resorts

FORGET fighting for a sunbed in Benidorm – some of Europe’s best-value beach holidays are hiding in resorts most Brits couldn’t point to on a map.

They’ve got all the essential boxes ticked: guaranteed summer sun, proper hotel pools and beaches within flip-flop-walking distance – and because they aren’t popular tourist traps, you can enjoy the peace and quiet, too.

This is because they’re tucked away in Albania, Montenegro, Poland and lesser-known corners of Croatia, so they haven’t yet attracted the overwhelming crowds – or the eye-watering price tags – of the Mediterranean’s usual suspects.

I’ve been digging through our live On the Beach booking data to track down eight overlooked resorts quietly cleaning up with savvy British travellers.

Some serve as much better-value alternatives to Croatia’s expensive hotspots, while others offer five-star luxury for less than you’d pay for a basic three-star elsewhere.

Here are the eight resort names to get on your radar – before everyone else catches on…

1. Durres, Albania

If you’ve heard anything about Albania’s coast recently, it was probably about Ksamil and the increasingly trendy Riviera down south.

But Durrës, sitting on the Adriatic coast, is so much easier to reach and feels much more like a classic, hassle-free package resort.

Its coastline is lined with wide sand, beach bars and modern hotels, while the town itself packs in a Roman amphitheatre, Byzantine walls and a 15th-century Venetian tower.

This means there’s actual culture to explore when you’re not working on the tan.

Plus, it sits just 30km from Tirana Airport, so you don’t waste half your first day stuck on a transfer bus crawling across the mountains.

Our booking data shows holidaymakers paid an average of just £382pp for a five-night stay here over the last 12 months – working out to an absolute steal at £76 per person, per night.

A standout hotel to book is the four-star Bleart Hotel, a family-run beachfront spot featuring its own private sand, a massive outdoor pool and sea-view rooms.

And I found a deal here for a five-night B&B stay from £235pp, flying direct from London Luton on September 30.

Albania deal

Bleart Hotel, Durres

• Five nights
• Bed & Breakfast
• Return Luton flights

From £235pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

2. Tucepi, Croatia

You can be forgiven if you haven’t heard of Tucepi before, let alone know how to pronounce it (full disclosure, I had to Google it twice).

Tucked along Croatia’s Makarska Riviera, this little gem is sandwiched between the crystal-clear Adriatic and the towering Biokovo mountains.

It gives you the exact same views people spend an absolute fortune chasing down in Dubrovnik, minus the cruise-ship crowds and extortionate bar tabs.

You get a long, pine-shaded promenade, waterfront konobas (local tavernas) and an immaculate pebble beach, with the livelier hub of Makarska sitting just down the coast.

Our numbers show that, in 2026, Brits paid an average of £469pp for a six-night holiday here over the past year (£78 per person, per night).

If you fancy it, look at the four-star Bluesun Hotel Alga, which sits just 100 metres from the sea with mountain views behind it.

It boasts five separate swimming pools, a kids’ club and two playgrounds, making it one of the best value family setups on the coast.

And I clocked a five-night B&B stay here from £330pp, flying from London Luton on September 30.

Croatia deal

Blueson Hotel Alga, Tucepi

• Five nights
• Bed & Breakfast
• Return Luton flights

From £330pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

3. Golem, Albania

Golem is what happens when you take Albania’s dirt-cheap local prices and pair them with a fully loaded, modern beach-resort strip.

Sitting six miles south of Durres, it serves up miles of soft sand backed by beach clubs, seafood spots and modern hotel blocks.

The water is remarkably shallow and calm, making it a dream for families with young kids.

Even better, Tirana Airport is a painless 40-minute transfer away.

It’s livelier than Albania‘s smaller fishing villages, but that just means you’ve actually got options once you step outside the hotel gates.

Our booking data shows guests spent an average of £335pp for a four-night break here over the last year, making holidays just £84 per person, per night.

The four-star Albanian Star Hotel sits right on Golem Beach with its own private lounger section, an outdoor pool and sea-view balconies.

You can grab a five-night B&B package from £285pp, flying direct from London Luton on September 30.

Albania deal

Albanian Star Hotel, Golem

• Five nights
• Bed & Breakfast
• Return Luton flights

From £285pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

4. Herceg Novi, Montenegro

Herceg Novi sits right at the entrance of Bay of Kotor, where the mountains drop straight into deep blue water and a historic old town tumbles down to the coast.

It looks like an ultra-exclusive luxury hideaway, but the price tag tells a completely different story.

You’ve got waterfront restaurants, hidden swimming coves, and the long Pet Danica promenade linking it to neighbouring resorts.

You can easily catch boat trips around the bay or explore the famous Kotor without paying the eye-watering hotel rates in the centre.

Despite the high-end views, our average booking here came in at £455pp for five nights – just £88 per person, per night.

To do it in proper style, check out the five-star Carine Hotel Kumbor Superior.

It sits right on the water with a private beach, indoor and outdoor pools, a luxury spa and a full all-inclusive setup – meaning those five-star views won’t come with a terrifying bar bill at check-out.

You can book a five-night all-inclusive break here from £425pp, flying from Manchester on October 23.

Montengro deal

Carine Hotel Kumbor Supeior, Hercig Novi

• Five nights
• All inclusive
• Return Manchester flights

From £425pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

5. Gdansk, Poland

Gdańsk is famous for its cobbled streets, colourful townhouses and craft beer spots along the Motława River – but almost nobody in the UK realises it doubles as a proper beach resort in the summer.

The city boasts long, wide Baltic sand beaches like Brzezno and Jelitkowo, reachable via a quick tram ride from the historic centre.

It delivers a brilliant holiday hybrid: spend your mornings exploring medieval architecture, your afternoons lounging on the beach and your evenings eating fresh seafood by the river.

From May to September the weather gets really warm, while prices remain almost absurdly cheap compared to the Med.

Our booking data has Gdansk averaging just £246pp per trip, making it one of the single cheapest destinations in our database.

A great base is the three-star Hotel Number One by Grano.

It puts you right near the Old Town and gives guests access to the Grano Life wellness centre, complete with an indoor pool, jacuzzi and saunas.

You can secure a five-night room-only stay here from just £220pp, flying from London Stansted on September 19.

Poland deal

Hotel Number One by Grano, Gdansk

• Five nights
• Room only
• Return Stansted flights

From £220pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

6. Sopot, Poland

If you think Poland is only good for a winter city break, Sopot completely dismantles that myth.

Sitting just down the coast from Gdańsk, this is a proper, glamorous Baltic seaside resort featuring grand spa hotels, wide beaches and Europe’s longest wooden pier stretching out into the sea.

The main pedestrianised boulevard, Monte Cassino, is packed with open-air cafes, cocktail bars and restaurants, giving it a buzzing, high-end atmosphere after dark.

You can easily hop on the local coastal train to explore Gdansk, giving you a beach break and a world-class city break in one go.

And Brits paid an average of just £190pp for a break here, taking the absolute lowest price crown on our board.

To go all-out, look at the five-star Haffner Hotel & Spa.

It sits 250 metres from the sand with an indoor pool, spa and a private beach area in summer.

You can bag a five-night room-only stay at this luxury hotel from £395pp, flying direct from London Stansted on September 28.

Poland deal

Haffner Hotel & Spa, Sopot

• Five nights
• Room only
• Return Stansted flights

From £396pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

7. Igalo, Montenegro

Sitting right next door to Herceg Novi, Igalo swaps the historic fortress vibe for a much more relaxed, traditional beach-resort atmosphere.

It’s known for being a wellness hub thanks to its natural mineral waters and therapeutic mud flats.

The resort itself has a long, managed beach with warm, shallow water, backed by a flat promenade lined with family-run cafes.

You can stroll along the coastal path into Herceg Novi’s old town or use the harbour as a launchpad for boat trips around the Bay of Kotor.

Our booking data shows holidaymakers paid an average of £563pp for a five-night stay here, which equates to a very reasonable £110 per person, per night.

If I were booking, I’d go for the four-star Palmon Bay Hotel & Spa.

It has its own private beach club, two outdoor pools and an indoor pool filled directly with natural mineral water.

A five-night B&B package starts from £370pp, flying from London Stansted on September 28.

Montengro deal

Palmon Bay Hotel & Spa, Igalo

• Five nights
• Bed & Breakfast
• Return Stansted flights

From £370pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

8. Split, Croatia

Split itself isn’t a secret obviously, but far too many travellers treat it as a hub to visit the islands – despite that being a massive missed trick. 

Stay a while and enjoy ancient Roman palaces in the morning before cooling off with a swim in the Adriatic (chased by a cocktail on the palm-lined promenade).

The newly redeveloped Znjan seafront has given the city a proper beach-resort complex, complete with landscaped pebble bays, lounge bars and playgrounds.

While it came in as the highest-priced destination in this data group – averaging £744pp for a five-night stay (£155 per night) – it still delivers a premium combination of culture and coast that few places can match.

The four-star Amphora hotel sits directly on Znjan Beach, boasting three swimming pools, a spa and a rooftop lounge bar overlooking the sea.

And you can lock in a five-night B&B stay here from £430pp, flying direct from London Luton on October 17.

Croatia deal

Amphora Hotel, Split

• Five nights
• Bed & Breakfast
• Return Luton flights

From £430pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

THERE’S last-minute, and then there’s “I could be sitting on a sun lounger by next Wednesday” last-minute.

Well, we’re at that exact point in late summer when airline and hotel booking engines do some very interesting things.

Flights with remaining empty seats need filling, hotels want their final unoccupied rooms gone, and package prices are suddenly sitting far below where they were just a few weeks ago.

So, I’ve been digging through our live booking data to track down the destinations offering the absolute cheapest last-minute summer holidays on the board.

These aren’t bottom-of-the-barrel options either, by the way.

Every deal below includes return flights, accommodation, food and drinks, with these particular all-inclusive holidays starting from just £315 per person.

Here’s the breakdown from number eight down to the single cheapest steal on the map.

You’ll need to move fast though, because these departures are all within the next two weeks.

8. Skanes, Tunisia (from £430pp)

If you want guaranteed August heat and a fully-loaded hotel setup without paying top dollar, Skanes is the place to look.

This purpose-built coastal strip sits directly between Monastir and Sousse, meaning the resorts come with massive swimming pools, palm gardens, and access to sandy beaches.

It’s quieter than the major Tunisian city hubs, but our recent booking data shows holidaymakers have been landing stays here for an average of £82.86 per person, per night – in the school holidays!

You can lock in a five-night, all-inclusive stay at the four-star Hotel Liberty Resort from 22 August, with return flights from Cardiff, for just £430pp.

The property is a brilliant family base with a massive outdoor pool network, but the real insider win here is the hotel’s private, free return shuttle down to their dedicated beach plot.

It means you can swap the poolside lounger for the sea in under three minutes without doing a hot, dusty trek in the August heat.

7. Marmaris, Turkey (from £408pp)

Marmaris came in as the second-cheapest resort overall, averaging just £75.43 per person, per night for extreme last-minute bookings this summer.

It remains one of Turkey’s best all-rounders because it caters to every type of traveller – whether your sightseeing limit is walking from your lounger to the snack bar, or you want a buzzing marina, waterfront seafood spots, and boat trips around the pine-clad bay.

I tracked down a five-night, all-inclusive package at the four-star Hawaii Hotel, flying from Birmingham on 21 August, for just £408pp.

The hotel sits right on its own section of shingle beach, but the standout feature here is easily the location.

Because it sits right on the border of the main seafront promenade, you can enjoy a quiet, self-contained resort atmosphere during the day and walk straight out into the bustling town centre after dinner without ever needing a taxi.

6. Sunny Beach, Bulgaria (from £378pp)

Sunny Beach has built its entire reputation on being dirt cheap, and the latest figures show it still thoroughly earns that crown.

Recent breaks have been averaging just £76.90 per person, per night, making it the third-cheapest resort in my research.

And in Sunny Beach, its broad, sandy beach stretches for miles, packed with waterparks, family attractions, and beachfront bars.

You can bag a five-night, all-inclusive stay at the three-star Yunona from 20 August, flying direct from Manchester, for just £378pp.

Getting five full days of accommodation, food, and drinks – plus flights included – for under £400 in peak August is nuts.

And at Yunona, I love the sheltered design – because despite sitting right in the heart of the resort near the main attractions, the pool area is entirely enclosed by the hotel block, creating a surprisingly quiet and relaxed sanctuary away from the main strip’s noise.

5. Playa del Ingles, Gran Canaria (from £373pp)

Playa del Ingles serves up reliable sunshine all year-round, but summer is when I think it’s at its best.

It’s one of Gran Canaria’s liveliest spots, boasting a huge beach, sprawling shopping centres, and the famous Maspalomas sand dunes right on your doorstep.

