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1 year ago
Oh we do like to be beside the seaside... And in the countryside... And up a mountain... And beside a lake...
The sun may be playing it cool lately, but it’ll surely don its hat sometime soon. Either way, summer is the ideal time to escape the ordinary and embark on an adventure – and we’re brimming with summer holiday ideas for 2024.
As the planet hots up, ‘coolcations’ are the chicest travel trend this year, with eyes turning to northern Europe’s less-trodden spots for summer sun without the health warning; think Estonian escapades, Finnish affairs and Polish expeditions. Naturally, the coolest of ‘cations is the Great British staycation. Get your hands on your very own copy of our annual Great British & Irish Hotels’ Guide 2024/25 for more than 200 recommendations of the best places to stay across our glorious country. And if recent years are anything to go by, we might just get some baking continental temperatures here in the UK this summer, too. See our summer holiday ideas below.
Read the C&TH Guide to Responsible Tourism
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Visiting Paris for the Olympics this summer, or just jealous of everyone who got their paws on tickets? Whether you’re interested in extending your journey to the City of Lights or just looking for some alternative Eurostar trips, the Loire Valley is at the top of our list. Nestle in at the intimate 19-suite Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé to enjoy the best of the area’s lush countryside beauty: think lakes, meadows, a historic white oak forest and more.
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The South Tyrol is often cited as Italy’s best kept secret, and while many visitors are skiers, the wellness scene is booming – and FORESTIS is the best retreat of the bunch. Reflecting the peace of its surroundings, FORESTIS is all about embracing the nourishing effects of nature. Think spectacular mountain views, stripped back interiors crafted with natural materials, and a spa offering rejuvenating nature-inspired rituals.
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Fancy a gloriously English escape? This cosy pub with rooms is just a five minute walk from the Sussex coast, perfect for a beach walk followed by a refreshing pint. Each bedroom is unique, featuring nature-inspired wallpapers, fresh bathrooms, and locally sourced antique furniture. Furry friends are more than welcome, too.
With temperatures sitting between 20 and 25°C, Norway makes for the perfect cool-cation. If you’re not quite sure where to start, choose Scott Dunn’s pre-planned Ultimate Norway itinerary this summer, whisking guests from bustling Oslo to the charming village of Aurland for hiking expeditions and boat trips along the crystal blue fjords.
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Pretty Porto has temperate summer highs, with 25°C a common sight. Soak up the city’s best sights – and dramatic valley views – at The Yeatman, perched on a Gaia hillside gazing across the Douro river to the ancient city, and located in the city’s new World of Wine (WOW) development – comprising museums, restaurants and bars housed within centuries old cellars. Cheers!
Check into The Harper this summer for the cosiest escape that’s both quintessentially British and effortlessly stylish. Nestled in north Norfolk, opt for the dinner, bed and breakfast package to enjoy a seasonal tasting menu in Stanley’s, a supremely comfortable night’s stay, and a generous breakfast when you wake the next morning – a true delight.
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Speaking of cooler spots to explore… In recent years, Europe’s stag do capital has been working hard to shake its hedonistic reputation and instead showcase its chicer, classier side. This is epitomised best in the Conservatorium Hotel, says Ellie Smith, who recently enjoyed the design-centric hotel nestled in the heart of the city’s Museum Corner. After all, Amsterdam is but a train ride away.
For a walking holiday with a difference, embark on Eleven’s brand new three day hut-to-hut experience, taking up to eight trekkers from Alpine France to Italy. Combining modern comforts and age-old traditions in the heart of the Alps, begin with staggering landscapes at Eleven’s Le Miroir chalets, before following a historic route tailored to all fitness levels by a team of expert guides
Details: This three-day, two-night hut-to-hut experience can be added to the middle or end of a stay at either Chalet Pelerin or Chalet Hibou from mid-July to the end of September.
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Just missed out on tickets to Paris 2024, and looking for summer holiday ideas? From the Olympics to the Euros, Wimbledon to the Tour de France, there’s plenty to get excited about. If you’re looking for the perfect sporty summer staycation, pick a PoB hotel: this collection of beautiful, independent, quintessentially British hotels has launched its ‘Get Set, and Go’ programme, endorsed by Olympic legend Victoria Pendleton and designed to introduce guests to new sports and reacquaint everyone with old favourites. From cycling expeditions to tennis escapades, there’s plenty to choose from.
Here’s How To Have The Perfect Sporty Staycation This Summer
For an island escape without leaving the country, Hell Bay Hotel is a dreamy option. Overlooking the Celtic Sea on Bryher’s rugged west coast, Hell Bay Hotel boasts the true tranquility of island life, plus the finest hospitality and freshest seafood to tuck into.
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Is this the best view in Greece? Perched above the breathtaking Karavostasi beach with panoramic views across the crystal-clear Ionian Sea, Elix is as luxurious as it is adventurous. Light-filled rooms come with private pools and spectacular views. From the swaying sea to the pristine pine forests, the surrounding area is a natural playground for discerning travellers – and the perfect escape if you’re in need of some R&R with hiking, cycling and water sports all awaiting your arrival.
Details: Book before 28 June for 25 percent off a Panorama Junior Suite in July and August.
If you’re looking to explore more of the UK this summer, the Lake District should be your first port of call. Explore the dramatic, ancient landscapes before resting your head at Langdale Chase, a glorious Grade II-listed manor house perched right on the shore of Lake Windermere and surrounded by four acres of gardens.
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