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Best Mediterranean places to visit for cycling holidays

February 6, 2018June 14, 2019

There’s something idyllic about cycling along a clifftop track while the sea gently crashes beneath you. Apart from that and the whizz of your hubs, the world seems mysteriously quiet. It’s moments like this that make cycling holidays in the Mediterranean region so appealing.

Between Spain’s Costa del Sol and Cyprus’ eastern shores you’ll find some of the best Mediterranean places to visit for cycling holidays. Here are a few that any cyclist should tick off.

Spain – Costa del Sol

Like the name suggests, Spain’s Sun Coast largely makes for brightly-lit rides which, depending on when you visit, can get a little hot, so bring a hydration pack! One such Costa del Sol cycle starts from the small hillside town of Mijas.

Study a few maps then make for La Cala Golf Course, a popular spot for golfers that’s south of Mijas. The route entails a mixture of arid single-track and two-lane roads, suited to either hybrid bikes or cross-country models. Like all great bike rides, it’s a mixture of ups, for a challenge, and downs, which leave you with a little more time to enjoy the stunning Andalusian views. Once you get to the river near the golf course, stop for a picnic, made up from the kitchen of your self-catering holiday rental, then prepare to do it all again on your way back to Mijas.

Image by Antonio, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Spain – Costa Blanca

Many professional cycling teams use the Costa Blanca as a training hub in the winter. The smooth surfaces here appeal to road cyclists who thrive on gradual climbs, speedy descents and flat stretches.

One of the most renowned climbs in the region is known as the Coll de Rates. You can easily access it from nearby towns, like Javea and Calpe. From Coll de Rates, make your way to the village of Parcent, where the route starts off with a light incline until you reach the summit. Soak up the verdant views of the surrounding region then replenish with a refreshing drink and get ready for a leisurely cruise back down.

Image by Phillip Capper, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Greek islands – Crete

If you’re ever struggling to tackle a Greek hill, promise yourself a big platter of mezes when you finish your ride to spur you on. Other than the end-of-ride meal, however, Greek island cycling makes for unbeatable holiday memories on routes you’ll always remember, many of which are found on Crete. A lot of Cretan roads are large and quiet, too, resulting in a wholly tranquil experience when you’re speeding across the island.

While it’s perfectly easy to trundle along these roads at your own pace, a real test of endurance is to brave the near-90km journey from Chania through the inland hills to the stunning village of Kallikratis. From here you’ll be able to see much of the island’s enticing coastline. Make sure you bring a camera, then capture the moment with a panoramic shot which’ll always remind you of your Crete cycling holiday. If you don’t fancy doing it over again, though, get a holiday companion to drive over and take you back to your villa rental.

Image by Andy Montgomery, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Cyprus – Paphos

Cyprus serves cyclists a selection of island routes for many different preferences. The city of Paphos and the surrounding resorts of Coral Bay are home to road and off-road paths suited to everyone from the everyday commuter to the endurance junkie who craves another fix of kilometre-rich coastal roads.

For a real challenge, cycle into the Troodos mountain range from Paphos. The journey itself is roughly 65 kilometres and is mostly downhill, making for a highly enjoyable and breezy trip. It’s suited to both road and off-road cyclists – just make sure your trusty steed is fitted with a good set of brakes for when you need to stop!

Take the time to soak up gorgeous Cypriot views, like that of the Diarizos river, which you’ll encounter along the way. It’s the fourth largest river on the island, although every twist and turn makes for a serene spot for a sandwich and a bottle of water. Failing that, you can always dip your feet in the river to help cool off before hitting the road again!

Image by Tomasz Huczek, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Mediterranean destinations have all the right ingredients for a cycling holiday – sun, scenery and a fair whack of sandy strips where you can put your feet up after a long day of pedalling!

Thinking about bringing your beloved bicycle on your next getaway? Here’s how to go about taking it onto an aeroplane.

By Isabella Perkins, a freelance travel writer best known for writing about self-catering holidays. Her writing tends to have a family focus, and she is in the middle of writing a new travel guide due to be published next year.

