Beach

Any number of seaside pursuits can reconnect you with a love of nature, from hiking along the UK’s spectacular clifftop South West Coast Path to sailing a yacht to idyllic Greek islands beaches from Piraeus in Athens. The more adventurous can push yourselves coasteering – abseiling, swimming and scrambling along rocky coastlines – for an unforgettable experience on Brittany’s spectacular Crozon Peninsula, or grab a surfboard and challenge your nerve on Portugal's varied Atlantic coast. Gentler discoveries await families rock pooling for crabs on North Yorkshire’s pebble beaches, or sea kayaking to secluded coves alive with the chirp of crickets along Montenegro’s untamed Luštica coastline.

Ultimately, the choice of beach for your next seaside adventure depends on individual requirements. If you’re after a slice of urban sightseeing alongside dips in the sea, Barcelona is a superb destination, with iconic attractions including the Sagrada Família and Picasso Museum, plus four kilometres of golden beach on which to sunbathe. With child-friendly resort hotels and calm sheltered waters for safe swimming, Portugal’s Algarve beaches lend themselves to family escapes, while the wild seas of the Atlantic coast attract water-sports fanatics. Looking to glam it up among A-list celebs? Escape to white-sand Pampelonne Beach in Saint-Tropez and dine on fresh seafood in elegant beach clubs.

Beyond water quality and cleanliness, things to look out for on a beach holiday depend on who you’re travelling with. If you’re holidaying with kids, prioritise safety and convenience. Look for lifeguarded beaches with parking, cafés and shops nearby – Corsica’s gorgeous Plage de Palombaggia is a firm family favourite for these reasons. For water-sports action, consider the Atlantic beaches of Portugal, known for their reliable surfing waves. If you have romance on your mind, the turquoise waters of Puglia’s magical Torre dell’Orso beach in southern Italy are tucked into a cove surrounded by ochre-coloured cliffs and rock arches. Wherever you may end up, remember to pack the essentials: sunscreen, sun specs, a straw hat and appropriate swimwear.