Tag: Lifestyle

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 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. 

Things to do in Lanzarote

Things to do in Lanzarote

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Situated in the northern and easternmost point of the Canary archipelago, Lanzarote greets visitors with dramatic sand dunes and volcanic landscapes, a vibrant Spanish culture and a calming, laid- back pace of life. Spend your holiday relaxing on Blue Flag beaches, exploring the Timanfaya National Park and its stunning scenery, indulging in tapas and delicious seafood and visiting local markets. There’s always something to be discovered on this beautiful Canary island.

Sample local Lanzarote wine in La Geria

La Geria is a wine-lover’s paradise, with plenty of vineyards to explore, tasting tours on offer and tipples to be tasted. It is said that the Malmsey wine of the island was even approved of by Shakespeare himself! Many of the island’s vineyards were established after the volcanic eruptions of 1730, and therefore a lot of the fertile land is covered with black ash, and then covered with a picon gravel. With little rainfall on Lanzarote, vines here grow thanks to higher levels of morning dew and by receiving moisture from the nearby trade winds. Booking a vineyard tour of the island is one of the best things to do in Lanzarote, and you can arrange trips from many of the major towns and sample wines made from the local grape variety of Malvasia Volcanica.   

Top up your tan at one of Lanzarote’s quiet beaches

If you are a sun worshipper and fancy a beach day away from your Villa Amapola Pocillos, head to Playa de Papagayo on the south of the island, which is much quieter than other beaches in the popular holiday resorts. Other secluded beaches include Playa Mujeres and Playa Caleta del Congrio. These beaches are within the Los Ajaches reserve so there is little development and facilities. There is a small toll of €3 to access the reserve by car, but the drive is worth it. Expect crystal-clear waters for swimming and soft sandy shores. Beach restaurants can get a little crowded in warmer months, so we recommend packing a picnic if you plan on spending the day at one of these beaches. You can also take yacht and boating tours around the island from these shores. 

Visit the Jameos del Agua caves

These caves are one of the island’s biggest attractions, and are one of the best things to see and do. They were originally designed by Cesar Manrique – the island’s most famous artist. You enter through a system of lava tubes, before passing through an underground lake, inhabited by small albino crabs. You can then see a deep turquoise lagoon surrounded by volcanic stone walls. The caves are used for concerts because of their great acoustics, but you can easily while away the hours just wandering around and taking in their intriguing beauty. You’ll find a restaurant on site, as well as cafes and other giftshop facilities.   

Take a day trip to La Graciosa

Just north of Lanzarote is the island of La Graciosa, and it is one of Lanzarote’s top things to do if you plan on visiting for a holiday. Spend the day cycling, swimming and taking in the glorious nature on this quiet island. Ferries depart from Orzola and take just 30 minutes. Hike the dirt roads from some impressive views and incredible holiday photos, swim in the sea, or rent a bike and take a leisurely cycle through the volcanic terrain. La Graciosa is a great place to visit if you love getting outdoors to exercise. If you want a slower pace, you can spend some time relaxing on the beaches of Playa de las Conchas and Playa de la Francesca. In Caleta del Sebo you can tuck into fresh seafood and paella while enjoying the amazing harbour views. 

Inspired by some of the best things to in Lanzarote? Book one of our premium holiday villas in Lanzarote and create your dream holiday.

The Best Time To Visit Portugal

The Best Time To Visit Portugal

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If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Portugal, one of the most popular seasons is summer, when temperatures are at their highest. A popular time is during the spring, when the flora is in bloom and the temperatures are starting to rise again after the cooler winter months. Another popular time is during autumn, when many of the summer crowds have returned home. Winters are cool and quiet, but can be a great time to explore inland Portugal without the crowds.

Summer (June – August)

Portugal is famous for its beaches, and the summer time is undeniably the best time to visit Portugal if you are a sunseeker. During this time, you’ll find that the beaches are very busy with tourists, as are the local and regional attractions. Temperatures in inland cities soar, so many locals also head to the coast where the weather is cooler. Expect long days with plenty of sunshine and heat, as the mercury rises to daily highs of 23ºC in June, reaching 30ºC and above by August. Highs of even 35ºC have been recorded back in 2013. Evenings are mild and balmy, and remain in the twenties temperature-wise, making it an ideal time for eating dinner alfresco on the terrace of your

Villa Eve. Between the 23rd-24th June every year, the Feast of Saint John the Baptist is celebrated across Portugal, and particularly in Porto. Expect fireworks, concerts, dancing and intriguing traditions.