Good snorkelling holidays for villa-loving travellers

December 12, 2017January 9, 2019

Holiday rentals provide the perfect basecamp for snorkelling getaways. Hiring a villa gives you the freedom to prepare your own packed lunches and dinners, and you’ll have plenty of room to store your snorkels, flippers and wetsuits.

Image by Lance, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Good snorkelling holidays unlock a country’s most enthralling secrets. Pack your underwater camera and get ready to delve deep in some of these top destinations…

Costa del Sol, Spain

Costa del Sol is blessed with tepid waters bustling with marine life. On top of that, there’s plenty of sun-kissed beaches where you can set up camp before a few hours of snorkelling. Visit Maro beach, near the town of Nerja, and try to find its fascinating underwater cave if you’re feeling daring.

The shores surrounding Las Yucas and La Viborilla beaches, near Benalmadena, house a wide range of fish such as tuna, bonitos, and dolphinfish.

Costa Blanca, Spain

Like Costa del Sol, the Costa Blanca is a snorkelers’ paradise. Explore the region’s shorelines and you’ll quickly find that it’s simply brimming with underwater life. Granadella Cove, near Javea, has notoriously clear waters. Not only that, it’s quite sheltered so younger snorkellers can see the bay’s treasures, too.

The Algarve, Portugal

Portugal’s Algarve coast comprises playful Atlantic waters and warming sands. It’s also home to the famed Ria Formosa lagoon, one of the country’s many natural wonders. Here you’ll find one of the largest populations of seahorses in the world – wipe down your face mask and prepare to dive amongst them.

Cyprus

If you visit Cyprus during summertime, you might encounter beautiful green and loggerhead turtles on the island’s western coast. The island’s Cape Greco National Park is well worth a visit, too, complete with some of the clearest waters in the region and picturesque in every sense of the word.

Corfu, Greece

The Greek island of Corfu has plenty of spots for a good snorkelling holiday. Its pebbly beaches tend to have clearer waters, but you might want to wear a wetsuit or flippers to protect your feet from the jaggier rocks! Keep your eyes peeled for a diverse range of silverside fish, alongside flathead mullet and painted combers.

Pula, Croatia

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Croatia’s idyllic Adriatic coastlines are the envy of the world. Pula houses some of its finest and along with these renowned views, it has a number of great snorkelling spots.

Take Brijuni National Park, a short boat journey from Pula. The waters of these 14 small, protected islands are alive with flora, fauna and old Roman artefacts. In Verige Bay, on the western coast of the park, you can get a guided tour to explore submerged archaeological sites. Take full advantage and get excited for a day of underwater education.

Whether you’re travelling as a family, with friends or with your partner or spouse, a snorkelling holiday provides an unrivalled way to get to know a country’s ins and outs. Uncover exotic species of fish or simply paddle around and let the waves wash over you – underwater getaways are always ones to remember.

Have a look at some of the Villa Plus offerings in these hotspots and let your snorkelling dreams come to life.

Why beach holidays in Menorca are perfect for young families

November 9, 2017January 9, 2019

On Menorca, young families can enjoy thrills and sunshine at a leisurely pace. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve island is home to luscious wetlands, dunes and an untold number of islets just waiting to be explored. Just try to walk along its inviting shorelines and not be tempted by a spot of sailing, swimming or just paddling around at a gentle pace.

Such a diverse mixture of things to do means that beach holidays in Menorca truly define fun for all the family. Thanks to the wonders of self-catered accommodation, everyone can come together and play in your own pool whenever you’re not lounging about by the sea. Now all that’s left to do is get an itinerary together…

Hit the beach

Menorca isn’t short of adorable beaches. Son Bou is one such strip, comprising golden sand spots lined with vegetation and stone jetties. For something a bit livelier, the Cala Blanca beaches have plenty of facilities to keep you occupied at all times. Otherwise, go to the village of Fornells, located in northern Menorca, where the coastlines are a known hotspot for windsurfers. Why not set up camp with the little ones and watch these water sports aficionados tackling the waves?

Explore the island from another perspective

Organised boat trips are a great way of uncovering the island’s various coves and natural harbours, and getting to see Menorca’s unique marine life while you’re at it! If you’re lucky, you might get to see dolphins swimming past and jumping out amid the waves. Otherwise, the surrounding waters are known for housing small numbers of starfish and even the occasional octopus!

