Sunshine holidays

Discover L’Andana, a luxury Tuscan hotel set in a historic Medici villa in the heart of Maremma, Italy, offering Michelin-starred dining, ESPA spa treatments, pasta-making classes, and wine tastings amid stunning countryside views

When you picture Italy – undulating manicured hillsides, country lanes bordered by towering cypress trees, terracotta hamlets and sunlight glinting off church domes, it’s most likely Tuscany that springs to mind. From Florence’s misty cupolas to the wine-drenched estates of the Chianti hills, countless scenes from Tuscany align perfectly with our quintessential vision of holidays.

It would be tempting to think, given the abundance of Instagram-perfect shots of this Italian paradise, that the actual experience might fall short of expectations. Far from it – in truth, nothing matches the enchanting atmosphere when you’re witnessing its splendour first-hand. If you’re seeking a peaceful, authentic, cuisine-filled escape, this is your ideal destination, reports OK!

Why this stunning hotel is the ultimate Tuscany choice

We checked into the stunning L’Andana Hotel nestled in the heart of Maremma, a delightful, less-travelled corner of the region where Italians themselves love to holiday. We discovered that Maremma is dubbed the “wild west” of Tuscany, which became entirely understandable when we encountered cacti and herds of cattle with remarkably long horns. You’re unmistakably deep in the Italian countryside here.

L’Andana is a blissful retreat in the low hills, and arriving at the estate felt like those Tuscan roads you see in films, along a 2km-long driveway flanked by tall green trees on both sides. This former Medici villa, once the summer residence of Grand Duke Leopold II and his court, exudes a regal sense of grandeur. Decorated in warm shades of butter, mustard and ochre, with traditional Tuscan-style furnishings and sweeping windows that frame breathtaking views of the Maremma landscape, every detail delights. From the warm hospitality to the genuinely authentic atmosphere, it truly felt like a real “casa”.

Wine tasting at the hotel and local vineyards

Tuscany’s wine scene is as rich and layered as its scenery. Vineyards stretch out in virtually every direction, and it’s a real privilege to stay somewhere that cultivates its own grapes. The hotel produces its own wine on site and offers tasting sessions for guests, paired with a three-course light lunch. We also ventured beyond the resort to Petra, another winery under the same ownership as L’Andana’s, where yet more spectacular vistas — and vintages — awaited.

We dubbed the building there “the Tuscan Chichén Itzá”, owing to its remarkable architecture that bears a striking resemblance to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

What to do around the grounds and in the spa

Despite its peaceful and unhurried atmosphere, there’s no shortage of things to keep you busy, with two swimming pools, tennis courts and a vast golf course all on offer. We chose ultimate relaxation with an ESPA massage, alongside a leisurely bike ride with an expert guide beyond the resort grounds. The scenery was utterly stunning and proved to be amongst the trip’s standout moments. These represent just a fraction of the numerous activities the hotel can organise for guests – they can also arrange horse riding, yoga sessions and beach excursions.

A pasta-making masterclass with an Italian chef

Food enthusiasts will thrive here, particularly with the gourmet offerings at L’Andana’s Michelin-starred La Trattoria Enrico Bartolini. To truly embrace the culinary culture, however, book a pasta making class with an Italian chef. We mastered the proper techniques and savoured our own freshly-made pasta with bolognese. There’s surely no finer location to learn the art of pasta making.

Discovering Castiglione della Pescaia: a coastal hidden gem

Each evening at the resort we’d spot twinkling lights in the distance; this, we learnt, was a charming little seaside town called Castiglione della Pescaia, merely a 15-minute drive from the hotel. We called in here while returning from the Petra winery, and it felt as though we’d stumbled upon a hidden treasure. It resembles one of those charming European towns featured in romantic comedies, brimming with winding, cobblestone lanes, pastel-painted houses with vibrant shutters, and lively eateries. We discovered one meandering pathway that guided us all the way down to a breathtaking view of the sea at sunset, with the entire landscape before us bathed in gold. It was the most spectacular conclusion to the day – and to this remarkable stay.

