Top Destinations for a Relaxing Summer Holiday

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(Newswire.net — August 16, 2019) — Summer is a popular time to travel. That’s partly because it’s the school holidays, and also because on long sunny days, there’s nothing better than heading to the beach. However, some resorts and towns get incredibly crowded at this time of year, especially in Europe. Here are five destinations where you’ll still be able to get some rest and relax.

Eagle Beach, Aruba

One of the best long-haul destinations for relaxing all inclusive holidays in the summer is the stunning Caribbean island of Aruba. While most islands experience a rainy season during the summer, in Aruba the rains only begin in October. On a summer holiday in Aruba, you’ll experience clear skies, warm seas and balmy nights. And where better to spend time relaxing?

Aruba is an island paradise of turquoise seas and palm-tree fringed beaches. Tranquil Eagle Beach comes highly recommended. Despite being surrounded by luxury all inclusive hotels, it’s a beautifully unspoilt beach with lots of space to relax. Surfing and snorkelling lessons are on offer alongside boat trips to small nearby islands. The nightlife in the evenings consists of candlelit restaurants with ocean views, and laidback beach bars. The heritage capital of Oranjestad is just 15 minutes away, with some great museums, clubs and other attractions to check out.

Kvarner Bay, Croatia

Kvarner Bay is one of Croatia’s hidden gems. It’s a beautiful bay studded with small coves and ancient coastal towns; the waters speckled with forested islands. Head to the ‘golden isle’ of Krk to explore the Unesco-designated, terracotta-topped old town. Take a cruise across the iridescent waters of the bay, dropping anchor at enchanting islands with secluded beaches and sun-dappled forests.

Active types will enjoy snorkelling in the clear waters, or hiking the rugged mountains of Risnjak National Park inland. Beach lovers will find plenty of places to lay their towel. Foodies will adore the regional cuisine, made with fresh olive oil, herbs and vegetables. Savour fresh oysters, langoustine simmered in tomato-and-wine sauce, and rabska torta, a spiral-shaped pastry filled with frangipane and soaked in cherry liqueur. You’ll love discovering Croatia’s quiet side.

Bled, Slovenia

If you’re looking for a tranquil holiday with plenty of outdoor activities on offer, Bled is a great place to start. It’s a fairytale town with an 11th-century castle nestled between the foothills of the Julian Alps and the translucent waters of Lake Bled. Spend your days ambling around the lake or taking boat trips across it. Stop at the tiny island in the middle of the lake, where you’ll find a gilded Gothic church.

There are plenty of idyllic beaches along the shoreline, and thanks to its thermal spring, the waters are always warm enough to swim in. Adrenaline junkies will enjoy the gorge walks, white-water rafting and paragliding. But many tourists come to relax and take in the view, perhaps while tucking into one of Bled’s local delicacies, kremna rezina, a pastry stuffed with vanilla cream and custard.

Valle Gran Rey, La Gomera

The Canary Islands are popular all year round, thanks to their mild climate. However, it’s easy to find a crowd-free location, even in the heart of summer. La Gomera is the quietest Canary Island, and a Unesco biosphere reserve where you’ll find dense forest, soaring mountains and deserted beaches. Valle Gran Rey is a formerly sleepy fishing village which has now become a popular resort for those looking for a relaxing break. It’s nestled in a valley between mountains studded with traditional villages and two striking black-sand beaches. Tourists visit for the dramatic sunsets, laid-back lifestyle, and hiking opportunities. It’s also a popular spot for scuba diving.

Djerba, Tunisia

Djerba is north Africa’s largest island, located off the coast of Tunisia. It’s renowned for having some of the best beaches in the country, where translucent water caresses stretches of white sand fringed with palm trees. Most of Djerba’s hotels are located along the shoreline, and boast their own private stretch of beach.

Inland, you’ll find a desert-like landscape and traditional villages with lively bazaars at the centre. Star Wars fans will be interested to know that Djerba was used as the setting for the planet of Tatooine in Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. It’s even possible to take a tour around some of the filming locations.

These diverse destinations all have one thing in common – they’re relaxed destinations with great weather during the summer. Whether you choose to sunbathe on the tranquil shores of Lake Bled or enjoy a sunset boat cruise around Kvarner Bay, one of these destinations is bound to appeal to you.