This article presents ten European destinations that perfectly combine access to stunning beaches and breathtaking mountains. Each location offers a unique chance to explore both coastal and summit attractions, catering to a variety of traveler preferences and ensuring a rich holiday experience.
When planning a summer holiday in Europe, there’s no need to sacrifice beach access for mountainous escape, as many breathtaking destinations offer both. Here are ten ideal locations where sun, sea, and summits converge, allowing travelers to enjoy both coastal relaxation and mountainous adventure.
1. Cote d’Azur
Sea: Nice.
The iconic Cote d’Azur features Nice, synonymous with vibrant culture and stunning beaches. Visitors can enjoy the Promenade des Anglais alongside cultural landmarks such as Vieux-Nice and Castle Hill, ensuring both sun and history.
Summits: Mercantour National Park lies about 30 miles north, providing stunning alpine landscapes and numerous hiking trails.
2. Corsica
Sea: Porto-Vecchio.
Corsica remains a hidden gem for tourists, boasting a magnificent 668-mile coastline. Porto-Vecchio offers luxurious villas and elegant charm without feeling crowded.
Summits: Aiguilles de Bavella features striking red granite peaks, accessible from Porto-Vecchio within a short drive.
3. Spain
Sea: Lloret de Mar.
Lloret de Mar is one of Costa Brava’s most popular locales, ideal for families with sandy beaches and nearby attractions like Water World.
Summits: La Garrotxa Natural Park, located about 50 miles north, showcases intriguing volcanic landscapes and scenic hiking routes.
4. Greece
Sea: Central Macedonia.
Central Macedonia offers a tranquil and authentic experience away from tourist-heavy resorts. Plaka, situated near Thessaloniki, features charming tavernas and uncrowded beaches.
Summit: Mount Olympus, Greece’s tallest peak, looms nearby, inviting adventurous hikers to explore its national park.
5. Slovenia
Sea: Portoroz.
While Slovenia has limited coastline, the picturesque town of Piran and the resort Portoroz make the most of their scenic shores.
Summits: A short drive leads to Bled, known for its stunning lake framed by the Julian Alps, ideal for both leisure and biking trails.
6. Cyprus
Sea: Limassol.
Limassol stands out on Cyprus’s sunny south coast, blending ancient history with modern leisure. Visitors to Paphos can explore cultural ruins as well.
Summits: The Troodos Mountains reach impressive elevations and feature scenic trails, including those leading to Kalidonia Waterfall.
7. Croatia
Sea: Rovinj.
Rovinj showcases the charm of the Istria peninsula, combining medieval architecture with contemporary hospitality along the Adriatic coast.
Summits: Ucka offers a range of hiking paths with spectacular views of the Bay of Kvarner, just a short drive from Rovinj.
8. Albania
Sea: Sarandë.
Sarandë, located in southern Albania adjacent to the Greek border, offers beautiful beaches and views of Corfu.
Summits: Llogara National Park provides stunning mountain scenery and numerous outdoor activities, enhancing its compact but breathtaking landscape.
9. Italy
Sea: Venice.
Venice’s nearby Lido di Jesolo provides sandy beaches while allowing easy access to the city’s rich culture and history.
Summits: A trek into the Dolomites offers incomparable natural beauty, ideal for both summer hiking and winter sports.
10. Mallorca
Sea: Port de Soller.
Port de Soller is a quieter choice on Mallorca, ideal for relaxed beach days and exploration.
Summits: The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range offers exhilarating hiking opportunities and stunning views, most notably of Puig Major, the highest peak in Mallorca.
In summary, Europe’s diverse landscapes allow travelers to experience both sun-soaked beaches and majestic mountains in one trip. Each highlighted destination features unique coastal allure paired with exceptional summits, ensuring unforgettable vacations for those who seek both relaxation and adventure. Consider these ten locations when planning your next holiday to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk
