Are you longing for the sun? With the weather still only mild in the UK during Spring, many Brits seek warmer weather in sunnier climates. Travelling in the off-season offers not only sun-drenched beaches but affordability too.
If the thought of spending more than six hours on an aeroplane isn’t for you, there are many beach destinations within easy reach of Britain.
The Algarve, Portugal
Portugal’s southernmost region, offers visitors beaches in abundance, fresh seafood and quaint villages. Travelling in the shoulder months means fewer crowds and more manageable temperatures.
Outdoor enthusiasts are treated to a landscape that offers plenty of opportunities for adventure. The breathtaking coastline is dotted with caves that can be explored by hiring a kayak or booking a boat tour.
One of the most famous and largest of the caves is the Benagil Cave, with many entrances and a small beach inside. Don’t forget to look up at the skylight – a hole formed naturally in the rock. It’s very photogenic, so be sure to pack a camera.
Another activity in beautiful surroundings is the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, this 6km linear hike offers unspoilt views of rugged limestone cliffs, sandy beaches and rock formations.
Crete, Greece
Crete is the largest and most populated Greek island and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean Sea. It is well-known for its sandy beaches, gorges, and historic towns of Chania and Rethymno.
For pink and white sands, crystal-clear waters and cedar trees reaching the coastline, visit Elafonissi Beach, on the southwestern side of the island.
Choose to visit in September or October, whilst the weather is still warm, but visitor numbers decrease. Local tavernas remain open for you to try the local cuisine and popular archaeological sites, such as Knossos, become less crowded.
Agadir, Morocco
Agadir, located on the Moroccan coast, has recently gained popularity among UK travellers seeking affordable beach holidays. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, it’s the perfect destination for those looking to top up their vitamin D and escape the British weather.
Agadir offers visitors expansive sandy beaches and vibrant souks for a unique cultural experience.
Surfing is a popular activity for beginners through to the more advanced. The large expansive beaches allow room for everyone, and the lack of rocks and coral makes it safer, too.
Lanzarote, Canary Islands
If warm and sunny holiday weather is what you seek, Lanzarote’s consistent climate makes it a year-round beach destination.
The island offers visitors unique volcanic landscapes, which can be explored further by visiting Timanfaya National Park, and sheltered beaches, which are perfect for families.
If sustainability and responsible tourism are important when choosing your next holiday, Lanzarote was the first destination in the world to have received the Biosphere Responsible Tourism certificate in 2015 and with UK airports offering direct flights, it is now easier than ever to visit.
