Our travel team's favourite TUI holidays from African beach resorts to European bucket list hotels
Published: Invalid Date,
THE SUN's Travel Team have certainly racked up the trips abroad, travelling everywhere from Europe to Africa.
And as one of the UK's biggest tour operators, that means we've also done our fair share of TUI holidays.
So here are some of our favourite hotels we've stayed at on a TUI holiday.
Pickalbatros White Beach Resort Taghazout, Morocco
Morocco is the best place for five star luxury on a budget - and one that I loved was the Pickalbatros White Beach Resort.
Costing as little as £885 each for seven nights all-inclusive, you feel its grandeur when you walk in with the huge marble lobby and towering glass windows.
It's adult-only, with six pools to choose from and a beautifully golden sandy beach to watch one of the many surfers.
Stays include one free visit per stay to the speciality restaurant Azha, which offers up delicious authentic Moroccan cuisine.
Otherwise there is the Sachi bar overlooking the rest of the resort, as well as the pink sunsets.
- Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey
Bluesun Hotel Jadran, Croatia
The standout of this laid-back resort is not its jaw-dropping location (although waking up to panoramic views of Croatia's sundrenched coastline each morning is no tough feat), it's the breadth of wellness facilities.
As much as flopping on a sun lounger and catching a tan is my priority on holiday, I hate having to completely sacrifice my gym routine - and luckily I didn't have to at Bluesun Hotel Jadran.
There are health and fitness activities galore here, as well as water sports. And the best part is, they're all included in the price of a stay.
When I wasn't practising my downward-facing dog under the shade of a palm tree or getting my heart racing on the tennis courts, I was swigging back a spritz on the pebble beach and tucking into the freshest seafood – after all, the hotel does occupy a prime spot on the Dalmatian coast.
Think scorched octopus and garlicky, sizzling prawns.
The village of Tucepi, in which the hotel sits, is quiet, so don't expect any wild parties, but the historic city of Split is just over an hour away by car, while the rugged mountains that back the hotel are great for exploring by bike (these can be hired at reception).
For the more adventurous, there's also river rafting, canyoning and diving (all of which come at an additional charge).
Any tired muscles can be soothed at the on-site spa, which is as lavish as you'd expect from a five-star resort.
Both mountain-view and sea-view rooms are epic, but the sunsets over the ocean are some of the best I've ever seen.
Visit in October this year and you can stay for less than £700 each for the week.
- Assistant Travel Editor, Sophie Swietochowski
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Hotel Riu Palace Tres Islas, Fuerteventura,
Brits are very limited when it comes to sunshine breaks with short flight times in February half term.
But after a very late booking last winter, where most of the big TUI family hotels were booked out, I lucked out with a lesser-known gem on the edge of Fuerteventura's Grandes Playas - at the Hotel Riu Palace Tres Islas.
At first glance of the website, I might have opted for a different hotel as it had no kids activities.
But this ended up being perfect for a relaxing holiday with my mum and five-year-old son.
The 50-year-old hotel doesn't have all the bells and whistles of a more modern resort, but the hospitality was outstanding and the location on one of the island's best beaches was unbeatable.
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Despite being fully booked, the hotel itself never felt crowded.
And the small number of other young families meant all the kids in the resort instantly became friends - and were easily monitored throughout the hotel grounds.
The food was great too, with no queues at the various restaurant stations, no matter what time you showed up - and some of the best all-inclusive dishes I've had.
Shout outs also to the wonderful TUI rep Samuel, a born-and-bred Fuertaventurean who gave us all his best local recommendations for exploring the island, and the charming bar staff who loved inventing elaborate mocktails for the kids.
- Head of Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire
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Riu Baobab, Senegal
TUI launched the first direct flights to Senegal back in 2022, and I was the first to visit.
And the Riu Baobab remains their only hotel in the country, lining the Pointe Sarane coastline.
I was never bored at the resort despite staying there for seven days (and as a serial adventure-goer over a fly-and-flopper, that is saying something).
There are the four huge pools overlooking the beach, the swim up pool bars and the copious amounts of sunloungers to choose from.
The hotel buffet changed enough to keep you hooked, as well as having local Senegalese food.
But I was seriously impressed by the specialty restaurants which can very often be a letdown. But the sushi at the Asian Dorayaki and the pasta dishes at Veneto were a highlight of the meals at the hotel.
But even with the pools and unlimited free drinks it was the staff that made it, always happy to chat, dance by the beach or being cheeky in general.
