As spring starts to make itself known throughout the UK, the time has almost come to dust off your suitcase in advance of this year’s long-awaited summer holiday. Perhaps you’ve flicked through your favourite travel brochures already (ahem, Winged Boots: The Lifestyle Brochure), or scoured the internet in the hope of securing your desired destination for 2026? Whatever preparations you’ve made (or haven’t), we have a few recommendations for you to consider this 2026.
Whether you’re seeking coastal charm or lakeside calm, city stays or lazy beach days, you can experience summer your way with our exclusive hand-picked collection of sun-drenched escapes, covering everywhere from Marbella to Mauritius…
Thailand – The Ritz-Carlton Koh Samui
If a tropical escape is what you’re dreaming of this summer, Thailand is without doubt a top contender. Crowned as one of the most beautiful destinations in the world, this South East Asian jewel serves up miles of postcard-worthy beaches, grand golden temples, royal palaces and a clutch of ancient ruins - each nestled between vibrant cities and laid-back coastal charm.
As Thailand’s second-largest island, Koh Samui draws throngs of visitors each summer - and with good reason. This popular spot in an archipelago of more than 80 islands is renowned for its palm-fringed beaches and rich rainforests, not to mention its long list of key landmarks and attractions. During your visit, soak up some culture at the Big Buddha (Wat Phra Yai), kayak in Ang Thong National Marine Park, explore the Fisherman’s Village Walking Street and, of course, beach hop - Chaweng is at the top of the list.
Better still, Koh Samui in June - August is hot and mostly dry, making it the best time for an island visit compared to other monsoon-heavy regions.
Stay at: The Ritz-Carlton Koh Samui features ocean and pool swimming, 11 restaurants, a luxury spa, well-designed suites and villas, a kids' club, and a swim reef - making it a hit with the whole family.
Italy – Mandarin Oriental Lago di Como
Situated at the foot of the Alps, Italy’s premier glacial lake is one of the most spectacular destinations for a chic summer stay. Set in Northern Italy’s Lombardy region, of course we’re talking about Lake Como. Boasting dramatic scenery, a string of luxury waterfront hotels and charming villages to match, a week or so spent at this tranquil paradise is the perfect way to unwind and soak up La Dolce Vita, in style.
With temperatures in the high 20s - low 30s in June and August, this vibrant Italian getaway is a haven for beach and watersports lovers alike, with aquatic adventures including leisurely lake and lido dips, paddle boarding, kayaking, and exhilarating speed boat encounters - each a perfect pastime between al fresco lakeside dining and boutique shopping in the picturesque villages of Varenna, Bellagio and Como city…
Stay at: Mandarin Oriental Lago Di Como exudes quintessential Italian flair and simplistic luxury. With elegant rooms, suites, penthouses and villas available, plus a world-class spa and stunning views to match, it’s a lakeside retreat you’ll fall in love with.
Greece – Porto Sani
If gorgeous Greece is calling your name this summer, Halkidiki is one of Northern Greece’s most idyllic spots. Famed for its three-pronged peninsula, this sun-drenched destination, located near Thessaloniki, boasts a string of Blue Flag beaches worthy of a fly-and-flop style retreat - and with a rather boastful 550km coastline, you can laze in a new spot each day!
Beyond the sands, fragrant pine forests, rich history, lively resorts and traditional villages await, promising enough inland adventure to balance those balmy beach days. Explore Petralona Cave, admire the Byzantine Prosforio Tower, uncover the Mount Athos monasteries on a boat tour and visit the authentic markets and Old Town of Nikiti.
Stay at: Part of Sani Resort, Porto Sani is a luxury all-suite hotel in the heart of Halkidiki. With a unique village design, the resort boasts modern décor, a clutch of indulgent restaurants, a spa and swimming pools that scream R&R.
Mallorca – Jumeirah Mallorca
For Mediterranean beaches, marvel-worthy history and dramatic mountain scenery, the balmy Balearic Isles are a fantastic spot to spend your summer holiday. A destination of diversity, Mallorca is a particular favourite for families and couples alike, recognised for its cosmopolitan capital of Palma - with its iconic Cathedral - and vibrant turquoise beaches - serving up a sweet balance of city and coast.
With temperatures hovering around 30°C from June - August, this is the perfect season for making a splash with a host of thrilling water activities along the island’s most beautiful beaches, including Es Trenc, Port de Pollensa and Cala Major. When you’re ready to take a break from the balmy sunshine, soak up cultural highlights like the 14th-century Bellver Castle or venture underground to the awe-inspiring Drach Caves - home to a tranquil lake and even a unique classical music concert space.
