beach

A birdie at the last hole saw Collin Morikawa take victory at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am – his first PGA Tour win in more than two years.

Having been two ahead with two to play, the American’s lead disappeared as Australian Min Woo Lee birdied 18, before Morikawa bogeyed the penultimate hole himself.

Locked at 21-under, the pair were soon joined by Austrian Sepp Straka and a play-off looked a possibility.

But following a 20-minute wait to play his second shot as Jacob Bridgeman battled strong winds up ahead, Morikawa found the green and then left himself a short putt to card a 67 and edge ahead to end his trophy drought.

“It’s special for a lot of reasons,” said the 29-year-old afterwards.

“I’ve put countless hours and nights – probably too many hours – thinking about golf.

“I kept believing in myself. Honestly, at the beginning of this week it didn’t really feel like this was going to be possible.”

Akshay Bhatia holds a two-shot lead after the third round of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am as fellow American Collin Morikawa’s round of 62 moved him into contention for his first victory in almost two and a half years.

Bhatia had been tied for top spot on 15 under with Ryo Hisatsune going into the day’s play, but six birdies in his first seven holes helped him on his way to a lead that was as many as five shots at one point.

Battling blustery conditions in California, a bogey at 17 saw his advantage cut to two.

Gusts then slowed play down considerably on the final green and a missed putt for birdie saw Bhatia card 68 to stand at 19 under.

Morikawa’s round, 10-under-par, saw him climb the leaderboard into second at 17 under.

An eagle at the last hole – having managed the same at the first – moved another American, Jake Knapp, into joint-second with his round totalling 66.

Austrian Sepp Straka made it a three-way tie with a 67.

Defending champion Rory McIlroy, six back at the start of the day, fell further behind the lead despite starting with two birdies in the opening three holes.

A three-over-par seven at the fourth and a double bogey at the last saw him shoot an even par 72 and trailing by 10.

With heavy rain and strong winds forecast for Sunday, start times for the tournament’s final round have been moved forward and will now run from 07:22-09:45 local time, with threesomes off split tees.

This spot near Howick is a secluded Northumberland cove with dramatic cliffs, a smuggling history, and connections to Earl Grey’s historic Bathing House

Nestled amongst the clifftops in a cove near Howick in Northumberland lies this stunning bay, boasting both historical and environmental importance.

Rumbling Kern is an isolated haven comprising dramatic iron-stained rocks and a small beach visible at low tide. Its distinctive location and cliff formation earned it this evocative name, as the geography helps generate a rumbling noise during stormy conditions.

When waves crash into the bay and strike the rocks, visitors can detect a profound and eerie sound beneath, rumbling like distant thunder. This distinctive acoustic phenomenon is unique to the location and lends an otherworldly quality to the already remote destination.

One keen explorer who documents their journeys on YouTube, Wilderhope Adventures, explained that the cove proves challenging to locate, as it doesn’t even appear on maps without entering the postcode for the nearby farm. She said: “I’ve seen pictures of this, but this is very, very cool. I can imagine this being a really cool swimming spot because it’s very protected.”

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Historical significance

The fascinating features don’t end there, however, as historical records indicate it served a particularly intriguing role in smuggling operations.

Given its coastal position and remoteness from populated areas, the cove proved popular for landing illicit cargo, most frequently whisky. They would subsequently move these goods along the remainder of the Northumberland coastline.

The neighbouring village of Boulmer was particularly renowned as the ‘smuggling capital’ during that era, with the kern representing just one element of a far more extensive network.

Bathing House

The cove provides stunning vistas of the Bathing House, nestled peacefully along the shoreline as a 19th-century residence constructed by the former prime minister.

It originally belonged to Charles Grey (2nd Earl Grey), whilst nearby Howick Hall served as the ancestral home where he was raised. This property functioned as a gateway for them to enjoy the great outdoors.

Throughout his time here, the earl ordered extensions to the swimming area along the tide, creating additional fresh seawater pools. On the upper floor of the property, they even created a vantage point for his wife to watch their children bathing below in the specially designed pools.

Today the property is available for holiday rentals as a cottage for friends and family, with bookings filling up rapidly. It continues under the stewardship of the Howick Trustees Ltd, a charitable trust.