While my data shows the resort averaging as little as £83.43 per person, per night, live deals offer a way to beat that average significantly.

I found a five-night, all-inclusive deal at the Green Field aparthotel, flying from Bristol on 19 August, for £373pp.

That works out to £74.60 per person, per night – nearly £9 below the resort average.

What makes this three-star property a standout for me is the apartments – every unit comes with its own kitchenette and a wide private balcony, giving you a proper, spacious living area to retreat to rather than feeling crammed into a standard hotel room.

4. Icmeler, Turkey (from £370pp)

Icmeler is the calmer, considerably greener neighbor to Marmaris.

The resort wraps around a sheltered bay, surrounded by mountains, with a beach, canal, and quiet seafront tavernas.

While our booking data shows travellers currently paying an average of £79.43 per person, per night here, live availability drops well below that baseline – even when you’re looking at the very last-minute.

I clocked a five-night, all-inclusive break at the four-star Club Munamar Beach Resort, flying from Bristol on 19 August, for £370pp – bringing the nightly cost down to just £74 per person.

The hotel features three separate pool zones, an excellent entertainment team, and its own private beach section.

They even provide reserved sunbeds and shades exclusively for guests, saving you from paying daily commercial beach fees down on the main shore.

3. Maspalomas, Gran Canaria (from £340pp)

Maspalomas actually registered as the most expensive of these eight resorts in the recent booking data, averaging £89.43 per person, per night.

However, hunting through live availability reveals a massive price loophole that completely flips that narrative.

You can lock in a five-night, all-inclusive package at the Maspalomas Oasis Club, departing Bristol on 19 August, for £340pp.

That slashes the daily price down to just £68 per person, per night – more than £21 below the resort average.

The property itself is a low-rise, bungalow-style complex in the quiet Campo Internacional area. 

And the apartments even have a duplex layout – instead of sharing corridors in a noisy multi-story block, you get your own self-contained bungalow with a private ground-floor terrace surrounding the pool.

2. Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote (from £338pp)

Puerto del Carmen came in as the absolute cheapest overall resort for super-last-minute holidays, with guests paying an average of just £73.15 per person, per night, according to the data.

That’s remarkable value given that Lanzarote is one of the most reliable options for guaranteed weather in Europe.

I even spotted a five-night, all-inclusive holiday at the three-star BLUESEA Los Fiscos, flying direct from Manchester on 22 August, for £338pp – coming out at just £67.60 per person, per night.

And this place is an apartment-style hotel tucked into the hillside above the old town.

The absolute best feature here is the elevated panoramic terrace, Because it sits above the main harbour, the pool bar serves up sweeping, uninterrupted views across the Atlantic Ocean while you grab an evening drink. Beauty.

1. Laganas, Zante (from £315pp)

Laganas takes the number one spot on our board for the absolute cheapest complete holiday package.

While it’s famous for its nightlife strip, move away from the main strip and you’ll find the protected Zakynthos Marine Park, traditional tavernas, and excellent boat trips out to spot loggerhead turtles.

While average bookings sit at £87.62 per person, per night, the live deals reveal a massive price drop that you can take advantage of.

You can secure a five-night, all-inclusive stay at the four-star Majestic Hotel and Spa, flying from Bristol on 19 August, for just £315pp.

That works out to a rock-bottom £63 per person, per night for return flights, accommodation, and all your food and drinks in peak August.

The hotel sits right in the heart of the action, featuring a massive central pool deck and an on-site spa, making it the ultimate budget launchpad for anyone wanting to be right in the center of the resort energy.

IF you are looking for a last-minute summer break for the whole family, check out these Eurocamp resorts.

With swimming complexes, waterslides, sports, entertainment and nearby beaches it will keep everyone entertained – and we’ve found 10 that still have spaces this August from £10.60pppn.

Château de Fonrives, Dordogne, France 

Anyone who’s a fan of water will love this Eurocamp as it has three swimming pools and five thrilling waterslides.

For relaxation, check into the wellness centre which has a sauna, massages and beauty treatments – there’s also direct access to nearby lakes and a free kids clubs for children between 5-17.

Seven-nights from August 22 in a Comfort three bedroom holiday home that sleeps up to six guests, from £446.53 per party – or £10.60pppn.

Les Ecureuils, Vendée, France 

Found on the coast of France, this Eurocamp is surrounded by miles of sandy beaches.

There’s also a huge family pool, children’s splash park and waterslides as well as a lazy river and Jacuzzi – when it comes to eating, take a look in the restaurant called Amy’s House which serves up salads, pasta and burger dishes.

CHEAP AS CHIPS

10 UK summer holidays that are CHEAPER than a takeaway – all £12pp or less

CHEAP CHIC

Cheap UK stays from £9.50pp – with FREE bottomless wine & £11pp coastal cottages

Seven-nights from August 22 staying in a two bedroom Safari Tent that sleeps up to five guests, from £543.06 per party – or £15.50pppn.

Sole di Sari, Corsica, France

This stretch of Corsican coast is part of a nature reserve and within touching distance of the sea.

It also has a newly refurbished waterpark with a family pool, shallow children’s pool, splash park and and twisty waterslide – during the summer months there’s evening entertainment too.

Seven-nights from August 22 staying in a Comfort three bedroom holiday home that sleeps up to six guests, from £597.38 per party – or £14.22pppn.

Camping Fabulous Village, Rome, Italy

This fabulous village has it all for a family fun holiday from its many swimming pools to its large sunbathing area.

Along with its on-site restaurant and bar there’s also a gelateria for when it’s time to cool down – when it comes to activities, kids can try out tennis, football, volleyball and trampolining.

Seven nights from August 22 staying in a Classic two bedroom holiday home that sleeps up to four guests, from £663.74 per party – or £23.70pppn.

Klein Canada, Limburg, Netherlands 

This Eurocamp sits on the Maasduinen National Park and it has pools, ponds with a touch of Canadian adventure.

Along with its outdoor swimming pools, there’s a fishing pond regularly stocked with carp and whitefish for enthusiasts. With the National Park on your doorstep, it’s a great spot for walking through forests, heathlands, and river dunes.

Seven-nights from August 22 staying in a Premium three bedroom holiday home that sleeps up to six guests, from £681.87 per party – or £16.24pppn.

hu Norcenni Girasole Village, Tuscany, Italy

Thanks to its location, pitches at this steep park have incredible views of the Tuscan countryside.

Adults will love this Eurocamp as it has wine tasting excursions and and wine tasting evenings at the on-site shop – it also has eight swimming pools and six watersides and is close to Florence, Pisa and Siena.

Seven nights from August 22 staying in a Classic two bedroom holiday home that sleeps up to six guests, from £718.06 per party – £17.10pppn.

Aminess Maravea, Istria, Croatia 

There are activities and water sports galore at this beachside Eurocamp in Croatia – it might be surrounded by leafy trees but it’s right next to the water too.

Adults can cool off in its tidal infinity pool and lido, while kids can paddle in their own pool complete with slides and spray park. You can to try traditional Croatian cuisine here too at Restaurant Loop which provides all-day selection of meals and snacks.

Seven nights from Saturday 22nd August 2026 staying in a two bedroom Super Lodge Tent that sleeps up to five guests, from £718.06 per party – £17.10pppn.

Atlantic Club Montalivet, Gironde, France

The Atlantic Club Montalivet is surrounded by pine trees but is right by the ocean too with direct access to the beach.

It has multiple swimming pools and guests will love the U-shaped waterslide which you can go down on with an inflatable. Sports are well covered too from tennis, mini golf, beach volleyball and football to pétanque.

Seven nights from August 22 staying in a Comfort two bedroom holiday home that sleeps up to six guests, from £802.55 per party – or £19.11pppn.

hu Birkelt Village, Mullerthal, Luxembourg

This Eurocamp is nicknamed Little Switzerland thanks to its surrounding meadows, woodlands and rivers.

It has an impressive pool complex which has a retractable roof that opens when the sun arrives along with a kids’ disco, play area, bar and restaurant.

Seven-nights from Saturday 22nd August 2026 staying in a Comfort three bedroom holiday home that sleeps up to six guests, from £947.31 per party – or £22.55pppn.

Terme Čatež, Lower Carniola, Slovenia

The highlight of Terme Čatež has to be its outdoor waterpark with waterslides, a wave pool, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, 450-metre lazy river and even a pirate island.

The Pri Kapitanu restaurant serves regional specialities which guests can enjoy on its lakeside terrace. For sight-seeing, Croatia’s capital, Zagreb, is under one hour away.

Seven nights from August 22 staying in a two bedroom Safari Tent that sleeps up to five guests, from £977.48 per party – or £27.93pppn.

Prices correct at the time of publication.

The holiday park operator changed its accommodation grading over a year ago, and has clarified how this will affect customers, but some have taken to social media to voice their disappointment

Parkdean has changed the way it grades its accommodation and it has left some customers ‘disappointed’, while others have been left confused by the update.

A number of guests have taken to the Parkdean Resorts Complaint Group on Facebook and shared their experience of booking accommodation with the holiday park operator.

Parkdean’s website explains that its grading system is now based on the size of the accommodation, rather than quality or age, so Bronze, Silver, and Gold run from smallest to largest. There are also ‘Premium’ options in each of these grades.

But some customers have claimed that this is different to how other holiday parks grade their accommodation, which could make it confusing. A member of the Facebook group claimed: “Gold caravans were always more luxurious than silver or bronze and this was reflected in the higher price. This new pricing system is not only confusing but very disappointing if you think you are paying for gold quality and end up with bronze instead.”

A spokesperson for Parkdean Resorts, said: “Guests consistently tell us how much they enjoy staying at our holiday parks, and we’re proud to maintain a strong TripAdvisor rating of 4.2 from more than 12,000 reviews.

“Our accommodation categorisation system was introduced over a year ago to help guests find the holiday experience that best suits their needs. As explained on our website, accommodation is categorised by size rather than quality or age, with premium options available across each size category, offering enhanced features and higher-specification fixtures and fittings.

“All of our accommodation is maintained to high standards, and we remain committed to providing every guest with a great holiday experience.”

But some holidaymakers in the Facebook group are still claiming to be left unhappy with their accommodation. One claimed they “booked a gold van” but felt “very disappointed” at what they felt “can be described as a silver van at best”, alleging that staff on site told them “that the grading system has changed and there is nothing they can do”,

Another claimed they had “booked a gold premium caravan and at best it was a bronze” at Sandy Bay Northumberland. They alleged that when they asked a member of staff they were told “pictures are only for illustration only and the status as in bronze, silver gold or gold premium is on the size of the caravan and not the spec”.

There are other holiday park operators that do grade their accommodation based on facilities rather than size. For example, Haven offers six caravan grades, from Saver to Signature Gold, and while some grades such as Bronze and Silver are around the same size, the latter offers extra features such as an outdoor deck.

Park Holidays also offers four core tiers: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, with bronze described as an “affordable option” while “platinum caravans are crafted to the highest standards and include private decking, en-suite facilities and premium finishes.” There’s no mention of sizing on its website.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

AFTER spending years working in travel, I’ve realised some of Europe’s best purpose-built family resorts are the ones you’ve probably never even heard of.

While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with the classics, I’ve found stacks of alternative resorts that deliver everything families love about those hot spots – but they are a lot quieter, and a fraction of the price.

Think wide beaches, shallow water, proper family hotels, and massive waterparks – just without the overwhelming crowds or the inflated peak-summer price tag.

So, I’ve narrowed it down to eight resorts that hit all the non-negotiables for parents: short UK flights, quick airport transfers, walkable beaches, and stress-free dining with toddlers in tow.

8. Petrovac, Montenegro

If you want to try something genuinely different without sacrificing convenience, Petrovac is a proper hidden gem.

Tucked along Montenegro’s coast, it’s practically built for families with young kids.

The whole resort centres around a calm, horseshoe-shaped bay protected by small offshore islands that keep the sea remarkably still and safe for paddling.

There’s a completely pedestrianised, traffic-free promenade where kids can run around freely while you finish dinner, lined with casual, welcoming tavernas where children are treated like royalty.

Tivat Airport sits just 40 minutes down the coast, meaning you aren’t subjecting tired kids to a massive transfer coach journey after landing.

I found seven nights at the four-star Hotel Rivijera from £568pp, based on a family of four flying direct from London Gatwick on August 22 on a bed and breakfast basis.

Montenegro deal

Hotel Rivijera, Petrovac

• Seven nights
• Gatwick flights
• Bed and breakfast

From £568pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

7. Cala’n Bosch, Menorca

Menorca is the undisputed king of low-stress family travel, but Cala’n Bosch is the specific resort I recommend time and time again.