Planning a trip to Tuscany? Here’s how to book this hotel

Double rooms at L’Andana start from around £382 per night based on two sharing, including breakfast. Book at andana.it

A new route to the Italian city means Brits can indulge their love of cheese and even book a factory tour and tasting, as well as enjoying the historic sights in this sun-soaked destination

A new Ryanair route has launched from London-Stansted and it’s the perfect city break for those who love cheese, or Italian food in general.

Booking is now open for London to Parma flights, with the first of the twice-weekly flights taking off on June 4. The service will run on Thursdays and Sundays, making it the perfect route for a long weekend, and the flight time is just under two hours. Fares start from £20.95 one way.

Parma is found in northern Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region and is a major foodie city thanks to two of its most famous products that are enjoyed around the world. Firstly, the pungent Parmesan cheese comes from this city, and there are a number of factories and tours you can take which end with cheese tastings. You can even visit the Museo del Parmigiano-Reggiano just outside the city and learn about the history of cheesemaking in the area.

Prosciutto di Parma, or Parma ham as Brits tend to call it, also hails from this region. There are a few Prosciuttificio around the city where you can see the giant legs dangling from the ceiling as they go through the curing process for months on end. Some Prosciuttificio have cafes attached where you can enjoy platters of prosciutto and cheese served alongside a glass of Italian wine.

Parma is a walkable city, and many tourists start of at the old town, known as Centro Storico. Down its narrow medieval streets you’ll find impressive Romanesque architecture, colourful terraced houses, and cobbled town squares full of cafés.

At the heart of the old town is Piazza del Duomo, and here you’ll find the 900-year old gothic cathedral and 12th-century Bishop’s Palace which was built with repurposed Roman stone blocks.

Other incredible architectural sites include Teatro Farnese, one of Europe’s largest Baroque theatres, built entirely in timber. This grand auditorium dates back to the 17th century and the elaborate wood carvings are a testament to the craftsmanship of the time. Parma was the birthplace of composer Verdi, so there’s usually a packed schedule of operas and classical concerts across its historic theatres.

Music lovers can also visit the fascinating House of Sound, a museum that is focused on how technology developed for music, from the creation of the gramophone and radio to modern music devices. The museum also features 228 speakers, grouped in 64 audio channels, which allow visitors to experience ‘sound rains’ as they move around.

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Parma has a huge number of restaurants, including two with Michelin stars, making it the perfect destination for foodies. There are endless Trattoria and Osteria found down narrow streets where you can experience authentic, inexpensive Italian cuisine. Osteria dei Servi comes highly recommended, and you can dine in this cosy restaurant among the hanging prosciutto legs while choosing specials from the chalkboard.

Trattoria Corrieri has a similarly rustic Italian feel. One page of the menu is devoted to prosciutto and other cured meats, and local ingredients are the cornerstone of this cosy Italian restaurant, which has been open since the 1800s.

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All-inclusive breaks are perfect for families who want to go away without worrying about the cost of food and drink at the resort. If you fancy a few days without washing up in May half-term, here are some deals to look out for

All-inclusives can be a good option for those who are on a tight budget. While initially booking an all-inclusive holiday costs more, once you arrive, you technically don’t need to spend any extra money. This means you can enjoy your meals, cocktails, and beers without worrying about the bill at the end of the trip.

May Half Term can be a good time to book an all-inclusive holiday in Europe, as you usually get good weather across the continent but not the intense heatwaves that often hit in July and August. While it’s a busy travel time, it’s slightly less full on than the six-week holidays.

Here are a few all-inclusive deals available during half-term week based on two adults, two children sharing. Prices are subject to availability and may change.

Castell dels Hams – Porto Cristo, Majorca – 4 nights from £361 per person

This Majorcan hotel has a 4T rating from TUI and offers comfortable, contemporary accommodation surrounded by countryside. There are three outdoor pools to choose from, and if you fancy a day at the beach, there’s a free daily bus service. If you prefer a livelier break, you can enjoy activities from tennis to volleyball and a great entertainment program that includes a kids’ club and evening entertainment.

During half-term, you can enjoy four nights of AI accommodation in a standard double or twin room from £361 per person. The package includes Ryanair flights from East Midlands Airport and you can book via the TUI website.

Sungate Hotel – Sidari, Corfu – 4 nights from £469 per person

Jet2 is offering a four-night package to lively Sidari in Corfu for £469 per person, which you can book here. The price includes flights from London-Stansted, 22kg of checked baggage per person, coach transfers, and all-inclusive accommodation in a family room.

The Sungate Hotel is just 300m from the beach and has an outdoor pool, buffet restaurant, and pool bar. The weather in Corfu often hits 24C in May, meaning it’s just right for days at the pool or lounging on the beach.

Inter 2 – Salou, Spain – 7 nights from £487 per person

Another Jet2 deal for Spain includes an entire week of as much food and drink as you like, but this time in sunny Salou in Spain. Inter 2 is 500m from the beach and the lively resort town of Salou, so there’s plenty to do. The hotel has two pools and offers daytime and evening entertainment, or you can simply relax and enjoy the sunshine.

Accommodation is in a studio apartment, and your package includes 22kg of luggage and coach transfers from Reus, which take just over half an hour. Prices for seven nights, departing London-Luton on May 25, start at £487, and you can book the package here.

Magic Cristal Park Hotel – Benidorm, Spain – 4 nights from £329 per person

With a flight time of about two and a half hours, Benidorm is ideal for short breaks, and this half-term deal from easyJet Holidays starts at £329 per person. Its all-inclusive offering includes two buffet restaurants and four bars, a seasonal kids’ club, a top-floor pool and roof terrace, a games room, and much more.

Benidorm’s iconic beach is just a 10-minute walk away, and you can wander around and enjoy the colourful sights in this lively resort town. The package from easyJet holidays can be booked here and includes flights from Bristol to Alicante, hold bags, transfers, and accommodation in a standard double room.

Bone Club Hotel Svs – Alanya, Turkey – 7 nights from £367 per person

Enjoy a week in a four-star hotel on an all-inclusive basis for £367 per person this half-term. This package deal, on offer through Thomas Cook, includes Wizz Air flights from London-Gatwick and accommodation in an economy room, although you can upgrade for a small fee. There’s a buffet restaurant, snack bar, pool bar, and even a nightclub where you can enjoy your all-inclusive package.

During the day, enjoy the sunshine by the pool or the sandy beach just a short walk away. You’re also in a great spot to explore the Turkish Riviera, and the resort town of Alanya is full of places to visit, from castles and caves to traditional Turkish baths.

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Have fun with the family or unwind your mind with TUI deals for March and April

Getting away for a beach break in March or April is a great way to enjoy sunny skies and mild temperatures before the summer crowds arrive, as well as ditch the British rain. It’s the perfect time to relax on golden sands, explore charming coastal towns and soak up the early-season Mediterranean vibes.

As one of the UK’s best-known holiday companies, TUI uses Gatwick to offer direct flights to some of Europe’s best resorts, making it ideal for a spring break. Right now, TUI is offering couples the chance to save up to £250 on selected holidays, departing from Gatwick Airport in March and April.

This offer applies to 7-, 10-, 11- and 14-night stays in 2026, making it the perfect time for an early-season getaway. Even before the first flourish of summer, beach breaks in Lanzarote, Turkey and Portugal offer the perfect mix of sun, sand, and family-friendly fun.

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From stunning coastal locations with pools and entertainment to panoramic Portuguese views and spa treatments, we’ve picked just three of our favourites from TUI that can be booked today.

TUI BLUE Flamingo Beach, Lanzarote

Perched on the sun-drenched coastline of Playa Blanca, Lanzarote, TUI BLUE Flamingo Beach sits just steps from soft sands and calm, turquoise waters, ideal for safe swimming. Designed to look like a charming whitewashed Canarian village, a scenic seafront promenade connects the resort to Rubicon Marina and the town centre with stunning Atlantic views.

The resort is perfect for families, offering multiple pools, a splash park and professional childcare and teen hangouts. Dining is varied, from international buffets to local specialities, while fitness classes and evening entertainment ensure a lively mix of relaxation and fun under the Lanzarote sun.

For the best value break at Flamingo Beach, sunseekers looking to getaway after Easter can enjoy a 7-night break for £642.42* per person. Departing on April 13, this price is based on two people sharing on an all-inclusive basis and includes a whopping £1082.16* discount. Alternatively, a 14-night stay departing on April 14 is also available for the higher price of £1619*.

