Brilliant travel ideas to spark your adventurous side
Planning your travel for the rest of the year? From urban explorations to tranquil forest and lakeside retreats, we've gathered the best destinations to fuel your wanderlust. Plus, essential products to make your adventures even more memorable.
Stay in a revitalised medieval boutique hotel in Flemish Belgium
Looking for an enchanting stay that blends historical charm and modern luxury?
Built on the ruins of a Louis XIV-style storehouse built and restored in the neo-Gothic fashion, 1898 The Post Hotel in Ghent offers boutique accommodation with vintage decor. The in-house cocktail bar, The Cobbler, reinvents classic cocktails with a touch of ancestral alchemy and — when the sun's out — enjoy these unique creations on the terrace, overlooking the lively city.
With a dedicated breakfast and personalised service, the hotel provides an ideal escape for romantic getaways or a base from which to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and timeless charm of Ghent.
Use code Post10% to get a 10% discount at 1898thepost.com. Offer ends 30 December 2025.
Canada is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant cities and endless outdoor adventures.
Saskatchewan, one of Canada's most scenic provinces, embodies this spirit like no other. With its golden prairies, vast forests, and over 100,000 lakes and waterways, it's a paradise for adventure seekers, nature lovers and those eager to experience true Canadian culture.
For an authentic Western experience, stay at a working guest ranch and immerse yourself in cowboy culture — ride horseback across the prairies, swap stories around a crackling campfire, join a cattle drive, and enjoy farm-to-table dining under the stars.
Saskatchewan's cities offer their own unique charm, blending culture, cuisine, and creativity. Saskatoon, a vibrant riverside city, is home to top-tier restaurants, craft breweries, and dynamic arts and music scenes. Regina, the provincial capital, is steeped in history and home to the iconic Royal Canadian Mounted Police Heritage Centre.
Ace the family holiday with exclusive hotels in Turkey
Planning a holiday with the little ones?
Barut Hotels across Turkey offer the perfect family getaway. Each hotel features special entertainment programmes for children, skill-building workshops and professional animation teams to keep them entertained when they're not in the pool or enjoying the safe, supervised playgrounds.
While the kids are well looked after, you can relax in your comfortable room, enjoy entertainment and sports activities, or indulge in luxurious spa services.
Alternatively, take a refreshing dip in the pool and unwind in the sun. Barut Hotels also offer exquisite Mediterranean dining options, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with plenty of options for children too. It's the ideal place to enjoy quality time together while also having moments of relaxation.
With locations in Antalya, Side and Didim, Barut Hotels, plan your stay today at baruthotels.com or call +90 444 96 00.
Take a break in Tyrol
At the foot of the Kitzbühel Alps, Der Lärchenhof straddles the line between rustic Tyrolean charm and five-star sophistication.
A destination for those who crave both Austrian adventure and indulgence, the 4,200sq-metre wellness oasis is the retreat's beating heart, offering everything from aqua massages to panoramic saunas, while the outdoor La Viva pool holds you like a warm embrace, even in winter.
For skiers, the private slope and nearby world-class resorts like Kitzbühel and SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental provide endless thrills. Non-skiers can explore winter hiking trails, try curling, or just bask in the serene majesty of the Alps.
Rooms range from rustic-chic chalets to elegant suites with balconies that frame postcard-perfect views. Dining here is equally thoughtful — seasonal ingredients alchemised into dishes that feel both comforting and upmarket.
Enjoy off-grid freedom with the perfect power companion
Planning any adventures this year?
For independence on the road, the Jackery E2000 v2 is the power station you need. With an impressive 2040Wh capacity and 2200W output, it powers your appliances, camera gear and more — ideal for solo trips to remote locations.
Designed with innovative CTB structure technology, it's compact, lightweight and easy to transport. Plus, it charges faster than ever with dual AC and solar options, reaching 80% in just 52 minutes with flash charging mode.
Multiple versatile ports ensure all your devices stay connected. Equipped with an LPF battery and certified for superior safety, the Jackery E2000 v2 lets you explore with peace of mind, making your independent adventures smoother, more efficient and more sustainable.
Discover Dubrovnik's history and elegance
Step into history at Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik, where luxury and heritage meet.
Located just steps from Dubrovnik's ancient walls, this iconic hotel has been an emblem of elegance since 1897. Blending Belle Époque charm with modern comforts, it offers a unique experience with panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea or the city's renowned ramparts. Each room is a luxurious retreat, offering a peaceful sanctuary after a day of exploring.