Everything revolves around a central marina packed with seafood spots and ice cream parlours, where children can watch the boats coming and going while you enjoy a relaxed meal.

The beaches are sheltered, slope very gently, and stay shallow for ages, making them ideal for little swimmers.

Plus, the whole resort is exceptionally compact and flat, so you can easily walk everywhere without ever needing a hire car or bus.

You’ve got Aquarock Waterpark right in the centre of the resort for a change of scenery, and Mahón Airport is under 45 minutes away.

A family of four can bag seven nights at Club Ciudadela from £493pp, with flights from Manchester on August 25 on a self-catering basis.

Menorca deal

Club Ciudadela, Cala’n Bosch

• Seven nights
• Manchester flights
• Self catered

From £493pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

6. Nessebar, Bulgaria

Most people looking at Bulgaria default straight to Sunny Beach.

But just ten minutes down the coast sits Nessebar – a historic, UNESCO-listed town that delivers the exact same value with a much calmer atmosphere for parents.

It serves up the best of both worlds: a charming, stone-paved old town packed with ice cream parlours and bakeries, flanked by long, wide stretches of soft, golden sand that slopes gently into the sea.

It gives families that proper, classic beach holiday feeling, but with dirt-cheap dining and a far less chaotic night-time vibe than its noisy neighbor.

Burgas Airport is a breeze at just 25 minutes away, and Aqua Paradise – one of Eastern Europe’s biggest waterparks – is right on your doorstep too.

There were plenty of hotels to choose from, but in terms of value, I couldn’t get away from this one: seven nights all-inclusive at the Sol Nessebar Resort from just £675pp, based on a family of four flying from Manchester on August 25.

Bulgaria deal

Sol Nessebar Resort, Nessebar

• Seven nights
• Manchester flights
• All inclusive

From £675pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

5. Gouves, Crete

Gouves is one of those places families stumble across by accident and then end up booking for five years straight.

Sitting just 15 minutes from Heraklion Airport, it delivers one of the shortest transfers anywhere in the Greek islands – a total lifesaver after a four-hour flight with young kids.

Trust me, I know this one from experience.

The resort layout is super-relaxed, with flat, quiet roads lined with family-run tavernas and mini-marts, alongside sheltered sea walls that break up the waves and create pancake-flat, shallow swimming lagoons.

For easy day trips, you’ve got Dinosauria Park and Watercity Waterpark all sitting less than a 10-minute drive down the road.

And the best part is the price, because I managed to find seven nights with breakfast at the Despo Hotel from £398pp, with direct flights for a family of four from London Gatwick on August 25.

Crete deal

Despo Hotel, Gouves

• Seven nights
• Gatwick flights
• Bed and Breakfast

From £398pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

4. Tigaki, Kos

Kos often gets overshadowed by Crete and Rhodes, but Tigaki deserves way more attention for families with buggies and toddlers.

The sand beach stretches uninterrupted for miles and the water stays waist-deep forever.

The entire resort is completely flat making it an absolute dream for pushchairs, scooters, and little legs that get tired quickly.

It has that quintessential, laid-back Greek island charm where parents can relax while the kids play safely on the sand right in front of the taverna tables.

Kos Airport is barely 20 minutes away, and the massive Lido Water Park is right down the road when you want a break from the ocean.

For just £580pp, I found seven nights all-inclusive for a family of four at Hotel K Ilios and Farming, flying direct from London Gatwick on August 19.

Kos deal

Hitel K Ilios and Farming, Tigaki

• Seven nights
• Gatwick flights
• All inclusive

From £580pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

3. Cala Millor, Majorca

Cala Millor on Majorca’s east coast is the ultimate substitute for a stress-free Spanish break.

It’s home to an enormous, Blue Flag sandy bay with crystal-clear, shallow water, backed by a massive, palm-shaded pedestrian promenade lined with wooden playgrounds, shaded cafes, and flat cycling paths.

It’s made for effortless family days out, giving you all the incredible facilities, beach games, and amenities of the island’s famous mega-resorts, but with a much more relaxed, authentic island feel.

Palma Airport is also around an hour’s transfer.

It’s a little further than other resorts, but all via the main highway, making it a stress-free, fairly straight drive.

And I’ve picked out seven nights at the four-star Garbi Cala Millor from £548pp, based on a family of four flying direct from Gatwick on August 20 and staying half board.

Majorca deal

Hotel Garbi Cala Millor

• Seven nights
• Gatwick flights
• Half board

From £548pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

2. Porec, Croatia

If you fancy trading standard package resorts for quaint old towns, Porec in Croatia is easily one of the best family bets in Europe.

The centre is completely pedestrianised and packed with waterfront pizzerias and street performers that keep kids mesmerised.

Instead of scorched, open sand, the coastline here is lined with lush, fragrant pine forests that run right down to the clear swimming bays.

This means tons of natural shade so young kids can swim and play all day without getting overheated.

Pula Airport is less than 45 minutes away, and Aquacolors Porec – one of Croatia’s biggest waterparks – is sitting right outside town.

And I found a deal for a family of four, spending seven nights at Hotel Istra Plava Laguna from £513pp, with flights direct from London Luton on August 25 on a half board basis.

Croatia deal

Hotel Istra Plava Laguna, Porec

• Seven nights
• Luton flights
• Half board

From £513pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

1. La Pineda, Spain

If Salou has always appealed for the theme parks and beaches, but you wish the town itself was quieter and easier to navigate with children, La Pineda is an absolute cheat code.

Sitting just five minutes down the Costa Dorada coast, it boasts a massive beach with super-shallow water, backed by a flat, green promenade that’s ideal for pushchairs and evening strolls.

It’s ideal for families who want a chilled base, but still want easy access to world-class attractions.

Reus Airport is an absolute dream at just 15 minutes away, and you’ve got Aquopolis waterpark right inside the resort itself.

There is also PortAventura World theme park that’s a quick 10-minute taxi ride down the road (named one of the best in the world).

I clocked seven nights at Hotel Best Sol D’Or from £473pp, for a family of four departing Birmingham on August 25 on a room-only basis.

Spain deal

Hotel Best Sol D’or, La Pineda

• Seven nights
• Birmingham flights
• Room only

From £473pp. BOOK HERE

If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue

EUROPE is sizzling through a major heatwave, but that doesn’t need to melt your getaway plans.

These waterpark hotels will ensure kids stay cool in the sun — and they are all in areas currently deemed safe from wildfires.

With plenty of deals still out there, Sophie Swietochowski picks some of the top waterpark resorts across the continent.

TURKEY – The Land Of Legends Kingdom Hotel and Aqualand

Thrill-seeking teens will be bowled over by this giant theme park in Antalya, on the southern coast.

Often labelled as the Disneyland of Turkey, it is home to a thrilling 62metre Hyper Coaster, a mega shopping district and a waterpark.

Typhoon Coaster is the highlight, hurling riders at mega speeds from 43-metres up, in to a splash basin.

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There’s plenty for youngsters too, including a mini wave pool and slides, and a lazy river.

Guests staying at the onsite Kingdom Hotel get unlimited access to the parks.

GO: Four nights’ all-inclusive at the 5* The Land Of Legends Kingdom Hotel is from £972.50pp for a family of four sharing, flying from Stansted on August 26. Details at onthebeach.co.uk.

CORFU – Aqualand Resort and Waterpark

This resort, attached to the well-known Aqualand park, offers round-the-clock ice cream, pizzas, and burgers for hungry little mouths, as well as tasty Mediterranean-inspired grub for the grown-ups.

Guests get unlimited access to the waterpark where the whole family can get stuck in, thanks to the massive mishmash of rides.

Mum, Dad and the youngsters can head for the family rafting ride, down a 180metre tube, while the brave can tackle the 24metre-high free-fall slides and the open flume “kamikaze” slides.

With 15 pools and swimming areas, the kids will never get bored.

GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the 4H Aqualand Resort and Waterpark is from £943pp, based on a family of four sharing and including flights from Liverpool John Lennon on August 17. See firstchoice.co.uk.

SPAIN – Evenia Olympic Park and WaterWorld Lloret

For adventurers, Tui offers a special package that combines a stay at the 4* Evenia Olympic Park with complimentary access to adjacent WaterWorld Lloret, one of Europe’s largest waterparks.

If it is too hot for the ten- minute walk, you can catch a free shuttle and then cool off straight away in the splash lagoon.

Meanwhile, older kids will want to make a beeline for X-trem Mountain, a 260metre watercoaster with steep drops, dark tubes and sharp bends.

There is also an onsite waterpark at the hotel with multi-lane racer slides, and a pirate ship.

GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the Evenia Olympic Park and Waterworld Lloret is from £876.53pp based on a family of four sharing and including flights from Manchester on August 22. See tui.co.uk.

CYPRUS ­– Leonardo Laura Beach & Splash Resort

One of the best holiday destinations for waterpark fans, but don’t just take my word for it. It is frequently ranked among the best in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards.

The kids’ activity pool, featuring a series of mini slides and water jets, will ensure under-12s don’t miss out, while adrenalin junkies are catered for by the Tornado King ride.

When you are not splashing around, there are five onsite restaurants as well as kids’ clubs, an escape room and cinema.

GO: Four nights’ all-inclusive at the 4* Leonardo Laura Beach & Splash Resort is from £965pp based on a family of four sharing and including flights on August 12 from East Midlands airport. To book, see thomascook.com.

FOR quieter destinations and cheaper prices, a late summer holiday – when kids have gone back to school – is ideal.

And now is the perfect time to book one, whether you want to relax on a beach, sail the ocean, tour wineries or experience some Disney magic.

Trisha Harbord selects ten top trips to enjoy in the UK or abroad, with or without the little ones . . . 

NORWEGIAN FJORDS CRUISING

SAY goodbye to chores and ride the waves aboard P&O Cruises’ Britannia.

The round-trip from Southampton to the Norwegian Fjords, stops at Haugesund, Olden, Alesund and Stavanger, and takes in the Viking region, breathtaking glaciers, lush forests and stunning lakes.

In Olden, try the Loen Skylift, one of the steepest in the world, for an amazing view.

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Britannia is an entertainment centre, with comedy, musical shows, bars, speciality restaurants, sports, a cookery club, kids’ clubs, play areas and a night nursery.

GO: Seven nights’ full-board from £785pp departing Southampton on September 11. See iglucruise.com.

BULGARIAN BLACK SEA ACTION

IF you like an active holiday, Bulgaria’s Black Sea is for you.

Along Sunny Beach, there are watersports galore, catamaran cruises, a theme park, Jeep safaris and biking.

The nearby Tui Blue Nevis hotel offers a multi-sports court for tennis, football and volleyball, pool games, guided walks, arts and crafts, and cooking classes.

Evening entertainment includes singers, acrobats, outdoor cinema and silent disco.

Don’t miss the ancient city of Nessebar, a Unesco World Heritage site.

GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive from £579pp including Manchester flights on September 10. See tui.co.uk.

LUXURY GREEK ODYSSEY

WHAT could be more enticing than fabulous food and cool cocktails in a gorgeous Greek island boutique hotel?

The 3* adults-only Nathalie Hotel in Ixia, Rhodes, is small and friendly with rooms that sleep up to four guests.

Or push the boat out and book a Jacuzzi room and Rooftop suite with views over the ocean and spectacular sunsets.

Ixia has a buzzing nightlife, with bars, tavernas and cafes, and is a surfer’s paradise.

Take a bus or taxi to explore the cobbled streets of Rhodes old town.

GO: Seven nights’ B&B from £579pp including flights from Stansted on September 27. See jet2holidays.com.

AND RELAX… WITH THE BELFRY BREAK

TREAT yourself to a relaxing break at one of the UK’s finest country resorts – The Belfry, set in 550 acres of countryside.

The spa has pools, sauna, steam rooms, A Fire & Ice Experience and aroma caves.

The resort has three golf courses, a driving range, restaurants and a cinema room.

A highlight this summer has been surfing simulator WaveSurfer, which will run at weekends during September.

GO: The Pamper or Putt offer is from £259 a night, including dinner, overnight stay, breakfast and your choice of a round of golf on The Derby or a 25-minute spa treatment.

Family two-night B&B weekend offer from £404. thebelfry.com.

LIFE’S A BEACH ON TURKEY’S RIVIERA

THE sun shines 300 days a year on the stunning beaches of Turkey’s riviera.

And the Prime Beach Hotel, in popular Marmaris, has its own private beach.

The 5* resort also offers an aqua park, pools, restaurants and snack bars.

Adults will love the wellness and spa centre, featuring a traditional hammam.

If you can travel for up to three hours, take a day trip to the thermal pools of Pamukkale or ruins of Ephesus, both Unesco World Heritage sites.

GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive from £757pp including flights from Luton on September 30. Price includes a free child’s place. See easyjet.com.

BEAT THE QUEUES AT DISNEYLAND PARIS

SEPTEMBER is a fantastic time of year to visit Disneyland Paris, especially if you avoid the weekend for shorter queues.

This year is a big one for the attraction.

The new World Of Frozen has opened in Adventure World, along with Cascade Of Lights, a fireworks, water and drone spectacular.

New for summer are Princess Cavalcade Mickey And The Magician show. Grown-ups will love thrill rides, such as The Twilight Zone: Tower Of Terror  and Avengers Assemble: Flight Force.

GO: Two nights’ room-only at the Hotel Santa Fe and three-day park tickets from £831pp, for arrival on September 28. See disneylandparis.com.

CATCH A SEAFOOD FEAST IN DEVON

DIVE down to Devon for two-week festival England’s Seafood Feast, which showcases the county’s culinary qualities and begins on September 21.

Restaurants, cafes, pubs and hotels across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham create exclusive tasting experiences, including seven courses over seven hours in seven restaurants by seven local chefs, with seven award-winning drinks.

Riviera Bay Coastal Retreat in Brixham has lodges, caravans and chalets.

GO: Three nights’ self-catering in a two-bedroom lodge is from £369. See landscovecoastalretreats.co.uk and englishriviera.co.uk.

ESSEX HAS A TOUCH OF GLASS

WINE tourism in Essex is booming and the county is now home to 58 vineyards.

Treat yourself to a luxurious stay in the beautiful grounds of Bardfield Vineyard near Braintree and you won’t need to book a taxi home after tasting their rosé, Bacchus or sparkling brut wines.

A tasting tour with ploughman’s lunch costs £40 per person.

Bed down in a rustic cart lodge, with two double en-suite bedrooms and kitchen.

Head to Saffron Grange for sparkling wines, or try the award-winning Tuffon Hall vineyard.

Both tours cost £25 per head.

GO: A cart lodge at Bardfield from £140 a night. See visitessex.com.

YORKSHIRE GOES BARKING MAD

CHEF James Martin will join pooch lovers at DogFest On The Farm at Harewood House, Yorkshire, on September 12-13.

James, who says his cocker spaniel Cooper is his best mate, will be giving cooking demos and dog nutrition advice.

Your four-legged friends can play in the giant ball pit and splash around at a pool party.

Trainers are on hand and there are sheepdog trials and breed meet-ups.

Tickets from £24.50. See dogfest.co.uk.

A perfect base for the festival is the Old Barn, near Harrogate.

GO: Three nights’ self-catering is from £525 for arrival on September 12. See caninecottages.co.uk.

TRY WALES FOR WALKING

WALKING tour company Ramble Worldwide is 80 years old this year.

It offers guided holidays in the UK and abroad for all levels of fitness, including along the beautiful Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire coasts.

Ramblers who choose Wales will find clifftop paths, coves and fishing villages, with the chance to see seals, dolphins and porpoises, and Cilgerran Castle.

Groups of ten to 12 are based at the 3* Gwbert Hotel, on the River Teifi, for walks of around ten miles a day.

GO: Five nights’ half board from £699pp for arrival on September 28. See rambleworldwide.co.uk.

The arrow shoots through the air, past the trunks of the towering pines and straight into the wild boar’s bottom.

My son Raffy, four, spins around with a gleeful shriek.

The animals may be made of foam, but scrambling up the mountainside to search out our prey before taking aim is proving thrilling, and both Raffy and his seven-year-old sister Poppy have hit the target within minutes of picking up their crossbow and arrows.

Soon, even I’m becoming a half-decent Katniss Everdeen. 3D archery costs from £15 per adult, £7 for under-10s (Riarco.eu).

We’re in the Dolomites in South Tyrol, an autonomous German/Italian-speaking province of northern Italy, staying at family-owned Parkhotel Holzner.

And both archery and rock climbing are the kind of things children will try on excursions with the kids’ club, alongside tennis lessons on the clay courts.

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There’s even a mini farm with alpacas and rabbits.

With its fairy-tale-like architecture and art nouveau decor, it feels as if we’re stepping into a story book, but there’s also a sleek extension built into the mountain, which is home to contemporary suites and the Liberty spa.

One afternoon, I find myself joining a naked sauna ritual, which involves a half-nude man whipping a towel at each participant to disperse the scent of oils he’s poured over the hot coals.

It certainly leaves my skin glowing. There are also classes, such as morning yoga on the lush lawn, to join, plus guided hikes and bike rides.

Stays also include RittenCards – guest passes that give you free public transport and admission to numerous museums and cultural sights.

One morning, we take a gentle hour’s hike along Route 26. Following the remains of an old Roman road, we cross streams and amble through woodland and alpine meadows to Beekeeping Museum Plattner Bienenhof, a house dating back more than 600 years.

Downstairs, the walls are black with soot and the rooms filled with rustic furniture, showing how families once lived. It’s now also a place to buy local honey and, after tasting several, we settle on a jar of the cherry blossom variety, £8 (Museo-plattner.com).

We hop on the historic Ritten Railway, opened in 1907, which trundles us back to the gates of Parkhotel Holzner, where its glorious outdoor pool with views of the majestic surrounding peaks awaits, alongside a family sauna and numerous arcade games, an indoor hockey pitch and a foam tenpin bowling alley.

Also on our doorstep is the cable car to the historic city of Bolzano, just a 12-minute ride away.

We grab an alfresco Aperol spritz, £6, at buzzing Fischbänke, then feast on perfectly cooked beef tagliata, £25, at chic Bogen opposite (Bogen.bz), before snapping pictures of the Waltherplatz fountain and gothic 14th-century cathedral. Scoops of stracciatella gelato, £1.75, from Mary’s Ice Cream truck in Piazza del Grano are a win, too.

Back in Oberbozen, the Bauern pizza topped with local speck and pickled red garlic, £14, on Antigo’s terrace also scores top marks (@Antigoritten), while breakfast and dinner on the hotel’s flower-laden terrace are plentiful.

Evening meals are a la carte, but with a bonus salad bar and cheese buffet, while a huge ornate teapot with an eye-popping range of teas greets us at brekky.

Also on site is Restaurant 1908, which has been awarded a green Michelin star for its delicate, locally sourced creations – kids are welcome, too, and can eat from the hotel’s bistro menu.

Just over an hour’s drive away, past vineyards, apple orchards and baroque churches – and around hairpin turns on roads carved into the mountainous landscape – is Falkensteiner Family Resort Lido.

Walking into the family spa here, you’d think it was an adults’ one, with its plush double day beds, if it wasn’t for the mini cocoon swings, a baby pool and two indoor water slides, including South Tyrol’s longest, which gives you the illusion of gliding through flames.

This place is set around a lake, so errant dragonflies visit the outdoor pool, and the view from the family sauna is gorgeous, too.

On the roof, we find a trampoline park, where our bouncing selves become players on-screen competing for jewels in tombs and in slam-dunk contests.

We also battle for the highest reaction scores by jumping to hit lit-up discs.

I’m thrilled to beat a super-toned French lady in a game of the latter – though she undoubtedly leaps with a lot more grace! Finally, we toboggan down the artificial ski slope and hit the sports court for games of basketball and footie.

Despite enjoying the serenity of the adults’ spa tucked into the hillside, we book a family spa experience, £24 per person, where for 90 minutes we indulge with a private steam room, whirlpool bath, massage beds and dishes of natural scrub, clay and lotion to smother over ourselves.

Chocolates, cookies, prosecco and juices, plus various pirate and princess toys, make it both decadent and fun.

At the classy buffet-style restaurant, chefs serve beautifully crafted mains.

The memory of a truffle, parmesan and lime linguine will make my mouth water for months to come, and home-made bakes, including apple strudel, are served at afternoon tea. Soft drinks are included at meals, but the hotel also has an impressive prosecco spritz menu – our fave being the Marlene, with its delicious apricot twist, £6.50.

The resort sits on the 110km Val Pusteria Cycleway, so we hop on ebikes with kids’ trailers, £60 for four hours, and cruise alongside the Rienza river to Rio di Pusteria.

At first, the village seems deserted – it is a Sunday, after all – but, once we roll into the market square, we find Olivia Dean’s Man I Need blasting out and crowds of fellow cyclists soaking up the sunshine.

We join them with bottles of Sanbittèr, £3.50, and speck and gorgonzola pizzettes, £6.50, from Weisse Lilie cafe, and it feels like stumbling across a secret party.

South Tyrol may have only become part of Italy in 1919, but it is very much la dolce vita.

IF you fancy a camping holiday but don’t want to skimp out on a bit of luxury, you’re in luck.

Sun Travel has found six campsites across Europe that definitely don’t qualify for a classic camping break with beautiful swimming pools, beach access and pretty lodges.

Alannia Guardamar, Spain

Eurocamp does tend to pull it out of the bag when it comes to its campsites, and this one is very impressive

On the Costa Blanca coast, Alannia Guardamar has palm tree-lined swimming pools, wellness areas, restaurants, and you can try out sports too.

The most impressive part is probably its tropical aquatic zone with water jets, splash park, mini slides and hot tubs.

Guests can choose to stay in large Safari Tents to premium cabins.

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For seven-nights, a family of four can stay in a Safari Tent at the Alannia Guardamar from £502.86 – or £17.95pppn.

Amadria Park Camping Trogir, Croatia

If you want everything in one, check out Amadria Park Camping Trogir which you can book with Jet2Holidays.

The Croatian getaway has views across the Adriatic Sea with secluded beaches minutes away.

For those who want to get on the water, you can take a punt on the enormous inflatable obstacle course just off the coast.

There are three restaurants and five bars including a beach bar, cocktail bar, pool bar and sports bar.

For seven-nights a family of four can stay here in a Standard Mobile Home from £546pp – this includes return flights to Leeds Bradford.

Cambrils Park, Spain

This beautiful Eurocamp Costa Dorada looks like a sprawling resort with its five pools – one of which is a recently opened Mediterranean pool.

There are plenty of sunloungers dotted about and for drinks, check out the poolside café and bars with sun-trap terraces.

For activities, it also has a tennis court, full-sized football pitch and even trampolining.

If the resorts pools aren’t enough, the huge waterpark PortAventura is just a few miles away.

For seven-nights a family of four can stay at Cambrils Park in a two-bedroom bungalow from £691.33 – or £24.69pppn.

Camping Estival Vendrell Platja, Spain

On the Costa Dorada, or Golden Coast as it’s also called, is this campsite with a long swimming pool with a children’s play area and slides.

It is self-catering but there are still restaurants, bars and snack areas.

There’s also entertainment during school holidays from organised team games to arts and crafts

Guests can stay in a Classic Bungalow all the way to a Gran Safari lodge which comes with outdoor decking – perfect for al fresco dining.

For seven-nights a family of four can stay here in a two-bedroom Classic Bungalow from £417pp – which includes return flights from Birmingham Airport.

hu Park Albatros Village, Italy

You’ll never want to leave this Eurocamp with its six swimming pools, one being a lagoon and another Olympic-sized.

It’s considered one of Tuscany’s largest and best quality parcs – it’s spread over 30 acres and is surrounded by a pine forest.

It has plenty of places to eat too from its rustic Italian pizzeria to a snack bar and gelateria.

The campsite isn’t far from the beach with walkways and a cycle path leading down to the shore.

For seven-nights, a family of four can stay at hu Park Albatros Village in a Comfort Lodge from £175 – or £6.25pppn.

Camping La Forêt, France

For a luxe stay, head to Camping La Forêt on the west coast of France.

It has direct beach access to Pont d’Yeu Beach, a swimming pool as well as spa facilities from a sauna to a hammam, hot tubs and a quiet outdoor sun terrace.

The villas on-site have hot tubs, a bath, private entrance, with separate bedrooms and a terrace with garden views.

As it’s a small site it won’t be especially noisy either.

For seven-nights, a family of four can stay at Camping La Forêt in a Comfort Mobile Home from £523 – or £18.67pppn.

Alannia Els Prats Camping & Resort, Spain

Found on the Spanish coast, this campsite looks more like a Mediterranean-resort with a large outdoor swimming pool and pretty gardens.

On-site it also has a gym, spa, supermarket, bars, restaurants, sports pitches, a mini club, a teen club, a games room and children’s playgrounds.

Guests can stay in the wooden cabins, some of which come with small verandahs and sea views.

The nearby beach is a great spot for sunbathing and it has watersports facilities too.

For five-nights, a family of four can stay here in a Superior Bungalow from £405 – or £20.25 per night.

*Prices correct at the time of publication.

IF you’re yet to book your holiday this summer, then there are a bunch of islands that are set to be the next big thing.