For all you landlubbers, jeep safaris are a great opportunity for young families to go off the beaten track and discover the island’s inland allures.

Head to the attractions!

Pack a lunch, sun cream and towels, then spend a day at one of Menorca’s top-tier attractions. Los Delfines AquaPark is situated on the west of the island, and is packed with rides which’ll see most adults turn into little kids themselves. Take your pick from chutes suited to all ages – just don’t forget to bring a spare pair of clothes! Back on dry land, children will love exploring Fort Marlborough, a fascinating war museum near Mahon Island.

Get back to nature

Image by Sonke Biehl, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

S’Albufera Natural Park is a verdant paradise, home to fine views and a fascinating array of nature. It’s also an idyllic setting for family adventure, with a visitor centre and numerous different trails to keep you busy. Keep your eyes peeled for vultures and buzzards, both of whom visit these wetlands to feed. It’s a short drive from Mahon, so it’s easy enough for families to get here and back to most places within the island in a few hours.

Villa holidays in Menorca offer a lovely blend of nature, attractions and sun-kissed memories that everyone in the family will always treasure. If you’re considering visiting this Balearic gem, why not consider treating to your family to something that little bit extra special with luxury accommodation?

Hidden gems of the Costa del Sol

October 31, 2017June 14, 2019

The Costa del Sol remains one of Spain’s most popular destination for holiday makers. The glitz of Marbella and the wealth of tourist developments in Torremolinos and Benalmadena attract travellers in their millions. But there is more to this region than high-rise hotels and resorts.

Much of the hidden beauty is located off the beaten track and away from the coast. Those that travel a little further inland are sure to be rewarded with beautiful countryside and beguiling Spanish towns and villages. To help inspire you on your own holiday to this magical Mediterranean region, here are some of the Costa del Sol’s hidden gems.

Ronda

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Few towns can boast the amazing scenery of Ronda. Located atop the 100-metre deep El Tajo gorge, Ronda is an unforgettable place to visit. The views across the surrounding landscape are stunning, but walking across the Puente Nuevo bridge offers the most amazing views of the hills in the distance and the canyon below. Beyond the incredible views and striking geography, the town is a quintessential Andalusian town with white washed buildings, narrow streets, and evidence of its long architectural history from the Romans and Moors to the present day.

Comares

Image by Bryan Ledgard, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY 2.0)

Most people make the trip to the Costa del Sol to see just that, the sunshine coast. But by taking a trip deeper inland there are some remarkable hidden gems to uncover. One such jewel is the beautiful hilltop town of Comares. Perched more than 703 metres above sea level, the town’s white washed buildings glitter in the sun and can be seen from miles away. But it’s the views from the town that make the trip worth it. The vistas across the Andalusian hills from the town’s many viewpoints are truly stunning.

El Torcal

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Nature lovers should take a trip to El Torcal Nature Reserve and take in the remarkable geology of the park. El Torcal has some of the most dramatic karst formations in the world and an intriguing history which stretches back seven thousand years to the time of the area’s original inhabitants. The fascinating flora and fauna of the park is sure to enrapture children and fascinate adults. Only 30 miles from Malaga, El Torcal should be on the list for any holiday to Andalucía.

Antequera

Often referred to as the “Florence of Andalucía”, Antequera is another gem in the region. Its moniker refers to the spires of the 30 different churches in the town. The town is rich in local heritage with historical sites dating back thousands of years. See this history for yourself with a trip to the megalithic burial mound at Dolmen de Menga.

Take a look at the different types of property offered by Villa Plus and take your first step to discovering Spain’s Sunshine Coast.

By Ciaran Brooks. A former history graduate, Ciaran Brooks’ love for old stories has led him around the world. A self-confessed adventurer, he fell into travel writing after his blog chronicling his year in Thailand was picked up by a national paper.

