If you love to visit new places but you’re not such a fan of long travel times, we’ve got you covered. We’ve dot-to-dotted around Europe, in search of the spots where you can get your taste of the tropics, just a hop, skip and a jump away from the UK. You could be sunbathing on white-sand shores or adventuring across rainforest-covered peaks in no time...
Swap Hawaii for Madeira
Crystal-clear waters dotted with surfers, colourful cliffsides blooming with wildflowers, beaches backed by mountainous landscapes... it’s easy to see why Madeira’s often hailed as the ‘Hawaii of Europe’. And those year-round warm temperatures make it a winner whenever you go. Be sure to capitalise on the island’s cool-as-it-comes capital, Funchal. It’s cultural and beautiful in equal measure, and it’s hotly tipped as a top choice for sampling the island’s iconic wine, moseying around museums and dining on sumptuous seafood. Angling for an adventure? Point your boots in the direction of the island’s highest point, Pico Ruivo.
Swap New Zealand for Norway
Don’t fancy the 24-hour-long flight to New Zealand? Well, we’ll let you in on a little secret! Dense pine forests, thundering waterfalls and mirror-like fjords are all closer than you think. Jet off to Bergen on one of our Scandi spring breaks and prepare to be blown away by Norway’s natural beauty. At selected properties you’ll even get a full-day Norwegian fjords tour included in your trip, so you can tick off some of the area’s most staggering sights. Cultural highs are many in the city itself, from the sprawling KODE museums to the famous fish market.
Swap Curaçao for the South of France
We’re sure you’ve seen snaps of Curaçao’s rainbow-hued neighbourhoods and palm-tree lined promenades, but did you know you can find a slice of the Caribbean a lot closer to home? Say bonjour to Menton. This town in the South of France has got bags of charm. Fall into step with the laidback pace of life here, where days revolve around al fresco wining and dining in the medieval Old Town. If you’re in the mood for a beach day, you’re in luck! There’s a handful of pebbly patches you can sprawl out on.
Swap the Caribbean for Formentera
Once you’ve caught a glimpse of Formentera’s golden sands and sparkling shores, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d pitched up in the Caribbean. Ibiza’s sister island is magically mellow. Far-reaching aquamarines and baby blues beckon you towards Platja de Migjorn. Ranked as one of the ten best beaches in the world, Playa de Illetes is not to be missed either. Fancy a more social spot? Es Pujols Beach is peppered with casual bars. But there’s plenty to do beyond the beach. With over 100km of cycling trails, it’s the perfect place to explore on two wheels. It’s fab for foodies too!
Posted: 2nd Jan 2025. Updated: 2nd Jan 2025.