And if there is one thing you must do? Make sure you have a go or two on their on-site waterslides too...
- Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey
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Serena Beach Resort & Spa, Kenya
I visited Kenya for the first time with TUI, as part of their beach-safari combination holidays.
And while the safari itself was a fantastic experience (spotting baby lion cubs up close) the beach resort itself was a beautiful way to end the trip.
The Serena Beach Resort & Spa is stunning as soon as you walk in, with bright pink flowers and bush palm trees lining the gardens.
It has an intimately small swimming pool complete with a pool bar serving all the cocktails you could want.
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We then hopped over to the beach bar, with cushions and blankets lying on the floor making it the perfect place to watch the sun go down.
Trying the hammock after one too many drinks was certainly a challenge...
Food options include the buffet Fountain restaurant, as well as the pizzeria, grill and ice cream shack.
But you aren't coming here for the food, but for a good night sleep before an early morning safari - and its safe to say I passed straight out...
I can also recommend the Baobab Beach Resort & Spa in Diani Beach - just beware of the monkeys!
- Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey
4H Lapland Hotel Saaga, Finland
A trip to see Santa in Lapland is the stuff bucket lists are made of, but they've always seemed as out of reach to me as a trip to Dubai.
So I was pleasantly shocked by the four-night trip that my five year old and I took to Yllas in Finnish Lapland last December, which cost from £1,027pp on a B&B basis at the 4H Lapland Hotel Saaga, including flights.
The package holiday also includes a trip to the Snow Village with Santa meet-and-greet, snowmobile ride, ice palace visit and gingerbread-making, as well as a three-course Christmas dinner with entertainment on the last night.
The hotel itself was also great, especially for the price, with a decent breakfast and option to tag on evening meals, and a fantastic pool.Its location next to
Finland's largest ski resort meant we were able to squeeze in half a day's skiing too.
Plus,for those able to stay awake long enough after the day's activities, there was also the chance to see the Northern Lights.
- Head of Travel (Digital), Caroline McGuire
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Area: Nerja How to get there: Park for free on the seafront or, if busy, on one of the adjoining streets. Cala el Cañuelo In a coastal nature reserve, this small cove is only accessible on foot or via a shuttle minibus that runs daily from June to mid-September; £1.90 (€2.25) return (cash only). The pebbled beach makes for clear waters and excellent snorkelling. The restaurant opens during the summer only. Insider tip: it's a steep 20-minute walk down (longer up), so wear sturdy shoes. Area: Nerja How to get there: Park in Playa del Cañuelo car park off the N340 and follow the Sendero Bajada del Cañuelo. La Carihuela A classic since the 1960s, these blue-flag sands offer the quintessential Spanish day out at the seaside. Think sun beds and parasols, pedalos and water sports, fried fish at the beachfront restaurants and ice cream from the kiosks. Insider tip: if you haven't got your own shade and don't want to rent a parasol, set up camp in one of the palm tree oases. Area: Torremolinos How to get there: Get off at Montemar on the Malaga-Fuengirola train. Casablanca Quieter than other central beaches in Marbella, these blue-flag sands flank the swanky mansions and luxury hotels on the Golden Mile. Keep things real by taking a picnic and your own shade; enjoy mountain and Morocco views by walking the Marbella Club pier or, if closed, the nearby breakwater, for free. Insider tip: Include this beach on a seafront walk from Marbella to Puerto Banús (4.3 miles or 7km). Area: Marbella How to get there: Free parking on nearby streets. La Caleta Not as well-known as La Malagueta next door, but quieter and with better views of Malaga Bay, this blue-flag beach is perfect for a time out from sightseeing. Children will love the inflatable water park in the summer, and bathing is shallow year-round. Insider tip: start your day with a Malaga-style breakfast (coffee and bread with olive oil and tomato) on the sand at Chiringuito Nuevo Mediterráneo. Area: Malaga How to get there: Walk from the city centre. Peñón del Cuervo At the eastern end of Malaga, this secluded cove is dominated by a rocky outcrop (squint to almost see the likeness to the crow it's named for). Snorkelling is good around the rock, and it's a top spot for a winter sunrise. Insider tip: Hire a bike and venture further east along the cycle lanes to the resort of La Cala del Moral. Playa de la Rada These long blue-flag sands offer safe bathing, a long list of facilities and good restaurants serving some of the best fried fish and sardine skewers in town. In addition, their proximity to the town centre makes them an ideal pitstop before or after you explore central Estepona. Insider tip: Discover all the beaches in Estepona by walking along the Sendero Litoral coastal path. Area: Estepona How to get there: There's free parking nearby or visitors can walk from the town centre. Playa Real de Zaragoza/ Playa de Costa Bella Easily the best sands on the Costa del Sol, these stretch for over 8 miles (13km) from the dunes in Cabo Pino almost to Marbella itself. There are reasonable facilities and safe bathing, plus perhaps the most eclectic collection of beach restaurants anywhere, from the cheap and cheerful Restaurante Las Flores to the uber-chic Nikki Beach. Insider tip: Enjoy Cuban food and salsa Sundays at the Ranchón Cubano, mid-May to mid-September. Puerto Banús These blue-flag sands on either side of the marina suit everyone: families love the safe, shallow bathing, while beach bunnies hop to the west end to Ocean Club, with its younger vibe and famous themed parties, and La Sala by the Sea, with a more mature and sophisticated appeal. Insider tip: Dress codes apply at most beach clubs; some have a minimum spend. Area: Marbella How to get there: Park in nearby car parks or bus from central Marbella. 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 Joanna Styles I have been championing the Costa del Sol since 1990. When I'm not waxing lyrical about my forever home, you'll find me running on the Malaga promenade or catching up on new art in the city.