One visitor left a five-star review on TripAdvisor that said: “This hotel is excellent for families with children 0-10. The location is perfect, right next to Flamingo Beach. The children enjoyed the main pool, where activities took place, and the quiet pool, which was heated. The a^{partments were clean and spacious with a bedroom and lounge/kitchen”}

Another added: “Great Location. Our room was very quiet. Our rate included an excellent breakfast so good value for money.”

A different guest, however, agreed that the location is “brilliant”, but they also felt “let down by amenities not being open. Pool snack bar, pool bar in another area closed. And only one evening bar with no other areas to sit.”

A returning guest highly recommends the Flamingo Beach resort, saying: “Best Place. The location is fantastic, near lovely beach, rooms are fine and clean and the staff are so friendly, the area is very clean and not too much noise. We been coming here nearly every year, the last 25 years. This is where we feel like home.”

Lanzarote is always popular with holidaymakers and there are plenty of deals to choose from. One the Beach is offering a 7-night stay at the five-star Iberostar Selection Lanzarote Park with prices from £1605*, a saving of £425. An upscale all-inclusive resort, guests love the location just a little further along the bay.

For sunseekers on a budget, a last-minute break at the Blue Sea Costa Bastian in Costa Teguise is available for £519* per person through Love Holidays. With flights from Gatwick, accommodation and breakfast included, the hotel is surrounded by beautiful Canary gardens and offers magnificent views over the Atlantic Ocean.

Blue Bay Platinum, Marmaris, Turkey

Blue Bay Platinum in Marmaris blends modern style with central convenience, just 70 meters from the beach with its own private sandy stretch and clear waters. The lively local area, including shops, bars, the marina and old town, is all within easy walking distance.

The resort offers four outdoor pools, including waterslides and a dedicated adult “chill pool,” plus a full-service spa for ultimate indulgence. Guests can enjoy international and local dining, sunset cocktails and stylish ocean-themed rooms with live music and shows, creating the perfect vibrant Mediterranean getaway.

Offering excellent value for money, a seven-night stay at this contemporary hotel in a central location could cost as little as £418* per person. Departing on Wednesday, April 18, the deal includes flights and accommodation on an all-inclusive basis.

With hundreds of five-star reviews on TripAdvisor, one visitor called it a “Stunning, luxury stay”, adding: “Blue Bay Platinum Hotel in Marmaris was absolutely exceptional from start to finish. The hotel itself is beautiful – modern, stylish, and perfectly maintained with a luxurious atmosphere throughout. Room was very comfortable and always clean. Will definitely stay here again.”

Another added: “Booked again for April this year. This will be our 10th visit to Marmaris. We have stayed at the supposedly other top hotels nearby. None of them beat the Blue Bay for overall experience.”

While one visitor did note that they felt uncomfortable at the resort due to the “expectation that tips should be given,” another loved it, saying: “It’s a very nice place to stay. I like this hotel and especially the relaxing swimming pool. There is a great bar.”

Turkey appeals to Brits with its mix of sunny beaches, rich history, delicious cuisine and excellent value for money. Another favourite Marmaris resort for upscale holidaymakers is the five-star Green Nature Diamond Hotel that sits within easy striking distance of the beach.

With a wide range of facilities and comfortable accommodation, this luxurious hotel can be booked through Love Holidays for a seven-night stay in April from £429* per person. Elsewhere, the nearby Prime Beach Hotel has pools with waterslides and a private stretch of beach with prices starting from £490* per person on April 2.

Longevity Health & Wellness Hotel, Portugal

Perched on a hillside with panoramic views over Alvor Bay and the Atlantic, the Longevity Health & Wellness Hotel is a state-of-the-art retreat in the charming village of Alvor. Guests are perfectly placed to enjoy golden beaches, scenic boardwalks and nearby world-class golf courses, all while staying in a serene, high-tech sanctuary.

The hotel is a pioneer in wellness, featuring a rooftop infinity pool and a world-class spa and wellness centre. With sunrise yoga, detox treatments, and healthy Mediterranean cuisine at the rooftop Pure Cafe, every detail is designed for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.

While the thought of complete rest and relaxation may be priceless, a stay at the Longevity Resort is worth every penny. For a 10-night stay, departing on March 23, prices start from £891.12* per person, on a bed and breakfast basis. Shorter stays are also available with a seven-night break costing £663* departing on the same day.

