When the summer sun finally arrives in Europe, we all know that we are thinking of only one thing inside our office blocks: when can we get to the beach! Beach breaks are a time-honored tradition for summer vacations, and with new destinations opening up beautiful beaches lined with luxurious beach hotels across the continent, it’s a vacation that will never go out of style. Europe is a huge place, so the only thing left to consider is where to find the perfect spot for the perfect luxury beach hotel vacation…
1. The French Riviera
Glitz, glamor and celebrity have never been short of France’s best vacation spot, and intimate boutique hotels now line the beautiful coastline from Cannes to Monte Carlo. Entertainment is the real draw here, though: From super-sleek casinos in Monaco to dusty streets and tiny art galleries in Nice, there’s plenty to fill those days away from the beach, as well as the nights. For a quieter experience, there are so many options: leave the cities behind and head to the gently rolling hills, where you’ll find nothing to disturb your poolside book adventure except perhaps the spectacular view. of sunset over the Mediterranean.
2. Capri and Ischica
The small islands of Italy are a spa paradise and are perfect for that sumptuous beach break with uninterrupted views of the sea. The healing waters are legendary, hotels have all the luxuries covered, and fresh seafood and Italian wines abound. There couldn’t be a better combination or, indeed, a more perfect setup. Rocky Capri is the island chosen by the stars, but Ischica, which is bigger, is equally cozy and attractive, with prices considerably lower.
3. Santorini Island
Greece’s most beautiful island can certainly rival Capri and Ischica: the volcanic landscape is stunning, and the Caldera Church at the tip has been named the most romantic (and spectacular) place in the world to watch a sunset. Santorini is like something out of a history lesson: all old towns of whitewashed houses built into the rocky cliffs and family run trattorias serving fresh local cuisine.
4. Dubrovnik
A little further east in Croatia, the perfectly preserved city of Dubrovnik sits on the shores of the Adriatic Sea. Imagine aquamarine waters, the golden stone of the medieval walls, narrow cobbled streets leading to ancient churches, and yachts as big as Monte Carlo in the harbour: this is Dubrovnik at its best. Stay inside the old town within the walls to soak up its magic, and in the evening stroll the winding streets for fresh seafood and Italian-inspired ice cream for dessert.