3 holiday breakfast ideas for a Tenerife self-catering getaway

October 5, 2017January 9, 2019

The Canary island of Tenerife is synonymous with tremendous views made for feasting upon. Next time you’re visiting this beguiling part of the world, why not pair such scenery with a mouth-watering breakfast that would make the locals proud? On a self-catering getaway, you can bulk buy local ingredients, develop new cooking skills and then immerse yourself in the island’s cuisine.

Experiencing regional delicacies is a sure-fire way to soak up a destination’s culture. Not only that, you’ll save yourself some euros to spend on Tenerife’s wealth of attractions. Go on, give those taste buds a tickle and make yourself one of these three tasty holiday breakfast ideas.

Churros

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Imagine you’re enjoying a villa holiday in Tenerife with the rolling hills on one side and tranquil beaches on the other. As you turn your head, the sun gently rises over the colossal Teide National Park. Now’s the perfect time to ditch the typical British toast and whip up some churros – a traditional Spanish delicacy similar to a doughnut.

These aren’t your run-of-the-mill fairground snacks, far from it. It’s not uncommon for natives here to have them for breakfast – now you can too. Making your own is both fun and easy to do. On top of that, you’ll be left with plenty of ingredients leftover to make them all over again.

All you need for this is some butter, plain flour, baking powder and sunflower oil. For dipping, make your own chocolate sauce with some dark chocolate and cream to kickstart your day in a succulent manner. Spice this breakfast up with a bit of nutmeg or vanilla extract. Kick back and get stuck into your churros with a barraquito – a famous regional coffee to make you feel truly Canarian.

Canarian fruit salad

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Tenerife is a tropical island so the supermarket shelves here are often lined with fresh fruits. For the ultimate Canarian fruit salad, grab some pineapples, watermelon, bananas, mangoes, kiwis and custard apples. You’ll also need some locally produced yogurt and honey. Whip it all together, then voila – you’ve got a healthy breakfast that is almost as exotic as the island itself.

Honey production on Tenerife is actually a speciality. The island even has its own honey museum, La Casa de La Miel, or The House of Honey, that will show you exactly why Tenerife’s honey so highly regarded, making it the perfect accompaniment to your fruit salad.

Gofio with hot milk and sugar

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Gofio is one of Tenerife’s much-loved specialities. It dates back hundreds and hundreds of years to the island’s original inhabitants, the Guanches. Made from finely milled, ground and toasted cereal grains, this local delicacy is also a highly nutritious flour. Mix it with a few teaspoons of it with yoghurt to give you for a few extra vitamins and energy for the day.

Add two teaspoons of gofio to a glass of hot milk with a spoonful of sugar or honey. It is a quick, simple and filling breakfast to make, helping you to live like a local and teeing you off for a day of discovery.

Hungry? Turn your food fantasies into a reality and look at some Villa Plus offerings on the island.

By Imogen Bishop, a part time travel writer, part time restaurant critic, and full-time mum. She has an affinity for Mediterranean cuisine and can usually be found in the kitchen with a bottle of olive oil in hand.

Top things to do in the Costa Blanca

September 20, 2017January 9, 2019

Costa Blanca is without a doubt one of Spain’s most prized regions. Beautiful shores, dazzling sunshine, fascinating history and delicious cuisine are but four of the many reasons people visit here. Fortunately, affordable holiday options to the Costa Blanca are easy enough to come by. Here’s how to plan an unforgettable trip without it costing the earth.

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Beaches of Benidorm

There’s no shortage of things to do in Benidorm. When most people picture the city, one image springs to mind – an arc of pristine sands, with turquoise waters lapsing gently over the skyscraper-lined waterfront. Levante Beach is that very arc, and a must for anyone staying near or within the city. Not only that, it’s also a prime spot for holidaymakers looking to soak up that famous Costa Blanca weather!

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Palms of Elche

Elche provides tourists with a taste into a more traditional side to Spanish life, and is a short drive inland from Alicante. Once you’re here, be sure to visit the Palmeral of Elche, a historic line of palm trees which shows the crossover between North African and European culture. There are plenty of holiday villas in Alicante, all of which make the perfect base camp for exploring the region.