Indulge in Mediterranean flavours at Imperial terrace, where locally sourced ingredients create exquisite dishes. Whether you're sipping on signature cocktails at The Imperial or dining al fresco, every moment reflects Dubrovnik's rich heritage. Ideal for both leisure and business, Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik offers a timeless stay in one of Europe's most captivating destinations.
Experience timeless, authentic living in the Douro Valley
In the heart of the Douro Valley, Quinta da Côrte offers an unforgettable escape into the region's rich winemaking heritage.
Surrounded by century-old vineyards, this boutique estate combines rustic charm with understated elegance, creating the perfect sanctuary for those seeking an authentic and refined experience. Guests can unwind in beautifully designed rooms, enjoy exclusive wine tastings and savour regional cuisine crafted from the finest local ingredients.
Whether strolling through the vineyards, watching a golden sunset by the infinity pool, or exploring the art of winemaking, every moment at Quinta da Côrte is infused with timeless beauty.
With warm hospitality and breathtaking landscapes, this hidden gem invites guests to slow down and truly connect with the essence of the Douro Valley.
To plan your getaway, visit way at quintadacorte.com or call +351 964 536 200.
Cuban Adventures offers immersive and authentic tours that showcase Cuba's rich culture and stunning landscapes while prioritising positive social impact in local communities.
Forgo the crowded beach resorts and experience the true spirit of Cuba through its countryside, unique provinces and vibrant communities. Visit a farmer's family to learn about growing Cuba's famous tobacco and organic produce, or explore coastal Trinidad, a living museum known for antiques and handicrafts.
Journey to an eco-village to discover how innovative design can integrate with natural surroundings, stroll the wild beaches and cacao farms of Baracoa, or dance to traditional Cuban music in sultry Santiago.
All multi-day tours include accommodation in privately owned guesthouses with traditional Cuban breakfasts, transportation and a friendly and knowledgeable local guide to accompany your journey.
Get 10% off any multi-day tour with code SAVE10 at cubagrouptour.com – offer valid until 31 December 2025.
Areti Camping & Bungalows is located in one of the most unspoiled areas in Sithonia – the central peninsula out of the three that make up Chalkidiki in northern Greece.
It's a family-owned property that's been open for more than 50 years – a special place set among olive groves, eucalyptus and pine trees. Just steps away from two beautiful, secluded beaches, guests can dive into the azure waters of the Aegean.
Stay in one of eight newly built, contemporary-style bungalows. Or if you'd prefer to get back to basics, the wooden cottages have been built to suit guests who want to rediscover the beauty of the simple things in life.
Enjoy kayaking, tennis and volleyball games, or indulge in Mediterranean cuisine in the restaurant, visit nearby villages and take a boat trip to see the historic monasteries along the coast of nearby Mount Athos.
Experience luxury and striking interiors at a chic Mallorca hotel
The Donna Portals is a bold and artistic five-star luxury hotel on the stunning coast of Mallorca, Spain, designed by legendary Dutch interior designer Marcel Wanders.
With an unapologetic and unconventional approach to hospitality, this hotel is for the rulebreakers and tastemakers. Unwind in the wellness spa with signature massages and treatments or relax by the terrace pool with refreshing cocktails. Enjoy unparalleled service, from concierge-arranged yacht charters to personalised fitness sessions.
Indulge in bold dining experiences with a curated menu of Mediterranean flavours designed to please and excite. From its striking aesthetics to luxury offerings, The Donna Portals will transport you to a realm of tranquillity and beauty.
The Donna's luxury stay experience includes a three-night stay and a complimentary spa treatment. Book now with code INDULGEATDONNA at thedonnaportals.com (subject to availability). Valid for stays until 1 September 2025. Offer code valid until 30 April 2025.
Book now
Experience the best of everything Lisboa has to offer
Visiting Lisboa and need help planning your trip?
With 20 years' experience promoting Lisboa tourism, Visitors & Convention Bureau has all the information you need to make the most of your time in the city.
Whether you're into art, fashion, shopping, history, surf, or just want insider tips on the best attractions, Visit Lisboa offers a wealth of information to help you make the most of your visit to this stunning European capital, where the river meets the ocean.
Explore the city's history through landmarks like the Baroque and murals or delve into the street art scene. Online routes offer inspiration, guiding you to points of interest. The Lisboa Card is a must-have, offering access to iconic monuments, museums, free public transport, and discounts on local services.