Howick Hall

A brief journey from the scenic Bathing House and cove brings you to Howick Hall, a Grade II listed structure which was home to the Earls Grey. The very same prime minister, after whom Earl Grey tea takes its name, lived there throughout his lifetime, and it is now accessible to the public.

Howick Hall was originally constructed in 1782, but sadly a fire in 1926 ravaged much of the interior, necessitating significant renovations. The ever-expanding family vacated the property following the passing of the 5th Earl Grey in the 1970s.

By 1973, Lord Howick had transformed the west wing into his family residence, where they still live today. The ground floor is open to the public, offering a glimpse into the rich history of this family and their ancestral home over the centuries.

The hall’s grounds boast an array of enchanting gardens, conceived by the 5th Earl Grey, and an arboretum spanning more than 65 acres. Nestled within this verdant landscape is the ideal spot for a tea break at the Earl Grey Tea House, where tradition and legacy live on.

ONE of the most popular beaches in the UK will close during half-term.

Undergoing important works to ensure it’s ready for summer, part of Weymouth Beach will close to visitors next week.

In a Facebook post, Weymouth Town Council gave advance notice of the beach closure for ‘annual levelling works’.

It detailed that from Monday 16 until Friday 20, 2026, Weymouth Beach will be closed between the Pavilion Theatre and the Jubilee Clock.

It added that “the reason the work needs to be done now is because we need to coincide with the spring tide”.

“During the spring tide, more of the beach is exposed, which allowed the team to get the diggers further on to the beach”.

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Diggers will take to the sand to level it out from where it’s been moved from bad weather and tides – all in preparation for peak summer season.

Some comments on the post aren’t overly positive due to the closure coinciding with the half-term break.

One person wrote: “But why do it at school half term its crazy.”

Another added: “Half term week of all weeks! Next you’ll be telling us that you are going to close off the best part of the beach for a week in the summer holidays.”

A third wrote: “That’s half term week! Going to have very disappointed children.”

Others were more understanding with one encouraging families to watch the diggers in operation.

The part of the beach past the clock tower will remain open to visitors.

Weymouth is one of the most popular beaches in the country and was named one of the best beaches in Europe by Tripadvisor last year.

Previously, Weymouth was also named the UK’s best beach by The Times – it beat 49 other beaches that also made the list.

If you want some more space on the beach, just a 17-minute drive away from Weymouth is the longest and largest in the county.

Chesil Beach has 18 miles of stretching coastline, and on the part of the promenade that’s on the Isle of Portland, is one of the best pubs in the UK.

The Cove House Inn made an appearance on the list of the 25 best spots for a pint by Big 7 Travel last year.

One visitor commented: “And the VIEWS! Amazing – right on Chesil beach with views out to sea. What a gem of a place.”

For more beaches, here are Sun Travel’s 26 must-visit UK beaches for 2026 – including tropical-feel spots and family-friendly finds.

Plus, one Travel Writer reveals their favourite spots on the pretty UK coastline with the most Blue Flag beaches.

WHY leave the Valentine’s Day fun to couples?  

Without a significant other, you can splash your hard-earned cash on yourself – and what better way to spend it than a blow-out trip? 

Sophie Swietochowski shares the best long and short-haul destinations for singletons, plus tips for solo travel from destination experts at British Airways. 

NEW YORK 

EVEN when solo, it’s impossible to get bored in the Big Apple. It was British Airways’ most searched-for route last week and has long been a hit among independent travellers. 

Some of the typical tourist attractions are worth it, while others can probably be skipped if you’re strapped for time and cash. 

The must-dos, according to BA’s Destination Manager Nicole Lawson, are The Metropolitan Museum of Art and a Broadway show. 

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Last-minute tickets can be picked up for a fraction of the usual cost from todaytix.com, and those who are part of the BA loyalty scheme can collect Avios on tickets. too. 

Free activities bring just as much joy, though, Nicole explains, with a wander through the vast Central Park and crossing the Brooklyn Bridge both top of her must-do list.  

Solo dining is rarely an issue in the city, thanks to bar-style seating at many restaurants. Take advantage of happy hours, where you can get discounted drinks or oysters for $1 at certain hours of the day. 

GO: Flights from Heathrow from £437 return. 

AMSTERDAM 

ITS walkability, café culture and proximity to the UK makes this city a great spot for travellers going on solo adventures. 

According to Katie Williams, Destination Executive at British Airways Holidays, singletons should make a beeline for Museumplein – a square in the city centre renowned for its museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh and Stedelijk museums. 