The Algar Waterfalls

Costa Blanca’s beauty isn’t resigned to the coastline. Further inland, the Algar Waterfalls are both beautiful and calming. Dive off the wooden platforms and into one of the surrounding pools. Temperatures here can get pretty toasty, and this makes for the perfect way to cool off.

Flyboarding in Calpe

Bit of a daredevil? Calpe is a hotspot for flyboarding, a jetpack orientated sport which sees participants fly several metres above the waves using state of the art technology. Jetpacking might seem a bit far-fetched for most people, but if you’re renting a villa in the Costa Blanca then this slice of adrenalin-fueled fun is only a short trip away.

Scuba Diving off Moraira

For some, skirting the tips of the waves isn’t enough. They want to submerge themselves beneath them scouring the depths for exotic fish and plant life. Moraraira has some of the best diving spots in Spain, and many local groups and instructors to help you get set up. Keep your eyes peeled for the sea bream and barracuda!

The Historic Centre of Jávea

It’s easy to get lost in the vast swathes of Costa Blanca’s tourism industry, but traditional town centres have stood the test of time. Take a siesta, and visit one of Jávea’s town squares. You might have a self-catering villa, but sometimes it’s worth getting out and sampling some of the local delicacies. Few things are more Spanish than a few tapas dishes whilst reveling in the charming atmosphere. Got a sweeter tooth? Opt for some delicious churros and don’t go easy on the chocolate sauce!

Whether you’re on holiday with family or friends in the Costa Blanca, you’ll leave lusting after its unique allures. Ready to start planning your getaway? Have a look at Villa Plus villas here.

By Isabella Perkins, a freelance travel writer best known for writing about self-catering holidays. Her writing tends to have a family-focus, and she is in the midst of writing a new travel guide due to be published next year.

Top things to do in Majorca

September 18, 2017January 9, 2019

Touching down on Majorcan soil, you know you’re onto something special as soon as that first gust of warm Mediterranean air washes over you. Once you’ve acclimatised, a whole new world of adventure awaits. Want to know the best thing about it all? It’s all on the doorstep of your holiday villa.

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Visit Palma

As Mallorca’s capital, it makes sense to start with this historic city. Sat snugly in an eastern bay, Palma comprises ancient gothic cathedrals, quaint bars and restaurants, all overlooked by the iconic Bellver Castle. If you were into knights and dragons as a kid, you’ll love the circular turrets and walls that make up this fine Spanish fortress. Climb to the top and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views which stretch far out into the serene surrounding waters.

Image by benjami, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY SA 2.0)

Take a boat tour of the bay, and on your return, look out for La Seu cathedral. From land, these white spires are an impressive enough sight, yet from sea they make for another altogether. Once you’ve docked, why not pop in to revel in the building’s rich history?

Image by Tobias Lindman, used under Creative Commons license (CC BY 2.0)

Swim in the sun

As one of Spain’s archipelagoes, the island has generous temperatures and sunshine throughout the year. If your holiday villa is lucky enough to have a pool, then this, and the combination of good weather, can make for some your happiest memories of Majorca. Dive in, swim a few lengths, before basking in the heat of the Spanish sun for the duration of the afternoon.

Visit your local market

Anyone who’s ever dined tapas will tell you that Spain is blessed with some of the finest cuisine in the world. The flavours behind such dishes are not just confined to the cupboards of the locals, however. Every Sunday, people from across Majorca flock to the markets of Puerto Pollensa. Here you’ll find everything from exquisite canvases to spices and locally cured meats. Staying in a self-catering villa? Take the opportunity to pick up some ingredients, and cook up a storm for the whole family to enjoy.

Majorcan watersports

Several kayak and canoe rental agencies operate across the island, so you’ll have no trouble exploring the island by boat. The north and east coast waters cater for all, and kayakers can stumble across glistening beaches perfect for getting that daily dose of vitamin D. Sometimes the Mediterranean Sea is just TOO inviting – what better way to cool off than some coastal diving? Not only is this a great family bonding activity, but it’s also the perfect way to see the ecosystems surrounding Majorca.

Hike the Serra de Tramuntana

The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range runs from the southwest to the northeast of Majorca. Navigate your way amongst the luscious shrubbery, before sitting back and enjoying the seaward views. The mountain strip itself is accessible from Palma, and covers roughly 30% of the island’s territory. Once you’ve conquered them, you’ll return with tales of the olive trees, terraces, and water mills that exemplify the range.