Expedia has launched its 2026 Island Hot List list – not based on their temperatures, but the ones that are trending right now.

Expedia created its Island Hot List from the spots around the world that have seen the biggest increase in traveller interest between September 2025 and March of this year.

At the very top of that list, is beautiful St Lucia in the Caribbean.

Over the past year, the island has seen a huge 125 per cent increase in searches.

It’s no surprise really, as St Lucia is a tropical paradise with stunning scenery from jungles to volcanoes and its mix of white and black sand beaches.

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One Sun Writer who visited a few years ago hiked through its rainforests and sunbathed on the golden sands of Reduit Beach.

He added: “With beautiful scenery, indulgent food and plenty of adventure, it’s not hard to see why St Lucia has stolen the hearts of the young and old as well as families and honeymooners.”

For anyone who wants to visit, the best time to visit is between February to May – and there are some affordable winter packages.

It’s not just far-flung islands that topped the list – plenty in Europe did well too.

Second on the list is Porto Santo, a small Portuguese island in Madeira.

Expedia said it’s “a quieter alternative to Funchal and mainland Europe’s busiest beach destinations, known for its golden sands and relaxed pace.”

It’s been called a ‘golden oasis‘ by Visit Madeira and has enormous sandy beaches – despite being the smallest inhabited island on the archipelago.

It also has sea coves and the waters are great for diving and snorkelling.

To get to Porto Santo, Brits will have to fly directly to Funchal and then it’s a quick 25-minute flight to the neighbouring island.

Also in the top 10 is Syros, a Greek island that’s much lesser-known than its neighbour, Mykonos.

There’s lots to do there from exploring its main town of Ermoupoli, to the village of Kini, which is known for its seafood restaurants.

Of course there are plenty of beautiful beaches too.

It might not be the hot escape that’s usually associated with islands around the world, but the Lofoten Islands are a trip worth considering.

The Lofoten Islands is an archipelago consisting of roughly 80 islands in Norway.

The main islands include Austvågøya, Gimsøya, Vestvågøya, Flakstadøya, and Moskenesøya.

In fact the Lofoten Islands are so beautiful that with its frozen backdrop, colourful fishing villages, and craggy mountains that it’s said to have inspired the landscape for Disney‘s film Frozen.

From mid-May to the end of July, the sun doesn’t set there – it’s called Midnight Sun, when the sun doesn’t drop below the horizon.

Other islands soaring in demand include Praslin which is the second-largest island in the Seychelles.

Here, interest has increased by a whopping 80 per cent.

Here’s the full list of Expedia’s ‘Island Hot List 2026’…

1. St Lucia
2. Porto Santo, Madeira, Portugal
3. Praslin, Seychelles
4. Syros, Greece
5. Lofoten Islands, Norway
6. Palawan, Philippines
7. Culebra, Puerto Rico
8. Sanibel Island, Florida, USA
9. Phu Quoc, Vietnam
10. Fiji

I HAVE normally necked far too much Ouzo the night before to rise with the sun during a holiday in gorgeous Greece.

But my eyes are being opened, literally, to a much more wholesome and healthy way to start the day here on the island of Crete.

While my downward dog should arguably be put down, as my balance has gone walkies, the sound of the Cretan Sea gently lapping at the shore does make a sunrise yoga session surprisingly satisfying.

Never mind sinking sambuca shots, this is how holidays should be — relaxing, restful and geared towards recuperation.

I’m staying at Giannoulis Santa Marina Plaza, a 4* adults-only hotel tailored to a quieter and more authentic Cretan vacation.

Superbly serene, with a calming, child-free environment, it’s right on the golden, sandy, Blue Flag-rated Agia Marina beach.

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My double room is small but comfortably formed, with an ensuite bathroom, TV and compact balcony to enjoy the sunrise over Kri-Kri island (more on that later).

With just 51 rooms and suites at this boutique hotel, even at full occupancy you’ll always get a sun bed.

The food is as good as you’d expect in Greece — super souvlaki, terrific tzatziki, outstanding olive oil — but the jewel in the crown is the hospitality.

From reception staff to the waiters and cleaners, this family-run resort is full of welcoming faces, attentive and always ready with a friendly “kalimera” (good morning) or “kalispera” (good evening).

The majority of guests are couples, over 50, enjoying the easy-going vibe.

By day, the only activity is people rising from a sun lounger for a refreshing dip in the pool or sea.

By night, it’s all about a game of cards on your balcony or a casual al fresco dinner by candlelight.

Crucially, this tranquil base is only 20 minutes — by bus, right outside the hotel, or taxi — from Chania, Crete’s charming old town, where ancient architecture meets a more modern city.

It’s an easy-on-the-eye cultural hub, with shops carved into honey-coloured stone walls, restaurants, cute cafes and churches.

After a few relaxed hours searching for souvenirs down its narrow, cobbled streets and snapping away at the beautiful Venetian harbour and 16th-century lighthouse, it’s time for a change of location, as I head west along the coast to Giannoulis’s sister hotel, Cavo Spada.

A much larger complex, with 150 deluxe rooms and suites, this sporty 5* leisure and spa resort is more suited to active holidaymakers. With tennis and padel courts, an assault course, a running track and indoor and outdoor gyms kitted out with top-quality equipment, its facilities are so good that the Swedish Olympic team use it for their training camps.

You can take part in a calendar of events ranging from spinning to body combat.

But that’s not my idea of a holiday.

Instead, I take advantage of the ­all-inclusive board to sample the decent cocktail menu at the bar overlooking the huge lagoon pool at the heart of the resort.

After over-exerting my right arm with the repeated lifting of a pina colada from table to mouth, I head to the on-site spa for a full-body massage, followed by a sauna and steam room.

Clearly a gem of a resort for keep-fit couples, it’s also a good option for families, with a kids’ outdoor playground and indoor play room.

And it’s just a short taxi ride from Kolymbari port, where I clamber aboard a catamaran for a half-day at sea. Destination — Kri-Kri island.

Our deckhand tells us of the ancient Greek mythology that Kri-Kri — AKA Thodorou island — was created when a massive sea monster and its child were turned to stone by Crete’s protector Poseidon, God of the Sea.

Now it’s a breeding ground for the protected Kri-Kri wild goat.

And while anchoring up for some paddleboard play and a snorkel in clear azure water, it’s fun to see if you can spot any of the cliff-climbing goats.

Having worked up an appetite thanks to all that, well, relaxing, back at the hotel’s Azzuro restaurant I really get stuck into a sensational a-la-carte option with Michelin star-worthy food.

After another cocktail workout (my right arm really is doing the heavy lifting on this break), I educate myself with two mainstays of Greek culture.

A complimentary olive-oil tasting session (FYI: trust the Cretan chef and store your olive oil in the fridge) is followed by wine-tasting with the hotel’s maitre d’.

I could quite easily finish a bottle of the white — an indigenous Vidiano.

But like I have done since arriving in Crete, I’m taking it easy — I’ve got another yoga session at sunrise.

HOLIDAYMAKERS heading to Spain this summer have been warned to avoid 14 popular beaches.

Environmental organisation Ecologistas en Acción has published its annual report highlighting the areas of Spain‘s coast with the biggest issues.

The report awards ‘Black Flags’ for either pollution or for poor management.

Of the 48 flags awarded, 14 were awarded to beaches – mostly due to pollution problems.

One beach that was awarded a Black Flag is Playa de Maro for pollution, in Malaga.

The popular 500-metre-long beach is known for its dramatic cliffs and underwater caves and was previously said to be of the best beaches on the Costa del Sol.

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In Granada, Playa de la Charca, Salobreña was awarded a Black Flag for pollution and Playa de Los Berengueles, Almuñécar was awarded a Black Flag for poor management.

Over in Alicante, the coastal neighbourhoods of Albufereta and Cap de l’Horta both gained Black Flags for pollution and La Almadrava beach gained one for poor management.

Valencia also has a number of coastal spots that were called out including its coastline for pollution and the surroundings of the Port of València and Sagunto for poor management.

In the popular city of Barcelona, the Beach of the Sant Adrià del Besòs was awarded a Black Flag for pollution.

The stretch of coastline features golden sand and is often less crowded than the main beaches by Barcelona city.

Over in the Canary Islands, the town of El Puertito de Adeje was awarded a Black Flag for poor management, as was Las Teresitas Beach.

On Gran Canaria, the coastline of Telde was also given a Black Flag, as was the coast of Lanzarote due to cruise tourism.

If you are heading to the Balearics, then avoid the town of Port of Pollenca in Majorca and in Menorca, avoid Torrente de Cala Galdana – which is a ravine with a beach.

Other beach destinations that gained a Black Flag include:

• Playa Central de Isla Cristina in Huelva
• Playa de Quitapellejos, Almeria
• Levante beaches of Punta Entinas-Sabinar, Almeria
• Playa de As Catedrais, Lugo
• La Ribera de Cabanes beach, Castellón
• Surrach beach, Benicarló, Castellón
• Playa de la Paella, Torredembarra, Tarragona
• Basorda Cove, Basque Country

A NEW “world-class” arena is being plotted for an iconic UK seaside resort.

The Government has pledged £20million to explore the possibility of bringing the development to life.

A new indoor arena has been proposed for Blackpool, as part of the area’s continued bid to become the UK’s City of Culture for 2029.

Currently dubbed the Phoenix Pavilion Arena, the venue would become the focal point of the city’s wider regeneration strategy.

With a proposed capacity of 15,000 to 20,000, Carters Building Consultancy said the site would host major concerts, sporting events, festivals, trade shows and live performances.

It would also create a new waterfront hospitality area, with cafes, bars and restaurants facing the promenade.

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Blackpool South MP, Chris Webb, began a petition in November last year supporting the proposal, which has since been signed by thousands of local residents.

As a result, the Culture Secretary, Lisa Nandy, has now pledged £20million to explore the next stage of the development.

Webb said: “This funding gives Blackpool the opportunity to properly test whether the project is commercially viable and put us in the strongest possible position to attract an experienced private-sector partner with the expertise to develop, operate and programme a world-class venue.

“It has the potential to attract visitors throughout the year, support our hotels, restaurants and local businesses, create high-quality jobs and strengthen Blackpool’s position as the UK’s entertainment capital.”

The investment will assess whether the construction of the arena is financially feasible and whether it would be the right investment for the area.

It also places the proposal in a better position to attract private investors.

This comes as part of Blackpool’s £2billion regeneration program set to transform the seaside city.

Completed projects include the Talbot Road tramway extension – which connected the Promenade to Blackpool North railway station – and construction is currently underway on a new £65million, high-tech university campus.

WITH hundreds of holiday parks across the UK to pick from, it can be hard to choose where to go when you want a staycation.

But there are a number that are home to waterparks as well with everything from rapids to fast flumes.

Some spots are right by the beach too!

Here’s our round-up of the best holiday parks across Britain with waterparks.

South West England

Hendra Holiday Park, Cornwall

Around 10 minutes from Newquay in Cornwall is Hendra Holiday Park – which has previously been named one of the most underrated holiday parks in the UK.

At the park, there is a giant water complex with an indoor pool, water rapids, tipping buckets and three water flumes.

And then outside, guests will find another pool with sea scooters and inflatables.

You do not need to stay at the holiday park to access the waterpark.

You can book a one hour 20 minute session online in advance; however, the website currently shows that no slots are available.

A week’s stay at the park costs from £685 in August.

Haven Riviere Sands, Cornwall

Another Cornish spot, this time in Hayle, is Haven’s Riviere Sands.

The park boasts both an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, with a number of slides too.

For little ones, there are paddling pools as well.

You’ll need to be a guest at the park to use the on-site water attractions.

A week’s stay at the park costs from £525 in July.

Haven Devon Cliffs

At Haven Devon Cliffs, you’ll get access to a private beach as well as a huge indoor pool with a four-lane water slide.

At the beach, you can learn sea kayaking and paddleboarding too.

You’ll need to be a guest at the park to use the on-site water attractions.

A week’s stay at the park costs from £435 in July.

Center Parcs Longleat Forest

In Wiltshire, Center Parcs Longleat Forest is a great place to stay in a woodland setting.

Typical for Center Parcs sites, the park has a Subtropical Swimming Paradise, which is an indoor waterpark.

Inside, visitors will find wave pools, waterslides, a lazy river and water rapids.

Adults can also head to the Aqua Sana Spa.

You’ll need to be a guest at the park to use the on-site water attractions.

However, if you are a staying guest but have friends or family who aren’t staying, you can get them a visitor pass for the day, which costs around £50 per adult and £38 per child.

A week’s stay at Longleat costs from £2,338 in August.

Butlin’s Minehead

Just like the other two Butlin’s sites, Butlin’s Minehead has an indoor Splash Waterworld.

