The 2015 Holiday

Beach escapes What kind of beach-bum are you? A Robinson Crusoe in search of a thatched hut on a remote stretch of sand, a parent in search of a child-friendly shore or someone who needs a dose of culture with your daily dip in the sea? Our collection shows the diversity of beach breaks you can enjoy: from budget-friendly stays around the world via once-in-a-lifetime exotic destinations to family-friendly apartment and villa stays right on the beach … Whether by the sea, in the countryside, or in the city, find the right base – in the right location, with child-friendly facilities - and the rest of your holiday should fall into place. The following breaks – featuring hotels and self-catering options – cover the most popular destinations in Europe and the Mediterranean. City stays, whether a weekend break or a longer sojourn, offer travellers that great mixture of art, culture, attractions, cafes, restaurants and the allure of stays in cool hotels. This selection picks out cities that have an enduring appeal, both for their most popular sights as well as the opportunity to explore and find somewhere that feels fresh and new. Holidays don’t always have to be sedentary affairs; the chance to get kitted out and head off into the elements often rewards travellers with the kind of views you don’t see from a car. Explore our features on iconic wildernesses in far-flung corners of the world, but also our guides to making the most of the UK’s beautiful landscapes.