If you enjoyed this post, then here’s plenty of other ones for your holiday inspiration.

Your guide to Fuerteventura

September 11, 2017January 9, 2019

Fuerteventura is found in the blue waters of the Atlantic just 60 miles from the western edges of the Sahara Desert. The closest of the Canary Islands to Africa, Fuerteventura lies at the same latitude as Mexico and Florida, and as such is the lucky recipient of 3,00 hours of sunshine per year. Combine this wonderful weather with a coastline that draws in the crowds with more than 150 beautiful beaches, as well as a stunning volcanic interior and you have one of the finest destinations for a holiday no matter the season.

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Fuerteventura is an ever-popular hub for holiday makers as the island provides anyone who stays there with a rewarding holiday. With the resort town of Corralejo at the northern tip of the island and Morro Jable at the southern one; the otherworldly landscapes inland; tranquil sheltered coves; and plenty of windy shores ideal for watersports, the island packs a lot into its small size.

Despite being the second largest of the Canaries (after Tenerife) it is only the fourth largest in terms of population size. This gives the island a less developed feel compared to the smaller and more populous island of Lanzarote, which is only a 15-minute boat ride to the north, and you’re more than likely to find a stretch of white sandy beach all to yourself.

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Corralejo

For such a relatively compact island, there’s a lot of variety when it comes to Fuerteventura’s resorts. The most well-known resort town on the island is in the north at Corralejo. It is also the largest, and is replete with villas and self-catering accommodation perfect for any visitor. The area around the harbour is home to several seafood restaurants serving the freshest fish, and is a popular haunt for locals and tourists alike. If it’s shopping you’re after, head to Las Palmeras, the main retail hub in the area. Located there are shops selling everything from fashion to gifts for friends and family back home.

Along the eastern coastline down from Corralejo are several small resorts as well as secluded bays with calm waters just right for a swim. The main beaches in the area include Flag Beach, Glass Beach and the beach at Corralejo town. They’re all clean, safe and family-friendly.

Venture further inland past the sandy shores and shiny hotels and you’ll encounter a miniature extension of the nearby Sahara, with the sand dunes and desert vistas. This area comprises the Corralejo Nature Reserve and feels a world away from the nearby coast.

Past Corralejo and across the waters to the east you’ll find the Isla de Lobos. Lying between Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, the island makes a refreshing day trip for holidaymakers. Hop across the narrow channel and learn about the flora and fauna of the Canaries at this peaceful and picturesque protected wildlife preserve. The island’s main beach at Caleta de la Rasca boasts some of the clearest waters in all the Canaries. There’s also a small restaurant nearby to round off an excursion.

El Cotillo

A charming small fishing village, El Cotillo is one of the best places in Fuerteventura to call in at to experience real Canarian life. With a number of quality eateries, the reputation of the village for good food is growing, making it one of the best on the island for anyone who savours mealtimes as much as they do relaxation.

Thanks to its position on the west coast, the area around El Cotillo spoils watersports enthusiasts with superlative conditions for surfing and wind surfing anywhere on the island. This is especially true at local beaches Playa del Castillo and Playa del Águila. The area is also markedly less developed than other parts of Fuerteventura, proffering a pleasing blend of things to do and peace and quiet.

Costa Calma

Located on the sandy isthmus known as Istmo de la Pared that separates the main part of Fuerteventura with the mountainous Jandía peninsula, Costa Calma is blessed with some of the finest beaches and bluest seas on the island. Originally known as the small village of Cañada Del Rio, the resort was developed to have as minimal an impact on the surrounding landscape as possible. Costa Calma rewards you with a long, well-kept beach that leads into the gently lapping waters. With a range of villas to choose from, the area is growing in popularity as is the list of facilities available.

The resort also benefits from being right next door to the Jandía National Park that makes up the rest of the peninsula. The park contains Fuerteventura’s highest mountain, Mount Jandia, and presents lots of opportunities for hikes through its dramatic landscape.