Spring (March – May)

As Portugal comes to life in the spring, the numbers of visitors begin to rise. Between March and May, the average daily temperatures range between 20-22ºC, making spring one of the best times to go to Portugal for getting out and about sightseeing, to play golf, go horse riding, or surfing. It is also a perfect time of year to explore the various hiking and walking trails on offer. The evenings are however still cool and can dip to 13ºC, so bring a light coat if you plan on staying out after the sun goes down. Sea temperatures range from 16-17ºC. If you’re more of a pool than sea swimmer, you can always take a dip in the luxury heated pool of your Villa Vilenia Anemelia. Expect rainfall to decrease as May arrives, with only 20mm expected for the month. The 25th of April is Portugal’s Freedom Day, which celebrates the end of Portugal’s 50-year dictatorship, with plenty of concerts and parades held nationally.

Autumn (September-November)

The autumn time is undeniably one of the best times to book flights to Portugal, as the summer crowds have left, but sea and beach temperatures are still warm. If you plan on sightseeing or hiking, daily highs are more comfortable. If you are a fan of wine, it is also a great time of year to sample the year’s grape harvest and book a wine tour to discover local tipples. You’ll get average highs of 22ºC in September and October, lowering to 19ºC by November. The Algarve still sees 12 hours of sunshine a day at this time of year. Further inland, daylight on offer ranges between 6-7 hours. On the third weekend in September, following the harvest, Portugal celebrates Feiras Novas, which consists of large local fairs and markets, fireworks, brass music and dancing, especially in Ponte de Lima.

Winter (December – February)

The winter months mean fewer sunny days, but temperatures are still warmer than back home in the UK. The Algarve in particular remains sunny and warm, and makes an ideal location for a winter getaway. It is the best time of year to visit Portugal if you are in need of some winter sunshine and a quiet break. If you’re exploring inland Portugal, this can be done with ease in the winter months when cities are quieter, with fewer crowds. Expect daily temperatures of between 15-16ºC between December and February. In the Algarve, temperatures are much warmer and usually reach 20ºC thanks to the winds blowing up from Africa. Nights can however be more chilly, and range from 10ºC-15ºC, so pack a jacket and some layers in your luggage.! The 6th January is Three Kings’ Day, when Portuguese children receive gifts from the kings, rather than Santa Claus. Portugal also hosts its carnival in February, so expect plenty of music, dancing and extravagant parades in major cities and towns at this time of year.

Have we tempted you to book a Portuguese getaway? Browse our range of premium holiday villas in The Algarve and get planning your dream escape.

The best time to visit Kefalonia?

The best time to visit Kefalonia?

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Dreaming of Kefalonia and wondering when is the best time to visit? Thanks to its mild Mediterranean climate, Kefalonia enjoys dry, hot summers and mild winters, but if you visit later in the year, you may need to pack layers in your suitcase as the nights get more chilly. Sun lovers and beach goers will prefer late spring and summer, when the temperatures are warmer. The best time to visit Kefalonia is in July, when the mercury pushes up to an average of 31°C during the day, with temperatures coming down to 21°C in the evenings. If you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds then you will love Kefalonia during the autumn and winter. The quietest and coolest month of the year is January, which can see highs of 14°C.

Summer (June – August)

Summer is undoubtedly the best time to go to Kefalonia if you like sizzling temperatures and spending your days doing watersports, swimming in the sea or topping up your tan. The mercury climbs to a red-hot 30°C by August, and throughout the whole of summer you should expect daily temperatures of between 26-29°C. This time of year is also the driest, and most of the island sees virtually no rain at all during July, with just 5mm of rain in June or August. There is also little in the way of breeze, making the days even hotter! The sea can reach temperatures of up to 26°C in August, making it an ideal time for swimming and cooling off from the heat of the day. Attractions and beaches are usually more busy this time of the year, so get to places early in the morning if you want to beat the queues. On 15th July, the island hosts the Festival of Argostoli, while on the 29th August, there is the festival of Aghios Ioannis in Ratzakli.