Inside, visitors can try out a number of different flumes or chill out on a lazy river.

There is also a wave pool and special areas for little ones getting used to the water.

Visitors can book a day pass for £15 per adult and just 85p per child.

A week’s stay at Butlin’s Minehead costs from £215 in July.

Unity Beach, Somerset

Set across 240 acres, Unity Beach has its own waterpark.

At Splash Waterpark, you’ll find a six-lane pool as well as a splash zone and waterslides.

The general public can head to the waterpark for a session, which lasts an hour and a half.

A session pass to the indoor pool and splash zone costs £12 per person.

A week’s stay at Unity Beach costs from £610.20 in July.

Freshwater Beach Holiday Park, Dorset

Found in Dorset, Freshwater Holiday Park is set on Chesil Beach on the Jurassic Coast.

Previously named one of the “outstanding sites for 2025” by Campingsites.co.uk, the holiday park has three indoor and outdoor pools.

There are also water slides to enjoy, and guests get private access to the beach.

Day passes are available from £7.50 per adult and £4.50 per child.

A week’s stay at Freshwater Holiday Park costs from £375 in July.

Lady’s Mile Holiday Park, Devon

Found in the popular seaside spot of Dawlish Warren, Lady’s Mile Holiday Park has two pools and two waterslides.

Inside, visitors will find a 33-metre twisting slide, and outside there is a long slide that heads into the pool.

There is also a splash pad outside and a splash zone inside for toddlers.

Day passes are available to the pools at the park, costing £5 per adult and £4 per child.

A week’s stay at Lady’s Mile Holiday Park costs from £803 in July.

South East England

Butlin’s Bognor Regis

Sat right on the beach, Butlin’s Bognor Regis is home to a massive indoor Splash Waterworld with Seaside Garden Rapids and a dedicated pool for little ones.

There are also more thrilling flumes, including Stick of Rock and the Family Raft Ride.

Visitors can book a day pass for £19 per adult and just 85p per child.

A week’s stay at Butlin’s Bognor Regis costs from £404 in July.

Seal Bay Resort, Chichester

At Seal Bay Resort in West Sussex, you can head into Oasis Bay, where you’ll find a huge pool, Coral Creek Lazy River, splash zones and slides.

There’s also Wave Rider – a surfing experience.

And outside, you’ll find a lido with private cabanas to chill in.

You don’t have to be a guest to use Oasis Bay at Seal Bay Resort – day passes are available for £10 per adult and £6 per child.

A week’s stay at Seal Bay Resort costs from £505 in July.

East of England

Center Parcs Elveden Forest

Dubbed the perfect Center Parcs village for nature lovers, Elveden Forest sits in rural Suffolk.

The Subtropical Swimming Paradise and luxury forest spa include a heated wave pool, water rapids and a Tropical Cyclone ride.

The park is also home to Center Parcs’ longest zip wire.

You’ll need to be a guest at the park to use the on-site water attractions.

However, if you are a staying guest but have friends or family that aren’t staying, you can get them a visitor pass for the day, which costs around £50 per adult and £38 per child.

A week’s stay at Center Parcs Elveden Forest costs from £2,008 in August.

Center Parcs Woburn Forest

Set across 362 acres, Woburn Forest in Bedfordshire is Center Parcs’ newest location, having opened in 2014.

The park’s Subtropical Swimming Paradise features both indoor and outdoor pools as well as a lazy river, rapids and a splash zone for little ones.

It’s a great option for those wanting to escape the capital, as it is under an hour away on the train.

You’ll need to be a guest at the park to use the on-site water attractions.

However, if you are a staying guest but have friends or family that aren’t staying, you can get them a visitor pass for the day, which costs around £50 per adult and £38 per child.

A week’s stay at Center Parcs Woburn Forest costs from £1,808 in July.

Haven Seashore, Norfolk

Haven Seashore Holiday Park on the Norfolk coast has direct access to the beach, as well as an indoor waterpark.

At the waterpark, you’ll find flumes and slides, including ones on inflatable doughnuts.

Little ones can enjoy a toddler’s pool as well, with a Splash Zone and smaller slides.

You’ll need to be a guest at the park to use the on-site water attractions.

A week’s stay at Haven Seashore costs from £319 in July.

Haven Hopton Holiday Village, Norfolk

Haven Hopton Holiday Village in Norfolk was recently named AA’s Holiday Park of the Year.

Right by Hopton-on-Sea, the holiday park has its own indoor pool with slides, flumes and even a splash zone for little ones.

Adults can also enjoy a bar and lounge with evening entertainment.

You’ll need to be a guest at the park to use the on-site water attractions.

A week’s stay at Haven Hopton Holiday Village costs from £351 in August.

East Midlands

Butlin’s Skegness

When it comes to a bargain break, Butlin’s is a great option, and the one in Skegness has a huge 3,000sqm indoor Splash Waterworld.

Inside, visitors will find flumes, racing rapids, a wave pool and an area for toddlers.

One ride ideal for families is the Riptide Raft Ride, where people sit in a raft and travel through rapids.

Visitors can book a day pass for £19 per adult and just 85p per child.

A week’s stay at Butlin’s Skegness costs from £251 in July.

Center Parcs Sherwood Forest

Home to the original UK Center Parcs village, Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire is spread across 400 acres.

Like its other sites, the park has a Subtropical Swimming Paradise kept to 29.5C year-round.

In the waterpark, you can expect a sandy beach, a lazy river and slides.

You’ll need to be a guest at the park to use the on-site water attractions.

However, if you are a staying guest but have friends or family that aren’t staying, you can get them a visitor pass for the day, which costs around £50 per adult and £38 per child.

A week’s stay at Center Parcs Sherwood Forest costs from £2,048 in August.

Haven Cleethorpes Beach, Lincolnshire

Haven Cleethorpes Beach in Lincolnshire boasts an outdoor splash park with water features and fountains.

There’s also a lazy river for a cooling chill session in the pool.

You’ll need to be a guest at the park to use the on-site water attractions.

A week’s stay at Haven Cleethorpes Beach costs from £349 in July.

West Midlands

Alton Towers, Staffordshire

While many people think of the theme park when they hear Alton Towers, the truth is the attraction also has a huge indoor and outdoor water park.

In fact, Alton Towers claims it is one of Europe’s biggest and best waterparks.

In addition to different pools, the water park has lazy rivers, water cannons, a splash area for little ones and even a Master Blaster coaster.

There are some waterslides to try out as well, such as the Flash Floods flume ride.

A waterpark pass for the day costs from £20.13 per person.

A week’s stay at Alton Towers costs from £1,270 in July.

North West England

Center Parcs Whinfell Forest

For those wanting to visit the Lake District, you could head to Whinfell Forest.

The Subtropical Swimming Paradise has an outdoor river rapid, wave pools and water slides.

Also at the park, you can rent bikes and explore a number of woodland trails.

You’ll need to be a guest at the park to use the on-site water attractions.

However, if you are a staying guest but have friends or family that aren’t staying you can get them a visitor pass for the day, which costs around £50 per adult and £38 per child.

A week’s stay at Center Parcs Whinfell Forest costs from £1,778 in August.

Haven Marton Mere, Blackpool

Haven Marton Mere is just 10 minutes from Blackpool seafront.

At the holiday park, there is a heated indoor pool with a Space Bowl flume, as well as an outdoor SplashZone for little ones and a lazy river.

You’ll need to be a guest at the park to use the on-site water attractions.

A week’s stay at Haven Marton Mere costs from £409 in July.

Wales

Haven Hafan y Mor, Wales

In Wales, make sure to visit Haven’s Hafan y Mor, which even has views of Snowdonia.

Inside, guests will find a waterpark with a lazy river, a four-lane waterslide, and giant tipping buckets.

The park also has dry activities such as Segway excursions and mini 4x4s.

You’ll need to be a guest at the park to use the on-site water attractions.

A week’s stay at Haven Hafan y Mor costs from £609 in July.

Bluestone National Park Resort

Around six miles from Narberth in Wales, Bluestone National Park Resort is tucked away in the countryside.

At the resort, you’ll find Blue Lagoon – the indoor swimming complex.

The indoor waterpark also has a lazy river, and every so often, the wave machine will send waves through the pool.

You’ll need to be a guest at the park to use the on-site water attractions.

A week’s stay at Bluestone National Park Resort costs from £1,390.50 in July.

Scotland

Haven Craig Tara, Ayrshire

In Scotland, head to Haven Craig Tara, which is home to the largest indoor waterpark in Scotland – Splashaway Bay.

The waterpark boasts a giant indoor pool with flumes, multi-lane water slides, a lazy river and an interactive splash zone for toddlers.

The park also has a number of other activities, including the Airspace sports hall, where you’ll find a climbing wall, soft play, a golf simulator and electronic target walls for sports.

You’ll need to be a guest at the park to use the on-site water attractions.

A week’s stay at Haven Craig Tara costs from £409 in August.

IF you’ve spent the last few months telling yourself you’ll book your summer holiday “next week,” don’t panic. You’re in good company.

This year, British holidaymakers are leaving it later than ever to lock in their summer breaks.

Normally, playing chicken with the calendar is terrible news for your bank balance. But right now, I’m seeing something interesting.

Because summer is staring us down, hotels with empty beds and airlines with empty seats are gently slashing prices to get bookings over the line.

And the result is some genuinely surprising short-haul beach bargains are sitting on the board for under £400pp.

I’ve crunched the numbers and picked out ten spots where your late-booking budget will stretch way further than you think.

Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote, Spain

If you want a completely foolproof option, Lanzarote rarely misses.

Puerto del Carmen is an absolute staple, and right now, it’s delivering significantly better value than a lot of mainland Spanish resorts.

You get the reliable Canary sun, decent beaches, and enough life going on that you won’t get bored.

I spotted a five-night stay at the THB Flora from £370pp this August.

What makes this hotel a solid pick for me is the location – it’s close enough to the main strip when you want a drink, but tucked far enough away that you aren’t fighting a crowd just to claim a sunbed in the morning.

Icmeler, Turkey

Icmeler has always been the smarter, slightly more sophisticated neighbour to Marmaris.

The bay is stunning, the beach is framed by pine hills, and it completely avoids the chaotic mega-resort energy you find elsewhere in Turkey.

And this year, it’s consistently overdelivering for the price.

Case in point: five nights at the Petunya Konak Boutique Hotel is coming in from £385pp this August.

This hotel feels way more boutique than your standard package hotel too.

The pool setup is hidden away in the gardens, giving you a level of quiet that is gold dust during peak August.

Cavtat, Croatia

Dubrovnik may be grabbing all the headlines these days, but Cavtat remains one of Croatia‘s smartest-value coastal towns.

It serves up the exact same crystal-clear Adriatic water and postcard waterfront dining, just minus the suffocating levels of tourism.

If you’ve never done Croatia, a five-night stay at the Epidaurus Hotel from £385pp this August is a brilliant place to start.

The real win here is the logistics: you’re perfectly placed to enjoy Cavtat’s laid-back vibe, but you can hop on a quick boat ride into Dubrovnik whenever you fancy a bit of sightseeing.

Lagos, Algarve, Portugal

Lagos might just be my favourite corner of the Algarve.

It manages to balance unreal, cliff-backed beaches and a character-packed old town without feeling like a plastic tourist trap.

Finding peak summer deals here under the 400-quid mark is a massive result.

I dug up five nights at the Aqualuz Suite Hotel Apartamentos from £388pp this August.

And the selling point at this hotel, for me, is space. Because you get an apartment setup to actually spread out in, while still being an easy stroll from both the sand and Lagos’ top-notch independent restaurant scene.

Qawra, Malta

Malta doesn’t always get the attention it deserves for a summer beach break, which on this occasion plays into the hands of us holiday deal finders.

Because it offers guaranteed scorching weather, great swimming spots, and some of the warmest evening temperatures in Europe.

If you’re bored of the usual Spain or Turkey rotation, it’s a top shout.

You can grab five nights at the Best Western Premier Malta from £295pp this August.

And frankly, this place looks and feels much more expensive than the price tag suggests.

The rooftop pool alone looks like it belongs to a luxury city-break hotel rather than a budget summer deal.

Puerto Pollensa, Majorca, Spain

If you want Majorca but want to skip the neon lights and rowdy strips, Puerto Pollensa on the north coast is tough to beat.

It’s got a beautiful, relaxed bay and a classic, old-school Mediterranean feel.

I’ll be honest – this is normally a premium area, but 2026 keeps throwing curveballs that I love catching.

Because I found a five-night stay at the Club del Sol Aparthotel from £393pp this August, giving you a foothold in one of the prettiest, most civilized parts of the island while keeping your budget completely under control.

