Travel: Make some memories on the road less travelled

From cool Californian hangouts and chic Alpine charm to Arabian luxury, we’ve carefully selected the greatest destinations on the road less travelled.

USA

While many head to California for the glitz and glamour of LA, just an hour away is Newport Beach – made up of more water than land, and with 10 incredible miles of pristine coastline. Whether it’s surfing, yachting or whale watching, guests can spend whole days on the ocean.

Newport Beach also has some of the best hiking trails and diverse terrain along the Pacific Ocean.

The waters surrounding Newport Beach are home to an array of whale species, including grey whales. A spectacular attraction for families, couples and solo travellers, book into an organised whale-watching tour or private cruise, led by an expert crew, for insight into the best spots.

Turkey

For the ultimate unheralded holiday destination, the boutique hideaway at Perdue by NLG in southwest Turkey is the place to be.

Nestled in a lush corner of Faralya, Perdue is an elevated glamping concept inspired by a deep love and appreciation of nature. It is an adults-only coastal haven where azure waters meet rolling hills, and urban escapists can sleep under the stars in luxury safari-style tents peppered along the shoreline. Stays here promote time away from the stresses of everyday life through reconnecting with nature in its purest form, surrounded by fragrant olive groves and orange trees.

Rooms at Perdue by NLG start from £565 per night. To book and for further information, visit: https://perdue.com.tr/en/

Ras Al Khaimah

The emirate of Ras Al Khaimah is an ideal destination for a last-minute holiday away from the more populous Dubai, thanks to its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse range of activities.

One such luxurious resort is the Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island, which boasts its own 750-metre private beach. This resort is just a short drive from fabulous shopping at Al Hamra Mall. With uninterrupted ocean views and a private beach, this fantastic resort offers a luxurious stay on the man-made archipelago Marjan Island.

For more information: www.tropicalsky.co.uk or 01342 331795

Africa

© Matthew Shaw

The luxury beachfront resort The Residence Tunis is perfectly positioned to explore the city’s cultural treasures, including the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Carthage and Medina of Tunis, and seaside town Sidi Bou Said.

The Residence Tunis is home to the award-winning The Spa & Thalasso, a 4,000-square metre wellness centre inspired by the Roman thermal baths, with 18 treatment rooms and an indoor seawater swimming pool. It also has an 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones II, two floodlit tennis courts and the Dolphin Kids Club.

For more information: www.cenizaro.com/theresidence/tunis

Greece

The five-star Parga Beach Resort is a stunning find that is becoming a must-visit. From guided sunrise yoga sessions on the resort’s pavilion to sunset picnics in the lush gardens, the team are on hand to cater to all guest’s wishes.

Guests are invited to venture off-site, be it by sea on a luxurious yacht to explore the shores of Parga, the enchanting island of Paxos, and the renowned beaches of Sivota, or by foot to discover the town’s storied past with a walking tour up to Parga’s Castle, which dates to the 15th Century.

www.pargabeachresort.gr

Santorini

While the island is notoriously busy in summer, the ultra-stylish MAGMA Resort is a five-star hideaway for those looking for a secluded escape. Set on Santorini’s north-eastern coast in the village of Vourvoulos, MAGMA’s architecture and design is traditionally Cycladic, honouring the hotel’s natural landscape.

Dining experiences include Magma Soul, a Greek culinary journey curated by head chef Lefteris Soultatos, while rooftop destination Astra Lounge plays host to cocktail masterclasses. Bar On The Rocks invites guests to lounge by the infinity pool – or have a late-night aperitivo by the fire pit.

For more information: www.magmaresortsantorini.com

Sardinia

Located in the picturesque enclave of Vignola Mare, nestled in the northern expanse of Sardinia, Residence Vignola Mare epitomises the essence of a perfect summer escape. This Sardinian retreat invites guests to immerse themselves in the dolce vita. Just 1.3km away lies the pristine beach, where sun-drenched days and crystal-clear waters await. Comprising 50 studios and apartments accommodating between two and four people, Residence Vignola Mare provides a comfortable and welcoming haven.

For more information: www.pierreet vacances.co.uk or 0870 0267 145

Belgium

For something different to the normal beach holiday, why not explore the enchanting Flanders region of coastal Belgium by boat. Cruisers start and finish at the boat company Le Boat’s base in Nieuwpoort, allowing you to take in the historic cities of Ypres, famous for the beautiful “Halle aux drapes”, and Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with countless museums and excellent restaurants to explore, with their final stop being Ghent, which is approximately a 14-hour cruising time from Nieuwpoort.

For more information: www.leboat.co.uk or 02392222177

France

© Pyrene Duffau

While many head to the beaches in summer, an escape to the mountains is perfect to beat the crowds and have an amazing, adventure-filled summer holiday.

Les 2 Alpes, a family-friendly mountain resort, has amazing summer camps, like the Fun Stage, for children aged four to 16 with different activities every day: swimming, rafting, hiking, horse riding, trampolining, rollerblading, skiing, mountain biking, climbing, hydrospeeding, canyoning, tennis, via ferrata, paddle, cani-rando and more. The Fun Stage can be booked for a half day or a full day.

While children have fun, parents can go hiking, swimming, take a yoga lesson or have a massage, or enjoy a quiet meal – from mountain cuisine to Italian specialities, tapas and vegetarian options. There is also a Michelin-star restaurant, Le P’tit Polyte.

Visit www.peakretreats.co.uk/summer/alpine-resorts/oisans/les-deux-alpes or call 023 9283 9310

Saudi Arabia

Located in the North West of Saudi Arabia, AlUla is a place of extraordinary human and natural heritage that holds over 200,000 years of largely unexplored human history. AlUla hosts a series of fascinating historical and archaeological sites including Ancient Dadan, once an Arab kingdom.

Now visitors are being welcomed to explore the area’s awe-inspiring natural scenery and deep historical roots. Some of the hotels to open in AlUla include Dar Tantora and Hegra Boutique Hotel, joining Habitas and the Banyan Tree, pictured right.

For something extra special this summer, visit www.experiencealula.com/en/plan-your-trip/getting-to-and-around-alula