Then, take a stroll around the neighbourhoods of Jordaan and De Pijp, to soak up markets, galleries and boutique cafes.  

Instead of heading to a restaurant, Katie recommends the Foodhallen – an indoor market in Oud West with stalls serving everything from sushi and burgers to local delicacy, bitterballen. 

GO: Flights from Heathrow start from £71 each way.  

BARCELONA 

SOLO demand for this Spanish city has rocketed, with British Airways reporting a 93 per cent increase in searches compared to last month. 

Home to a sandy beach just a short stroll from the city centre with world-class restaurants and cracking shopping, it’s a great spot for anyone who’s not coupled up.  

Sara Di Lenardo, BA’s Destination Manager, recommends grabbing a hop-on, hop-off bus ticket on day one to help familiarise yourself with the area. 

Then tick off Antoni Gaudi’s famous church, the Sagrada Familia, which is finally due to be completed this year after more than 140 years under construction. 

Solo travellers may also find the Gothic Quarter’s narrow streets, crammed with wonky boutiques and diddy tapas bars, less overwhelming than the main touristy strips like Las Ramblas. 

GO: Flights from Heathrow are from £48 each way. 

GENEVA 

BACHELORS and bachelorettes seeking escapism will appreciate the tranquility of the Swiss city.  

For those not used to travelling solo, the city is simple to navigate on foot and has an easy-to-use tram system, with day trips to the Alps more than doable. 

A lakeside stroll should definitely be on the bucket list, says BA Destination Manager Nina McMaster, with the water reflecting a picture of the nearby looming mountains.

You’ll be able to treat yourself to much better sweet Valentine’s treats than you’d get back home, too, with skilled chocolate makers found throughout the city. 

Nina suggests buying a Choco Pass (around £38), which gets you a tasting plate from five different chocolatiers — you can pick which ones you want to visit. 

Wine tasting is big here, too. And if you’ve got a bit of spare cash, there are some top notch wine tours on offer with viator.com. A three-hour tuk-tuk tasting tour costs from £176. 

GO: Flights from Heathrow start from £60 each way. 

LOS ANGELES 

FOR those seeking some self-care, few places in the world do wellness better than LA – home to glorious hiking trails, sun-drenched beaches, epic spas and workout classes that keep the A-listers shipshape.

The temperature is in the mid-20s right now, so it’s no surprise this was British Airways’ tenth most searched-for route last week. 

What should you get stuck into first? BA’s Destination Manager Robyn Harvey-Jones suggests a cycle from Santa Monica to Venice Beach –– it’s a very easy route, passing trendy coffee shops and quirky restaurants on the way. 

Even if you don’t have a full wallet, walking along Rodeo Drive and the tree-lined streets of Beverly Hills should be on your list, just for the people-watching.  

And for the best views of the world-famous Hollywood sign, hike up Runyon Canyon. It takes around two hours and is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels. 

GO: Flights from Heathrow are from £424 return. 

It’s crazy how often this happens.

It’s a stunning yet treacherous stretch of coastline where cars and motorhomes are routinely hauled from the waves after becoming partially or fully submerged. Over the past four decades, local farmer Dafydd Davies says he has repeatedly deployed his John Deere tractor to rescue vehicles from the infamous Traeth y Graig Ddu (Black Rock Sands).

His dedication to saving stranded vehicles stems from his own harrowing experience 40 years ago. In 1980, whilst working on a new silage pit at his farm, he endured a horrific accident with a JCB bucket loader that left him trapped against a concrete septic tank.

“I lost my eye but I was very lucky I didn’t lose my life,” he told North Wales Live. The traumatic experience heightened his awareness of potential hazards and sparked a determination to give back to the community, including offering his land for air ambulance landings.

“That incident made me much more aware of risks – even now I can sense accidents about to happen. It also made me want to give something back to the community – I volunteered my land for air ambulance landings,” he said.

This sense of responsibility also led him nearly a decade ago to assume the role of beach guardian at the beach in Gwynedd, north-west Wales, one of the few beaches where driving is allowed. Extracting cars from the advancing tide or liberating them from soft dune sands has traditionally been a job for local farmers, and when the previous guardian retired, Dafydd enthusiastically volunteered.

