Six alternative destinations to visit on your next European break

From club nights in Ibiza to the citrus scented towns of Mallorca, Spain’s Balearic Islands are a proven repeat holiday destination for all types of traveller. But what about the smaller island of Menorca? 

Do not be fooled by its size. Menorca’s square foot of beach is in fact more than Ibiza and Mallorca’s combined making it the most idyllic place to have your toes in the sand. The 96 beaches are unspoilt with hidden sandy coves that you can enjoy with no one else around. For those with a more adventurous streak, the diverse landscape means mountain biking, water sports and horse riding are all on the agenda. 

The sleepy towns and villages are places of simple pleasures, bustling with craft and food markets and active harbours. History buffs can enjoy a collection of archaeological, architectural and cultural moments and monuments with a rich and fascinating history. 

Menorca was also awarded European Region of Gastronomy in 2022 by the International Institution of Gastronomy Culture Arts and Tourism (IGCAT) in recognition of their culinary values of seasonal, and locally produced ingredients. 

Where to stay? 
Combining four palaces in the centre of Ciutadella, Faustino Gran Relais & Chateaux is a unique experience in Menorca that has implemented a chic style within the historic buildings. Each of the palaces are home to luxurious rooms and suites, private pool villas and a wellness spa. Guests can also experience their ocean getaway Casa de Pau where secluded coves, water sports, boat charter and land to table cuisine awaits. 

Take a trip back in time and head to Tuscany. Swap the busy streets of Rome for rolling hillsides, landscapes of vineyards and the historic cities of Florence and Siena. Find yourself in the centre of a guidebook as you witness spectacular artwork, gothic buildings, castles and museums where you can learn its history first hand. There are also seven UNESCO World Heritage sites that require exploration including the iconic Piazza del Duomo in Pisa. 

Foodies will revel in the culture of wine and food, where locals live to eat not the contrary. From sun drenched vineyards to olive harvests, lively food markets and homemade pasta, needless to say eating and drinking will make up a large part of your days. While Tuscany is famous for a number of delicious dishes, we recommend a timeless summer classic, pappa al pomodoro. Made from tomatoes, stale bread, garlic, extra virgin olive oil and basil, it's blended together to make a hearty bread tomato soup. Bellissimo!

The varying landscapes means visitors can experience a wide range of activities with snow capped mountains ideal for winter sports, fantastic countryside perfect for family bike rides, endless vineyards for wine lovers and natural thermal baths that provide relaxation to those seeking a wellness retreat.

Where to stay?
Rosewood Castiglion De Bosco is a luxury hotel located in Montalcino. Situated to the south of Siena, this fairy tale hilltop town is immersed in Val d’Orcia Natural Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and renowned all over the world for its production of Brunello red wine.

The hotel itself offers a range of private villas and impressive rooms, all of which keep in theme of the local surroundings. Guests can also enjoy a private golf club, its very own winery, six dining options including La Canonica Cooking School and a spa. Rosewood Castiglion De Bosco welcomes children and furry companions meaning your stay is one for the entire family!

It’s time to take a breather from tourist filled beaches and fast-paced city breaks as Alentejo uncovers a very different side to Portugal. The region covers over 30% of Portugal’s land but its rural countryside setting is sparsely populated with just 5% of the population living there. 

Come with expectations of empty surf beaches, charming fishing villages historic walled towns and rolling countryside; Alentejo is Portugal’s garden that is flourishing with cork plantations, wheat fields and vineyards. This is the place where you turn off your alarms, switch your phone to silent and keep your out of office on. 

Discover the town of Évora, a fortified town which has UNESCO World Heritage status for its Roman temple, medieval walls and cathedral. Here you’ll also find the headquarters of the Rota dos Vinhos do Alentejo where you can experience a tour of a nearby vineyard to sample some of the best vino that Portugal has to offer. 

Where to stay?
If you’re searching for exclusivity, then we have found it. Stay at Herdade da Malhadinha Nova Country House & Spa, a rural manor offering unique and design-led villas set among a 450-hectare wine-producing estate. Guests can enjoy a plethora of options to fill their time including sampling wines on a complimentary tasting tour, book in some me-time at the spa or make the most of the surroundings by canoeing down the river, taking a horse riding lesson or even experiencing a hot air balloon ride. 