Playa del Ingles, Gran Canaria, Spain

Gran Canaria is a reliable destination for Brits for a reason.

If you’re scrambling for a last-minute getaway, Playa del Ingles is an easy win thanks to its massive beach and lively town center – this place is built for convenience.

I clocked five nights at the Servatur Waikiki from £400pp this August.

It’s right on the money in terms of location too, as you’re close to the beach, close to the nightlife, and it serves as a great, no-nonsense base for a classic sun-and-beer holiday.

Elounda, Crete, Greece

Elounda is proof that you don’t need a luxury budget to stay in one of Crete’s most scenic spots.

It’s known for its clear waters and charming little harbour, and is exactly the kind of place that usually charges a premium just for the view.

However, I spotted a five-night stay at the Alikes Hotel Apartments from £373pp this August.

And this hotel puts you right in the heart of the village, so you can easily wander between the tavernas and waterfront bars without needing to budget for taxis.

Sunny Beach, Bulgaria

Bulgaria has been sneakily dominating the budget travel market for years, and while Sunny Beach is famous for being cheap, the actual standard of the hotels has shot up recently.

Which now puts the destination in a perfect spot – overdelivering on quality compared to what you pay.

Just look at this: I found a five-night stay at the Lion Sunny Beach from £388pp this August.

And this place perfectly highlights what modern Bulgaria does well: it’s contemporary, stylish, and comfortable, without ever making you feel like you’ve compromised just to save a few quid.

Vlore, Albania

If there’s one destination you need to look at before everyone else ruins it (sorry), it’s Albania.

The Albanian Riviera has been gaining serious traction in the last couple of years, and Vlore sits right in the perfect spot.

The beaches are stellar, the water rivals Greece, but the prices haven’t caught up with the quality yet.

But in my experience, that window won’t stay open forever.

This summer, you can lock in five nights at the Valza Boutique Hotel from £388pp in August.

It’s a sleek, boutique property that you’d easily pay double for if it were sitting across the water in Italy or Croatia.

My advice? Get this one booked before the rest of the UK finds out.

*Prices correct at the time of publication.

SWIMMING with sharks in the dark and no cage? Well that is a Jaws-droppingly bold idea.

Just a couple of hours after arriving at the Sun Siyam Iru Veli resort in the Maldives, and being wowed by my over-the-water villa, I’d plunged straight into the aquatic action with an intense but exhilarating experience.

My group of five guests would be night swimming by a coral reef with nurse sharks, which are generally docile around humans.

But they are up to 10ft long and have around 75 teeth!

As the sun set over the Indian Ocean, we gathered at the dive centre to get kitted out and be briefed by guides Alex and Ammaday.

I’m an experienced snorkeller, but it took me a while to get the hang of following the group and coping with the current and waves.

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I was definitely not hanging back to avoid being first on any shark buffet.

Armed with underwater torches, we spotted colourful fish and corals before several nurse sharks swam towards us, some of which were 8ft in length. Absolutely fin-credible.

It is one of various extra-charge activities (£80pp) at the cosy five-star all-inclusive resort in Dhaalu Atoll, now with Privé Collection status after Maldivian-owned Sun Siyam rebranded to mark its 35th anniversary last year.

And now that the Foreign Office has scrapped its advice against travel to destinations such as Doha, flights to this sun-soaked hotspot will be smooth again.

The bucket-list experiences don’t end with sharks.

Another on offer at this resort is the chance to be “cast away” on a desert island, a couple of miles offshore and only accessible by speedboat.

Just us and a resort host on a 200-yards-long by 30-yards-wide sandbar surrounded by pristine sea that’s perfect for snorkelling.

Like the radio show, your Desert Island Discs-covery comes with a “luxury item” — a Japanese bento box and prosecco lunch under a sunshade to refuel you while you enjoy blissful seclusion (experience costs £158pp).

There are plenty of activities included in the price of a stay, too, including guided daytime snorkel tours of the house reef (I found Nemo) and a trip to neighbouring island Ban’didhoo, where some of the 125-villa Iru Veli’s staff live.

Most of the 600 inhabitants work in the fishing industry and our guide Altho showed us the marina where mackerel, yellowfin and bluefin tuna are landed.

To stop overfishing, only rod and line is legal.

After checking out the 17th-century coral-walled mosque, kids’ parks, outdoor gyms and a football ground financed by Sun Siyam, I nosed around a souvenir shop, a 24/7 convenience store (Maldivian WD-40, who knew?) and the small shipyard by the beach.

While there are no resorts on this local island, there is one guest house, the friendly Divhoni, with clean rooms from £55 a night B&B. It’s well worth seeing where Maldivians actually live and work.

As for the other excursions, guests staying at Iru Veli are also entitled to a complimentary sunset cruise to spot dolphins, and £77pp spa credit or scuba, if PADI certified.

All of the swimming and snorkelling requires high energy and the resort’s restaurants can certainly help with that.

Much as I liked the food at the Aqua Orange main buffet, which is included in the price of a stay (the butter chicken curry with ginger pickle was awesome), the most memorable meal was at extra-charge Japanese-themed Teppanyaki, with incredible egg juggling, groan-worthy jokes and stellar chicken, steak, lobster and yellowfin tuna from chef Irvan (set menu £108pp and veggie £71pp). No prizes for guessing where the tuna came from.

One paradise island is never enough, though, and I spent the second half of my week at Sun Siyam’s five-star Iru Fushi resort in the North Male Atoll; like Iru Veli, a 45-minute seaplane transfer from the international airport.

And no sooner had I arrived than I was leaving!

Wild horses couldn’t normally drag me away from a tropical beach, but the throbbing 200 horsepower of a four-seater white “Rolls-Royce” jet car was irresistible.

After a briefing, I was behind the wheel of the £51,000 car-boat, driving across the ocean and getting 007 vibes like the scene with the aquatic Lotus Esprit in the movie The Spy Who Loved Me.

But you don’t have to be a secret agent facing down metal-mouthed baddie Jaws to bag this showstopper.

Starting at £94 for two, you can take the jet car out (escorted by a guide on a jetski) for a thrilling 45mph blast across the ocean that you’ll be telling your mates about for months.

Add drone videos to smash it on socials.

It’s one of various extra-charge activities at the gorgeous Luxury Collection all- inclusive resort.

Others include an Insta-fave floating breakfast in your villa’s infinity pool (£108 for two with fizz).

But there’s so much already included, you can have a brilliant week without spending more than the cost of your holiday in this archipelago of 1,200 islands.

Top of your list will be the Secret Sundowners pop-up bar (alcoholic and non- alcoholic cocktails at Sun Siyam resorts are terrific), wine tasting, kayaking and SUP, guided reef snorkelling and the excellent Sax On The Beach music session.

Food is also a highlight of any Maldives getaway and Sun Siyam’s inclusive restaurants and buffet are so good, you don’t necessarily need to visit a la carte venues.

However, the prawn thermidor I had at Islander’s Grill was sensational.

As was my accommodation, an over-the-water butler-service villa larger than some flats I’ve lived in and with an infinity pool, spa bath and direct sea access.

Iru Fushi has 221 villas and you will rack up your daily steps count getting around this sizeable resort, be it to the dreamy, award-winning Thalgo spa, Fluid bar and its terrific family pool, the adults’ pool and adjacent beachfront No Mistake bar (an unmissable spot), the highly-rated (and included) curry and pan-Asian restaurants or the water sports and dive centre.

You could just lie on the blissful beaches in the Maldives — or you could also drive on the sea like Bond and swim with sharks in the dark.

The choice is Jaws . . . 

June 1 (UPI) — People Inc. issued an $18 billion takeover bid for MGM Resorts, CEO Barry Miller announced Monday.

People Inc., which already owns 26.1% of the outstanding common stock of MGM, offered to acquire all remaining outstanding shares for $48.30 per share. The offer represents a 10.6% premium over MGM Resorts’ closing price Friday and 30% premium to the stock’s volume-weighted average price for 90 days.

“We began investing in MGM nearly six years ago because we believed it represented a rare kind of business: one with real-world assets that [artificial intelligence] cannot easily replicate or disintermediate and exceptional digital growth opportunities,” said Miller, who is also chairman of the board at People Inc.

“We continue to believe the market materially undervalues the power and durability of MGM’s assets. We believe MGM’s management team is superb and that there is a compelling opportunity to support MGM’s next phase of growth and help unlock its full value.”

Diller also sits on the board of directors at MGM.

People Inc., previously known as Dotdash Meredith until a 2025 rebranding, is a digital media company that operates dozens of brands, including People magazine, Investopedia, Serious Eats, Entertainment Weekly and Martha Stewart Living.

WITH the soaring cost of living, £500 doesn’t get you far as it once did. It’ll just about cover the average bills for a UK household or a shiny new iPad or games console.

But if you trade in the British high steet for a boarding pass, that same budget can work absolute miracles on a holiday abroad.

As the resident Holiday Expert at On the Beach, I’ve been digging through our latest booking tech to find out exactly where British couples are flying for £500 per person.

While some destinations force you to compromise on your stargazing (hotel stars, that is), others are letting you live like royalty for less.

Here is everything you need to know about what a £500 holiday looks like right now, from destination to star-rating.

Where does £500 take you right now?

Most Brits with £500 to spend on a holiday end up on a Spanish beach.

Our data shows the Canary Islands and mainland Spain are the most popular destinations, especially for couples within this price band.

But popularity doesn’t always equal the biggest value haul. While the masses fight over towel space in Spain, a savvy minority are flying past the western Med to Turkey and Egypt.

They might not pull the same volume of bookings as Spain, but they offer a much bigger bargain.

For example, you can currently fly to Side in Antalya, Turkey, for a 7-night getaway at the ultra-plush, 5-star La Benata Hotel for exactly £500 per person.

It sits right on its own private beach, along with waterslides on a sprawling pool layout.

Getting a full week at a bona-fide 5-star property on an All-Inclusive basis, with direct flights from East Midlands? An absolute steal.

What kind of hotel does £500 get you right now?

You might think a £500 budget means settling for a basic, creaky two-star hotel with a brick-wall view. Happily, you’d be dead wrong.

Our data shows that 4-star hotels are the sweet spot.

If you head to mainland Spain, the Balearics, Greece, Portugal, Italy, or Tunisia, the vast majority of £500 packages land you a very respectable 4-star property.

But if you want to find the poshest hotel for £500, Turkey and Egypt are the ultimate luxury outliers.

In Egypt, a staggering 60 per cent or more of bookings at this price point are for 5-star luxury.

You can lock in a 7-night, completely All-Inclusive stay at the 5-star Il Mercato Splash Aqua Park in Sharm El Sheikh for just £475 per person, including direct flights from East Midlands.

It is positioned right on the bustling Il Mercato Promenade, which means you have endless shopping and entertainment right on your doorstep.

There’s also a free shuttle service to zip you down to the private beach club whenever you fancy.

How many nights does £500 get you right now?

If £500 is your budget for the holiday, you can either have a full week away or a higher-quality but shorter break.

Our data shows that a full seven nights is still the most popular duration overall, and you can find holidays for this much in the Canaries, Turkey, Greece, Egypt, and Tunisia for under £500.

But if you look at mainland Spain, the Balearics, Portugal, Italy, and Malta, the most popular duration pivots to a sharp four-night break.

For example, you can secure a four-night escape to the 4-star Gran Garbi Hotel in the lively heart of Lloret de Mar for a mere £305 per person, flying directly from Bournemouth.

What makes this an absolute game-changer is that while the average short-stay break in Spain only includes a simple Bed and Breakfast, this deal upgrades you to an all-inclusive package.

Even better, it grants you free entry to the nearby Aqua-Splash waterpark, meaning you are effectively getting a week’s worth of food, drink, and waterpark entertainment packed into a high-octane 4-night luxury budget window.

And that leaves you with nearly £200 change from your £500 budget to play with.

What’s included for £500 right now?

How do you like your breakfast?

If you want to book a holiday in mainland Spain, Portugal, Italy, or Malta for £500, you’ll likely get it included in your stay.

But if you opt for the Canaries, for £500, you’ll most likely need to opt for self-catering.

If your idea of a holiday involves completely locking your wallet in the hotel safe the second you arrive, all-inclusive is king.

It’s the most popular option in the Balearics and Greece as well as Egypt and Tunisia.

An astonishing 98 per cent of British holidaymakers going to Egypt and more than 95 per cent of those going to Tunisia book all-inclusive trips for under £500-a-week.

Turkey isn’t far behind either, with All-Inclusive capturing around 77 per cent of the market. 

Choosing a “no wallet, no worries” deal is the ultimate way to beat inflation.

This is because when your flights, hotel, meals, and drinks are completely covered for under £500, the cost-of-living crisis officially pauses at the departure gate.