Vehicle owners sometimes react swiftly enough that their cars and motorhomes can be rescued. However, on occasion, all Dafydd can manage is to recover the ruined vehicle to avoid an environmental disaster.

Sometimes, his wife Kathryn, a former nurse, takes the hit from such episodes, such as when a pink VW campervan was consumed in 2020. The van and its transporter, taken to the beach for a 1970s-themed photo session, were devoured by a rapidly advancing tide after becoming trapped in the sand.

“I always remember the date – September 14 – as it’s my wife’s birthday,” Dafydd recalled. “I’d booked a meal at a restaurant but my mobile rang and we had to go to the beach instead. I usually get there in 18 minutes but by the time we arrived, it was too late – the tide was coming in too fast. Instead, I drove the tractor to the restaurant, had a meal, then I went back to the beach. It was around 2am when I finally got home.”

The devastated owner, from Cheshire, put losses at £60,000.

During a typical summer, approximately six to 10 vehicles meet their fate on the Gwynedd beach. However, it’s believed up to 30 cars and motorhomes required rescue last year in 2025, as the beach is hugely popular and amongst the few where motorists can drive their vehicles onto the sand.

Locals are familiar with the unpredictable character of a shoreline whose tempting shallow waters are ideal for bathing and aquatic pursuits yet conceal a lurking danger for unsuspecting drivers. The very characteristic that renders the beach perfect for recreational activities – its gradual incline – also creates a hazard by allowing tides to rush in rapidly.

But visitors are less familiar with the dangers. And while there are plenty of warnings displayed on the beach regarding the possible dangers, they cannot be positioned where motorists typically park at low tide close to the waterline. Those who pay for parking are given a leaflet outlining tide schedules and beach safety guidance, including recommendations on parking and even details about weeverfish.

“But it’s human nature, they don’t read the leaflets or look at the signs, and they park where they want. If the tide is high in the morning, all the cars park higher up the beach and, if the sand is dry and soft, that’s when people need pulling from the dunes,” said Dafydd.

The problem intensifies when the tide retreats and the more compact sand tempts motorists to travel further out, only to be taken by surprise when the sea returns. “However when the tide is out and the sand is harder, that’s when people park further out. Before they know it, the sea is coming in.”

During sweltering weekends, you could see 1,000 cars or more scattered across the beach, as well as queues extending more than half a mile back into Morfa Bychan village, essentially transforming the beach into a vast improvised parking area. Last year, the council began shutting the beach gate at 8pm, theoretically reducing late-evening rescues, though this didn’t always work as intended.

One one occasion, Dafydd was preparing to attend a wedding reception: “We were dressed and just about to go out the door to a wedding party. I drove to the beach while my wife went to the party alone. A family from Birmingham were stuck on the beach. As they reported it quickly, I was able to save their car – they were very grateful – and I made it to the party by 9pm. Only once the clock ticks past 8pm during the summer can I finally relax.”

Recent years have introduced a new complication to Dafydd’s coastal rescue work: the growing number of electric vehicles (EVs) poses a significantly more difficult challenge than recovering conventional petrol cars.

“Electric vehicles are so much heavier because of their batteries,” he explained. “You take a basic Honda EV – it weights 2.2 tonnes. Not only do they sink further into the sand, it requires more power and traction to pull them out.”

Nevertheless, like numerous farmers, Dafydd feels he has a duty to support his local community. Some clear snow from roads, whilst others rescue motorists stranded by flooding.

“I enjoy it,” said Dafydd. “I like the idea of giving something back. My son, Owain, who works with me on the farm, has done a couple of beach jobs, which means I can now get away for a day if I need to. But not for too long – helping others gives me great satisfaction.”

New figures have revealed where some of the most family-friendly beaches in the world are located — and one of the selections can be found right on our doorstep

A British beach has been named as one of the safest for families to have a day out. It has now been likened to similar beaches in sun-drenched locations such as the Caribbean or Mediterranean.

Porthcurno Beach is one of Britain’s most beautiful locations, hidden away on the Cornish coast. Located close to Land’s End, the cove is a gorgeous hidden gem for those looking to beat the crowds and have a more relaxed staycation.

And now, it has been revealed that Porthcurno Beach is one of the top 20 beaches in the world for families to enjoy themselves safely. It ranks among the likes of breathtaking Adriatic beaches and sun-kissed exotic locations, showing that Britain is indeed one of the best places for adults and kids alike.

