WARMER weather is on the horizon, so why wait until summer to visit your favourite holiday hot spots?
Spain is still top of Brits’ holiday lists and the coming months are a great time to visit this beautiful country, with mild temperatures just right for exploring when it’s not too crowded.
If you’re a foodie, San Sebastian won’t disappointCredit: Getty
Sophie Swietochowski shares her pick of springtime destinations in and its islands with tips from experts who know the area.
may not attract as many fly-and-flop holidaymakers as the southern costas, but its coastlines are no less beautiful.
Temperatures can reach the low 20Cs during spring in , so Sara Di Lenardo, Destination Manager at British Airways Holidays, recommends hitting the shores.
Bilbao may not attract as many fly-and-flop holidaymakers as the southern costas, but its coastlines are no less beautifulCredit: Getty
She says: “There are several wild beaches in the Basque Country. The rocky shores are dramatic and incredibly photogenic.
“Walk along stunning coastal paths with the Pyrenees as the backdrop — they might possibly still have snowy peaks in spring.”
The month of May is a great time to visit for music fans, thanks to several big concerts and events.
Sara advises to keep your eyes peeled for the Trikitixa, a traditional basque instrument that’s a bit like an accordion.
STAY: Two nights’ room-only at the 5H Melia Bilbao is from £349pp including flights from Gatwick on selected dates in May. Price includes 10 per cent discount. Book by March 31.
See britishairways.com/content/holidays/spain/bilbao .
only starts awakening for its big party season in spring, after a slow winter hibernation — and for travel expert David Mason, this is one of the best times to visit the party isle.
He reveals: “You have all the optimism of a new season commencing, cheap accommodation and flights, plus lots of local food festivals.”
Ibiza only starts awakening for its big party season in spring, after a slow winter hibernationCredit: Getty
Throughout this month, up until early April, you’ll be able to experience the Pintxa Run food festival in San Antonio, close to the ocean, David says.
Every Thursday throughout the month, dozens of small bars and restaurants dish up tapas and a drink for just three euros with everything from steakhouses to pizzerias participating.
David adds: “The festival includes a free novelty train that takes you from stop to stop — perfect if you’ve had a few too many cervezas on the route.”
STAY: Seven nights’ all-inclusive at the 4H Invisa Figueral Resort Hotel Cala Blanca is from £562pp including flights from Manchester on April 7.
See easyjet.com/en/holidays .
IF you’re a foodie, won’t disappoint.
Sara di Lenardo says this is the top place to sample pintxos in the traditional way (small bites served on a mini slice of bread).
Wash it down with a local beverage for a truly authentic experience.
Sara adds: “Spring is cider season. Try the local drink txakoli — it can be found in most bars in town, but if you have time, make sure to visit Getaria where it’s produced.”
For those seeking seaside relaxation, Sara recommends La Concha, a horseshoe-shaped beach right in the city, offering gorgeous views of the blue Med.
STAY: Seven nights’ B&B at the 4H Bancal Hotel & Spa is from £599pp including flights from Gatwick on selected dates in May. Book by March 31.
See britishairways.com/tenerife .
THIS vibrant student city, which sits a little south of , is fascinating for history lovers, with its 14th-century cathedral taking pride of place in the city centre.
Tom Wilkinson, product manager at Explore Worldwide, says: “This lesser-known southern gem enjoys 320 days of sunshine each year, with mild winters and a semi-arid climate.”
Murcia sits a little south of Alicante and is fascinating for history lovers, with its 14th-century cathedral taking pride of place in the city centreCredit: Getty
The sights are best explored on two wheels, says Tom — on a cycle tour you’ll pass through white-washed villages and historic Moorish towns, pausing to watch the sun set.
Fruit and veg are at the forefront of cuisine here and you can expect rich stews as well as freshly baked cakes.
Try Keki, not far from the cathedral, which serves up a Murcian cheesecake to die for.
STAY: A seven-day Cycle Southern Spain tour costs from £970pp including six breakfasts, all accommodation, cycle gear and flights from selected airports on May 10.
See explore.co.uk .
HOLIDAYMAKERS jetting off to in spring can expect rugged landscapes backed by chalky white cliffs and sandy bays overlooking vibrant blue seas.
“The beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world, offering Caribbean-style scenes without the time difference,” says Kate Bigger, destination manager at .
Expect rugged landscapes backed by chalky white cliffs and sandy bays overlooking vibrant blue seas on MenorcaCredit: Getty
She suggests strolling the impressive Cami de Cavalls, adding: “This is a walk that goes through the length of the island, with spring being the perfect time to do this.”
Vineyards are scattered across the island and many of them invite visitors to meander among the vines, sampling wines as part of a tasting lunch or dinner.
STAY: Seven nights’ B&B at the 5H Melia Cala Galdana is from £1,099pp (includes €28pp tourism tax, payable locally) including flights from Gatwick on selected dates in May. Book by March 31.
See britishairways.com/menorca .
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
