What’s more, you can view the islands of Lanzarote and Los Lobos from the shoreline.

Finally, Tenerife offers Playa del Duque in the popular resort of Costa Adeje on the south west coast. This top-notch Blue Flag beach is situated in a small bay, with white sands, crystal clear water and a lovely seafront promenade.

Fun outdoor adventures

If sunbathing all day long isn’t your thing, there’s no shortage of fantastic activities to keep you active and entertained in the Canary Islands.

In Lanzarote, you can saddle up and enjoy a horse ride through the island’s interior and coastal areas. Lanzarote A Caballo offers excursions catering for the whole family, from total novices to seasoned pros.

For those who want to practise their swing, Fuerteventura is the perfect place to do so. Fuerteventura Golf Club, the island’s first 18-hole golf course, boasts beautiful ocean views, lakes, palm trees, streams and exceptionally well-kept lawns.

Want to get up close and personal with marine life? Tenerife has a network of dive centres where you can do just that. The calm warm waters are great for first timers, and there are even sunken ships to explore!

Don’t miss out on your dream holiday. Check out our great range of villas in the Canary Islands now.

Wondering where to go in the Balearic Islands in 2023?

March 4, 2021June 6, 2023

Endless sunshine, stunning scenery, historical towns, exciting activities… The Balearic Islands offer all this and much more. But where should you visit in Majorca or Menorca in 2023? Here’s our expert team’s handpicked selection of some of the best holiday villas and resorts in these two Spanish slices of paradise:

Villa Rico, Majorca: amazing mountain scenery

Located in the countryside to the north of Majorca, Villa Rico is the ideal choice for big families or groups. This fabulous 5-bedroomed property is set against a stunning mountain backdrop, with a private heated pool at the centre of its extensive gardens. Even better, there’s comfortable outdoor furniture under the covered terrace for alfresco dining or unwinding with a drink in hand.

The bright and airy indoors are equally impressive, with a well-equipped kitchen and indoor BBQ room for whipping up delicious homemade feasts. And to top it all off, you’re only a 10-minute drive from both the atmospheric Old Town of Pollensa and charming resort of Puerto Pollensa.

Puerto Pollensa, Majorca: picture-perfect marina

Puerto Pollensa is a picturesque gem on Majorca’s northeast coastline. Once a fishing village, this small resort boasts a horseshoe-shaped marina with the glorious Tramuntana mountains as its backdrop. Whether you’re looking for a chilled ambience, beautiful beaches or breathtaking scenery, you’ll find it all and more here.

Wander down the pretty promenade and enjoy a meal at one of the sea-facing eateries with wonderful views. Browse the stalls at the bustling weekly market in Plaza Miquel Capllonch, the town’s main square. And don’t forget to experience the famous Pine Walk, a scenic pine-fringed path along the waterfront that’s the perfect setting for a romantic evening stroll.

Villa Serena Forcat, Menorca: contemporary family getaway

**Villa Serena Forcat**, Calan Forcat, Menorca

Found in the sought-after resort of Calan Forcat on Menorca’s northwest coast, Villa Serena Forcat is a fantastic family-friendly villa. This spacious 4-bedroomed property offers a large private heated pool surrounded by a decked terrace and plenty of sunbeds. Inside, the contemporary furnishings and beamed ceilings create a stylish yet homely vibe.

What’s more, the villa occupies the perfect spot for those without a hire car. You’re just a 10-minute stroll away from the centre of Calan Forcat, with its trio of sandy coves, great selection of shops and eateries, and fun-filled waterpark. But if you want to venture a little further afield, it’s only a short drive to both the enchanting historic town of Ciutadella and lovely resort of Calan Bosch.

Calan Bosch, Menorca: bustling waterside resort

Calan Bosch is a well-loved modern resort on the southwest coast of Menorca. At its heart is a buzzing marina, fringed with an array of shops and restaurants where you can indulge in some retail therapy or tantalising cuisine. The atmosphere comes even more alive at night, with live music playing at many of the resort’s bars.

You’ll also find a gorgeous little beach with soft golden sands and shallow azure waters, just right for a family day in the sun. And younger visitors will love whizzing down flumes and making a splash at Aquarock, the biggest waterpark on the island.

Want more inspiration for where to go in Majorca or Menorca in 2023? Take a look at our great range of holiday villas in the Balearic Islands.

12 winning reasons why shoulder season travel is the best

February 24, 2020February 24, 2020chiracshah

The “shoulder seasons” are those travel periods that fall in spring and autumn, between the peak and fully off-peak seasons. For those not at the mercy of school terms – like couples, retirees, and families with tots – they can be the perfect times for a villa getaway. Here are 12 top reasons to get booking and jet off this spring:

1. Save on accommodation

There are great bargains to be had on our huge range of villas outside the summer holidays. This spring 2020, you could book a fantastic property for just £500 per week – that’s a whopping saving of £1,500 compared to peak season!

2. Nab your dream villa

There’s much better availability in the shoulder seasons, so you can have the pick of the bunch and snap up that fabulous villa you’ve been eyeing for months.

3. Spend less on flights

Air fares are often lower at off-peak times too, which can significantly cut the cost of your trip even more. Across our destinations, flying in the spring shoulder season is on average £100 cheaper than peak season.

4. Bask in better weather

Love the sun but hate melting in the heat? The shoulder seasons’ slightly cooler temperatures are perfect for sightseeing and adventure, while still warm enough for lazy days spent lounging by the pool.

5. Beat the crowds

You won’t be jostling for space in the museum or fighting for spots on the beach, meaning a much more pleasant experience all round.

6. Skip the queues

Who wants to waste precious time waiting in long lines when you could be fast-tracking straight to the fun?

7. Get around easily

With fewer cars on the roads and less busy public transport, you’ll find it a stress-free breeze to get from A to B when you’re out exploring.

8. Be snap happy

Looking to make your Instagram followers green with envy? You’ll be free to capture those perfect holiday shots without throngs of other people ruining them!

9. Live like a local

With fewer tourists about, you’ll enjoy a more authentic experience of your destination and have better chances to mingle with the locals.

10. Enjoy discounts on foods and attractions

Did you know some tourist spots slash entrance fees and menu prices outside peak times? So you could come home with even more pennies in your pocket.

11. Support the local economy

By visiting and spending money outside the main tourist period, you’ll be benefiting your destination’s local economy – so everyone wins.

12. Help reduce overtourism

Travelling in the shoulder seasons helps distribute the weight of tourism on a destination across the year. And that’s much better news for locals and the environment.

Fancy a bargain last-minute getaway during the upcoming shoulder season? Take a look at our fantastic range of holiday villas still available this spring 2020!