Guests who have already found their zen with a stay at the Longevity Health & Wellness Hotel have shared their experiences online. One said: “Absolutely superb place for relaxing stay, very modern, clean, quiet location with 5 mins drive to local beaches and town of Alvor… Fantastic breakfast with great choice. Access to spa facilities included. Would definitely recommend.”

Another added: “A lovely, relaxing stay in a beautiful hotel. We came back feeling revitalised. The cleanliness and the staff at the hotel were everything.”

While one less impressed visitor said: “The restaurant is very expensive for portions,” another was far more impressed exclaiming: “This hotel is truly exceptional, I cannot say enough about this wonderful place only that we cannot wait to return.”

Alternatively, the Falesia Hotel is a sophisticated adults-only retreat in Albufeira, offering elegant rooms, a full-service spa, and both indoor and outdoor pools. Perfectly positioned for relaxation, it sits just a short walk from pristine beaches and the Pine Cliffs Golf Course, and prices for a seven-night stay start from £439 with Love Holidays.

For those who want a family holiday, Portugal is a perfect location for this too. Offering waterslides, a kids club, a water park and plenty of entertainment, the Jupiter Albufeira Hotel has something for everyone. Located in the popular resort of Albufeira, prices start from £630* per person, departing on April 21.

Find out more about deals on spring holidays with TUI as well as the full T&Cs here.

Many European destinations and warming up, and spring is definitely on the way. But which short-haul spot is most likely to give you sunshine and dry days over Easter? Here’s the destination with the best odds.

It feels like winter has dragged on forever this year, and many parts of the country are only just emerging from months of endless rain and grey skies to see a little bit of sunshine. With Easter on the way, which can be an unpredictable time for UK weather, many people will be looking to get away to the sunniest spot they can find for a few days.

Luckily, TUI has put together a list of the Easter getaways that are most likely to give you the ideal weather conditions, analysing historic data on the average rainfall, wind speed, and temperature in early-April to work out a Good Weather Score. Brits will be pleased to hear that topping the rankings is a destination just over four hours away from the UK that’s expected to see highs of 19C over the next couple of weeks.

According to TUI’s rankings, Turkey historically has the “most ideal weather conditions” during the Easter holidays, usually offering holidaymakers average temperatures of 18C. It’s also the destination where you’re least likely to be caught in an April shower. In the Easter holiday months, the amount of rainfall is just 0.01mm on average.

When the data was broken down into individual destinations, Marmaris in Turkey was the place most likely to give holidaymakers the best Easter weather conditions. It often reaches highs of 19C around Easter, and is usually dry with only light winds. Marmaris is in southwest Turkey in an area dubbed the Turkish Riviera. This lively port town has a marina, bustling grand bazaar, and historic sites such as the 16th-century Marmaris Castle.

Marmaris also has an amazing selection of sandy beaches that sit alongside its turquoise seas. Marmaris Long Beach (Uzunyali), is around six miles long, starting at the city centre, and has a lively promenade full of hotels, restaurants, and bars. A quieter alternative can be found at İçmeler Beach, just south of the city, where you’ll find sandy coves and incredible mountain views.

Second on the list for good weather was Greece, and this time of year brings mean temperatures of around 16C and long sunny days. Meanwhile, Bulgaria ranked third for its “pleasant and balanced climate”. Like Turkey it offers light winds and low rainfall, and Easter can be a good time to explore as tourist don’t have to contend with the intense summer heat. Bulgaria is becoming a major hiking destination, especially around the Rila and Pirin mountain ranges which combine gentle trails with more intense, steep climbs.

Bulgaria is also known for its stunning beaches. The Black Sea coast has 200 beaches to choose from and resorts to suit all sorts of holidaymakers. Sunny Beach is known for its lively nightlife and cheap drink deals, while Varna is a historic and cultural hub that has soft golden sand beaches and clear blue seas.

Anyone planning an Easter break can also check TUI’s holiday weather guide, which gives a breakdown of weather by month for popular tourist spots.

Europe’s top 10 destinations for good Easter weather

1. Turkey
2. Greece
3. Bulgaria
4. Spain
5. Croatia
6. Italy
7. Hungary
8. Portugal
9. Montenegro
10. Gibraltar

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