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Daily Mail
2 hours ago
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE Christine Lampard shows off her washboard abs in black bandeau bikini as she soaks up the sun with husband Frank during South of France holiday
Christine Lampard wowed in black bandeau bikini as she soaked up the sun with her husband Frank during their South of France holiday on Monday. The couple, both 46, are currently enjoying some time away from work as they unwind together with friends. And the Loose Women presenter flaunted her incredible physique as she showcased her washboard abs in the tiny two piece. Meanwhile Frank went shirtless as he opted for a pair of blue striped swimming shorts and shades. The former footballer enjoyed a refreshing dip in the pool with a group of male friends, laughing and chatting as they cooled off next to the Mediterranean waters. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the Daily Mail's new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. The couple, both 46, are currently enjoying some time away from work as they unwind together with friends He then later returned to the couple's balcony where he joined Christine for a spot of sunbathing as they were seen chatting together. Earlier this week Christine was seen looking summer chic as she fit right in at the swanky resort and showed off her sophisticated sense of style in a pair of white linen trousers and strappy top. She later changed into a navy jumpsuit and stylish shades as she looked out at her muscular spouse who was enjoying a cooling swim in the sea. The manager of Coventry City showed off his tanned and toned physique in a pair of bright orange swim shorts as he enjoyed his time off after the football season. Their fun-filled holiday comes after last month Christine revealed the reason her husband Frank often used to cancel their dates at the start of their romance. The loved-up pair have been together since October 2009 and got married in 2015. They are approaching their 10th wedding anniversary this year and Christine has now opened up about their early dating days where things weren't all plain sailing. When they met he was busy playing for Chelsea but used to cancel dates with her when the team didn't win. Frank covered up in a black T-shirt as Christine was seen beaming in pics He told the Mirror : 'What keeps me and Christine going is we're there to support each other and we make each other laugh. We have a similar sense of humour' She told The Sun: 'When he was playing, he used to cancel nights out when Chelsea didn't win. Thankfully, it didn't happen that often, as luckily, Chelsea won a lot!' 'It was actually alright. He would be annoyed just because he takes it all so seriously!' She added that football was a whole new world for her and didn't understand why it was such a big deal. Christine explained: 'I went to an all-girls' school, I didn't have brothers. Football just wasn't a thing. I couldn't have cared less. And then, suddenly, I started to care. 'The more I went to the games, the more I got it. I thought, 'Oh my god, I see why people are into this. There is something magical about it'.' It came after Frank revealed the secret to his happy marriage with his beloved wife Christine. He told the Mirror: 'What keeps me and Christine going is we're there to support each other and we make each other laugh. We have a similar sense of humour. 'Christine's quite sharp and we're normally thinking the same thing, so the same situations make us laugh - I think laughing together is important for a happy marriage.' Frank was introduced to his wife at The Pride Of Britain Awards by fellow TV presenter Piers Morgan in 2009. Christine previously admitted she and the footballer were not even meant to be at the awards ceremony the night they met. Speaking on Lorraine, she said: 'It's a strange one it is because 10 years ago that we met at them, it was one of those nights that neither of us were meant to go to. 'It was a last minute thing for him and I arrived at the awards late because of work. We were sat on tables next to each other.' The couple welcomed their first child together, a daughter called Patricia - named after his late mother who tragically passed away in 2008 - in September 2018. Frank also has daughters Luna, 19, and Isla, 17, with his former partner Elen Rivas, but they went their separate ways in 2008. Christine previously told how she thinks the secret to her marriage with Frank is that they are still each other's best friend. She said: 'We're still absolute best mates. He'll be the first person I'll pick the phone up to sort anything out with. And the biggest thing for me going back to my love of comedy, is he makes me laugh. 'And that is such a powerful thing to me - I have to be able to have a giggle… We just have proper laughs. We have the same points of view on things. 'We don't argue over parenting or how things run in the house. We sort of sing off the same page and that sort of makes everything flow… 'The basis is, there's love, we've got each other's backs and we're supportive. And if he suggests that some job is happening and he wants to do it, we'll make it work.'