Spring (April – May)

Spring sees sunnier and drier weather in Kefalonia, with average temperatures of between 12°C and 18°C. As the season progresses into May, temperatures climb to a balmy 22°C, and it can be the best time of year to visit Kefalonia for wildflowers and walks in national parks and gardens as the whole island comes to life and in bloom. Expect plenty of natural daylight and sunshine, with up to 12 hours per day. Sea temperatures also rise during this season, and the water can be up to 19°C for a refreshing dip. Spring is still a quiet time of year to visit, and the days should be warm enough for you to enjoy the private pool in your Villa Michou Thalassa. Spring also marks Easter, and is a deeply spiritual event right across Kefalonia (as it is in all of Greece). Expect folk dancing, egg-painting rituals and religious processions on Good Friday and Easter Monday.   

Autumn (September-November)

Many believe that autumn is the best time of year to visit Kefalonia, as it is warmer than spring, not as sizzling as the summer, and less crowded. Expect highs of 26°C in September, gradually falling to 22°C in October. As the season progresses, nights may get more chilly, so do bring a light jacket.. Tourist attractions, shops and restaurants should be less crowded, as the peak of the tourist season ends. Some places may even be closed, so you may want to spend more time cooking with loved ones at your Villa Arion. In early September, the island hosts the festival of choral singing, while on 24th September, there is the feast of Theotokos Drepaniotissa that takes place in Argostoli.

Winter (December – March)

Winters in Kefalonia are mild, with some rainfall, which is how the island manages to remain so lush and green in comparison to other Greek islands. The month in which you travel will have a great effect on daily temperatures. Travelling in January during the peak of winter will mean temperatures of between 5 and 7°C. Wrap up if you feel like taking walks along the coast or decide upon sightseeing. In February, temperatures are higher, and fall between 8 and 14°C. Winter on the island sees 6-7 hours of sunshine per day. Winter is also carnival time in Kefalonia, so expect many of the squares and streets to be filled with people, dancing and music during this time. You’ll find the most action in Argostoli and Lixouri, which host processions of masked people and ‘Kavalieri’ with their ‘Dames’ dancing traditional island performances. 

Now you’ve discovered the best time to visit Kefalonia, you can browse our selection of luxury villas in Kefalonia and get booking your dream holiday in Greece.

Best Beaches in Zante

Best Beaches in Zante

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If you’re longing to feel the sand between your toes and refreshing azure waters on your skin, it’s time to book a beach holiday to Zante. Beaches here are among the most beautiful in all of Greece, and come with epic views, watersports options and plenty of shallows for snorkelling. Beaches on the east of the island are popular with beach-club goers and have plenty of facilities, while sandy shores on the west side of Zante are more secluded and quiet. Here’s some of the best beaches in Zante that you should visit while on holiday.

Navagio Bay

Otherwise known as ‘Shipwreck Cove’, this stunning beach is often the poster-child of Greece and is one of the most famous shores in the Mediterranean. Situated on the west side of the island, Navagio is one of the best sandy beaches in Zante and is frequently on the bucket-list of many travellers who come to witness its iconic shipwreck, which became washed up on the shore in 1983. Tours of the shipwreck can be booked if you are more interested in its history. The bay is also popular with swimmers and snorkellers thanks to its calm, turquoise waters. To reach Navagio, you need to take a taxi boat from the port of Porto Vromi, which leaves every hour and takes 30 minutes.  

Kalamaki

Located just 6km from Zante town, towards the eastern side of Laganas bay, Kalamaki is a popular beach with families and watersports lovers because of its calm waters. The beach is part of the National Marine Park and also blends into Laganas beach. Expect epic rock formations and plenty of facilities such as toilets, showers and a cafe should you feel like a bite to eat. The beach is generally underdeveloped, with a lush green backdrop and plenty of natural wildlife, so taking food and other essentials with you for the day is a good idea. 