Found in the south of France between Nice and Monaco is the village of Èze. Here you’ll experience a traditional and wholesome holiday where venerable architecture, authentic French cuisine and impactful views of the French Riviera combine to create a quaint haven. The medieval village is built 400 metres above sea level and surrounded by thick stone walls overcome with colourful flowers. 

Set sail on a private yacht through azure waters, bask in the Mediterranean sun on crisp sands or explore on winding roads in the comfort of a convertible where views are unparalleled. In the south of France speeding up and standing still are equally as important. 

And for the days you wish to stroll the village streets, we recommend visiting the neoclassical church of Notre Dame de l’Assomption built in the 18th century. Be sure to also visit the perfume and soap factories that produce the famous Galimard and Fragonard brands. 

Where to stay?
Indulge with a stay at La Chévre D’or, one of the most exclusive hotels in the French Riviera. Wake up to endless views of the ocean from your balcony and relish in luxury amenities including a private infinity pool, Jacuzzi and mini bar. La Chévre D’or provides the highest level of service to their guests including the ability to organise a variety of fantastic experiences such as replenishing in the wellness centre, hiring your dream motor for a picturesque drive or even witness the views from above with a private helicopter ride. The opportunities are endless. 

Arguably the most glamorous peninsula in Turkey, Bodrum is a repeat destination for a-listers and high net worth clients searching for a place to relax and rejuvenate. Stay in one of many luxurious hotels or sail your private yacht to a secluded bay, a juxtaposition of the more traditional way of life that Bodrum has to offer. 

There is something for everyone in this beautiful part of the Turkish Riviera. Historians can discover The Castle of St Peter located in Bodrum Bay, built in the 15th century by crusader knights from England, Germany and France. Here you can also incorporate the museum of underwater archaeology which is home to artefacts from shipwrecks found in the surrounding coast. 

For those who want a more leisurely lifestyle, you can sunbathe in style with glorious beaches that are surrounded by fine-dining restaurants serving fresh, local ingredients. Alternatively, hit the ocean by chartering a yacht for the day where you can explore the local bays in full glory.  The culture-rich villages nearby will showcase local life well known for rug weaving and seaside fishing.

Where to stay?
Experience the definition of beachside luxury with a stay at Lujo Hotel Bodrum. This ultra stylish resort is packed with high class amenities including exquisite fine dining restaurants, endless swimming pools, Jacuzzi’s, its own private beach and an array of sports facilities. The lavish rooms and suites will provide a wow moment as you walk in with sweeping ocean views. For those looking to impress, the Presidential Villa is home to five ensuite bedrooms, exclusive spa facilities, a star ceiling steam room and private pool and Jacuzzi. 

In the far south-west of mainland Greece you’ll find Costa Navarino, one of the newest luxury holiday destinations. Rivalling the Algarve and Costa del Sol for its natural beauty and azure waters, it's home to award-winning golf courses, rolling sand dunes and sprawling vineyards. 

Lovers of vino and food will revel in a range of activities including hand-picking, pressing and sampling extra-virgin olive oil, wine tasting and cooking classes where you’ll learn to make traditional Messinian dishes. Vibrant Greek salads, fresh seafood and locally farmed meats will be showcased throughout to highlight the regions incredible produce. 

The Bay of Navarino stretches half a mile and is lined by calm, flat waters that are perfect for water sports. Paddle-boarding, water-skiing, kayaking, sailing and more are all available for you to enjoy. Alternatively, we recommend hiring a boat so you can explore the nearby hidden coves for idyllic swim spots. 

Where to stay?
The Westin Resort, Costa Navarino is a five-star complex perfect for couples and families. It offers the chance to kick back and relax with a sublime wellness centre and signature golf course which paves the way for adults to have some me-time. Meanwhile those with children can rest assure that their little ones are having the time of their lives with two innovative kids’ clubs, the one-of-a-kind Division 16 youth club, an Aqua Park and more. As for the accommodation, we highly recommend a Premium Infinity Suite where your own private infinity pool and terrace awaits.