Stay at: Proudly perched above the coast, Jumeirah Mallorca’s majestic mountainside setting is as peaceful as they come. Serving unparalleled Port de Sóller views and exceptional service, this clifftop paradise offers a rural stay - with just the right level of razzmatazz.
Costa Del Sol – Marbella Club
Fancy a stylish city stay by the sea? Marbella holds the crown as one of southern Spain’s most sought-after destinations. Set along the sun-drenched Costa del Sol, this fashionable spot is famed for the glamour of Puerto Banús Marina - peppered with luxury yachts, expensive cars and a string of designer boutiques and eateries alongside family friendly beaches and a historic Old Town.
Spend hours sinking into the soft white sands of Playa de Cabopino, leisurely walk, or jog, along the Paseo Maritimo promenade (re-fuelling with a gelato en route) or unwind under swaying palms in the tranquil Alameda Park - a peaceful plot amongst the hustle and bustle. From boutique shopping and refined dining to lively beach clubs and first-class resorts, this Andalucian gem offers the perfect blend of relaxation and sophistication - ideal for a short haul stop.
Stay at: Marbella Club Hotel’s beautiful beachfront location makes it a popular pick for places to stay on the Costa del Sol. Guests will have access to Marbella Club’s exclusive golf course, the indulgent Thalasso Spa and eight fantastic on-site eateries.
Albania – Maritim Marina Bay Resort
A destination rich in diversity, this Balkan beauty is often overlooked by tourists in favour of more familiar summer stays - but boy, does it hold its own. Boasting both Adriatic and Ionian coastlines, Albania is a paradise for sunseekers - with sizzling temperatures of 30°C between June - August and a string of beautiful, lesser-trodden beaches.
There’s more to the country than its coastlines, though. Those eager to soak up a little culture can explore its fairytale castles and archeological sites, while the capital of Tirana buzzes with vibrant street art, a modern cafe culture and the ever-bustling Skanderbeg Square. Often dubbed the “Maldives of Europe”, Albania is fast becoming one of the continent’s most exciting emerging destinations - so be sure to visit while you can, before the crowds catch on!
Stay at: A stone’s throw from the vibrant city centre, Maritim Marina Bay Resort & Casino feels a world away set within a secluded bay along the breathtaking Albanian Riviera. From its twinkling pools and refined dining crafted by world-class chefs to its elegant accommodation designed for all guests - this retreat offers a true sense of escape - an oasis of calm on the edge of the lively city.
Mauritius – LUX Belle Mare
If palm-fringed beaches, paradisiacal resorts and pleasant temperatures are on your holiday hot list, look no further than Mauritius. This Indian Ocean jewel elegantly pairs cotton-white sands with fusion cuisine and lush rainforest landscapes, making it an island escape that truly feels off the radar.
Better still, while back home the UK laps up summer, the island enters its cooler, dryer season - serving up temperatures around 20-25°C. If you ask us, this is a perfect time for hiking, diving, and soaking up the island’s many natural wonders, without the intensity of the heat.
Stay at: If island living is your vibe, LUX Belle Mare is the luxury, forward-thinking resort you’ve been dreaming of. With unique facilities including a Beer Academy and 3D Dining experience - alongside its generous 2,000m pool and chic accommodation - this tropical resort is a standout summer stay.
South Africa – The Silo Hotel Cape Town & Singita Boulders Lodge
South Africa experiences its winter during the UK’s summer season, bringing mild, dry temperatures that make it an ideal time to explore its vibrant cities and sensational safari adventures, without melting! While Cape Town may see a little more rain, lesser crowds make ticking off landmarks more enjoyable - meanwhile, wildlife sanctuaries in renowned reserves, like Kruger National Park, reach their peak for game-viewing.
Whether you’re seeking stylish city stays where your days are filled with boutique shopping, dining, and boat tours or once-in-a-lifetime safari experiences, this far-flung destination is a popular pick during those, oh-so-lengthy, school summer holidays…
Stay at: For sky-high style this summer, The Silo Hotel boasts a prime position above Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, rising six floors above the iconic Zeitz MOCAA and offering panoramic views over Table Mountain and Table Bay Harbour. Or, swap city life for safari fun with a more rustic stay at Sabi Sand’s Singita Boulders Lodge, surrounded by 45,000 acres of wildlife sanctuary.
With everything from tropical island escapes to charming lakeside villages and rustic stays that offer unique sightings of the Big Five, there’s a summer retreat suitable for every type of traveller in our handpicked list of hotels. Whether you’ve got your heart set on somewhere already or you’re seeking a little more inspo, our expert travel team are on hand to tailor your sunshine stay - simply call us on 0203 816 0985 to plan your next adventure.
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