Porto Zoro

With a reputation for being one of the best Zante beaches on offer, this beach is ideal for escaping the crowds and having a calming swimming experience in beautifully clear waters. Located around 17km away from Zante town, this quiet cove has just a couple of tavernas on offer in terms of amenities. Expect dramatic rock formations that emerge from the sea, lush green surroundings and white powdery sands that are wonderful examples of Zante’s charming natural beauty. It’s the perfect place to head to when you feel like venturing a little further from your private garden and pool in your Villa Vilenia Harmony. 

Tsilivi

Considered to be one of the most popular and best beaches in Zante, Tsilivi is located around 6km from Zante town, and is very popular during the summer months. Expect a lively and buzzing atmosphere, especially in the evenings when happy hours, cocktails and music are all around. Tsilivi itself is one of the most popular resorts on the island, with lots of restaurants, bars and shops that are open late. Watersports lovers will have plenty to do here, while keen snorkellers will relish the crystal-clear waters.

Limnionas

This beach is considered one of the best beaches in Zante because it is largely unspoiled by tourism. You need to access the beach by car, as it is a little more off the beaten track, which makes it quieter and more secluded, so you have more of the sands to yourself. There is a car park available, and from there you can walk down a steep path carved out of the rock face, heading towards the beach. For this reason, this beach is better for adults than families with young children. The bay has many beautiful coves and small caves that are just waiting to be explored, with calm waters that make it an ideal spot for swimming and cooling off from the heat of the day. 

Get exploring some of the best beaches in Zante on a family villa holiday to Greece. Discover our exclusive range of Zante holiday villas.

The Best Time to Visit Spain

The Best Time to Visit Spain

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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.

12 winning reasons why shoulder season travel is the best

12 winning reasons why shoulder season travel is the best

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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!

5 easy yoga poses to help you chill on your villa holiday

5 easy yoga poses to help you chill on your villa holiday

chiracshah

Want to kick your holiday relaxation up a notch? Then make sure you pack a yoga mat for your next villa getaway. With its peace and privacy, your sun-soaked villa garden is the perfect place to get your chakras aligned while working on your tan. Even better, you can cool off in your private pool afterwards!

To get you started, here are 5 beginner yoga poses to help you relieve those tight muscles and switch off your buzzing mind.* And exhale…

Child’s pose

This easy resting pose calms the mind, busts stress and stretches out the hips, thighs and ankles. And it’s great for winding down after a tiring day of exploration.

Start by sitting on your heels with your knees and feet together. Then roll your torso forward, lower your forehead to the ground and stretch your arms in front of you. Let your body release, breathe, and hold for as long as you like.

Warrior 1

A gentle backbend pose, Warrior 1 opens up the front body and strengthens your legs, arms and core.

Take a big step back with your right leg and go into a lunge with your left knee over your left ankle. Turn your right foot out 45 degrees and anchor your right heel firmly into the mat. Lift your chest, reach up your arms and gaze up to your thumb. Hold for 30-60 seconds and repeat on the other side.

Warrior 2

Warrior 2 is great for opening up your outer hips, inner thighs and groin.

Start with your feed about a leg length’s apart. Turn your right foot out 90 degrees and your left foot in slightly. Bend your left knee directly over your left ankle and extend your arms out to the sides with your palms facing down. Gaze out over your left arm, hold for 1 minute and then do it again on the other side.

Bridge pose

This pose gives your front and back a good stretch while extending the spine.

Lie on your back with your knees bent hip width apart directly over your heels. Press your feet into the mat and lift up your hips and bottom. Clasp your hands underneath your pelvis and press them into the ground. Hold for 30-60 seconds and then slowly roll your spine down onto the mat.

Tree pose

Tree is a great one-legged standing pose for beginners that can help you improve your balance and focus. What’s more, it’s great for strengthening your ankles, legs and core.

Stand with your feet together and weight distributed evenly. Engage your abs and slowly shift your weight onto your right foot. Lift your left foot and place it onto your inner right thigh. Bring your hands into the prayer position and focus your gaze on a fixed spot in front of you. Hold for 30 seconds and switch sides.

Looking for the ideal holiday to destress and get away from it all? Check out our biggest ever range of villas available for booking in 2020.

* If you have any health conditions or injuries, do seek medical advice before trying any of the yoga poses described in this article.