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House of Travel put together a meta-list of the beaches that appear most regularly on the ‘world’s best beaches’ lists. Once a list was collated, the shortlist was generated, rating each beach’s cleanliness, local crime rates, lifeguard presence, and crowd levels.

Porthcurno Beach officially came in at #4 on the list, with experts praising its cosy nature, hidden away from the crowds of tourists. Whilst they did admit the beach did get rather packed in the summer, other elements raised its score to a high level.

“Turns out you don’t need to fly halfway around the world for a safe family beach experience, with Porthcurno Beach bringing Britain into the top five,” the study noted. “Tucked away in Cornwall near Land’s End, this cove is famous for its turquoise waters and white sand — colours you’d more typically associate with the Caribbean.”

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Famous for its rugged coastline, golden beaches, picture-perfect villages and rich maritime heritage, Cornwall is one of the most-visited corner of the UK. Sykes Cottages has a large number of holiday homes to choose from, with prices from £36 per night.

The study found that having lifeguards present and visible throughout the summer season improved the beach’s safety year-round. This is down to “strong Atlantic currents” that can prove dangerous if people aren’t aware of them. The cleanliness of the beach also put it in good standing, as well as Cornwall’s incredibly low crime rate, making it a perfect stay for those looking for a small getaway in a gorgeous part of Britain’s unbeatable coastline.

Topping the overall global list was Saadiyat Beach in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Lifeguards are on duty practically all year round, with the beach never getting that busy, even at the height of the peak season.

Turkey’s Iztuzu Beach in the Dalyan area came in at number two, with a relatively busy peak season, but punters heading to the beach were seen to be very clean. Dubai’s Kite Beach rounded out the top three, although it was considerably more busy than most beaches that featured on the list and a marginally higher crime rate, and one shark attack in the region.

Other sunny holiday destinations featured throughout the list, including reliable British favourites in Spain, Portugal and Italy. However, more up-and-coming destinations, including Montenegro and Cambodia, also made appearances.

The full list of the world’s safest beaches is:

1. Saadiyat Beach, Abu Dhabi, UAE
2. Iztuzu Beach, Dalyan, Turkey
3. Kite Beach, Dubai, UAE
4. Porthcurno Beach, Porthcurno, United Kingdom
5. Kalamies Beach, Paralimni region, Cyprus
6. Playa de Rodas, Vigo, Spain
7. Playa de Muro, Can Picafort, Mallorca, Spain
8. Sveti Stefan Beach, Sveti Stefan, Montenegro
9. Praia da Marinha, Algarve, Portugal
10. Henderson Beach, Destin, Florida, United States
11. La Pelosa Beach, Sardinia, Italy
12. Elafonissi Beach, Crete, Greece
13. Fig Tree Bay, Protaras, Cyprus
14. Blue Lagoon, Comino, Malta
15. Kep Beach, Cambodia
16. Tulum Beach, Tulum, Mexico
17. Cala Brandinchi, Olbia, Sardinia, Italy
18. Cannon Beach, Oregon, United States
19. La Concha Beach, San Sebastián, Spain
20. Mandraki Beach, Hydra, Greece

TWO adults-only escapes in the Mediterranean – but which will you choose?

Take your pick from Barceló Hamilton Menorca and Giannoulis Grand Bay Beach Resort, Crete.

Barceló Hamilton Menorca 

Associate Editor Sarah Barns and friends found cool culture and a brill bar scene in the Balearics. 

The Pad: Set in the charming port town of Es Castell, a speedy 15-minute drive from Menorca airport, the star of this place is the rooftop sun terrace, with its gorgeous 360-degree views of Mahón Bay and six hot tubs. 

It’s the perfect spot for sipping refreshing pomadas – the island’s signature slushy cocktail, made with Xoriguer gin and cloudy lemonade, £8. 

You’ll also find two outdoor pools and a well-equipped gym, and while modern double rooms are compact, most have a balcony overlooking the Med, so keep an eye out for celebs on their superyachts! 

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Explore: Want to stay local? Take a stroll to the picturesque harbour at Cales Fonts.

But sundowners at the iconic Cova d’en Xoroi, a dramatic cave bar perched on the cliffs famous for its Ibiza-style chillout tunes and breathtaking views, are well worth the 30-minute taxi ride and £12 entry (Covadenxoroi.com).  