Caleta de Fuste

Lying a short 10-minute drive from the airport on the east coast is Caleta de Fuste. This purpose-built resort town is one of the most genteel on the island and is infused with a delightfully laid back vibe, though it doesn’t lack quality bars and restaurants or other amenities either. The resort’s scenic cove is in fact man-made, not that you would be able to tell when you see its flawless setting on the shore.

Golfing in Fuerteventura

There are more golf courses in Fuerteventura than you can shake a club at, with the sport being one of the favourite pastimes of visitors and locals alike. The Fuerteventura Golf Club is one of the best, which can be attributed to its well-maintained 18 holes and beautiful ocean views. This course in Caleta de Fuste is ideally situated right next door to some of the best holiday rentals on the island. It’s also a former host of the Spanish Open, so you can be assured of its quality.

Las Playitas another sublime golf club. This scenic course has several waterways, transforming into a challenging green for any golfer regardless of their handicap. There is also a superb 9-hole course in Corralejo which is surrounded by holiday rentals, a viable and enticing option if you’re looking for a golfing holiday.

Things to do for kids

There’s no shortage of great bars, delicious restaurants and mellow beaches for grownups to have the perfect break on the island, but Fuerteventura comes into its own with its child-friendly and family-friendly activities.

With lots of things to keep kids of all ages entertained, you’ll have no worries about the little ones getting bored. Take them to Crazy Golf at the Baku Waterpark in Corralejo, or just let them run wild in the waterpark itself. If they fancy something a little faster paced, then there’s go karting available in the island’s capital, Puerto del Rosario. There’s also a horse riding school for equestrian-minded children. Alternatively, just let them have fun on one of the long beaches on the island.

Fuerteventura Watersports

Fuerteventura is well known as one of the best destinations out there for watersports. The coastline is varied, with peaceful bays for easy relaxation and more blustery stretches that serve up some fantastic waves. It’s no coincidence that the island has been home of the Windsurfing World Championship for the past 30 years!

The consistent wind speeds on the island create excellent conditions for windsurfing, surfing, and paragliding. With equipment hire available in most of the towns and resorts, you can make your holiday as you like.

Thanks to the crystal-clear waters surrounding the island is also a handy place to try your hand at some snorkelling or scuba diving. The diverse marine life of the Canaries is even more impressive up close, and exploring the environment in the warm waters is immensely invigorating. There are PADI instructors in Caleta de Fuste and Corralejo, and snorkelling equipment is available for hire across Fuerteventura.

The northern trade winds in the seas around Fuerteventura provide fine conditions for sailing as well, and by taking a sailing trip you have the chance to see the marine mammals that live in the waters. There are yachts available for chartering from the harbour in Corralejo.

No matter what type of holiday you want, you are likely to find it on this inviting Canary Island. If you’ve never been to Fuerteventura before, then it’s time to start planning your adventure!

By Arianne Fabrice, a travel journalist who specialises in the popular resort destinations in and around Europe. Having worked for some of Paris’ premium travel mags, she’s recently moved into English-language publications.

Why you should choose a holiday let next time you go to the Costa Blanca

September 8, 2017January 9, 2019

Home to 100 miles of gorgeous golden coast, it’s no wonder that the Costa Blanca is an old favourite with holiday-goers. If you fancy a Mediterranean getaway, choosing a holiday let is an ideal way to experience Spain’s southeastern coast from a fresh perspective.

A self-catering trip offers a wealth of opportunities that you won’t find if you stay in a hotel. Whether you’re heading to Benidorm to experience the nightlife, or you want to sunbathe and swim in Alicante, you’ll find the perfect rental home for you and your friends or family. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy:

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More freedom to plan your sightseeing itinerary

In a self-catering rental, you can come and go at all times of day, and you don’t need to worry about making it back in time for dinner. This means you’ll be able to pack in more activities, and explore all the Costa Blanca sights you want to see.

If you’re staying near Benidorm, why not pack a lunch and head out for a day of adventures at Serra Gelada Natural Park? Or, if you’ve got kids, take a trip to a theme park like Terra Mitica. With so much to see and do, it would be a shame to limit yourself to the pool in a hotel resort!