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Find things to do by type: Best for families Best free things to do Best local flavour Best historical activities Best outdoor activities Best for families Dolphin spotting Sail alongside the pods The Costa del Sol has several resident dolphin families who frolic through the waves between Nerja and Estepona. The pods seem to love an audience and put on impressive displays of flips and turns, often next to the boat. Sightings are more likely on trips out of Marbella and Puerto Banús, but visitors on catamarans from Benalmádena and Malaga can also get lucky. Insider's tip: Take the water taxi between Marbella and Puerto Banús to see the magnificent mountain backdrop behind the resort and catch the local dolphins – the boat crew take a slight detour if the pod is in town. Bioparc Fuengirola Take a worldwide tour with the fauna Go wild on a globe-trotting adventure with more than 200 species of exotic animals and birds at one of Spain's trailblazing conservation zoos. Five immersive zones transport you across continents, where animals live in near-natural habitats. Watch cheeky lemurs dart through the 'Island of Madagascar', shimmering tetras and scalars glide through the 'Amazon', and powerful Komodo dragons and iguanas prowl ancient ruins in the 'Khosmal Temple'. Insider's tip: Check out the daily calendar for activities like guided tours and conversations with the zookeepers. If you're visiting in July and August, buy an evening ticket to see the nocturnal animals in action. Nerja Caves Discover a world of underground marvels The Cuevas de Nerja are the Costa del Sol's crown jewel – vast, magical caves filled with waterfalls, towering stalactites (including the world's longest) and ancient rock formations. Discovered in 1959, the caves also house numerous well-preserved prehistoric paintings, some of which are more than 20,000 years old, as well as remarkable archaeological remains. A subterranean wonderland for the whole family. Insider's tip: If you're visiting in July, check out the Festival de Nerja programme. The concerts and dance performances feature top artists and take place inside the caves whose acoustics rival the world's best auditoriums. Selwo Aventura See the big five Well, you can almost see all of the big five – since this giant park has cheetahs instead of leopards – but otherwise you'll visit iconic safari mammals and colourful tropical birds in almost their natural habitats. After walking through tropical rainforests and riding a jeep across an African savannah, take in the daily bird shows and snap a selfie with a lemur or snake. Tired of the wildlife? Whizz across the 380-foot (116m) zipline. Insider's tip: For the ultimate safari experience, stay overnight in a Masai hut or Zulu villa (all with air-conditioning, showers and great views) and wake up to the sounds of Africa. Best free things to do Baños de la Hedionda Do as Julius Caesar did Tucked at the far west end of the coast lie these steamy, sulphur-rich baths, where the most famous Roman Emperor is said to have soaked away a stubborn skin complaint. He built the original complex, later revamped by the Moors. Today, you can relax under the striking domed roof (online booking only mid-June to mid-Sept) or unwind in the outdoor pools. Insider's tip: These baths are popular, so avoid weekends at any time of year; expect the water to be flesh-bitingly chilly between October and May; and maybe pack a clothes peg for your nose. Website: Estepona Murals Marvell at street art The streets in Estepona's old quarter double as an open-air gallery, with more than 60 vibrant murals by local and international artists. Many nod to the town's fishing roots or cleverly blend features in the facades into eye-popping trompe-l'oeil. Grab a map from the tourist office or online and start exploring – don't miss Fishing Day, Spain's largest mural, sprawling across six facades. Insider's tip: As you make your way around the murals, look out for the sculptures and inscriptions of poetry scattered around the town centre. Don't miss The Tourist on the seafront and The Happiest Elephant in Plaza de las Flores. Genalguacil Visit the village that's an open-air art museum This pretty white village is roughly 25 miles (40km) from Estepona, and despite only having just 400 inhabitants, has over 200 installations on show, the legacies of the artists who have participated in the biannual Encuentros de Arte since 1994. Must-see highlights include the Arco del Viento metal chairs arching over an alleyway, 10 ceramic footballs 'lost' around