Wales Online
7 hours ago
- Wales Online
This coastal city break has ancient walls, beaches and flights from Cardiff
This coastal city break has ancient walls, beaches and flights from Cardiff This incredible UNESCO World Heritage city has beaches and cobbled streets, and you can fly there from Cardiff The city is also well known as the main filming location in Croatia for King's Landing in HBO's smash series Game of Thrones. (Image: Portia Jones ) Croatia has exploded as a holiday hotspot in recent years, and no trip to this sun-soaked destination is complete without a visit to the historic city of Dubrovnik, affectionately dubbed the City of 1,000 Monuments, and possibly where Richard the Lionheart was cast ashore after a shipwreck in 1192. Dubrovnik draws vast crowds with its distinctive Old Town, where massive stone walls, completed in the 16th century, still encircle the historic city. Visitors can admire its well-preserved architecture, from the baroque St. Blaise Church to the Renaissance Sponza Palace and the Gothic Rector's Palace, which now houses a history museum. The city is also well known as the main filming location in Croatia for King's Landing in HBO's smash series Game of Thrones. This UNESCO World Heritage site is just a three-hour flight from the UK, and you can fly there from Cardiff Airport with TUI. Here's how to make the most of a city break to the "Pearl of the Adriatic" From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here Walk the city walls Walking Dubrovnik's city walls is the best way to get a birds-eye view of the old town and learn more about its fascinating history. (Image: Wales Online ) Walking Dubrovnik's city walls is the best way to get a birds-eye view of the old town and learn more about its fascinating history. Article continues below The full circuit of the 24m-high and 6m-thick walls is a 2-kilometre walk. Dubrovnik's city walls walk offers a range of views, including battlements, patchwork red roofs and fortresses. From up here, you'll get a seriously epic view of the coastline. The Adriatic sparkles below, and it's so unspoilt that the scene today isn't all that different from what Franciscan monks, Roman emperors, the Venetian navy, even Napoleon would've seen when they scanned the horizon for approaching enemies. Dubrovnik has a fascinating history; it was a powerful merchant republic that engaged in extensive trade and was a pioneer in the fight against slavery, officially banning it in 1416. A jealous Venice also invaded the city in the 12th century. It became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1815 and then became part of Yugoslavia. Dubrovnik sustained substantial shelling during the 1991-1995 war, and you can still see war damage in Dubrovnik to this day. To gain a deeper insight into the city's history as you traverse the imposing walls, book a Dubrovnik walking tour with a qualified and knowledgeable guide. By booking a Dubrovnik walking tour in advance, you can experience Dubrovnik's old town with a professional local tourist guide licensed by the Croatian Ministry of Tourism. Go on a Game of Thrones tour Fort Lovrijenac in Dubrovnik- the setting for The Red Keep in King's Landing (Image: Thinkstock/Getty ) Several locations in Croatia were used for Thrones filming, but historic Dubrovnik was the main filming location for King's Landing (the Lannister's stronghold in Game of Thrones) and has become synonymous with the franchise. Facing out over the azure blue Adriatic Sea, with imposing stone walls and a mix of Baroque and Renaissance architecture, it certainly evokes a fantasy epic vibe. Locations across the city have been used for GOT filming, including The Pile Gate (the entrance to the Old Town), which was featured in Season Two Episode Six, where an angry crowd attacks horrid King Joffrey. The Jesuit Staircase was used as the 'steps of the Great Sept of Baelor' in King's Landing. This is where one of the most famous scenes in season five took place, the 'Walk of Shame'. In this shocking scene, Cersei Lannister is forced to walk naked through the streets of King's Landing. ToursByLocals offers a comprehensive five-hour Game of Thrones Tour Experience for super fans who want to see many of the filming locations. Visit Fort Lovrjenac - the Red Keep, take a ferry to Lokrum island – the City of Qarth and visit the Game of Thrones Museum on this whirlwind tour. Head to the beach For a city, Dubrovnik has a surprising variety of beaches (Image: Getty Images ) For a city, Dubrovnik has a surprising variety of beaches, ranging from pebble, gravel, stone, and concrete, where you can swim, kayak, and sunbathe near clear waters. Some of the popular options include Banje Beach, renowned for its proximity to the Old Town and impressive views, and Sveti Jakov Beach, which offers a peaceful escape with crystal-clear waters and stunning sunset views. Make sure to watch the sun go down at one of Dubrovnik's many beach bars. The best bar for outdoor drinking in Dubrovnik is the uber-cool Buza bar, located on top of a secluded beach outside the city walls, with tables set among the rocks. This joint is known affectionately as the 