Summer Holiday Ideas - Travel Newsletter - April 2024

 

Dear Reader,

The sun may be playing it cool lately, but it’ll surely don its hat sometime soon. Either way, summer is the ideal time to escape the ordinary and embark on an adventure – and we’re brimming with new ideas for 2024.

As the planet hots up, ‘coolcations’ are the chicest travel trend this year, with eyes turning to northern Europe’s less-trodden spots for summer sun without the health warning; think Estonian escapades, Finnish affairs and Polish expeditions.

Naturally, the coolest of ‘cations is the Great British staycation. Keep your eyes peeled for our annual Great British & Irish Hotels’ Guide (our 2024/25 edition comes out on Friday), chock-full of the best places to stay across our glorious country. And if recent years are anything to go by, we might just get some baking continental temperatures here in the UK this summer, too.

But if you’re seeking a classic villa holiday for all the family, our eyes (as always) are turning to Greece. In splendid Paros – which you might recognise from Netflix’s One DayBright Blue Villas has a gorgeous collection of more than 50 luxurious villas to choose from. Plus, their team of experts has curated an invaluable comprehensive guide to Paros and Antiparos, which you can download for free here.

Here are eight summer holiday ideas to book this year.

Enjoy,

Summer Holiday Ideas 2024

1. Villa Elvire, Paros

Looking for a blowout multigenerational holiday this summer? Gather the family at the 832 sqm Villa Elvire, boasting six spacious ensuite bedrooms, an open-plan living area, a large dining room that can comfortably accommodate 20 people, a professionally equipped kitchen and a BBQ, two infinity pools flanked by sumptuous loungers, and a secluded, peaceful hillside location sprawling across 8,600 sqm with unobstructed sea views. Bliss. brightbluevillas.com

2. Hell Bay Hotel, Isles of Scilly

For an island escape without leaving the country, Hell Bay Hotel is a dreamy option. Overlooking the Celtic Sea on Bryher’s rugged west coast, Hell Bay Hotel boasts the true tranquility of island life, plus the finest hospitality and freshest seafood to tuck into. hellbay.co.uk

3. Conservatorium Hotel, Amsterdam

Speaking of cooler spots to explore… In recent years, Europe’s stag do capital has been working hard to shake its hedonistic reputation and instead showcase its chicer, classier side. This is epitomised best in the Conservatorium Hotel, says Ellie Smith, who recently enjoyed the design-centric hotel nestled in the heart of the city’s Museum Corner. After all, Amsterdam is but a train ride away. conservatoriumhotel.com

4. The Harper, Norfolk

Check into The Harper this summer for the cosiest escape that’s both quintessentially British and effortlessly stylish. Nestled in north Norfolk, opt for the Dinner, Bed and Breakfast package to enjoy a seasonal tasting menu in Stanley’s, a supremely comfortable night’s stay, and a generous breakfast when you wake the next morning – a true delight. theharper.co.uk

5. Scott Dunn’s Ultimate Norway Itinerary

With temperatures sitting between 20–25°C, Norway makes for the perfect cool-cation. If you’re not quite sure where to start, choose Scott Dunn’s pre-planned Ultimate Norway itinerary this summer, whisking guests from bustling Oslo to the charming village of Aurland for hiking expeditions and boat trips along the crystal blue fjords. scottdunn.com

6. The Black Horse, Sussex

Fancy a gloriously English escape? This cosy pub with rooms is just a five minute walk from the Sussex coast, perfect for a beach walk followed by a refreshing pint. Each bedroom is unique, featuring nature-inspired wallpapers, fresh bathrooms, and locally sourced antique furniture. Furry friends are more than welcome, too. hshotels.co.uk

7. FORESTIS, South Tyrol

The South Tyrol is often cited as Italy’s best kept secret, and while many visitors are skiiers, the wellness scene is booming – and FORESTIS is the best retreat of the bunch. Reflecting the peace of its surroundings, FORESTIS is all about embracing the nourishing effects of nature. Think spectacular mountain views, stripped back interiors crafted with natural materials, and a spa offering rejuvenating nature-inspired rituals. forestis.it

8. Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé, Loire Valley

Visiting Paris for the Olympics this summer, or just jealous of everyone who got their paws on tickets? Whether you’re interested in extending your journey to the City of Lights or just looking for some alternative Eurostar trips, the Loire Valley is at the top of our list. Nestle in at the intimate 19-suite Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé to enjoy the best of the area’s lush countryside beauty: think lakes, meadows, a historic white oak forest and more. chateaugrandluce.com

OUT & ABOUT

Are Airport Lounges Worth It?

© Netflix

All The Filming Locations We Will See In Bridgerton Season 3

Where To Stay & Eat During The Paris Olympics

WIN A Stay At La Zambra Hotel, Costa Del Sol

Fancy a sun-drenched getaway to Spain? We’ve teamed up with La Zambra Hotel to give one lucky reader the chance to win a two-night stay for two people in a King Garden View Room – plus, daily breakfast, one lunch or dinner, and access to the MOOD Spa circuit. Good luck!

SUBSCRIPTION OFFER

Sign up for 12 print issues and instant access to every digital edition for only £39