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A place to unwind at the end of the day

Holidays are lots of fun, but they can be tiring too. After a busy day of exploring, you’ll look forward to going home to your private villa. If you choose a rental with a pool, you can cool down in the water. Or, you might just want to put your feet up, grab a drink, and enjoy the sunset from your terrace.

As well as offering peace and privacy to relax in the evenings, a staying in a holiday let promises a quiet place to have a lie in if you want a lazy morning. You won’t be woken up by doors banging in the hallway, or noisy people in the room next door.

Lots of space for you and your belongings

In a self-catering villa, you’ll have enough space to rival even the best hotels on the Costa Blanca. You can unpack and store away your clothes in your bedroom, instead of living out of a suitcase.

With a separate kitchen and living area, you won’t feel cooped up if you decide to spend an afternoon inside. Best of all, if you’re travelling in a large group, you’ll still have a bit of personal space.

Explore the local region’s cuisine

All-inclusive package holidays might seem like a convenient option, but self-catering will save you money while still leaving you free to try lots of local food. You can dine out without worrying that a pre-paid meal will go to waste, and take the chance to find the best restaurants in Alicante.

Of course, having a kitchen also means you can cook a meal at home. You could purchase some fresh local ingredients and try making a specialty dish, like Paella Alicantina. Or, cook up one of your favourite meals from home if you find yourself craving comfort food.

Hidden gems of Lanzarote

August 30, 2017January 9, 2019

Lanzarote is diverse in every sense of the word. Many people travel here with their sights set on Arrecife, but after arriving you’ll immediately realise there’s far more to this beguiling island. Villa holidays in Lanzarote open you to a whole new world of adventures, here’s where you’ll find them all…

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Papagayo Beaches

Get off the beaten track and visit the side of the island left out of most tour brochures. A short drive from Playa Blanca are the beaches located on Lanzarote’s southern coast. They’re surrounded by volcanic hills, making for a series of pristine sands looking over the Atlantic Ocean. Lanzarote’s unique biosphere means that even a simple walk to the beach exposes you to otherworldly landscapes – perfect for Instagram or Facebook!

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Mirador del Río

The best thing about villas in Lanzarote, is they’re never far from viewpoints which are worth travelling for alone. Travel to the north to Mirador del Río, an iconic hilltop viewpoint nearly 500 metres above sea level. Walk along dusty mountain roads, bypassing quiet villages before reaching the summit. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the straits of El Rio and the coastline surrounding it. Once you’re back in the comforts of your villa holiday rental, put your feet up and enjoy a well-earned glass of wine.

Museo Atlántico

Lanzarote’s Underwater Museum, also known as Museo Atlántico, is an underwater sculpture museum on the island’s southern seaboard. Divers are given guided tours of the statues made by sculptor Jason deCaires, famous for his underwater models. As well as being one of Lanzarote’s most recent star attractions, the Museo Atlántico’s works focus on eye-opening, poignant issues, like the migration crisis. The museum is located in protected waters, 15 metres underwater. After a visit here, you’ll never say museums are boring ever again!

Timanfaya National Park

Lanzarote is the byproduct of years of volcanic activity – this becomes clear when visiting Timanfaya National Park. Formed hundreds of years ago as by lava and molten rock, this region is every bit as arid as it was days after the eruption. Walking through here is as close as it gets to prehistoric times, minus the dinosaurs and flaming molten rock! The park is accessible from southern Lanzarote towns such as Matagorda, yet is a far cry from their bustling bars and restaurants.

Matagorda Beach

Although Lanzarote’s climate is renowned for sun and generally fair weather, it’s gifted with Atlantic waves which are perfect for windsurfing. Matagorda attracts surfers of all levels, and has a wealth of instructors to get help you get your feet on the board. If you’re already experienced, there are rental agencies are available to kit you out. Tackling these waves works your appetite, so once you’re home be sure to cook up a storm in your self-catering villa.

Whether you’ve planned your trip months in advance, or simply fancy a last-minute holiday to Lanzarote, the island caters for all tastes. Delve a little deeper, and you’ll uncover a side to this Canary gem adored by many.

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