Spain

East of the mainland, the four chief Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera) are blessed with balmy weather and beautiful beaches. The largest, Mallorca, offers something for everyone, from the medieval magnificence of Palma’s Old Town to the bustling quayside at Port de Soller and the powder sands of Formentor. The once unfashionable towns of the interior have clung to their traditions, making a great day trip from the coast. Mallorca’s quieter north-eastern corner offers a civilised beach holiday with fabulous dining options. Base yourself near pretty Pollença for a true taste of up-market Spain.

Ibiza has undergone a transformation, now offering stylish, laid-back luxury, with exquisite hotels, hip restaurants, holistic retreats, child-friendly beaches and fabulous nightlife. Temperatures rarely dip below 18℃ and hover around 30-35℃ in the height of summer. The north has smaller coves with chilled-out bars, whilst the south offers a glitzier experience and world-famous clubs. For a chic retreat, it’s hard to beat.

Meanwhile, Menorca and bohemian Formentera have off-the-beaten-track splendour, ideal for peace and quiet.

Further south, the Canaries are closer to Africa than to Spain. The result? A wonderful climate – a good year-round destination for winter warmth. Las Palmas, the capital of Gran Canaria, is home to the fabulous Playa de las Canteras. There’s also white sand at Maspalomas, which has a nature reserve. Puerto de Mogán is lovely for an evening stroll with harbourside restaurants.

Volcanic Tenerife is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites, one national park and 42 natural protected spaces. The north has a cooler climate and pretty towns, whilst the south offers the golden beaches and the turquoise Atlantic. With two airports, transfer times are blissfully short. The tiny, untouched island of La Gomera is also worth a visit.

Lanzarote is known for its striking volcanic landscape, excellent wine and temperate climate. It has remained largely unspoilt with low-rise white-washed buildings and stunning architecture. With water sports, cycling and horse riding alongside 5* hotels and eco-lodges, as well as glorious beaches (including Papagayo), it ticks a lot of boxes. For simply-prepared mouth-watering seafood, head to the waterfront restaurants at La Caleta or El Golfo.

For beach life in its many guises and a plethora of water sports, try Fuerteventura.