While the term luxury is often banded about with reckless abandon, undermining what it means to deliver the ultimate in comfort and style, there are many destinations that have retained a sense of exclusiveness and continue to attract only the most discerning of holidaymakers. We’ve hand selected 5 of the most alluring holiday destinations in Europe; take note to best enjoy your family getaway, your escapade with friends, or your romantic break with a loved one this summer.
ST TROPEZ, FRANCE
St Tropez still retains much of the glitz and glamour that made it a celebrity playground in the 1950’s. Restaurants including Brigitte Bardot’s favourite, Club 55, and Greta Garbo’s beloved L’Auberge des Maures still offer the same fine dining today as they did back then. For something more modern, La Vague d’Or is a three star Michelin restaurant where France’s 2013 chef of the year works his magic. For some of the best luxury shopping in the Riviera, visit the triangle between Place des Lices, Rue Gambetta and Rue Allard where you can find everything from Louis Vuitton to Gucci.
Where to stay: Villa St Tropez
MARBELLA, SPAIN
With over 24 beaches Marbella is a perfect place to go for a luxury sun, sea and sand getaway. Oozing old school glamour, Marbella is full of exclusive boutiques, a vibrant nightlife with world famous clubs, including La Suite. Look past the bright lights though and you’ll find a delightful old town, which is centered around the beautiful Plaza de los Naranjos, just waiting to be explored.
Where to stay: Villa el Cid
IBIZA, SPAIN
Although world renowned for its club scene, music is just one of the things that make Ibiza somewhere you should definitely consider for your luxury summer holiday. It has a unique natural beauty with dozens of hidden coves just waiting to be discovered in a luxury yacht, deep pine forests that seem to have been made just for horse riding and some of the most lavish dining in the Mediterranean.Sublimotion, which was in the news for being the most world’s most expensive restaurant in 2014, serves magnificent seafood, although you do have to book well in advance to secure a table.
Where to stay: Blue Bay
MYKONOS, GREECE
Although it’s one of the most popular Greek islands with tourists, Mykonos still has lots to offer those looking for a quiet luxury summer holiday. Especially in September once the July to August crowds have gone. There are dozens of golden sandy beaches to explore and quaint hillside towns to discover but a full day sailing yacht cruise to the nearby island of Delos is another glorious way to spend your time. Or for something slightly more active, why not try a fishing trip around the island?
Where to stay: Villa Melodi
MAJORCA, SPAIN
As the largest of the Balearic islands, it should come as no surprise that Majorca has everything you need for a perfect summer vacation and can cater for both those searching for a relaxing break and those looking for a party. For the former, Cala Millor – a safari wildlife park – offers visitors a fascinating insight into the lives of over 600 wild animals in a spectacular setting. For the latter – those looking for a party – Mallorca is home to superclub Pacha, which will entertain you far into the night and into the next morning.
Where to stay: Villa Madrona