'hole-in-the-wall', as to get to this unique bar, you have to go through a hole in the wall, ('buža' literally means 'hole'). Once you're on the other side, you can grab a drink at their cliffside bar and enjoy beautiful views of the Adriatic as you sink a cold beer or two. Have lunch in Dubrovnik's Restaurant Panorama Dubrovnik's Panorama Restaurant offers unparalleled views of the city's historic walls (Image: Portia Jones ) Dubrovnik's Panorama Restaurant offers unparalleled views of the city's historic walls. You can dine 415 meters up Mount Srdj at this contemporary restaurant. There are several ways to reach Dubrovnik's Panorama Restaurant. You can arrive on foot, by car or by cable car (the best option). The food is beautifully presented, allowing you to capture amazing #platedpics for your socials. The best time to visit Dubrovnik's Panorama Restaurant is in the winter, as you will have a better chance of securing a window seat. Fresh seafood and steak feature heavily on the menu. Local and seasonal produce is used where possible. It's pretty pricey, but that's to be expected with a view as magnificent as this. Go wine tasting Wine lovers should endeavour to visit Croatia's famous wine-growing region (Image: Elena Noviello via Getty Images ) Wine lovers should endeavour to visit Croatia's famous wine-growing region, Pelješac Peninsula. The Pelješac Peninsula area is approximately 90 minutes away from Dubrovnik and is home to some truly wonderful vineyards. Article continues below It's a beautiful drive from Dubrovnik with some stunning scenery. The Pelješac Peninsula is famous for its Croatian wines. Croatia is not really known for its wine internationally. The names of Croatian wines are complicated [try pronouncing 'Pošip' after several glasses of vino]. Production is often very small, and Croatian vineyards don't typically export their wines. So you'll get to sip lovely vinos that you wouldn't normally find at home. If you love a glass or two of wine, then it's definitely worth booking a Wine tasting tour of Pelješac. Visit family-owned wineries, chat with the winemakers, and sample a selection of stunning Croatian wines.
Telegraph
8 hours ago
- Telegraph
The 10 best beaches in Cyprus
The Mediterranean island of Cyprus is a great choice if you want to laze on the beach and top up the tan. With its sub-tropical climate that translates into endless days of summer sunshine, and beaches and bays – some quiet and unspoilt; others bustling with activities – the island is an unbeatable holiday destination. Here, are some of the top beaches to head for. For further Cyprus inspiration, see our guides devoted to the island's best hotels, restaurants and things to do. Coral Bay Kolpos ton Koralion, known locally as Coral Bay, is a large sweep of golden sand fringed with hotels and dotted with sunbeds in summer. It is a Blue Flag beach around five miles along the coast due north of Paphos, in the village of Pegeia. Beach bars and restaurants offer al fresco dining while swimmers can enjoy its clean, protected waters and lifeguards keep it safe, especially for families. Coral Bay offers some dramatic headlands and sea caves to explore, plus the nearby archaeological site of Maa-Palaeokastro. This ancient Mycenaean settlement can trace its origins back to the Late Bronze Age. Getting there: Bus 615 from Tombs of the Kings station or by car. Parking is available by the beach. Porto Pomos Islanders in the know head for the beach at Porto Pomos. This stunning yet relatively unknown stretch of pebbly sand lies next to the charming little fishing harbour at Pomos in the Paphos district. Even city folk from Nicosia come here on holiday. To reach it you drive along the coast road from Polis Chrysochou, with rugged countryside on one side and crashing waves on the others. Swimmers delight in the clear, shallow waters, while the cragged shoreline here makes it a popular snorkelling spot. A small beach café does excellent frappe and there's a restaurant famed for its fresh fish dishes. Getting there: Bus 643 from Polis Chrysochou or by car. Parking is available by the beach. Lara Beach Two unspoilt, crescent-shaped beaches hug either side of the rocky Cape Lara on Cyprus's west coast. They are quiet and way off the beaten track so you'll need a 4x4 type vehicle to reach the beaches comfortably as access roads are bumpy. Lara Beach is best known for being where endangered loggerhead turtles come ashore to lay their eggs in the warmer months. A conservation group monitors the turtles and places the eggs in protective sand-covered nests until they are ready to hatch, at which point baby turtles emerge from the sand and head for the sea. Seeing the baby turtles is a humbling experience. Getting there: Access by car only, preferably 4x4. Parking on headland above beach. Pissouri Bay Pissouri Bay is a bit of a contradiction. While being set in one of the most beautiful and quiet spots along the southern coast, the bay is also where families gather, and waterskiing and surfing folk come to enjoy their sport. Fortunately, the bay's beach is wide and long enough for everyone to enjoy it at their own pace. Pathways