Meanwhile, Ciutadella, Menorca’s historic former capital on the isle’s west coast, makes for a great day trip.

Potter around the narrow, medieval streets, lively market square (stopping to sample the delicious Mahón cheese) and Gothic cathedral. Grab pastisset – flower-shaped, shortbread-like cookies – and pop into Atelier Ansa per Ansa to admire the handbag brand loved by Spain’s Queen Letizia (Ansaperansa.com).  

Elsewhere, along the northern coastline you’ll find the North Menorca Marine Reserve, a protected area home to hidden coves and crystal-clear sea ideal for snorkelling, as well as the Cap de Cavalleria lighthouse. 

Refuel: Nestled among olive trees, the terrace at nearby Torralbenc was made for balmy evenings (Torralbenc.com).

Expect locally sourced, regional favourites, including ceviche, £23, spider crab stew, £24.50, and Mahón cheesecake, £16.

For a more rustic affair, head to Arjau Restaurant in Maó’s harbour for small plates, including Iberico flatbread, £15.50, rice with chicken, £19.50, and tiramisu, £6 (Arjaumao.com).

After exploring the northern coast, the fideua at Casa Emilio in the fishing town of Fornells is not to be missed. 

It’s a traditional, one-pan paella-like dish with thin noodles instead of rice, bursting with monkfish, cuttlefish and crayfish, £23.50 (Casaemiliofornells.com).  

Don’t Miss: Illa del Rei, a small, pretty island in Mahón harbour, is home to the art gallery Hauser & Wirth Menorca with shows from both local and international artists. Even better, there’s a free water-taxi service (Hauserwirth.com).  

Book It: Double rooms at Barceló Hamilton Menorca cost from £89 per night.

EasyJet now offers year-round flights to Menorca, from £23.99 each way (Easyjet.com). 

Giannoulis Grand Bay Beach Resort, Crete 

Fashion Editor Abby McHale and boyfriend Andy sought out R&R in the fishing village of Kolymbari. 

The Pad: Grab a seafront junior suite with a shared infinity pool for picture-perfect postcard vibes.

Decorated in warm creams with a hint of blue, you’ll find a super-king bed, sofa area and dining table, so you won’t be lacking in space.

A private spot on the sandy, shingle beach is reserved just for Grand Bay guests, and a 60-minute body-detox massage using reflexology points and essential oils in the spa, for a £10.50 supplement, hits the spot.

The buffet may not be the most varied, but rooftop a la carte restaurant Azzuro serves up fab Greek classics like keftedes and moussaka for dinner, before the evening entertainment – think everything from a violinist to a DJ – hit the terrace. Oh, and bartender Andreas makes a mean tequila sunrise, too. 

Explore: In Kolymbari itself, stroll to the tranquil Odigitria Gonia Monastery, £2.60 entry, and snap the stunning sea vistas.

Handily, the bus from right outside the hotel takes you to the ancient city of Chania, £3 for the 30-minute ride.

Wander down to its 16th-century lighthouse for panoramic views of a city built by the Venetians, then explore the narrow streets of the Old Town packed with handmade pottery and woven basket bags – Melody Ceramics was our fave find (@Melodyceramics).

Later, seek out the Rat Race Taproom, a craft-beer bar with arcade games, and order the tropical Welcome Abroad IPA, £6 (Rat-race.gr). 

Refuel: If you stay all-inclusive-plus, you don’t need to eat out. But dining in candlelight with the sound of waves and Zorba‘s Dance played on an accordion at chic Palio Arhontiko restaurant makes for a great date night just a short stroll from the hotel.

The seafood pasta is stuffed with mussels, clams and prawns, £19.50, and the lamb orzo comes with the meat still on the bone, £25.

A glass of Greek rosé, £7, will seal the deal (Palioarhontiko.gr).

Meanwhile, tucked away by Chania’s harbour entrance is tiny Gyros Chania, where halloumi gyros cost just £6.50, and make for a tasty lunch when day-tripping (Gyroschania.com). 

Don’t Miss: Picking up an award-winning bottle of local olive oil, £17.50, at Edia after a delicious tasting (Edia-crete.gr). 

Book it: Rooms at Giannoulis Grand Bay Beach Resort cost from £94 B&B (Giannoulishotels.com).

Flights from the UK to Chania start from £89 return.