the village and the Pink Panther bandolero, a perfect selfie partner. Insider's tip: Encuentros de Arte take place in August in even-numbered years, but if your visit takes place during an odd-numbered year, check out the Arte Vivo festival when resident guest artists do their thing. Ralli Museum Get surrealist on the Golden Mile When art collector Harry Recanati chose Marbella's Golden Mile for one of his five Ralli Museums, he gifted the resort with a vibrant trove of Latin American and European Surrealist masterpieces. Expect bold works from Wilfredo Lam, Roberto Matta, Bacon, Chagall, and Dalí. With its striking permanent collections and rotating exhibitions, it takes you on a deep and thrilling dive into the world of surrealism. Insider's tip: Include a side step to the museum when you stroll along the Golden Mile promenade, but note that it's open Tuesday to Saturday only, and, unlike most museums in Spain, it closes early (4 or 5pm). Return to index Best local flavour Feria time Celebrate in Andalusian style The Costa del Sol loves to party, with annual ferias (fairs) in even the smallest village, celebrating the patron saint's day and lasting at least three days. Everyone's invited to the festivities, which kick off with colourful romerías (a pilgrimage) and continue with fireworks, dancing, singing and fairground rides. Flamenco frills are a must for the ladies, as are horse and carriage parades. Insider's tip: Ferias are a one-off experience that takes over a resort completely for almost 24 hours every day. If big, noisy crowds aren't your thing, make sure your visit doesn't coincide with the local jamboree. Holy Week in Malaga Experience hard-core devotion Easter in Malaga is a profoundly moving spectacle of faith and tradition. For a whole week, 45 grand processions fill the streets with towering floats of Christ and the Virgin, solemn marching bands, and hooded penitents. Locals gather in their thousands, some moved to sing flamenco laments. Even if you're a non-believer, this soul-stirring celebration never fails to give you goose bumps. Insider's tip: Malaga's most famous local, actor Antonio Banderas, is a long-time devotee of the Lágrimas y Favores de Fusionadas brotherhood and takes part in their procession in the afternoon during Palm Sunday, when he joins the float-bearers. Malaga Bodegas Taste the local vino The Romans planted the first vines on the Costa del Sol, now home to the D.O. Málaga and D.O. Sierras de Málaga labels. Five regions produce everything from bold reds to sweet muscatels, along with excellent fizz. For standout tastings, head to Bodegas Bentomiz or Sedella Vinos in the Axarquía or spend a day sipping among the vines in Ronda's scenic bodegas. Insider's tip: Know before you go by getting the low-down on local wine. If you're in Malaga, head for the Museo del Vino (tasting included) or visit the Wine Centre in Ronda. Paella Class Create your own lunch Roll up your sleeves and cook like a local with chef Laura at her Lebasi Taller de Cocina in central Malaga. In this hands-on, three-hour session, you'll master two regional dishes plus authentic paella (that's correct, no chorizo). Discover expert tips, including how to achieve a perfectly crispy socarrat base. The best part? You'll enjoy your delicious creations over a leisurely lunch. Insider's tip: Before your class, visit the Mercado de Atarazanas fresh food market nearby and feast your senses on the stalls literally groaning with gourmet produce, much of it grown, produced or caught locally. Return to index Best historical activities Dolmens of Antequera Step back in time Dig deep into the Costa del Sol's roots at these dolmens (tombs) outside Antequera. The World Heritage site dates back to 2,500BC and the megalithic burial chambers rank among the most important in Spain. Begin at the visitors' centre for a general overview, and then admire the Cueva de Menga, the largest, with a picture-perfect view from its entrance; the smaller Cueva de Viera; and El Romeral, featuring unusual domed ceilings. Insider's tip: Time your visit to coincide with a spring or autumn equinox, or a summer or winter solstice, when there are special events at the Cueva de Viera. La Concepción Botanical Gardens Explore a horticultural paradise In 1855, two of Malaga's rising bourgeois class took a leaf from the Victorian collecting playbook and created one of Spain's largest botanical gardens. The lush grounds house more than 50,000 trees and plants; don't miss more than 80 types of palms, the water features, the black bamboo forest, the wisteria pergola (best mid to late March) or the Modernist mirador. Insider's tip: Excellent guided tours in English (minimum three people) are available year-round – book by phone, WhatsApp or email. If you're here at Christmas, book an evening visit to the stunning festive lights throughout the gardens. Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Malaga Step into the world of Al-Andalus The 10th-century Alcazaba in Malaga's city centre was initially imagined as a fortress, but quickly became a palace and symbol of the Almohad dynasty's power. Walk the battlements, admire the horseshoe arches and marvel at the intricate engravings in the palace chambers. Then, climb the steep slope to the separate Gibralfaro and walk the entire walled perimeter for simply stunning 360-degree views. Insider's tip: Reward all those steps with a little something on the terrace of the Parador de Gibralfaro, with panoramic views of Malaga and the Mediterranean beyond. Need something more substantial? Pop upstairs to the restaurant for delicious food and even better views. Río Verde Roman Villa The Costa del Sol's first luxury villa Travel back in time to probably the first luxury villa ever built on the Costa del Sol, on the east side of Puerto Banús. Dating back to the second century AD, the ruins' stars of the show are the black and white mosaics whose motifs include kitchen utensils, a stunning head of Medusa, dolphins, birds and even a pair of flipflops. Insider's tip: Time your visit for a weekend morning as the site opens Friday to Sunday, 10:30am to 1:30pm only. Combine it with a seafront stroll from Marbella (almost five miles or 7km) or a ferry ride to see the dolphins. Return to index Best outdoor activities El Caminito del Rey Embark on a daring gorge walk Malaga is one of the highest provinces in Spain, and one of the best ways to experience its peaks is along this almost five-mile (7.7km) gorge walk. Make your way through stunning scenery, including turquoise lakes and limestone crags, along the wooden pathway, complete with glass-floored viewing points and a suspension bridge. Hard hats (provided) and photographic ID are compulsory, and a zero fear of heights is preferable. Insider's tip: Regular tickets sell out quickly, so book well ahead. If these aren't available, consider joining the excellent guided tour in English, which is just as enjoyable, more informative and only a few euros more. Parque Natural de la Desembocadura del Guadalhorce Enter a twitcher's paradise Sandwiched between Malaga Airport and a motorway is this surprisingly quiet nature reserve, once gravel pits and now one of the best places for birdwatching on the Costa del Sol. The saltwater lagoons house numerous species, including the more unusual osprey, booted eagles, flamingos and white-headed ducks, as well as herons and cormorants. Go early and you might just spot hares and mongoose-like ichneumons. Insider's tip: No binoculars? Ask one of the friendly local twitchers in a hide to let you have a go with theirs. Helpful information panels in English allow you to identify the birds. Kayak Tour Paddle below the cliffs Much of the stunning Nerja coastline is only accessible by sea, which is why a kayak comes in handy. Hire your own craft or join a tour from Burriana beach and paddle eastwards into the coastal nature reserve. Skim around waterfalls, tumbling from the clifftop usually all year, venture into a sea cave and then take a dive to discover the busy marine life. Insider's tip: Kayaks are available daily for hire, and tours operate between April and November, unless there are rough seas or bad weather. Book ahead in July and August. Over-sevens only. El Torcal See weird and wonderful rock formations This massive limestone plateau dates back to the Jurassic period and brims with breathtaking views and quirky rock formations. Three well-signposted walking routes guide you around the plateau (the shop in the visitors' centre sells a good map), ranging from less than a mile (1.5km) to almost five miles (7.2km) and taking up to three hours. Insider's tip: If your visit is in the summer months, check out the nighttime activities, which include a guided tour at full moon. Wear sturdy shoes with a good grip and stay on the designated paths – it's easy to get lost. Return to index How we choose Every activity or experience to do 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 Joanna Styles I have been championing the Costa del Sol since 1990. When I'm not waxing lyrical about my forever home, you'll find me running on the Malaga promenade or catching up on new art in the city.