from the parking areas provide access, including a couple designed for people using wheelchairs, and amenities include showers. A handful of places to enjoy a bite are close by, while some seriously good restaurants can be found in a nearby luxury hotel and in Pissouri village. Getting there: Bus 630 from Paphos Karavella station, 70 from Limassol station or by car. Parking is available by the beach. Lady's Mile Beach Lady's Mile Beach is a long, gently-shelving expanse of sand which can be found not far from the Curium archeological site between Paphos and Limassol. It is popular with city folk keen to unwind, and horse riding enthusiasts (you will often see horses and riders from the nearby equestrian centre enjoying a hack along the shore). This beach is believed to have been a favourite of the governor when Cyprus was under British rule – it is said he also rode his horse here. There are a couple of eateries, a bar and a watersports centre. Boat trips leave from here for short trips to see some impressive sea caves. Getting there: By car. Parking is available by the beach. Aphrodite's Rock and Beach Despite almost exclusively comprising rocks worn smooth by the sea, this beach is one of the island's most popular. Walkers as well as sun-worshippers flock here, especially as the sun goes down – the sunsets here are magical. The focal point of the beach is, without doubt, Aphrodite's Rock, which is a magnificent creation of nature that is one of the iconic images of Cyprus. The rock is said to be where Aphrodite, the ancient goddess of love, rose from the sea and was born. Dramatic, rugged scenery provides a backdrop to the beach. A taverna is nearby. Getting there: Bus 631 from Paphos Harbour station, 70 from Limassol station or by car. Parking is available via a tunnel under the road. Governor's Beach A seemingly endless string of bays with backdrops of chalk white cliffs characterise the southernmost shores of Cyprus from around Pissouri through to Zygi. This landscape is particularly evident at Governor's Beach, which with Lady's Mile was a favourite of the governor when Cyprus was under British rule. Here, you can sunbathe on platforms created by the rocks. Watersports abound and the rocks are popular for fishing and snorkelling. The beach has golden sands and shallow waters, making it a popular spot with locals, especially those from nearby Limassol. The fish tavernas here are bustling in summer. Getting there: By car. Parking available by beach. Mackenzie Beach This Blue Flag beach lies to the south of Larnaca's medieval fort, its busy Finikoudes esplanade and the city centre. As such, the beach is popular with locals relaxing at the weekend and holidaymakers from the nearby hotels. The beach is known for its safe, shallow waters and its long stretch of fine, clean grey sand, together with palm trees that provide a tropical backdrop. You can try out activities like windsurfing and sailing here, plus join a diving team for the chance to see one of the world's most famous dive sites, the Zenobia shipwreck, which lies just off its shores. Getting there: On foot from the Finikoudes or by car. Parking available by beach. Nissi Beach The young and trendy tend to head for this Ayia Napa beach, often after a night of clubbing. Here, you'll find a bustling beach of people, sunbeds, parasols and paragliders. Add to the mix water-skiers and windsurfers, and you have a lively holiday spot, with buzzing bars and beachside tavernas adding to the atmosphere. From here you can take the walkway or cycle path to Makronissos Beach, which is a glorious, half a mile-long stretch of sandy beach often frequented by quad bikers. Just inland are the Makronissos tombs dating from early Roman times. Getting there: Intercity Nicosia to Larnaca bus route or by car. Parking available by beach. Fig Tree Bay This long, crescent-shaped sandy beach sits neatly in its own cove on Cyprus's easternmost coast at Protaras. It takes its name from the many fig trees that dot its lush countryside backdrop. The beach was awarded a Blue Flag due to its cleanliness, safe waters and an eco-management programme that has made it one of the finest beaches on the island. In fact, it is often referred to as being one of the best beaches in Europe. Watersports, sunbeds and refreshments are available. A small uninhabited islet lies just off the seashore and can be reached by swimming in the shallow waters. Getting there: On foot from central Protaras or by car. Parking available by beach. How we choose Every beach in this curated list has been expertly chosen by our destination expert, to provide you with their insider perspective. We cover a range of areas and styles, from popular city beaches to lesser known corners – to best suit every type of traveller. We update this list regularly to keep up with the latest openings and provide up to date recommendations. About our expert Carole French is Telegraph Travel's Cyprus expert. She was captivated by the island two decades ago and lives in a village surrounded by her own olive groves near Paphos. When not exploring archaeological sites or art galleries she's probably sipping a brandy sour.