One example is you can head out on a massive 10-night holiday to the 4-star Nesrine in Hammamet Yasmine, Tunisia, for just £410 per person, flying direct from London Southend.

From the beautiful, authentic Moorish architecture and the outdoor pool to a private, white sand beach paradise and an energetic entertainment team.

And you know it is all covered, meaning you can max out your relaxation.

The lesser-known beach destinations Brits are opting for right now for under £500

If you want to truly travel better for less, you need to look where the crowds aren’t looking. Because once a resort gets flooded with British tourists, the prices rocket.

To get a bargain that leaves you feeling incredibly smug, these five lesser-known, off-the-radar beach gems are where savvy holidaymakers are booking right now for maximum bang for their buck.

Mijas, Costa del Sol, Spain

Think the Costa del Sol is all crowded strips and overpriced tourist menus? Think again – as Mijas gives you the best of both worlds.

You have a gorgeous, traditional white-washed Andalusian village in the hillside with cobbled streets and sweeping Mediterranean views, while Mijas Costa serves up a stunning, pristine seven-mile stretch of golden sand just below.

It’s a pure beach haven right near Marbella but without the eye-watering premium price tag. 

You can snap up a four-night stay at the 4-star Gran Hotel Costa Del Sol right in La Cala De Mijas for £305 per person, flying directly from Bournemouth on an all-inclusive package.

Mahdia, Tunisia

Mahdia is Tunisia’s calmer, historic fishing town where the streets are quiet, the sea is a deep blue, and the white-sand beaches look almost like they’ve been photoshopped.

You can easily nab a full week of luxury here for under £500. For instance, a seven-night getaway to the magnificent 5-star Nour Palace Resort costs just £405 per person, flying directly from Newcastle.

It boasts a massive, free-form outdoor lagoon pool that is just steps away from a private beach, giving you five-star all-inclusive indulgence with just under £100 to spare. 

Ovacik, Turkey

If you want a Turkish mountain escape that feels exclusive but keeps costs low, Ovacik is the place to go.

Tucked away in the picturesque hills near Fethiye and the famous Blue Lagoon of Oludeniz, it offers a calmer atmosphere surrounded by pine forests and fresh mountain air. 

You can lock in a seven-night escape here at the 4-star Sahra Su Holiday Village & Spa for just £315 per person, with direct flights from London Gatwick.

The hotel is styled like a luxury holiday village with swim-up rooms, thatched-roof bungalows, and a series of crystal-clear pools tucked between manicured lawns and palm trees on a fully all-inclusive basis.

Nabq Bay, Egypt

Sharm El Sheikh has plenty of famous bays, but Nabq Bay is the rising star for sheer value.

Sitting just up the coast, it looks right out over Tiran Island and boasts incredible coral reefs for world-class snorkelling.

Because it’s a newer resort development, Nabq Bay feels ultra-polished, where a £500 budget makes you feel like an absolute VIP.

You can secure a full week at the five-star Parrotel Lagoon Resort for just £455 per person, flying directly from East Midlands.

This resort is brilliant because it features its own multi-slide aqua park right onsite, alongside a sprawling pool and five-star dining options that will forever ruin you for a budget buffet.

Guardamar del Segura, Costa Blanca, Spain

Benidorm can keep its neon lights; Guardamar is the Costa Blanca’s best-kept secret.

Famous for its stretch of fine, powdery dunes backed by a lush pine and eucalyptus forest, this town is loved by Spanish locals, so you know you’re in the right place.

That means the tapas bars are authentic and the hotel prices haven’t been inflated by an influx of Brits just yet.

You can book a full seven-night stay at the 5-star Alannia Guardamar for just £450 per person, flying directly from Glasgow Prestwick.

While on a self-catering basis, the hotel itself makes up for it with everything from a tropical pool area complete with waterfalls, bridges, and a line-up of waterslides to luxury villas and a hidden-gem beach.

KISS goodbye to overpriced holidays abroad this summer as we’ve found six gorgeous European beach resorts where you can fly out from UK airports for £15.99 or less.

Our list includes an undercover island paradise with white sands that look like the Caribbean and a cheaper Marbella alternative that offers the same high-end glamour.

You really don’t need to spend a fortune on a coastal city break either, so grab your sunglasses and pack your bags.

These aren’t your typical, overcrowded tourist traps, either – plus, we’ve hand-picked cheap hotels for each destination, too.

Malaga, Spain

In the heart of the sunny Costa del Sol, Malaga has all the high-end glamour, palm tree-lined boulevards, and buzzy cocktail bars of Marbella -but without the eye-watering price tags.

This sun-drenched hotspot blends a trendy city break with a classic fly-and-flop beach holiday.

History buffs can wander through ancient Moorish fortresses, while art lovers can browse the world-class Picasso Museum.

The bustling seafront promenade is lined with traditional beachside bars where you can feast on seafood such as espetos – fresh sardines barbecued on skewers. Pair that with sipping on some frozen cocktails on La Malagueta beach, and you’ve got the traditional Malaga experience nailed.

Ryanair offers £14.99 flights one-way from UK airports like Liverpool and Bournemouth.

Booking.com offers a 5-night stay for two at the Livensa Living Studios apartments for £242, working out to just £24.20pp per night.

Faro, Portugal

While some touch down in Faro only to sprint for the resorts of the central Algarve, staying put in Faro is well worth it.

This historic city is the gateway to the spectacular Ria Formosa Natural Park – a sprawling network of islands that feels a million miles away from the usual holiday chaos.

Hop on a ferry for a few euros to Ilha Deserta (Deserted Island), a stretch of pristine, white sand and turquoise water so bright that you could easily trick your friends into thinking you’re in the Caribbean.

After a day of sun-soaking on quiet beaches, wander back into Faro‘s beautifully-preserved Old Town.

Its cobblestone streets are lined with authentic pastelarias and traditional seafood taverns, where you can try locally harvested oysters washed down with a bottle of local Portuguese wine.

Ryanair offers £14.99 flights each way from London Luton and East Midlands airports.

Booking.com offers a 3-night stay for two at the Hotel Made Inn in Faro for £310.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is having its moment this year.

The city was crowned the World Capital of Architecture for 2026, and the Sagrada Familia officially became the tallest church in the world back in February.

There are plenty of famous spots to see here, and even if you’ve already visited, Barcelona is a city many return to time and again.

With 12 attractions to visit designed by famous architect Antoni Gaudí, nine golden sand beaches and thousands of bars and restaurants to try out, this city can never truly be ‘ticked off’ the travel list.

Stroll the famous shopping street La Rambla all the way along to the Port Vell to visit a harbour packed with market stalls selling hand-crafted goods, overlooked by a giant Ferris wheel.

Or visit the famous market La Boqueria to have a taste of anything from authentic Jamón Iberico to chocolate treats shaped like people, dinosaurs, flowers – basically anything you can imagine.

Ryanair offers £14.99 flights each way from London Luton, with £16.99 flights available from Birmingham, Bristol and East Midlands airports.

Expedia offers stays at the easyHotel Barcelona La Sagrera from £132 per night for a double room.

Genoa, Italy

If you want the romance of the Italian Riviera without the prices of nearby Portofino, Genoa offers those same stunning Ligurian Sea views for a much lower price.

This coastal city is home to the Caruggi: Europe’s largest network of medieval alleyways.

Here you can discover hidden pastel palaces and buy freshly-baked focaccia from local bakeries for pocket change.

For a seaside day out, hop on a quick 15-minute train ride down the coast to Boccadasse, a historic fisherman’s town.

Here, a cluster of pastel-pink, mint, and terracotta-coloured houses frames a pebbled cove where the locals like to sunbathe.

Genoa provides an authentic slice of La Dolce Vita that feels untouched by mass tourism.

Ryanair offers £14.99 flights each way from Manchester and London Stansted airport.

Booking.com offer stays at the Hotel Britannia in Genoa from £68 per night.

Alicante, Spain

Unlike the sprawling concrete high-rises found further down the coast, Alicante retains authentic Spanish charm.

The must-visit beach is Playa del Postiguet, a sweeping crescent of powder-soft sand and calm waters that sit at the foot of Santa Barbara Castle.

Afternoons are best spent strolling the Explanada de España – a beautiful promenade paved with wavy marble tiles and lined with towering palm trees.

As the sun sets, head into the colourful, winding streets of El Barrio (the old town).

Here you can sample authentic tapas and paella at local prices, before hitting the city’s glamorous marina for a sundowner alongside the yachts.

Ryanair offers £15.99 flights each way from airports including Manchester, Bristol and Exeter.

Booking.com offers a 5-night stay for two at the B&B HOTEL Alicante Aeropuerto for £334 total, working out to £33.40pp per night.

Ancona, Italy

Tucked away on Italy’s Adriatic coast, Ancona is a lesser-known gem that completely bypasses the packed tourist trails of the west coast.

This historic port city has a well-kept secret – its unique, elbow-shaped peninsula, which is one of the only places in Italy where you can watch the sun both rise and set directly over the sea.

The city itself is a treasure trove of Roman ruins, grand cathedrals, and lively piazzas, but the magic lies on the shores of the Conero Riviera.

Here, the rolling green hills of a dramatic national park plunge into the turquoise Adriatic Sea, carving out white-pebble beaches like Portonovo and Sirolo.

You can spend the day sun-soaking beneath dramatic limestone cliffs, swim out to hidden sea caves, and then wander back into the city to feast on fresh mussels with local white wine.

This wildly beautiful slice of Italy is a quiet spot that’s still off the radar for most Brits.

Ryanair offers £14.99 flights each way from London Stansted to Ancona.

Lastminute.com offer stays at the Hotel Fortuna from £72 per night.

*Prices correct at the time of publication.

THE best beaches in Europe have been revealed and the number one spot is a beautiful escape with super cheap flights.

Dubbed one of Portugal’s ‘Sunset Beaches’, Monte Clérigo sits in the Algarve region, but is much quieter than other crowded resorts.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

The Algarve draws in millions of Brits every year wanting to explore its golden sand beaches and bask in its glorious sunshine.

It’s most popular resorts include Albufeira, Vilamoura and Alvor – but that’s not where you’ll find the best beach.

Tucked away on the western coast is Praia de Monte Clérigo which has just been declared the best beach in all of Europe by European Best Destinations.

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Beaches across Europe are assessed on aspects like natural beauty to water quality, family-friendliness, available activities, accommodation and overall atmosphere.

The 30 highest-rated beaches are then submitted to an international panel of travellers and tourism enthusiasts who vote to find the ‘Best Beaches in Europe 2026′.

Monte Clérigo Beach was described the beach as having ‘golden cliffs’ and ‘wild Atlantic landscapes’.

The ‘wildness’ of the coastal spot comes from the fact that it forms part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park where there’s lots of greenery and plenty of hiking routes.

The beach also has fine sand, low-tide rock pools, is ideal for surfing, and its nearby town of Aljezur is filled with colourful cottages some of which sit up on the cliffside.

Monte Clérigo is considered one of Portugal’s best ‘Sunset Beaches’ too.

Thanks to its position on the western coast, beachgoers have a clear view of the sun as it sets looking like it sinks into the ocean.

One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: “Stunning beach on rugged coastline. Visited several times. Away from hectic tourist resorts. This beach is beautiful. It’s well worth waiting for some sunset photos!”

Another added: “I discovered another beautiful beach on the southwest coast of Portugal. Pristine and unspoiled is how I’d describe the place.”

Right on the sands is Restaurant O Sargo which has live music every Friday night and is popular with locals and visitors who enjoy fresh seafood and watch the sunset in the evening.

Faro International Airport is an hour and a half drive away from the beach, so from the UK you could be sunbathing on the beach in under five hours.

One-way flights are as little as £13.99 in June flying from London Luton with Wizz Air.

Other beaches that secured a spot on the list were Voutoumi Beach in Antipaxos which came in second place.

Elafonisi Beach which is a rare pink beach in Crete came in fourth place.

One beach in Norway even made it onto the list, Kvalvika Beach has bright blue waters and is backed by enormous mountains – certainly making it one of the most beautiful.

The ‘Best Beaches in Europe’ for 2026…

These are the ‘best beaches in Europe’ as rated by European Best Destinations…

1. Monte Clerigo – the Algarve, Portugal
2. Voutoumi Beach – Antipaxos, Greece
3. Fteri Beach – Kefalonia, Greece
4. Elafonisi Beach – Crete
5. Bogliasco Beach – Italy
6. Cala Mesquida – Majorca, Spain
7. Kvalvika Beach – Moskenesoy, Norway
8. Rovinia Beach – Corfu, Greece
9. Kaputas Beach – Turkey
10. Paleokastritsa Beach – Corfu, Greece