Dreaming of a summer escape that combines stunning scenery with genuine value? We've curated a selection of eight exceptional yet affordable beach holidays across Europe, perfect for planning your 2024 getaway. From the windswept Atlantic coast of Spain to the crystalline waters of the Mediterranean, these destinations offer beauty without the exorbitant price tag.
Atlantic Gems: Untamed Coasts of Spain and Portugal
For those seeking wild, unspoilt landscapes, look no further than the Costa de la Luz in Andalucia, Spain. Often described as the Spanish coastline time forgot, this dramatic Atlantic stretch is fringed with vast sandy beaches and charming villages. A perfect base is the Hotel Madreselva, nestled within the Breña y Marismas de Barbate nature reserve. Just a minute's walk from Los Caños de Meca beach, it offers 18 stylish rooms with private patios from £83 per night for bed and breakfast. Explore the hilltop white village of Vejer de la Frontera or walk to the historic Cape Trafalgar lighthouse.
Further west, Sagres on Portugal's Algarve coast provides a breathtaking, end-of-the-world feel. The Memmo Baleeira hotel, a modernist Design Hotels member, boasts incredible views and is steps from the beach. With doubles from £105 B&B, you can explore the town's historic fortress, join dolphin-spotting boat trips, or hike the famous Rota Vicentina trail.
Mediterranean Magic: Greek Islands and Croatian Shores
Greece's Pelion peninsula remains a gloriously quiet alternative to the busy islands. The family-run Pounda Paou hotel offers a hillside retreat with a pool terrace and sea views. A car is essential to discover hidden coves and hilltop villages like Chorto. Rates start from £399 per person for a week's bed and breakfast.
On Crete, the opening of the Innside Elounda on 1 May 2024 makes this beautiful area accessible again. With rooms from £92 room-only, the hotel features sea views, local art, and is perfectly placed for exploring ancient sites like Knossos, alongside the stunning Spinalonga lagoon.
For a Croatian escape away from the crowds of Dubrovnik, the Makarska Riviera is ideal. Villa Andrea in Tučepi offers 18 comfortable rooms directly on the palm-lined promenade from £94.50 B&B. Enjoy local konobas, wine tastings, or arrange adventures like white-water rafting on the Cetina River.
Further Afield: Moroccan Beaches and Italian Island Life
Combine beach relaxation with cultural buzz at Kasbah d’Eau near Essaouira, Morocco. This contemporary hotel on an unspoilt beach is 25 minutes from the town's vibrant medina. With doubles from £122 B&B, you can enjoy cooking classes, horse-riding, and exploring the souks before returning for excellent local cuisine.
In Italy's Puglia region, the Masseria Fontanelle offers serene, adult-only accommodation in a restored 17th-century convent. A short stroll from the stunning, Maldives-like beaches of the Litorale di Ugento park, it provides a tranquil retreat with a spa and outdoor cinema from £122 B&B.
For ultimate seclusion, consider the car-free Aeolian island of Panarea. A Picciridda is a charming hillside cottage for two, close to the village of San Pietro, with a private terrace perfect for enjoying views of Stromboli's nightly light show. A week's self-catering starts from £1,005.
All prices quoted are for travel in May or June 2024 and were correct at the time of publication. These destinations prove that a dream beach holiday with character and beauty doesn't have to break the bank.
